Discover the Majestic Maligawila Buddha Statue
Experience the awe-inspiring Maligawila Buddha Statue, a monumental symbol of Sri Lanka's rich cultural and spiritual heritage amidst stunning natural beauty.
A brief summary to Maligawila Buddha Statue
- P9H2+9W5, Okkampitiya, LK
Nestled in the verdant landscapes of Sri Lanka, the Maligawila Buddha Statue is one of the tallest stone statues of Buddha in the world, reaching an awe-inspiring height of 14 meters. Carved out of granite, this magnificent statue was built during the reign of King Dhatusena in the 6th century and represents a significant historical landmark that attracts countless tourists each year. Surrounded by lush greenery and serene hills, the site encapsulates the peaceful essence of Buddhist philosophy, providing a perfect backdrop for contemplation and reflection. Visitors to the Maligawila site can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan history, as the statue is not only a religious figure but also a remarkable art piece that showcases the craftsmanship of ancient artisans. The area is well-maintained, allowing tourists to stroll through the gardens and admire the statue from various angles. A visit here offers an opportunity to learn more about the significance of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and the artistry involved in creating such monumental sculptures. The site is easily accessible for travelers, making it a popular stop on many cultural tours of Sri Lanka. Whether you are a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or someone seeking tranquility, the Maligawila Buddha Statue promises a memorable experience that resonates with the spiritual heritage of this island nation.
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning for a peaceful experience and beautiful lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the site involves some walking on uneven terrain.
- Respect the local customs; dress modestly as a sign of respect when visiting this sacred site.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities nearby.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the statue.
Getting There
-
Car
From the center of Moneragala, head east on the A4 road towards Okkampitiya. Continue driving for approximately 15 kilometers until you reach the junction for Okkampitiya. Turn left onto the B14 road and drive for another 5 kilometers. Keep an eye out for signs directing you to the Maligawila Buddha Statue, which will be on your right. There is parking available near the statue.
-
Public Transportation
From Moneragala town, take a bus heading to Okkampitiya. Buses are frequent and the fare is approximately 50 LKR. After about 30 minutes, you will arrive at Okkampitiya. Once you reach Okkampitiya, you can either walk or take a tuk-tuk to the Maligawila Buddha Statue, which is about 2 kilometers away. Tuk-tuk rides should cost around 150-200 LKR.
-
Tuk-Tuk
If you are already in Okkampitiya, you can hire a tuk-tuk directly to the Maligawila Buddha Statue. The ride will take about 10-15 minutes and should cost approximately 200 LKR. Ensure to negotiate the fare beforehand or confirm with the driver.
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