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The Dambulla Cave Temple in Sri Lanka represents a full testimony of the island’s spiritual heritage as well as artistic works, especially in their various forms dedicated to Buddhist worship and fine craftsmanship. These temples were cut into the natural rock formations, and they remain to showcase their skills and talents in beautifully painted murals, statues, and inscriptions narrating both religious and historical stories. The brilliant frescoes that decorate the interiors and the enormous Buddha statues will create a peaceful, meditative atmosphere. Sacred spaces for worship, meditation, and learning, these caves would have, at some point, been fully functional, depicting the ancient times.
Quick Details
Dambulla Cave Temple Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Dambulla Cave Temple Entrance Fees: LKR 1,500 for foreign visitors, LKR 1,000 for SAARC nationals, and free for Sri Lankan citizens
Dambulla Cave Temple Steps: Visitors must climb approximately 364 steps to reach the temple complex
Dambulla Cave Temple Dress Code: Visitors must cover their shoulders and knees, remove hats, and leave footwear at the entrance (shoe storage fee: LKR 20)
Location
Photo: Cherubino / Wikimedia Commons
The Dambulla Cave Temple and the Golden Temple of Dambulla are in central Sri Lanka; it is located about 72 kilometres north of Kandy and 148 kilometres northeast of Colombo. It is situated in the Matale District of the Central Province not far from the town of Dambulla. The temple complex is set atop a colossal rock that rises about 160 meters above the plains below, thus providing vast beautiful views of the countryside. The historical significance of the temple can be attributed to its being strategically located along the ancient trade route joining Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa.
How To Reach
Photo: Cherubino / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Dambulla is around 148 km away from Colombo and is accessed through the A6 highway. The journey by car, taxi, or bus takes about 3.5-4.5 hours. Buses for various routes run regularly from Colombo, Kandy, and major cities making the location accessible.
By Rail: Although there is no direct connection to Dambulla by rail, the closest railway station is in Habarana, which is around 25 km away. One such option includes getting on a train to Habarana from Colombo or Kandy and then taking a taxi or bus to reach the temple. In total, train and road travel combined is about 4-5 hours.
Things To Do
From sacred cave shrines to towering Buddha statues and breathtaking viewpoints, here are some of the best spots to explore around Dambulla Cave Temple:
1. Explore The Five Cave Shrines
Photo: Cherubino / Wikimedia Commons
The temple of Dambulla, a UNESCO treasure, is made up of five separate cave sanctuaries, ornamented by beautiful murals and statues that highlight Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage. These caves, dating back more than 2,000 years, have been carved into a giant rock and contain more than 150 Buddha statues, alongside depictions of Hindu deities and Sri Lankan kings. The largest and most beautiful is Cave 2, Maharaja Vihara Lena, featuring a reclining Buddha of 14 meters, an extremely elaborate ceiling painting portraying Jataka stories. While Cave 1, Devaraja Lena, has a reclining Buddha statue, Cave 3, Maha Alut Vihara, has some richly coloured frescoes from the Kandyan era.
2. Observe Buddhist Rituals
Photo: Philip Nalangan / Wikimedia Commons
The temple is a living temple, where one can witness Buddhist rituals that have been in existence for centuries. The devotees offer flowers, light oil lamps, and burn incense among other acts of reverence for Buddha. Chanting and prayers take place, especially in the early morning and evening, giving a very spiritual ambience to this temple place is a deep blessing in itself. Pilgrims come with pure lotus flowers to put before the innumerable statues of the Buddha. Murals of the Jataka tales are drawn here, and many devotees meditate here, engulfing the tranquility.
3. Enjoy Panoramic Views
Photo: Cherubino / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nestled above a cliff rock of 160 meters, the temple has great scenic appeal as well as exhilarating views. Visitors are able to enjoy a grand panorama of greenery, distant mountains, and even Sigiriya Rock Fortress sparking clear blue skies after scaling approximately 364 steps. The place is beautiful at sunrise or sunset when the entire sea is golden as it becomes a solace and picturesque landscape. The site also shows views of vast plains in the Central Province, which has been dotted authentically with old ruins and new villages.
