Among the ruins of Sri Lanka, there lies a timeless beauty which symbolises peace and serenity at a glance called the Samadhi Buddha Statue. Step into the world where history combines with spirituality to welcome you warmly. The statue is made perfectly with gentle lips and eyes that seem to be closed halfway. When the sunlight hits the statue, it creates a shadow on its surface, making it all the more special. Just being in the presence of and near the statue will make you feel connected to something bigger and more profound than anything else.
History: Samadhi Buddha Statue
Image Credit: M. R. Aadhil Ahamedh for Wikimedia Commons
Made during the rule of King Dutugemunu, this is an iconic symbol of spirituality which holds a rich historical value rooted deep in the city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. This was crafted during the 4th century and the statue stands as a testimony of Buddhist culture during that time. The word ‘Samidhi’ comes from a Pali word meaning ‘absorbed in meditation’. Over some time, the statue has undergone the passage of a stretch where the Britishers have provided restorations and preservation aids. Being recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it surely stands as a reminder that Sri Lanka will always go beyond everything to preserve its culture and heritage, just like how it showed commitment to preserving the legacy of Buddhism.
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Significance Of Samadhi Buddha Statue
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Historical value: The Buddha statue is an integral part of the history of Sri Lanka, the statue showcases exceptional craftsmanship and even the smallest details are taken care of. The expression the statue holds, with gentle lips and eyes closed half the way shows the feelings of inner peace. The statue is also popularly known for showcasing the Dhyana Mudra. This mudra symbolises deep meditation, introspection and concentration. This Symbol shows Buddha’s spiritual awakening.
Pilgrimage Site: For Buddhists and tourists, this statue is a popular pilgrimage site where people come from all over. They come to pay respect to the statue and seek inspiration. Over time, the Samadhi Buddha Statue has remained the main point for devotees and pilgrimages all around the world. The timeless beauty and essence of spirituality that the statue holds call out to visitors to introspect and take awe of the view it offers.
Cultural Heritage: As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Samadhi Buddha Statue holds a lot of cultural value and historical significance. It showcases the legacy of Buddhism that has continued even till now.
Location And Timings Of The Samadhi Buddha Statue
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The Samadhi Buddha Statue can be discovered deep within the ancient city of Anuradhapura. The statue can be found near the Mahamewna Gardens near the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa. Anuradhapura is approximately 205 kilometres from the north city of Colombo. Local guides can show you the way towards the statue and one can also easily find travel groups to reach the statue via road.
As for the timings, it follows the typical visiting hours. These hours start at the peak early morning and continue till late afternoon. The opening and closing times vary depending on the season. We recommend checking with the local authorities or tourism companies to get all your information up to date regarding visiting hours and closure times due to any festivities and maintenance, if any. Also, make sure to respect all religions and cultural practices.
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Entrance Fee
As of the latest update, the charges to visit the Samadhi Buddha Statue may vary. For most historic sites in Anuradhapura, the entrance fee is different for children and adults.
We advise you to check with the local authorities of the area or the Department of Archaeology in Sri Lanka for most of the current information about fees and visiting hours.
Rules To Follow At Samadhi Buddha Statue
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Respectful Attire: When visiting any religious sites in Sri Lanka visitors are required to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and knees.
No photography: Some sites may have prohibitions on taking photographs so it is important to check beforehand for any restrictions before taking pictures.
Quite respectful behaviour: It is expected that people will maintain decency and silence. Be respectful and refrain from loud and disturbing behaviour.
No climbing or Touching: To protect the value of the statue and surrounding areas, visitors are not usually allowed to climb or touch the statue.
No littering: You must dispose of trash properly and keep the surroundings clean
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Places To Visit Around Samadhi Buddha Statue
1. Ella
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A beautiful town deep within the hills, known for its stunning views, trails for hiking and the iconic Nine Arches Bridge. This place is also famous for Little Adam’s Peak. The town and the areas surrounding Ella are famous for their rich biodiversity, and the area has a large variety of flora and fauna that are unique to Sri Lanka. The town of Ella is flanked by numerous ranges of hills, all of which are covered by tea plantations and cloud forests. Because of the elevation that Ella enjoys, the town of Ella has a comparatively much cooler climate and enjoyable weather than the lowlands that surround the city. In Ella is located the Ella Gap, a point from which you can get complete views of the vast southern plains which are much lower in Sri Lanka.
