Although the carvings at Buduruwagala are more than 1000 years old, the detail is extraordinary

Buduruwagala is easy to miss, sitting 4 km off the main road, roughly 5 km south of the town of Wellawaya, on the A2 road, off the turn-off to Tissa. But you shouldn’t miss it. There are several massive statues carved into the rock, some of which have fine detail, including a Buddha statue that, at 15 meters, is the tallest in Sri Lanka. They all are thought to date from the 10^th century. We here at WoWasis just loved this spot, far enough away from standard tourist routes that you’ll have the luxury of enjoying it in the company of just a few others, or perhaps you’ll have it all to yourself. 

Ad Buduruwagala, the 45m Buddha statue is flanked by six other remarkable statues carved out of the rock

If you happen to take the scenic train south from Badulla to Haputale, Buduruwagala is 15 km east of Haputale. Turn south at Wellawaya, and look for the Tissa road, with signs marking Buduruwagala on your right. Drive 4 km down that side road, and you’re there.