Aukana Sri Lanka

The ancient Sinhalese were highly skilled in architecture and sculpture, which is quite evident when one sees the intricate works of art dating back thousands of years, in so many locations on the island.

As Buddhism has been the focal point of our society, paintings, sculptures, etc., interestingly depict the life and times of Lord Buddha, which provides a wealth of knowledge to future generations.

The Aukana statue, depicting Lord Buddha in his ashiva mudra pose, stands tall among all the grand masterpieces in Sri Lanka, both literally as well as figuratively. It is a structure that mesmerises. Standing at 12m and 10 feet across at the shoulders, its creator is not known, although research has revealed that it dates back to the 5th Century, during the reign of one of Sri Lanka’s most prominent kings – King Datusena 459-477AD.

It is speculated that a competition between a teacher and student in which the teacher won, was the result of the Aukana statue. It is interesting to note that the entire statue has been carved out of an expansive rock face and it is still attached to it.

Just a short drive away from Uga Ulagalla, you must not miss the chance to experience the wonder of Aukana, Sri Lanka.

 

Tour details

  • Time of departure: Best time to set off from Uga Ulagalla is at 8:00 a.m. as the sun will be quite strong in the afternoon. The afternoon tour will be at 3:30 p.m.
  • Tour duration: 3 hours
  • Travel duration: 45 minutes
  • Distance from the hotel: 34.8 km via Kandy-Jaffna Hwy and Thoniyagala-Kalawewa-Galewela Rd/B423
  • Tour inclusions: Picnic basket, water, juice, guide, and driver
  • What to bring/wear: Comfortable, cool clothes which are suitable for hiking and a temple visit such as long trousers and short-sleeved top, a sunhat, gym shoes or slippers, and your camera
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