Buduruwagala

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A collection of Buddhist statues carved into a gigantic rock, the Buduruwagala temple is a must see attraction in Sri Lanka, Located 6.4 kilometers southeast from Wellawaya. Built in the 10th century the statues depict styles and beliefs of the Mahayana cult. The gigantic standing Buddha statue in the centre is 15 meters tall and is the tallest on the island. The robe of the statue still has parts of its original plasters painted in orange, which suggest that once the statue must have been brightly painted. It is regarded as a must visit place in Sri Lanka.

Unfortunately the temple doesn't have many historical records, its original name is also not certain. The statues are grouped into three significant groups.

Left Group

In the left groups the three figures are believed to be of Prince Sudhana, Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva and his consort Goddess Tara.Prince Sudhana is in a trice bent posture, revealing this ability to steer the young to the right path. Avalokiteśvara is a variably depicted bodhisattva who is believed to have the compassion of all BuddhasGoddess Tara known as the “mother of liberation” is a female bodhisattva in the Mahayana tradition.

Center

In the center is the gigantic standing statute of Gautama Buddha.

Right Group

The group towards the right is believed to be statues of Vajrapani, Maitreya Bodhisattva and either Vishnu or Sahampath Brahma from left to right. Vajrapani or God Sakra is a bodhisattva in the Mahayana tradition, he holds a Vajra in his right hand. Vajra is a weapon, which symbolises indestructibility and irresistibility. Maitreya Bodhisattva is regarded to be the next Buddha in the current Kalpa, he is the last and the fifth Buddha of this Kalpa. Vishnu is a Hindu god known as the preserver, sustainer and protector of earth.