Aukana Buddha Statue
This is an ancient architectural marvel by the ancient Sinhalese. It may be called one of the wonders of the world as it is the tallest standing statue of the Buddha. The rock cut statue which stands 39 feet above its decorated lotus plinth and 10 feet across the shoulders, belongs to the period of King Dhathusena (459-477 AD), the builder of the great reservoir Kalawewa. It has been very well preserved over the years and is a joy for anyone to see. It is a creation by an unknown sculptor but it is unique.
The portrayal in ‘The Handbook for the Ceylon Traveller’ gives a vivid picture of the Aukana statue: The best time of the day to view this statue is dawn. The first rays of the morning sun bring out the rich hues of the rock image and make it seem to come alive against the deep green of the trees beyond. As the sun rises it reveals the calmness of the delicately carved face: rising higher still, the sunlight picks out the gracefully carved robe, each pleat of which is a stunning conquest of art.
