Aukana Standing Buddha, Habarana Sri Lanka, Cultural Triangle

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.