Maligawila Buddha Statue | Monaragala

About this Attraction

Some places leave a lasting impression on your soul, and the Maligawila Buddha Statue is one of them. Tucked away in the Monaragala District, this awe-inspiring monument of serenity and craftsmanship is a hidden gem of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. As a traveller who loves history and Buddhist culture, I have always wanted to visit this remarkable site. Finally, the day arrived when I could see this ancient masterpiece with my own eyes.

The First Glimpse of the Giant Buddha

After a scenic drive from Wellawaya, winding through lush greenery and rural landscapes, I arrived at the temple grounds. The air was calm, the only sounds of rustling leaves and occasional bird songs. As I walked closer, my heart skipped a beat—the Maligawila Buddha Statue, standing at an astonishing 11.5 meters (37 feet 10 inches), emerged through the trees.

The statue exuded a divine presence carved from a single limestone rock in the 7th century CE. The details of the robe folds, the serene facial expression, and the Asisa Mudra (a rare hand gesture symbolizing blessings) were breathtaking. The sheer scale of the statue was overwhelming—I had seen photographs before, but standing before it in person was a completely different experience.

Walking Through History

Learning about the statue’s historical significance added another layer to my appreciation. According to chronicles, Prince Aggabodhi of the Rohana Kingdom commissioned this statue to honour the Buddha and promote Buddhist teachings. The ruins of an ancient image house surrounding the statue hinted at its former grandeur—a 24-meter-long structure that once protected this divine figure.

However, history took its toll, and the statue collapsed at some point. It was rediscovered in 1951 and carefully restored in 1991, returning it to glory. Imagining how artisans centuries ago sculpted this masterpiece from a single rock without modern tools left me in absolute awe.

The Peaceful Ambiance and Spiritual Connection

Despite its massive size, the Maligawila Buddha Statue radiated peace and tranquillity. Only a handful of visitors allowed me to take in the surroundings without distractions. The lush forest setting and the open-air ambience created a meditative atmosphere.

I took a moment to sit near the statue, absorbing the calm energy that surrounded it. It felt like time had slowed down, allowing me to truly appreciate the moment. Whether or not you are deeply spiritual, there is something profoundly moving about standing in the presence of such an ancient symbol of peace.

How to Get to Maligawila

If you’re planning a visit, Wellawaya is the nearest town, about 13 km (8 miles) away. There are several ways to reach the site:

• By Bus: Local buses from Wellawaya make the journey in 30 minutes.
• By Taxi/Tuk-tuk: A taxi or tuk-tuk ride takes 15–20 minutes and is the most convenient option.
• By Rental Vehicle: If you enjoy driving, renting a car or motorcycle lets you explore at your own pace. The road leading to the site is well-paved, making it an easy drive.

Upon arrival, a small entrance fee grants access to the temple grounds. Unlike other tourist sites, Maligawila is peaceful and not overcrowded, allowing visitors to explore leisurely.

Final Thoughts – A Must-Visit Sri Lankan Treasure

Visiting the Maligawila Buddha Statue was a profoundly enriching experience. The combination of ancient artistry, history, and the spiritual ambience made this journey unforgettable. It’s a place where time stands still, allowing you to connect with Sri Lanka’s past most serenely.

For anyone travelling through the Monaragala or Wellawaya region, this site is an absolute must-visit. Whether you’re a history lover, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone who appreciates remarkable craftsmanship, Maligawila will leave you in awe.

Weather in next three days near this attraction

MONARAGALA WEATHER

YouTube Video about this Attraction