The Majestic Maligawila Buddha Statue: A Journey into Sri Lanka's History
Discover the awe-inspiring Maligawila Buddha Statue, a monumental symbol of Sri Lanka's rich heritage and artistry, nestled in serene landscapes.
A brief summary to Maligawila Buddha Statue
- P9H2+9W5, Okkampitiya, LK
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
The Maligawila Buddha Statue, an awe-inspiring historical landmark, is one of the largest stone-carved Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. Standing at an impressive height, this magnificent work of art depicts the serene expression of the Buddha, embodying peace and tranquility. The statue, believed to date back to the 7th century, is intricately detailed, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of ancient artisans. Visitors will be captivated not only by the sheer size of the statue but also by the breathtaking natural surroundings, which enhance the spiritual atmosphere of the site. As you approach the statue, you can feel the weight of history surrounding you; it stands as a symbol of Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage. The Maligawila site includes several smaller sculptures and remnants of ancient structures, providing insight into the monastic life that once thrived here. The serene ambience and stunning views offer a perfect spot for reflection, photography, and appreciating the artistry of the past. The area is well-preserved, allowing visitors to connect deeply with the spiritual essence of the site. Accessibility is convenient, with well-maintained paths leading to the statue, making it a family-friendly destination. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a curious traveler, the Maligawila Buddha Statue promises an enriching experience that resonates long after your visit. Don't forget to take your time exploring the intricate details and soaking in the peaceful ambiance as you wander through this remarkable historical landmark.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the best lighting for photographs.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you may need to walk on uneven terrain to reach the statue.
- Respect the site by dressing modestly and removing shoes before approaching the statue.
- Bring water and snacks, as facilities nearby may be limited.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, start from Ampara town. Head east on the A4 road towards Okkampitiya. After approximately 30 kilometers, you will see signs for Maligawila. Turn left onto the B23 road and continue for about 5 kilometers. The Maligawila Buddha Statue is located on your right, just past the village of Okkampitiya. There is parking available near the site.
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Public Transportation
To reach Maligawila Buddha Statue by public transport, take a bus from Ampara town to Okkampitiya. Buses frequently depart from the main bus station in Ampara. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs approximately LKR 50-100. Once you arrive in Okkampitiya, you can either walk to the statue (which is about 2 kilometers away) or hire a tuk-tuk for around LKR 200-300 to take you directly to the statue.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you are in Okkampitiya, you can easily hire a tuk-tuk to take you to the Maligawila Buddha Statue. The fare is usually around LKR 200-300, and the ride will take about 10 minutes. Make sure to negotiate the price before starting your journey.
Attractions Nearby to Maligawila Buddha Statue
- Dematamal Viharaya| දෙමටමල් විහාරය
- Budugallena Forest Monastery - බුදුගල්ලෙන ආරණ්ය සේනාසනය.
- Ruhuna National Park
- Monaragala Clock Tower
- Pareiyan Ella Falls | පරෙයියන් ඇල්ල
- Galabedda Archiological Site
- Galabedda Biso Pond ගලබැද්ද බිසෝ පොකුණ
- Veheragala Temple / වෙහෙරගල ඉපැරණි විහාරය
- Elephants crossing Yala
- Yala National Park Sri Lanka
- Alikota Ara Reservoir
- Thissa Len Arannya Senasanaya
- Buduruwagala Ancient Monastery
- Bambaragala Pathana
- Ellewala Waterfall
Landmarks nearby to Maligawila Buddha Statue
- Mahagodayaaya
- Maragala mountain view point (siripathula)
- Monaragala Ganapathi Kovil
- Seethakanda Ancient Monastery at Monaragala
- Sri Sambodhi Viharaya, ශ්රි සම්බෝධි යෝගාශ්රමය
- Siripathula Mountain, Moneragala
- Therappahuwa Rajamaha Viharaya
- Mayuragiriya Ancient Temple
- Mayuragiri Len Sthoopa
- Ancient Ponds
- Kehellanda Wewa
- Uma Oya surge tank (උමා ඔය කැලඹුම් ලිඳ)
- Kurullangala Prehistoric Cave Art Site
- Yala Safari Team / Jeep Safari in Yala National park
- Yala Safari Service Kataragama