Aukana Rajamaha Viharaya — Attraction in North Central Province

The Avukana statue is a standing statue of the Buddha near Galnewa  in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka . The statue, which has a height of more than 14 m (46 ft), depicts the Buddha with a hand raised in reassurance, a variation of the Abhaya mudra. The Avukana statue is one of the best examples of a standing statue built in Sri Lanka. It is now a popular tourist attraction.

The Avukana statue is located in the village of Avukana (also spelled Aukana) near Galnewa. It figure is set in a slight hollow and faces east, looking toward the kalawewa reservoir.it was carved out of a large granite rock face,but is not completely separated. A narrow strip of rock has been left at the back of the statue, connecting it to the rock to support it.

The Avukana statue is considered to be one of the best examples of a standing statue of the Buddha from ancient Sri Lanka.[3] The Avukana statue shows some influence of the Gandhara school of art, as well as the Amaravati School of India. The robe is worn tightly, clearly outlining the shape of the body, and its pleats are carved clearly and delicately. It is worn over the left shoulder, and the right shoulder is bare, as is the tradition in Buddha statues of Sri Lanka. The Buddha's body is straight, and the left-hand clutches the robe at the left shoulder. The right hand is raised to the right shoulder, with the palm facing the left. This position is known as the Asisa mudra, a variation of the Abhaya mudra.

The rock face behind the image is carved, to give the appearance of a mountain. The pedestal on which the Buddha stands takes the form of a lotus flower. The statue alone is 11.84 metres (38 ft 10 in) in height, and with the pedestal, the total height of the Avukana statue reaches over 14 metres (46 ft).

The statue was set within a large image house or shrine, of which parts of the lower walls remain. The structure had a stone foundation with the upper portions made of brick. It was 23 metres (74 ft) long and 19 metres...

I recently had the privilege of visiting Aukana Rajamaha Viharaya, one of the most iconic and historically significant Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. Located in Aukana, in the Anuradhapura District, this sacred site is home to the magnificent Aukana Buddha Statue, which stands over 40 feet tall and is carved out of a single granite rock face. It’s an incredible sight that reflects the brilliance and precision of ancient Sri Lankan craftsmanship.

The statue, believed to have been built during the 5th century, faces the Kala Wewa reservoir—an engineering marvel constructed by King Dhathusena. The Buddha is depicted in the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of fearlessness), and the detailing on the robe and facial features is so precise and symmetrical, it's hard to believe it was all done by hand over a thousand years ago.

There’s also a fascinating legend tied to this place: it's said that a master and his student competed to build Buddha statues. The master completed the Aukana statue, while the student’s work—located at Reswehera—remains unfinished. This adds a meaningful human story to the site’s spiritual and artistic significance.

The statue is now protected by a metal roof to shield it from the sun and rain, and the entire site is well maintained by the Ministry of Buddhist Affairs and the Department of Archaeology. The peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by nature, makes it not just a historical visit but also a spiritually calming experience.

📍 Getting there: The site is easily accessible via two main routes:

From Anuradhapura via Thalawa, Ganewela, and Bulnewa

From Dambulla via Madatugama and Balaluwewa Both routes are roughly the same distance and road conditions are good.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, a history lover or a spiritual seeker, Aukana Rajamaha Viharaya is a must-visit destination that beautifully blends Sri Lanka’s cultural, architectural, and religious heritage. Highly...

Visiting Aukana Rajamaha Viharaya was an unforgettable experience that left me in awe of Sri Lanka’s rich spiritual heritage and architectural brilliance. Nestled in the North Central Province near Kala Wewa, this ancient temple is home to one of the most iconic Buddha statues in the country—a standing Buddha carved out of a single granite rock, rising majestically at over 40 feet tall.

What makes Aukana truly remarkable is the intricate craftsmanship and serene energy that surround the site. Despite being over a thousand years old (believed to have been built during the reign of King Dhatusena in the 5th century), the statue’s fine detailing—especially in the folds of the robe and the tranquil expression—still astounds visitors and historians alike. It’s not just a historical relic; it’s a living testament to the devotion, skill, and artistry of ancient Sri Lankan craftsmen.

The temple grounds are quiet and peaceful, perfect for reflection. There’s a calming atmosphere that invites mindfulness, making it not only a place of cultural interest but also of spiritual depth. The surrounding greenery and the nearby Kala Wewa reservoir add to the tranquil beauty of the location.

The site is well-maintained, and the caretakers are friendly and informative. For anyone interested in Buddhist heritage, ancient art, or simply a place of quiet reverence, Aukana Rajamaha Viharaya is a must-visit destination.

Highly recommended for travelers, spiritual seekers, and history...