Poson Poya
A major Buddhist full-moon observance remembering the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka, especially vivid around Mihintale and Anuradhapura.
Location
Mihintale and Anuradhapura
Duration
1 days
Month (AD)
June
Next celebration
May 31, 2026
In 32 days
Highlights
Mihintale pilgrimage, Anuradhapura temple visits, lanterns, dansal almsgiving, and full-moon observances.
Tips for Visitors
Expect heavy pilgrimage traffic around Mihintale and Anuradhapura, dress modestly, and begin temple visits early to avoid midday heat.
Poson Poya is one of Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist observances because it marks the arrival of Buddhism on the island through the meeting traditionally associated with Arahat Mahinda and King Devanampiya Tissa. The strongest travel context is the Anuradhapura-Mihintale region, where pilgrims climb Mihintale, visit ancient monastic ruins, and participate in temple observances. Like Vesak, Poson includes lanterns, devotional activity, and dansal almsgiving stalls, but its geography makes the north-central sacred landscape especially important.