During the period of King Kirti Sri Rajasingha, this statue was built in the third cave, which was known as the "Maha Alut Vihara" or the "Great New Monastery" of the Dambulla cave temple. During this time, the cave was also designed with ceiling and wall paintings in the traditional Kandyan style (1747 - 1782). Inside of this cave is where you can find the meditating Buddha statue that has the dragon arch (Makara Torana) placed directly above the Buddha's head and shoulders. It is positioned with the hands in the Samadhi Mudra when seated in the Virasana pose. Stunning colours and predominantly rich yellows and reds illuminate this sculpture.
