Overview
The Avukana Buddha Statue stands on the banks of the Kala Wewa reservoir in the Anuradhapura District, a single standing Buddha figure carved directly from a granite rock face and rising almost 13 metres, among the tallest ancient standing Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. Dating to around the 5th century CE, likely during the reign of King Dhatusena, it depicts the Buddha in the asisa mudra, a blessing gesture, with intricately carved robes that fall in stylised pleats down its full height. A smaller, unfinished twin statue lies nearby at Sasseruwa, believed by local legend to be a rival attempt by the sculptor's apprentice.
LOCATION
Anuradhapura District
TYPE
Ancient Statue
BEST TIME
May - Sep
VISIT TIME
30 - 60 Mins
Why Visit Avukana
➤ See one of Sri Lanka's tallest ancient standing Buddha statues
➤ Admire the finely carved robe pleats up close
➤ Take in views over the Kala Wewa reservoir
➤ Visit the unfinished twin statue at nearby Sasseruwa
➤ Combine with Anuradhapura or Dambulla on a Cultural Triangle route
➤ Photograph the statue in the soft light of early morning
Things to Know Before You Go
Avukana is a quick, focused stop rather than a sprawling site, most visitors spend well under an hour here, making it an easy add-on to a longer day covering Anuradhapura, Dambulla, or Sigiriya. Photography of the statue itself is generally permitted, though as with other active religious sites, modest dress is appreciated. The lesser-known unfinished statue at Sasseruwa, roughly a 40-minute drive away, is worth the detour for those interested in the story behind Avukana's carving.
Nearby
➤ Anuradhapura
➤ Sasseruwa (unfinished statue)
➤ Kala Wewa Reservoir
➤ Dambulla Cave Temple
➤ Ritigala Forest Monastery
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is the Avukana Buddha Statue?
Almost 13 metres, making it one of the tallest ancient standing Buddha statues in Sri Lanka.
How old is the Avukana statue?
It dates to around the 5th century CE, likely carved during the reign of King Dhatusena.
What is the Sasseruwa statue?
An unfinished standing Buddha statue about 40 minutes from Avukana, popularly said to be a rival version carved by the original sculptor's apprentice.
How long does a visit to Avukana take?
Most visitors spend 30 to 60 minutes, making it an easy stop on a longer Cultural Triangle itinerary.
