Buduruwagala Buddhist Temple Complex

A sacred Buddhist site that has a rich history, Buduruwagala offers unique insights into Sri Lanka’s religious heritage as well as the expert local craftsmanship during ancient times.

Getting There

Buduruwagala is located in Wellawaya in the Monaragala District. It is around 9 km from the main town and makes for an ideal excursion for those staying at Tissamaharama hotels in the region including the likes of Kithala Resort.

The Key Attraction

The highlight at Buduruwagala is a collection of seven statues featuring Lord Buddha as well as Bodhisattva figures that have been painstakingly cut into a huge rock. It is believed that these rock sculptures that depict a Mahayana Buddhist style, date back to around the 10th century.

The Central Statue

The main statue, which is of Lord Buddha, enjoys a central place at Buduruwagala and at a height of 51 feet, is the tallest of its kind in the island. The figure is in what is known as the “Samabhanga” posture and traces of orange on the robe suggest that the original creation was fully painted.

The Six Other Statues

Equally arresting are the six other statues carved into the rock face, three on either side of the central figure of Lord Buddha. One of these statues is believed to be of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, while
Vajrapani Bodhisattva and Maitree Bodhisattva are depicted as well.

Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world. Google+