Kantaka Chethiya at Mihintale

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Kantaka Chethiya at Mihintale - කන්ථක චෛත්‍යය — Kantaka Chethiya at Mihintale – කන්ථක චෛත්‍යය

Kantaka Chethiya in Mihintale is one of Sri Lanka’s most architecturally significant stupas, dating back to at least the 2nd century BCE. While it was once a forgotten mound of debris, its 1930s restoration revealed some of the finest examples of early Anuradhapura-period craftsmanship, particularly its world-class vahalkada (frontispieces).

Kantaka Chethiya was restored to its current form during the 1930s. When it was first rediscovered, the stupa appeared as nothing more than a mound of earth covered with debris.

Over time, it had been referred to by several names, including Kiribadapavu Dagaba, Kiribat Vehera, and Giribhanda Vehera. However, a nearby stone inscription eventually confirmed the original name as Kantaka Chethiya.

Historical Background and Construction

The exact builder of Kantaka Chethiya remains unknown. However, historical records suggest that King Lanjatissa (119–109 BCE) commissioned a stone mantle for the stupa. This indicates that the stupa was likely constructed prior to 119 BCE. The current structure has a diameter of 425 feet and stands about 40 feet high.

One of its most remarkable features is the vahalkada, which is considered one of the best-preserved examples from the early Anuradhapura period.

Architectural Significance of the Vahalkada

The vahalkada is a unique architectural element consisting of four projecting frontispieces located on each side of the stupa. Among these, the southern vahalkada is the best preserved and serves as an excellent example of early vahalkada design and craftsmanship.

The Ghana (Vamana/Bahirawa) Figures

A particularly intriguing feature of the southern vahalkada is the band of Ghana figures that decorates the upper section.

Also known as Vamana or Bahirawa figures, these are mythical dwarf-like beings depicted in various animated and humorous poses. Some figures have animal heads—a horse, a bear, and a monkey, while others stand on their heads or play musical instruments.

One figure stands out: a dwarf with an elephant head, holding no musical instrument. According to historian Professor Paranavithana, this may represent an early depiction of God Ganesh, a prominent deity in Hinduism.

Interestingly, Professor A.L. Basham notes that there are no known carvings of Ganesh in India prior to the 5th century CE, making this carving both rare and historically significant. Furthermore, this representation deviates from traditional Sinhala art styles (Wijesekera, 1990).

Frescoes and Paintings

The southern vahalkada is also notable for its ancient frescoes, which are of great historical importance in Sri Lankan art. Apart from the world-renowned Sigiriya frescoes, Mihintale is among the few sites in Sri Lanka where early-period wall paintings can still be found.

One set of frescoes was discovered inside the relic chamber of the Giribanda Stupa and is now preserved in the Mihintale Museum.

Another set is located on the southern vahalkada, depicting lions. Though many of these images have faded, traces of red and yellow pigments remain visible, offering valuable insight into the early use of color and symbolism in Sri Lankan mural art.

References

Wijeseekera, N. (1990) in Archaeological Department Centenary (1890-1990) – Volume 4 : Sculpture . Sri Lanka: Department of Archaeology (Commemorative Series), p. 10.

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Driving Directions to Kantaka Chethiya at Mihintale

Mihintale can be reached through many routes from Colombo. The two main routes are through Puttalam (Puttalama) and through Kurunegala. Traveling from Puttalam, you will pass the scenic Wilpattu area. From Kurunegala, there are two main routes to Mihintale. The most common route is through Dambulla. The other route is through Galgamuwa. Out of all the routes, the most commonly used is the Kurunegala–Dambulla route (Route 2).

Route 01 from Colombo to Mihintale (A3)	Route 02 from Colombo to Mihintale
Through : Central Expressway – Badagamuwa – Dambulla Distance: 223 km Travel Time: 4.45 hours Driving Directions: see on Google Maps.	Through: Negombo – Chilaw – Puttalam Distance: 227 km Travel Time: 5.15 hours Driving Directions: see on Google Maps.
Route from Kandy to Mihintale	Route from Anuradhapura to Mihintale
Through: Distance: 136 km Travel Time: 3,30 hours Driving Directions: see on Google Maps.	Through: A12 Distance: 14 km Travel Time: 25 mins Driving Directions: see on Google Maps.