Introduction
Eth Vehera is situated at the highest point of the Mihinthale Mountain Range. Although this mountain is called the Eth Vehera Mountain, this is not the original name of the mountain or the stupa. A stone inscription refers to the stupa as Kiriband pau dagaba. Although generally interpreted as 'Stupa of the elephant' ( Eth = Elephant) it is said that Eth should be interpreted as 'inner'. This indicate that this is part of the inner temple. The origin of the stupa is unknown but a inscription refers to a grant to the vihara by King Mahadathika Mahanaga (9-21 AC) which indicate that the stupa must have been built in the pre christian era.
The stupa can be reached by climbing some 600 steps from the Naga Pokuna on the Eth Pokuna Mountain. You can have a breathtaking view of the whole Mihinthale complex including Maha Seya and the Aradhana Gala while traveling on this path.
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