- Claim to Be the World’s First Buddhist Shrine: Girihandu Seya is considered the first Buddhist stupa in Sri Lanka and, according to some traditions, the world. It is believed to have been constructed during the lifetime of the Buddha.
- Built by the Buddha’s First Disciples: The shrine was built by two seafaring merchants, Trapusa and Bahalika (also known as Tapassu and Bhalluka), who are believed to be the first lay disciples of the Buddha. They received hair relics from him 50 days after his enlightenment, which they then enshrined in this stupa.
- Archaeological and Epigraphical Evidence: An 8th-century Sanskrit inscription, found at the site, corroborates the legend. It explicitly names the merchants and praises the shrine. The inscription is written in a script similar to the Pallava Grantha script of South India.
- Unique Architectural Design: The central stupa is enclosed by a unique vatadage (a circular shrine house) with concentric circles of stone pillars. This architectural style, while similar to others in Anuradhapura, contains distinct features noted by archaeologists like Professor Paranavitana.
- Historical and Spiritual Significance: The temple has deep roots in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage. Though it suffered neglect and damage during the civil war, recent restoration efforts aim to restore its prominence as a major spiritual and cultural landmark.