Maligawila

The Maligawila Buddha stands about 11.5 metres and is carved from a single large block of limestone, which makes it the tallest ancient freestanding statue in the country, unlike Aukana in being fully detached. It dates to around the seventh century, was found lying broken in the forest, and after an earlier attempt failed it was raised again around 1991, once damaged pieces including the face and hands had been repaired. 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 to look for

• The standing Buddha - about 11.5 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 around 1991.

When to go

November to April is the drier window. Mornings are coolest. The site is rarely crowded.

Good to know

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

Monaragala is north, and Buttala and Buduruwagala are west.