Maligawila
A colossal freestanding Buddha in jungle in Monaragala district, found in pieces and re-erected in the 1980s.
Saved in this browser only - no account, nothing sent anywhere. See your map
The Maligawila Buddha stands nearly eleven metres and is carved from a single block of limestone, which makes it among the largest freestanding stone Buddhas in the country, unlike Aukana in being fully detached. It dates to around the seventh century, was found lying broken in the forest, and was raised again in 1980 after the pieces were joined. A large bodhisattva figure, probably Avalokitesvara, stands on a terrace a short walk away, and it too was found broken and raised again at the same time.
What you actually see
- The standing Buddha - nearly eleven metres, freestanding and carved from one block.
- The bodhisattva - a second colossal figure on a terrace nearby.
- The forest setting - both statues among trees on a quiet site.
- The re-erection - a statue found broken and rebuilt in 1980.
When to go
November to April is the drier window. Mornings are coolest. The site is rarely crowded.
Honest expectations
The statue is under a modern shelter that spoils photographs. The two figures are a walk apart on separate terraces. There is little interpretation.
Nearby
Buttala is north, and Buduruwagala is west.
What to pack for Maligawila
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
