Visiting Dambulla Cave Temple: Your Complete Guide

Visiting Dambulla Cave Temple is a must for any trip to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle.

Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is one of the most famous and well-preserved cave temples in Sri Lanka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features five magnificent caves filled with Buddha statues, ancient murals, and religious artifacts. The temple is perched on a rock that rises 160 meters above the surrounding plains, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the landscape.

Our Guide to Visiting Dambulla Cave Temple

Visiting Dambulla is a must-do for travellers interested in Sri Lankan history, Buddhism, and stunning cave art. This guide covers everything you need to know before you go.

History of Dambulla Royal Cave Temple

The temple has a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. It was established in the 1st century BCE by King Valagamba, who took refuge in the caves after being exiled from his throne by Indian invaders. After 14 years in hiding, he regained his kingdom and converted the caves into a temple as an act of gratitude.

Over the centuries, other rulers expanded and renovated the temple:

King Nissanka Malla (12th century) – Covered the interior with gold leaf and added statues.
Kandyan Kings (17th-18th century) – Enhanced the temple with detailed murals and more Buddha statues.

Due to its historical, religious, and artistic significance, the Dambulla Cave Temple was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991 as part of the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka.

The temple is recognised for:

Its well-preserved Buddhist murals, which span over 2,100 square meters.
More than 150 statues of Buddha, as well as Hindu deities.
Its cultural and spiritual importance, as it has been a place of worship for over 22 centuries.

Today, Dambulla is Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave temple complex.

Where Is Dambulla Cave Temple?

📍 Location: Dambulla, Central Sri Lanka

🌍 Coordinates: 7.8566° N, 80.6493° E

Dambulla Cave Temple is part of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, which includes:

Sigiriya Rock Fortress (17 km away)
Anuradhapura (90 km away)
Polonnaruwa (70 km away)

The temple sits on a massive rock formation, providing a stunning backdrop against the lush green landscape.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple will depend on your own personal preferences.

Best Season

December to April: The dry season with clear skies and pleasant weather.
May to November: The rainy season; paths may be slippery.

Best Time of Day

Early morning (7:00 – 9:00 AM) – Fewer crowds and cooler weather.
Late afternoon (4:00 – 6:00 PM) – Beautiful golden light for photos.
Avoid midday – it’s extremely hot, and the stone steps burn your feet!

Dress Code

Since this is a sacred Buddhist temple, visitors must dress modestly.

Shoulders and knees must be covered (no shorts or sleeveless tops).
Remove shoes and hats before entering (there is a shoe storage area, cost: LKR 25).
Bring a shawl or sarong if wearing shorts or a dress.

Tip: The stone pathway can get very hot, so bring socks to protect your feet when walking barefoot.

On Arrival at Dambulla Cave Temple

The entrance to the Dambulla Cave Temple complex is located near the Golden Buddha Statue and Dambulla Buddhist Museum. From here, you will need to climb a series of stone steps to reach the caves. The climb can be a bit challenging, especially in hot weather, but it is well worth the effort.

Buying Your Ticket

The ticket counter is located at the base of the temple near the Golden Buddha Statue.
Ticket Price: 1,500 LKR (~USD5) per person.
Tickets are cash only, so bring Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR).
Please keep your ticket safe; you may be asked to show it before entering the caves.

Climbing Up to the Cave Temple

Once you have your ticket, the only way to reach the caves is by climbing up a series of stone steps and pathways carved into the rock.

There are about 364 steps to reach the temple, and the climb takes 10 to 20 minutes, depending on your pace.
Some steps are steep and uneven, but the path is well-maintained.
The climb is not too difficult, but it can be tiring, especially in the midday heat.
There are a few resting spots along the way where you can catch your breath and enjoy the beautiful views.

What You Will See

Dambulla Cave Temple consists of five caves carved into a massive rock, each containing Buddha statues, intricate murals, and religious artifacts. The caves are decorated with stunning frescoes, covering an area of over 2,100 square meters, making it one of Asia’s largest and best-preserved cave temple complexes.

In total, the temple houses over 150 Buddha statues and statues of Sri Lankan kings, Hindu gods, and guardian deities. The entire complex is a spiritual and artistic masterpiece, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s ancient Buddhist traditions and royal patronage.

Dambulla Rock Inscriptions

The Dambulla rock inscriptions are ancient writings carved into the stone surfaces near the caves. These inscriptions, written in Brahmi script (an early form of Sinhala writing), date back to the 1st century BCE and are among the oldest written records in Sri Lanka.

They describe:

The dedication of the caves to Buddhist monks by King Nissankamalla.
Information about land grants and donations made to support the temple.
Details about monastic life and the role of the temple in Sri Lankan Buddhism.

