Dambulla is a town situated in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. Its major attraction is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The rock towers 160 m (520 ft.) over the surrounding plains, with more than 80 documented caves nearby. The main attractions are spread over 5 caves, which contain statues and paintings related to Buddha and his life, including a total of 153 Buddha statues, three statues of Sri Lankan kings, and four statues of gods and goddesses — including two Hindu gods, Vishnu and Ganesh. The murals cover an area of 2,100 m2.
Why visit Dambulla?
Dambulla offers a unique combination of ancient Buddhist heritage, remarkable cave art, history, culture and natural beauty. Its central location also makes it a convenient destination for discovering Sri Lanka’s famous Cultural Triangle.
Things to do in Dambulla
- Explore the five cave temples with their Buddha statues and painted ceilings.
- See the Golden Temple of Dambulla near the entrance.
- Combine a visit with Sigiriya Rock Fortress, which is a short drive away.
- Take an afternoon safari to Minneriya to see elephants.
When to visit Dambulla
The cultural triangle is fairly reliable year-round. Visit in the morning, when it is cooler and quieter.
Dambulla FAQ
What should I wear to the Dambulla cave temple?
Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. You will remove your shoes before entering the temple, so wear socks or shoes that are easy to take off.
How long does a Dambulla visit take?
Most visitors spend one to two hours at the caves.
Almost every one of our Sri Lanka tours passes through here — send us your dates and we will build a route around it.
Before you go: our Sri Lanka travel instructions cover temple dress code and etiquette.
Tours that include Dambulla: 7 day Sri Lanka tour, 10 day Sri Lanka tour and 14 day Sri Lanka itinerary. Happy to share the trip? See our small group packages. Planning your dates? See the best time to visit Sri Lanka guide, or send us your dates and we will plan it with you.
Where to stay near Dambulla? See our guide to where to stay in Sri Lanka for the best areas and how many nights to spend.
