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Dambulla Cave Temple in Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle region

Visit Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Visit Dambulla, Sri Lanka

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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

Buddha statues in the Dambulla Cave TemplesAs 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.

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Suggested itinerary featuring Dambulla

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.

Map of Dambulla

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Dambulla

    Photos of Dambulla

    • Dambulla Cave Temple
      Dambulla Cave Temple
    • Dambulla Cave Temple
      Dambulla Cave Temple
    • Dambulla, Sri Lanka
      Dambulla, Sri Lanka
    • Caves temple, Dambulla, Sri Lanka
      Caves temple, Dambulla, Sri Lanka
    • Golden Buddha statue in Dambulla
      Golden Buddha statue in Dambulla
    • Dambulla caves
      Dambulla caves
    • Dambulla Cave Temple
      Dambulla Cave Temple
    • Monkey at Dambulla caves
      Monkey at Dambulla caves

    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.