Avukana Buddha Statue
අව්කන බුද්ධ ප්රතිමාව
A standing Buddha about 12 metres tall, carved from granite in the 5th century, with finely rendered drapery; one of the most exquisite ancient standing Buddhas in Sri Lanka.
The Avukana Buddha statue is traditionally dated to the reign of King Dhatusena in the 5th century. It stands about 12 metres tall and was carved directly out of the rock face, connected to it only at the back. The right hand is raised in the 'blessing' gesture, and the thin robe clings to the body with graceful folds. The statue faces the nearby Kala Wewa reservoir, and it looks best when morning sunlight falls on its face. Entry costs about LKR 1000, and shoes must be removed. It is about 45 minutes northwest of Dambulla and can be combined with a trip to Anuradhapura.
Opening hours
About 07:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Namal Uyana
- Ritigala Forest Monastery
- Dambulla Cave Temple
- Habarana Village Tour (Hiriwadunna)
- Sigiriya Museum
- Sigiriya
- Pidurangala Rock
- Yapahuwa Rock Fortress