Hidden within a quiet forest near Wellawaya, Buduruwagala Temple is one of Sri Lanka’s most striking
ancient monuments. The name Buduruwagala means “the rock with Buddha images,” and that’s exactly
what awaits you — seven giant rock-cut statues carved into a towering cliff face.
The central Buddha figure, standing nearly 15 meters tall, is the tallest ancient Buddha statue in Sri
Lanka. The carvings date back to the 9th or 10th century AD and reflect Mahayana Buddhist influence —
graceful, spiritual, and mysterious.
Surrounded by birdsong and jungle breeze, Buduruwagala offers visitors a perfect blend of history, art,
and serenity.
- View the 15 m tall Buddha statue 🗿: carved into solid rock ⛰️.
- Admire the six smaller attendant figures 🙏 beside it — thought to be Bodhisattvas✨.
- Visit the small natural pond🏞️ near the temple 🕉️,believed to contain sacred water💧.
- Enjoy the forest walk 🌳 and the peaceful sound of nature 🎶.
- From Wellawaya Town 🏘️: 10 minutes ⏱️ by car 🚗 or tuk-tuk 🚕.
- From Ella 🚂: 40 minutes ⏱️ by road toward Thanamalvila 🛣️.
- From Colombo 🏙️: Approx. 5 ½ hours ⏳ via A4 highway 🛣️.
- Parking 🅿️: Available near the entrance gate ✅.
- Bring a hat 👒 and water 💧 — it can get hot around midday ☀️.
- Dress respectfully 🙏 as this is a place of worship 🕉️.
- Don’t touch or climb on the statues 🚫🗿.
- Visit early morning 🌅 to avoid crowds 👥 and catch the best photos 📸.
- 6:30 AM 🕕 – Depart from Ella 🚂 or Wellawaya 🏘️.
- 7:00 AM 🕖 – Arrive at Buduruwagala Temple 🕉️ and explore the rock carvings 🗿.
- 8:30 AM 🕣 – Relax by the pond 🏞️ and enjoy the natural surroundings 🌳.
- 9:00 AM 🕘 – Breakfast or coffee in Wellawaya Town 🍳☕.
