
Dambulla Cave Temple
A UNESCO-listed cave temple complex with hundreds of Buddha statues and colourful ancient paintings on the cave walls and ceilings.
Get a Quote for Dambulla Cave TempleAbout Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple is a sacred rock temple complex that has been a place of worship for over two thousand years. It has five main caves filled with Buddha statues and detailed wall and ceiling paintings. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sits on a hill with views over the surrounding plains, close to Sigiriya.
Highlights
- ✅ Five cave shrines
- ✅ Ancient painted ceilings
- ✅ Over a hundred Buddha statues
- ✅ Views from the hilltop
- ✅ Golden Temple at the base
Travel Tips
- Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, and remove shoes before entering
- The climb is a series of steps, so wear comfortable footwear
- Beware of monkeys near the entrance and keep food out of sight
- Check the current ticket price for foreign visitors before you go
More places to visit
Sinharaja Rain Forest
A UNESCO World Heritage rainforest and one of Sri Lanka's last primary forests. Walk with a local guide to spot rare birds, colourful frogs and endemic wildlife. It is very close to Ratnapura.
Pilgrimage & HikingAdam's Peak (Sri Pada)
A sacred mountain for several religions, famous for its night climb and sunrise from the summit. The pilgrim season runs roughly from December to May.
WildlifeUdawalawe National Park
One of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants up close. Jeep safaris are easy to arrange and the open landscape makes sightings very likely.