The Maligawila Buddha Statue, nestled near Buttala in Monaragala District, is one of Sri Lanka’s most
magnificent archaeological treasures. Standing over 11 meters tall, this free-standing Buddha image is
carved from a single block of limestone, symbolizing strength, peace, and spiritual excellence.
Surrounded by lush greenery and rural calm, Maligawila offers a glimpse into the artistic brilliance of Sri
Lanka’s ancient sculptors. Built during the 7th century AD by King Aggabodhi IV, the statue once lay in
ruins and was later restored — now standing proudly once again as a beacon of heritage and devotion.
- Admire the towering limestone Buddha 🗿 — a rare engineering marvel 🏗️.
- Explore the nearby Avalokiteshvara Statue 🙏, also from the same era 🕰️.
- Visit the small Maligawila Archaeological Museum 🖼️ displaying local finds 🏺.
- Walk around the ancient monastery ruins 🏚️ and forested area 🌳.
- From Colombo 🏙️: 5 ½ – 6 hours ⏳ by car 🚗 via A4 highway 🛣️ (Colombo – Buttala – Maligawila 🗺️).
- From Ella 🚂 or Wellawaya 🏘️: About 1 hour’s drive ⏱️.
- By Bus 🚌: Take a bus to Buttala 🚍 and hire a tuk-tuk to Maligawila 🛺 (15 min).
- By Car 🚗: Parking available near the temple grounds 🅿️.
- Carry water 💧 and a hat 👒 — the area gets warm by midday ☀️.
- Dress modestly 👚👖 (cover shoulders and knees) 🙏.
- Keep quiet around the statue 🤫 as it is a place of worship 🕉️.
- Combine your visit 🗓️ with Buduruwagala Temple 🗿 or Yudaganawa Stupa ⚪ for a full-day heritage trip 🗺️.
- 6:30 AM 🕕 – Depart from Wellawaya 🏘️ or Buttala 🗺️.
- 7:30 AM 🕢 – Arrive at Maligawila 📍 and explore the statue complex 🗿🏛️.
- 9:00 AM 🕘 – Visit the nearby Avalokiteshvara statue site 🙏.
- 10:30 AM 🕥 – Stop for breakfast or tea in Buttala Town 🍳☕.
