Dambulla Cave Temple
Sri Lankas Largest Cave Temple Complex
Welcome to Dambulla: Temple of Ancient Wonders
Step into a world where ancient artistry meets spiritual devotion at Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lankas largest and best-preserved cave temple complex. This UNESCO World Heritage site houses over 150 Buddha statues, intricate cave paintings spanning 2,100 square meters, and 2,000 years of continuous Buddhist worship in five magnificent caves carved into a massive rock outcrop.
From the moment you climb the steps to this sacred site, youll be transported through centuries of Buddhist art and devotion. Each cave tells a unique story through its stunning murals, sculptures, and architectural features, making Dambulla one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka and a treasure trove for art and history enthusiasts.
The Five Sacred Caves: A Journey Through Time
The first cave youll encounter houses a 14-meter long reclining Buddha carved from the living rock. This cave is believed to be where King Valagamba took refuge in the 1st century BC, marking the beginning of Dambullas sacred history.
- 14-meter reclining Buddha statue
- Statue of Ananda (Buddhas disciple) at the feet
- Ancient Brahmi inscriptions
- Historical significance as royal refuge
This is the crown jewel of Dambulla, featuring 56 Buddha statues and the most extensive collection of cave paintings. The ceiling is completely covered with intricate paintings depicting Buddhas life and Jataka tales (stories of Buddhas previous lives).
- 56 Buddha statues in various poses
- Extensive ceiling paintings covering 1,500 sq meters
- Statues of King Valagamba and King Nissanka Malla
- Natural spring providing holy water
Built during the Kandyan period (18th century), this cave showcases the evolution of Sri Lankan Buddhist art. The paintings here are more recent but equally beautiful, featuring vibrant colors and detailed depictions of Buddhist stories.
- 50 Buddha statues from Kandyan period
- Vibrant 18th-century paintings
- Unique architectural features
- Well-preserved ceiling artwork
Cave 4: Pachima Viharaya (Western Monastery)
- • Small but significant cave
- • Central seated Buddha statue
- • Dagoba (stupa) in the center
- • Intimate spiritual atmosphere
Cave 5: Devana Alut Viharaya (Second New Monastery)
- • Newest addition to the complex
- • 11 Buddha statues
- • Hindu deities also present
- • Shows religious harmony
Note: While smaller than the first three caves, Caves 4 and 5 offer unique insights into the evolution of Buddhist art and religious practices in Sri Lanka.
The Golden Temple: Modern Marvel
At the base of the rock, the modern Golden Temple (built in 2000) serves as the entrance to the cave complex. This impressive structure features a 30-meter tall golden Buddha statue and houses a museum with artifacts and information about the sites history.
While not ancient like the caves above, the Golden Temple provides excellent context for your visit and offers air-conditioned relief from the tropical heat. The museum displays include ancient manuscripts, religious artifacts, and detailed explanations of Buddhist philosophy.
Golden Temple Features:
- • 30-meter tall golden Buddha statue
- • Museum with ancient artifacts
- • Air-conditioned visitor center
- • Gift shop and facilities
- • Starting point for cave temple visit
Ancient Art & Architecture
Artistic Techniques
- • Natural pigments from local minerals and plants
- • Fresco technique applied to rock surfaces
- • Multiple layers spanning different periods
- • Remarkable preservation in cave environment
Common Themes
- • Buddhas life story and previous births
- • Jataka tales (moral stories)
- • Celestial beings and divine figures
- • Geometric and floral patterns
Buddha Statues
- • Seated meditation pose (most common)
- • Standing teaching pose
- • Reclining parinirvana pose
- • Various hand gestures (mudras)
Materials & Techniques
- • Carved from living rock
- • Clay and plaster additions
- • Gold leaf and paint decoration
- • Crystal and gem inlays
Visitor Information & Guidelines
Entry Fees & Hours
- • Foreign adults: 1,500 LKR
- • Foreign children: 750 LKR
- • SAARC nationals: 250 LKR
- • Open: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM daily
Whats Included
- • Access to all five caves
- • Golden Temple museum entry
- • Shoe storage at entrance
- • Basic site information
Additional Services
- • Audio guides available (extra cost)
- • Professional guide services
- • Photography permits for professionals
- • Gift shop and refreshments
Dress Code
- • Cover shoulders and knees
- • Remove shoes before entering caves
- • White or light-colored clothing preferred
- • Avoid revealing or tight clothing
Behavior Guidelines
- • Maintain respectful silence
- • Dont point feet toward Buddha statues
- • No touching of paintings or statues
- • Photography allowed (no flash)
Cultural Sensitivity
- • This is an active place of worship
- • Be respectful of praying devotees
- • Follow your guides instructions
- • Consider making a small donation
Best Time to Visit Dambulla
- • Cooler temperatures for climbing
- • Fewer crowds and tour groups
- • Better lighting for photography
- • Peaceful atmosphere for meditation
- • Fresh morning air
- • Golden hour lighting
- • Cooler than midday
- • Beautiful sunset views
- • Less crowded than morning
- • Good for photography
- • Very hot and humid
- • Crowded with tour groups
- • Harsh lighting for photos
- • Uncomfortable climbing conditions
- • Limited parking availability
Getting to Dambulla Cave Temple
From Sigiriya
19km (30 minutes) - Perfect for combining both attractions in one day
From Kandy
72km (2 hours) - Regular bus services and private transport available
From Colombo
148km (3.5 hours) - Highway route via Kurunegala or scenic route via Kandy
Local Transport
- • Tuk-tuks from Dambulla town
- • Private cars and taxis
- • Tour buses and organized tours
- • Bicycle rentals for adventurous visitors
Cultural Triangle Sites
- • Sigiriya Rock Fortress (19km)
- • Polonnaruwa Ancient City (69km)
- • Anuradhapura Sacred City (69km)
- • Ritigala Forest Monastery (45km)
Natural Attractions
- • Minneriya National Park (50km)
- • Kaudulla National Park (35km)
- • Pidurangala Rock (20km)
- • Nalanda Gedige Temple (30km)
Tip: Dambulla is perfectly positioned for exploring the Cultural Triangle. Consider staying 2-3 days to visit multiple sites.
Dambulla Cave Temple offers one of Sri Lankas most profound cultural and spiritual experiences. As you explore these ancient caves, youre walking through 2,000 years of continuous Buddhist devotion and artistic achievement. Each cave tells a story, each painting holds meaning, and each statue represents centuries of faith and craftsmanship.
Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the cave paintings, the serene expressions of the Buddha statues, and the peaceful atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims for millennia. Remember that this is not just a tourist attraction but a living temple where people come to pray and find spiritual solace.
May your visit to Dambulla bring you peace, wonder, and a deeper appreciation for Sri Lankas incredible cultural heritage! 🙏✨🎨