The Girihandu Seya is an ancient Buddhist temple found in Trincomalee. It is said to contain the oldest stupa found in Sri Lanka as well as sacred hair relics from the Buddha himself. For these reasons, the Girihandu Seya is one of the most revered and venerated holy sites on the island and attracts hundreds of religious faithful every year.
The stupa found at the heart of the temple is believed to have been constructed by two seafaring merchants named Trapusa and Bahalika. Evidence for this is presented in an inscription found next to the stupa which mentions their names. There is also the belief that the stupa was constructed by merchants from the Pallava Kingdom who followed the Mahayana teachings.
The temple itself is found a few miles north of Trincomalee atop a small hill. At the summit of the hill is where you’ll find the stupa which is protected by a vatadage – a low wall like construct. It is widely believed that the original stupa was much smaller in size than what you see today, being expanded upon some time in the 8th century. Traditional Sinhalese architecture is clearly visible through the four-guard stones that border each end of the vatadage. Beneath the stupa, you’ll find the ruined remains of several constructs including what appears to be a small building, a pond, stone steps and more.
The Girihandu Seya is a culturally significant location for the Sri Lankan Buddhist populace and a must-visit for anyone interested in the island’s history and religious heritage. As such, you’re touring through Trincomalee, be sure to add this site onto your itinerary.