Cave 1: Devaraja Lena (Cave of the Divine King)

The main highlight is a 14-meter-long reclining Buddha carved directly into the rock.
The Buddha’s feet are beautifully painted with lotus flowers.
Small statues of Ananda, Buddha’s chief disciple, stand beside him.
A statue of Vishnu, a Hindu deity, is also found here, showing the temple’s mix of Buddhist and Hindu influences.

Cave 2: Maharaja Lena (Cave of the Great Kings)

The largest and most spectacular cave, measuring about 52 meters in length and 23 meters in width.
Houses 16 standing Buddha statues and 40 seated Buddhas.
Features statues of King Valagamba and King Nissanka Malla, two rulers who played key roles in the temple’s history.
The ceiling and walls are covered in ancient Kandyan-style murals depicting stories from Buddha’s life and important Buddhist events.
This cave has an intriguing natural water drip, believed to be a sacred, never-drying water source, which monks use for blessings.

Cave 3: Maha Alut Viharaya (Great New Monastery)

Built during the Kandyan period (18th century), it features more than 50 statues of Buddha.
A large golden-painted seated Buddha dominates the room.
The murals in this cave depict scenes from Buddha’s life and historical events from Sri Lanka’s past.
The cave is smaller than Cave 2 but has some of the most vibrant paintings.

Cave 4: Paccima Viharaya (Western Temple)

One of the smaller caves, containing a seated Buddha under a cobra-shaped hood, which symbolizes protection.
The walls have darker murals, possibly due to age and exposure to elements.
Several Bodhisattva statues are also found here.

Cave 5: Devana Alut Viharaya (Second New Monastery)

The smallest and most recently added cave.
Contains modern Buddha statues made from brick and plaster.
Features Hindu deity figures, showing the blending of Buddhist and Hindu traditions in Sri Lanka.

Golden Buddha Statue & Dambulla Museum (Near the Entrance)

Outside the cave complex, you will find a massive 30-meter-high Golden Buddha statue in the newer Dambulla Buddhist Museum.
The museum contains Buddhist relics, paintings, and information about the temple’s history.

Scenic Viewpoint at the Top

Since the temple is built on a massive rock, visitors are rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
On a clear day, you can even see Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the distance!

Wildlife Around the Temple

The area surrounding the temple is home to monkeys, so be careful with your food and belongings. Avoid carrying food, as monkeys may try to grab it.
Do not feed the monkeys, as this can make them aggressive.
You might also spot colourful birds, butterflies, and small lizards around the temple grounds.

How Long Do You Need to Visit?

Recommended Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

15-20 minutes to climb up.
1 to 1.5 hours to explore the caves.

History lovers and photographers might stay longer.

If you don’t have a lot of time, the highlights you shouldn’t miss are:

The massive reclining Buddha in Cave 1
The stunning ceiling frescoes in Cave 2
The golden-seated Buddha in Cave 3
The panoramic viewpoint from the top of the rock
The giant Golden Buddha statue at the entrance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the climb difficult?

There are 364 steps to the top. The climb is not too hard, but it can be tiring in hot weather.

Can I take photos inside?

Yes, but no flash photography (to protect the paintings).

Is there a guide available?

Yes, local guides are available for a small fee, but they may not speak fluent English.

Are food and drinks available nearby?

Yes, small shops near the entrance sell water, fruit, and snacks.

What other attractions are nearby?

Sigiriya Rock Fortress (30 minutes away).
Pidurangala Rock (great for hiking).
Minneriya National Park (elephant safari).

Final Travel Tips

Bring water and sunscreen – it’s very hot.
Carry cash for entrance fees and tips.
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing. Have an old pair of socks to wear around the complex once you have taken your shoes off – the stone pathways can get very hot.
Respect the religious atmosphere – keep noise levels low.

Conclusion

Dambulla Cave Temple is more than just a religious site – it’s a living piece of history that has stood for over 2,000 years. From its stunning Buddha statues and intricate murals to its ancient rock inscriptions, every corner of the temple tells a story of Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Whether you’re drawn by its spiritual significance, breathtaking views, or cultural importance, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit. A trip to Dambulla is a journey through time, offering a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s past and its enduring devotion to Buddhism.

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About: Lisa Bundesen

Hi, I’m Lisa, a 50+ retired chartered accountant. My husband, Darren, and I explore the world every opportunity we get. Staying fit is key to our adventures, from hiking the Inca Trail to scuba diving. We call Australia home but travel overseas often, always eager to discover new cultures, bustling cities, cuisines, nature and wildlife.

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