THE HOLY RELICS OF THE LORD BUDDHA Mihinthale is known as the CRADLE of BUDDHISM because the OFFICIAL INTRODUCTION of Buddhism to the island of Shiri Lanka was announced at this summit in 236 BCE (i.e.,236 years before Jesus Christ’s birth). With the arrival of a six-member mission led by Arahat Mahinda Thera, the son of Emperor Asoka, the then ruler of India paved the way to establish Buddhism in Siri Lanka. This was given a wide reception by the then King of Sri Lanka – Devanampiya Tissa (250-210 BC) and made Buddhism the STATE RELIGION in this island. Since then, up to date, Buddhism has been the state religion and Mihinthale is known or recognized to be the oldest and the first Buddhist Temple (Monastery) in Sri Lanka. Among of the Holy Relics of the Lord Buddha including the right collar bone to Mihinthale from where Arahant Mahinda Thera distributed them (the relics) around the island having kept some relics by him for his regular veneration.

On the passing away of Arah- ant Mahinda Thera, the Holy Relics of the Lord Buddha kept by him (Arahant Mahinda Thera) and his relics (own) had been enshrined in the Mihinthale sacred area until they were archeologically excavated (dug out) in 1956 AD by the state. Thus, these holy relics have been brought to Bhutan and being kept for public veneration are solely as a mark of sincere respect for the strong historical bond between Sri Lanka and Bhutan and for stronger ties in future as well. Subsequently to the advent of Arahant Mahinda Thera (In Mahinthale) He sent his novice SUMMANA Thera (one of the six-member mission) back to India and got down a decent Rev. W. Dhammarathana Nayaka Thero Chief incumbent & trustee Royal Temple Mihinthale Tashi Delek