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Sacred Buddhist temple nestled in Buduruwagala forest

Buduruvagala – A beautiful temple that calms the mind

Buduruvagala – A beautiful temple that calms the mind

✈️ Why should you visit Sigiriya?

Buduruvagala is a serene ancient site in Sri Lanka renowned for its magnificent rock-cut Buddhist statues, including the island’s tallest standing Buddha.
  • Largest Rock-Cut Buddha Statue: Buduruwagala features the largest standing Buddha statue on the island, measuring an impressive 51 feet (16 meters) from head to toe.
  • Rare Mahayana Buddhist Site: Unlike the predominant Theravada Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Buduruwagala is a rare testament to the island’s Mahayana legacy, featuring numerous Bodhisattva figures including Avalokiteśvara, Tara, Maitreya, and Vajrapani.
  • Mysterious Mustard Oil Lamp: A unique and unexplained phenomenon at the site is a carved flame-shaped indentation on the rock that is always wet with an oil resembling and smelling like mustard oil.
  • Ancient Female Rock-Cut Statue: It boasts Sri Lanka’s only ancient rock-cut statue representing a female figure, thought to be Tara, the consort of Avalokiteśvara.
  • Tantric Buddhist Symbolism: The presence of Vajrapani holding a vajra, a thunderbolt scepter, is a rare depiction in Sri Lankan rock-cut art, suggesting possible connections to Tantric Buddhist practices.

Entity

Government

Entrance

Free

Wheelchair Access

Yes

Water

Available

Restaurants

Available

Toilets

Available

District: Monaragala

Reach

Any vehicle

Road Quality

Medium

Public Transport

Not available

Magnificent rock carvings at Buduruwagala temple
Front view of the towering Buddha sculpture at Buduruwagala
Scenic view of Buduruwagala Raja Maha Viharaya mountain temple
Ancient Buddha statue carved into the rock at Buduruwagala

Guidelines

Dress Modestly and Respectfully: This is a sacred Buddhist site. Wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees. Avoid tight, short, or revealing outfits. White clothing is appreciated. Do Not Touch or Climb the Statues: The Buduruvagala carvings are ancient rock sculptures. Touching or climbing on them is strictly prohibited and considered highly disrespectful. Photography Etiquette: Photography is allowed, but do not pose with your back to the Buddha statues or take selfies that disrespect the sanctity of the place. Avoid flash photography.