Discover the Ancient Majesty of Buduruwagala Rock Carvings
The Ancient Majesty of Buduruwagala Rock Carvings
Discover Buduruwagala Rock Carvings
Tucked away in the lush greenery of Sri Lanka’s Uva Province lies one of the island’s most captivating archaeological treasures—Buduruwagala Rock Carvings.
We visited the carvings with the family in June 2025. It was a place that we wanted to visit as many of our guests at GlenMyu Estate had been there and had enjoyed the experience.
Discover Buduruwagala Rock Carvings - A piece of Sri Lankan history
Dating back to the 9th or 10th century, Buduruwagala—meaning “the rock with the Buddha images”.
It features seven colossal figures carved into a towering rock face.
The centerpiece is a 51-foot-tall standing Buddha, the tallest of its kind in Sri Lanka.
It is flanked by six other figures believed to represent Bodhisattvas from the Mahayana Buddhist tradition.
Among them are Avalokiteshvara, the compassionate protector, and his consort Tara, depicted in a graceful, curved posture.
We travelled from GlenMyu Estate
Just over an hour’s scenic drive from the serene GlenMyu Estate boutique villa near Haputale.
This unique property makes for a perfect cultural day trip that blends history, spirituality, and natural beauty.
Buduruwagala Rock Carvings
What makes discovering Buduruwagala Rock Carvings especially intriguing is the mystical flame-shaped cavity carved into the rock.
It mysteriously remains moist with an oil-like substance believed to have healing properties.
Local legends add a layer of enchantment to the site.
This makes it not just a visual marvel but a place of spiritual resonance.
A day trip from GlenMyu Estate
The journey from GlenMyu Estate to Buduruwagala is as rewarding as the destination itself.
Winding through tea plantations, forested hills, and quiet villages, the drive offers a glimpse into the tranquil rhythms of rural Sri Lanka.
After exploring the carvings, visitors can unwind by the nearby Buduruwagala Wewa reservoir or enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.
What is the entry fee to Buduruwagala Rock Carvings?
For local Sri Lankans entry is free.
There is a small entry cost for foreigners visiting the site.
In June 2025 it was US$3 for adults and US$1.5 for children aged 6-12.
It is a minimal amount and well worth the visit.
Get a guide - Discover more about Buduruwagala Rock Carvings
I tried to do some research online before our visit.
Despite trawling the internet I could find very little information about Buduruwagala Rock Carvings.
Fortunately, we were met by Roshan as we entered the path to the carvings.
He acts as a guide, has good English (and can also speak french) and he provided a good explanation about the carvings, the history and an insight into the different philosophies of Buddhism.
We would always recommend to get a guide which will add colour and provide information about the sites you visit in Sri Lanka.
You benefit from a more informed experience and you also provide employment to local people.
A worthwhile visit
We really enjoyed our day trip to visit Buduruwagala Rock Carvings. It was enlightening, informative and wonderful to see a different landscape in Sri Lanka that is just over an hours drive away.
Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone in search of a unique adventure, Buduruwagala offers a profound and peaceful escape—a timeless monument just a stone’s throw from GlenMyu Estate’s modern comforts.
Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country
GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.
Stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country
See sights like Horton Plains National Park is a unique experience.
We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.
The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more.