Ancient sites · Wellawaya
Buduruwagala: Giant Rock-Carved Figures in the Forest
By Days of Iru and Opa
Buduruwagala, near Wellawaya in the deep south of the hill country, is a group of seven colossal figures carved in relief into a rock face. The central standing Buddha is the tallest of its kind in Sri Lanka.
The carvings
The central Buddha, around 15 metres tall, is flanked by Bodhisattvas and other figures, some still showing traces of the original stucco and paint. They date to roughly the 10th century.
The setting
The figures stand in quiet scrub forest by a small tank, a peaceful and uncrowded site reached on a short path from the car park.
Nearby
It combines with Wellawaya, the Diyaluma waterfall and the drive between Ella and the south coast.
Been to Wellawaya? Rate the places you visited and see what other travelers recommend.
Explore on Traveling Score