MY SRI LANKA
According to the Mahawamsa, King Mahasena (276-303) commissioned the construction of a stupa to the east of Anuradhapura city. Nakha Vehera is the sole stupa found in this region, leading some to speculate that it was built by King Mahasena.
Based on archaeological findings, Nakha Vehera is believed to date back to the late Anuradhapura era (7-10th centuries). It follows the Mahayana tradition, typical of square stupas. The stupa's base measures approximately 9×9 meters, and remnants of an image house and other structures have been unearthed in close proximity. Situated 200 meters from Watawandana Road, a gravel path branching off from a signpost marks the way to the stupa.
Positioned in alignment with the ancient road to Mihintale, which once passed through the east gate, this route is now largely obscured by fields and gardens. Upon turning onto the side road indicated by the signpost, the path gradually fades into disuse, with shrubs up to 1-2 feet tall reclaiming the clearing. In the rainy season, the route becomes muddy, necessitating a 4-wheel drive vehicle to reach the stupa.