4. Visit The Golden Temple
Photo: Jolle / Wikimedia Commons
Buddhists revere the Golden Temple of Dambulla as the most important site in Sri Lanka. It’s situated at the bottom of an old temple complex. Here rises the 30 m tall golden statue of Buddha. The temple is considered important for worship as well as for culture. The modern form of the temple stands in contrast to the age-old cave temples, offering a balance between contemporary and historical Buddhist art and architecture. Inside lies a museum with several artefacts, sculptures, and paintings related to Buddhism.
5. Spot Wildlife
Photo: Jerzy Strzelecki / Wikimedia Commons
The temple is a historical and religious complex and one of the locations for some wildlife viewing. The temple site is heavily wooded and rocky, thus creating an environment suitable for monkeys, such as toque macaques and gray langurs, to thrive. They can usually be seen wandering about the stairways and entrances of the temple. Visitors should be wary, for those monkeys will attempt to snatch food or some other belongings. Guests who are keen on birdwatching will see other species, including peacocks, parrots, and mynas, while lizards and geckos appear to bask on the rocks.
Place To Visit Nearby Dambulla Cave Temple
From ancient rock fortresses to wildlife safaris and hidden monasteries, here are some of the best places to explore near Dambulla Cave Temple:
1. Pidurangala Rock
Photo: Ji-Elle / Wikimedia Commons
Pidurangala Rock is a near-distant hiking site near Dambulla from where one can see spectacular views of Sigiriya and the landscape beyond. The rock also has historical importance because it was home to a Buddhist monastery, with traces of ancient caves and a reclining Buddha statue along the trail. Hiking the rock is moderately challenging, with the last section being steep and requiring some rock climbing. Sunrise and sunset views are truly breathtaking and are therefore popular among both photographers and nature lovers.
Distance From The Temple:17 km
2. Minneriya National Park
Photo: Madhawa Dunuwila / Wikimedia Commons
Minneriya National Park is a well-known wildlife sanctuary where one of the largest congregations of elephants in the world can be seen. Covering an area of more than 8,800 hectares, this park consists of grasslands, wetlands, and the historical tank, which are responsible for attracting diverse wildlife, inclusive of spotted deer, leopards, and many avian species. This includes the annual “Gathering” when hundreds gather around the reservoir in the dry season. Safaris do offer adventure for house-hunting in the natural-formed habitat for these beautiful creations.
Distance From The Temple: 42 km
Where To Stay
Photo: Point3D Commercial Imaging Ltd. / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
In Dambulla, accommodations span from humble guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Among the more popular choices are Jetwing Lake, Rangiri Dambulla Resort, and Sigiriya Resort by Thilanka, providing comfortable stays and convenient access to the temple and neighboring attractions. Budget travelers will find nice guesthouses and boutique hotels in the city center offering minimum amenities with accessible transport links.
Where To Eat
Photo: Cayambe / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dambulla has an abundance of eateries serving authentic Sri Lankan fare such as rice and curry, hoppers, and an assortment of fresh seafood. A combination of local and international fare is served at Bentota BakeHouse, Gimanhala, and Mango Mango, which come highly recommended. Street food stalls and small eateries dot the entire town for truly budgeted and palate-pleasing meals. Relaxing dining experiences can be had at some restaurants near the Dambulla Reservoir.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Balou46 / Wikimedia Commons
Dambulla being under tropical climate gives credence to the fact that it can be best visited in the months ranging from January to April and June to September.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
- A minimum time commitment of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours will be required to complete the temple complex.
- Be comfortable in your clothing and footwear because climbing steps is necessary.
- Tuk-tuks and buses are the best means of transportation, for navigating Dambulla and for nearby attractions like Sigiriya.
Dambulla Cave Temple became attractive to cultural and spiritual heritage enthusiasts due to its marvellous murals, ancient statues, and peaceful environment. Being one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it is one of the best travel destinations for those interested in history and art. One could either go visit the sacred caves or enjoy the beautiful views around; there is a whole lot of richness. Plan a trip with TripXL for a totally unforgettable trip.
Cover Photo: Josep Renalias Lohen11 / Wikimedia Commons
