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Aukana Standing Buddha

Sri Lanka, Cultural Triangle

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The 12 m high standing Buddha at Aukana is the subject of legends. Apparently sculpted during the reign of Dhatusena in the 5th century, the statues pose, ashiva mudra, signifies blessings, whilst the burst of flames above its head represents the power of total enlightenment.

The statues name translates as sun-eating and dawn, and when the first rays of the day light up the huge statues finely carved features the sight is quite phenomenal.

Today, the statue is visited by pilgrims from all parts of the country. Make sure you get here early in order to see the statue glow with the rising sun.

You can include this experience as part of an Experience Travel Group holiday designed exclusively with you.

Family Adventure Sri Lanka

Family Adventure Sri Lanka

An action-packed trip perfect for adventurous families. Jungle exploration to white-water rafting and quality hotels.

In Depth Sri Lanka

In Depth Sri Lanka

For those with more time to spare, this 3-weeker is our ultimate island itinerary. Distinctive experiences and tucked away gems.

Relaxed Sri Lanka Family Holiday

Relaxed Sri Lanka Family Holiday

Sri Lanka's natural beauty and family-time away from the tourist trail. Unique accommodation and limitedd overland journeys.

Sheer Indulgence in Sri Lanka

Sheer Indulgence in Sri Lanka

Discover the highlights of Sri Lanka while enjoying famous, luxury hotels like Aman and Tea Trails.

Map centered on Aukana Standing Buddha. Zoom out to view other hotels (H) and experiences (E) in the area.

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Experience Travel Group

020 7924 7133 Get in touch

Call
  • Destinations
    • South Asia
      • Sri Lanka
      • The Maldives
      • India
      • Bhutan
    • South East Asia
      • Thailand
      • Vietnam
      • Cambodia
      • Laos
      • Myanmar
      • Indonesia
      • Malaysia
      • Borneo
      • Indochina
    • Middle East
      • Oman
  • Holidays in Sri Lanka
    • Classic Sri Lanka Holidays
    • Classic Family Holidays
    • Sri Lanka & Maldives Holidays
    • Ultimate Holidays
    • Off Beat Family Holidays
    • Nature & Wildlife Holidays
    • Cultural, Historical & Immersive
    • Slow Holidays
  • Guide to Sri Lanka
    • Why choose Sri Lanka
    • Weather & When to go
    • Hotel inspiration
    • Experiences inspiration
    • Free Country Guide Download
  • Info on Sri Lanka
    • Nature and Wildlife
      • Overview
      • Bundala National Park
      • Flood Plains National Park
      • Gal Oya National Park
      • Horton Plains National Park
      • Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary
      • Kumana National Park (Yala East)
      • Lahugala National Park
      • Lunugamvehera National Park
      • Maduru Oya National Park
      • Minneriya National Park
      • Somawathiya National Park
      • The Knuckles Range
      • The Sinharaja Rainforest
      • Udawalawe National Park
      • Wasgamuwa National Park
      • Wilpattu National Park
      • Yala (Ruhunu) National Park
    • Getting Around in Sri Lanka
      • Overview
      • Chauffeur Guides & Transportation
      • Vehicles in Sri Lanka
      • Internal Flights
      • Helicopter in Sri Lanka
    • Honeymoons in Sri Lanka
    • Sri Lanka Weddings
  • Regions of Sri Lanka
    • Overview
    • The Cultural Triangle
    • Colombo, Negombo & Around
    • Kandy and Around
    • The Hill Country
    • West Coast Beaches
    • Galle and Around
    • The Deep South
    • Puttalam & the North West
    • The East Coast
    • Jaffna & The North
  • About us
    • Our Story
    • Our Team
    • Our Reviews
    • Our Press
    • Our brochure
    • Our Blog
  • How it works
    • Why choose us
    • Booking with confidence
    • How much does it cost
    • Financial protection
    • Trip planning process
    • Common questions
    • My Booking
    • Contact Us
  • Inspiration
    • Inspire me
    • Which type of holiday is right for me?
    • Country guide downloads
    • Month by month weather guide
    • Family Travel
    • The magic of travel
  • Sustainability
    • Making Travel Count
    • Our Counter-Carbon Pledge
    • One bottle at a time
    • Building a Sustainable Future
    • Giving Back
  • ETG Revitalise
    • View the collection
    • Pick your theme
      • Active and Restorative
      • Into the Wild
      • Uncomplicated Adventures
      • Surrounded by Nature
      • Curious Journeys
      • Remote and Switched off
  • Search
  • Contact Us
  • My Booking
  • Brochure
  • Blog