Location: On the Colombo-Badulla railway route; Colombo-Badulla road on the A16 highway
Things to do: Enjoy the tea plantations, see the views from Ella Gap
2. Horton Plains National Park
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Horton Plains National Park is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. You can find the world’s endpoint, as well as both grasslands and cloud forests over here. This point offers scenic views and hikes, grasslands and forests and an opportunity to see wildlife like nowhere else. There are two peaks on the Horton Plains – one is called Kirigalpoththa and the other is called Thotupola Kanda. These peaks have an elevation of 2,389 and 2357 m respectively. There is a lot of regular rainfall in these areas, which means that the constant cloud cover restricts the amount of sunlight that the vegetation below can access.
Location: RR52+QW Dayagama, Sri Lanka
Things to do: Hike, enjoy the views and forest cover, explore tea plantations and tea tasting
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3. Kandy
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Kandy is the home to the sacred temple of Tooth Relic and is a host to beautiful cultural performances, especially during the Perahera festival. The male Buddhist monastics, also called Bhikkus, of both chapters, the Asgiri chapter and the Malwathu chapter, perform worship of the relic every day in the temple’s inner chamber. Every Wednesday, there is a symbolic bathing of the relic with a special herbal concoction made of scented water and flowers, which is also called the Nanumura Mangallaya in Sinhala, the Sri Lankan language. This holy concoction is said to possess healing powers and it is distributed to all those who are present in the hall at the time of the ritual bathing.
Location: Kandy District, Central Province of Sri Lanka
Things to do: Visit the Tooth Relic Temple of the Buddha
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4. Galle Beach
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Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Beach is an iconic location where people can enjoy water sports and rest on the beach. Galle Fort beach is located just bordering the Galle Fort. This is a very popular beach in Sri Lanka, and in this beach, a lot of tourists visit just so that they can relax and have some fun on the sands and in the water. There is a lot of historic background to the beach and the Fort near it. Stone steps that have been built in rampart leads one to the Galle Fort Beach. It is a pristine beach, making it great to take photographs amidst the blue ocean glimmering in the background.
Location: Galle Fort Beach, Galle, Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Things to do: Swim, walks on the beach, sunbathe, views and photography
5. Mirissa
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‘Mirrisa’ is a scenic coastal town known for its beaches, watching whales and beautiful nightlife. Mirissa is also known for snorkelling. Snorkelling in Mirissa can last up to 2-3 hours, and you are likely to have a great time underwater, taking a good look at the marine life, from the smallest of colourful fish to the giant blue whales, the biggest mammals on Earth! There are plenty of corals underwater and many turtles with colourful backs for you to enjoy in the sparkling clear waters of Mirissa. Both beginners and experienced snorkelers can participate in the snorkelling activities at Mirissa, and one does not even need to know how to swim to get started here!
Location: 150 km south of Colombo
Things to do: Snorkelling, Swimming in the waters, Whale Watching
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Now that you have a list of things to remember for your next vacation to Samadhi Buddha Statue make sure you plan your trip to Sri Lanka to these fabulous spots for the experience of a lifetime. Don’t miss out on these opportunities, and book your tickets now!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Samadhi Buddha Statue
Are visitors allowed at the statue?
Yes, the statue is open to visitors who wish to pay respect to the culture of Buddhism. People from all around the globe come to visit the statue and meditate.
What are the hours one can visit the statue?
Typically from early morning to late evening, just like any other historic site in Sri Lanka. You can inquire about visiting timings and hours or entrance fees to any local tourist guide or company.
Are there any rules to follow while visiting the site?
Anyone who visits the statue is expected to maintain quiet and respectful behaviour, avoid littering everywhere and dispose of waste correctly.
Is photography allowed at the Samadhi Buddha Temple?
The rules of photography may vary, so make sure to enquire about restrictions on specific areas for photography.
What does the statue depict in its pose?
The statue depicts Buddha in his dhyana mudra, a gesture of the hand which showcases deep meditation, introspection and concentration. The particular expression that Buddha has on his face shows inner peace and attainment.
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