Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom from Habarana

This memorable tour takes you to see some of the historic highlights of Sri Lanka. See the ancient rock fortress from the kingdom of Yapahuwa. View the remote but beautiful ruins of Sasseruwa with its giant unfinished standing buddha statue. Visit the famous perfectly sculpted Aukana Buddha Statue. Get to know more about historical Sri Lanka with this tour.

Habarana, located in Sri Lanka’s heartland, captivates visitors with its natural beauty and cultural allure. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, this quaint town serves as a gateway to several iconic attractions, including nearby national parks like Minneriya and Kaudulla, renowned for their elephant gatherings. Adventure seekers can indulge in thrilling safaris or explore ancient sites like Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple, immersing themselves in the island’s rich history and biodiversity.

The giant rock of Yapahuwa has a history dating back to the 13th century; when King Buvenekabahu (1273-1284 AD) made it the seat of his capitol. He noted its defensive abilities and created a stone fortress on the rock; which withstands the sands of time to this day. You will be able explore the ancient stone ruins and the place where the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha was ensconced during the Yapahuwa era.

After you will get to Sasseruwa, where the Ras Vehera Statue is. This lesser known statue is almost as tall as the Aukana Buddha at 36 m tall, though it remains incomplete. However the style of the statue is completely different from the Aukana Buddha. Little is known about who created it and why it was abandoned halfway; though archaeologists have confirmed that it is at least seven centuries old. You will be able to see remains of the image house that the statue originally stood within; and view the ruins of the monastic complex and cave temples around the statue.

Aukana Buddha Statue in Asisa Mudra or the “posture of blessing” is carved out of a rock boulder. The statue is carved in the round connected to the back to the rock boulder. The delicate and skillful carving of the Buddha’s robe humanizes and chastely reveals the underlying form of his body, while the face’s impassive expression projects an aura of spiritual supremacy.

It is said that the degree of alignment of the statue is such that raindrop on the nose would drop straight down to small depression carved between the toes. Aukana Buddha Statue is a masterpiece of a colossal Buddha Statue by an unknown sculptor: the serene expression of the statue, the gracefully carved robe with neat pleats brings in delicateness that could hardly be moulded into a rock. The impassive expression of the face reflects the supreme spirituality.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

• Per Person
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  Pickup included

• 1-Liter Water Bottle Per Person.
• Service of an English-speaking chauffeur guide.
• Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off.

• Gratuities
• Entrance tickets.
• Food and beverages.

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• This Tour is Provided by Lakpura LLC.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Asia/Colombo.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 8 Travelers is accepted for booking.