Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the central part of Sri Lanka. This remarkable temple complex is home to a series of cave temples, filled with stunning frescoes and statues of Buddha. It is considered one of the most important and well-preserved cave temple complexes in Sri Lanka.
Location:
Dambulla Cave Temple is situated in the central province of Sri Lanka, about 148 km from Colombo and 72 km from Kandy. The nearest town is Dambulla, which is just a few kilometers away. The temple complex can be reached by car, bus, or tuk-tuk.
Hours of Operation:
Dambulla Cave Temple is open to visitors daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm.
Admission Fees:
The admission fee for Dambulla Cave Temple is $10 for foreigners and 1500 LKR for Sri Lankan citizens. Children under the age of 12 are admitted free of charge.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Dambulla Cave Temple is from January to April, during the dry season. The weather is generally pleasant, making it easier to explore the temple complex and its surroundings.
Accommodation:
There are various accommodation options available near Dambulla Cave Temple, including hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. Visitors can choose from budget-friendly options or more luxurious accommodations, depending on their preferences.
Tips for Visitors:
When visiting Dambulla Cave Temple, visitors should wear modest clothing, covering their shoulders and knees, and remove their shoes before entering the temple complex. It is also recommended to bring a hat and sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong.
Sustainable Tourism:
Sustainable tourism is essential for preserving the Dambulla Cave Temple and its surroundings. Visitors are encouraged to minimize their impact on the environment and respect the cultural and religious significance of the site.
Tours and Activities:
There are several tours and activities available at Dambulla Cave Temple, including guided tours, meditation sessions, and visits to nearby attractions such as Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
Accessibility:
Dambulla Cave Temple is accessible by car, bus, or tuk-tuk. However, visitors with disabilities should be aware that there are steep steps leading to the temple complex, which may be challenging to navigate.
Respect for Culture:
Visitors to Dambulla Cave Temple are reminded to respect the cultural and religious significance of the site. This includes following appropriate dress codes, removing shoes before entering the temple complex, and being mindful of the religious practices that take place within the temple.
Review:
Dambulla Cave Temple has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from visitors. Many people have praised the beauty and historical significance of the temple complex, as well as the stunning frescoes and statues of Buddha. Visitors have also noted that the climb to the temple complex can be quite steep, so it is essential to be prepared for a moderate hike.
Things to Do and See:
There are many things to do and see while visiting Dambulla Cave Temple. Here are some of the top recommendations:
1. Explore the Cave Temples: The temple complex consists of five main cave temples, each with its own unique features and attractions. Be sure to visit each one to appreciate the full beauty and history of the site.
2. Admire the Frescoes: The walls and ceilings of the cave temples are adorned with stunning frescoes depicting the life of Buddha and various religious events. Take your time to admire these beautiful and intricate paintings.
3. Marvel at the Buddha Statues: Dambulla Cave Temple is home to numerous statues of Buddha, in various sizes and poses. Be sure to take a closer look at these impressive
works of art and appreciate the craftsmanship and devotion that went into creating them.
4. Enjoy the Panoramic Views: From the temple complex, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the nearby Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Be sure to take some time to soak in the breathtaking scenery.
5. Visit Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit to Dambulla Cave Temple with other nearby attractions, such as the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and the Minneriya National Park.
6. Participate in Meditation Sessions: The serene and peaceful atmosphere of the temple complex makes it an ideal location for meditation. Visitors can join meditation sessions or simply spend some time in quiet contemplation.
Conclusion:
Dambulla Cave Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Sri Lanka. With its rich history, stunning frescoes, and statues of Buddha, it offers a unique insight into the country’s religious and cultural heritage. Visitors should plan to spend at least half a day exploring the temple complex and its surroundings. Whether you are interested in history, art, or spirituality, Dambulla Cave Temple has something to offer everyone.
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S Halangoda
a week agoDambulla Royal Cave Temple is a captivating gem in Sri Lanka's cultural heritage. It houses the largest Buddha statue. The five caves adorned with ancient paintings and majestic Buddha statues offer a serene and spiritual experience. The vibrant frescoes and impressive rock-carved sculptures make it a must-visit destination for history and art enthusiasts.
Graham Hutchinson
3 months agoThis was our second visit to the caves. The day was sunny and clear and the view on the way up and at the top is amazing. The caves with the large Buddha rock carving and the smaller Buddha statues are well worth the climb. The caves are over 2000 years old. Bring a sarong with you or if you don't have one you will be provided with one at the entrance to the caves.
HMH Madhushan
3 weeks agoIt's a modern giant golden Buddha and a museum. It is hard to miss it from the road and you will likely visit it before/after the caves. But beside admiring the magnitude there is really nothing else about it so just a quick visit and a photo on the way to/from the caves
FARKHUN's Life
2 months agoThis almost thousand year old temple was built by a grateful king who was given shelter by Buddhist monks when he was on the run from enemy armies. The temple is very well maintained and is a sacred place for Buddhists. The temple is in excellent condition and the rock temple is a beautiful place to visit and meditate. A must visit while you are in Dambulla, Sri Lanka. Highly recommended for everyone
Michel Abicht
a month agoInteresting temple in the Dambulla area. Tickets are 2000 rupees per person. It consists of 5 different caves with different statues of Buddha. To get to the temple you have to get up some stairs, but doable in 10min. Here are also many vendors that try to sell you flower. Don’t just take them, prices for foreigners are quiet high. Part of the area is the golden Buddha temple consisting of a great golden Buddha statue and a museum. Its included in the ticket and can be reached on your way down from the temple. Be careful of the monkies!