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The earliest cave temples at Dambulla are thought to date back to the first century BC but successive kings added to them over the years to form the present complex of five separate cave temples.
Images of Buddha
Today they contain around 150 images of Buddha including a colossal 52 metre long reclining Buddha in the largest cave.
Pilgrimage site
As well as being a historic monument, the temples are also a pilgrimage site: the experience is even more atmospheric as you mingle with devotees placing symbolic offerings in the laps of the Buddhas, the scent of incense hanging in the air.
The caves at Dambulla are located within The Cultural Triangle and can be easily visited either from Sigiriya or en route from the hill country.
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Dambulla by calling one of our Sri Lanka specialists on 01993 838 335
Suggested Dambulla itinerary
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Dambulla, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
On the Leopard's Trail in Sri Lanka
This trip is ideal for the visitor who has a keen interest in wildlife but at the same time willing to explore some of Sri Lanka's cultural and historic treasures. With visits to a variety of National Parks you will get a good appreciation for Sri Lanka's rich flora and fauna, but included are also visits to some of the country's ancient capitals, temples and an opportunity to explore the central tea growing region. A great 'all-rounder' itinerary with an increased focus on wildlife.
Map of Dambulla
Places & hotels on the map
Places near Dambulla
- Sigiriya 10 miles away
- Pallepolla 17 miles away
- Minneriya National Park 18 miles away
- The Cultural Triangle 19 miles away
- Polonnaruwa 25 miles away
- Anuradhapura 36 miles away
- Kandy 40 miles away
- Passikudah 63 miles away
- Nuwara Eliya 63 miles away
- Trincomalee 63 miles away
- Hatton 67 miles away
- Negombo 73 miles away
- Horton Plains 74 miles away
- Adam's Peak 74 miles away
- Bandarawela 76 miles away
- Colombo 86 miles away
- Uda Walawe National Park 95 miles away
- Wadduwa 97 miles away
- Sinharaja Biosphere 104 miles away
- Yala National Park 106 miles away
- Bentota 110 miles away
- Tangalle 128 miles away
- Galle 130 miles away
- Jaffna 133 miles away
- The Southern Coast 134 miles away
Photos of Dambulla
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![Dambulla Cave Temple]( "Dambulla Cave Temple")
Dambulla Cave Temple -
![Dambulla, Sri Lanka]( "Dambulla, Sri Lanka")
Dambulla, Sri Lanka -
![Caves temples, Dambulla, Sri Lanka]( "Caves temples, Dambulla, Sri Lanka")
Caves temples, Dambulla, Sri Lanka -
![Dambulla Cave Temple]( "Dambulla Cave Temple")
Dambulla Cave Temple -
![Dambulla Cave Temple]( "Dambulla Cave Temple")
Dambulla Cave Temple -
![The Golden Temple, Dambulla]( "The Golden Temple, Dambulla")
The Golden Temple, Dambulla -
![Caves temples, Dambulla, Sri Lanka]( "Caves temples, Dambulla, Sri Lanka")
Caves temples, Dambulla, Sri Lanka -
![Dambulla Cave Temple]( "Dambulla Cave Temple")
Dambulla Cave Temple
Accommodation choices for Dambulla
We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Dambulla. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
Amaya Lake
This large hotel complex is set in spacious grounds sloping down to Kandalama Lake, with dramatic hills forming a scenic backdrop. Accommodation is in air-conditioned chalets or eco-lodges, traditional cottages with walls and floors of packed mud.
Lake Lodge
Lake Lodge is an attractive boutique property with superb views over the Dambulla hills and Kandalama reservoir.