Matale · Central Province
Dambulla
Painted cave temples carved into a granite outcrop.
Step out of the sunlight and into a cave glowing with colour. Monks have worshipped inside this granite outcrop for over two thousand years, and every surface — walls, ceilings, curving rock — is painted with Buddhas, flowers and scenes from history.
Five caves hold more than 150 statues, including a reclining Buddha around 14 metres long. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the most atmospheric temples in Asia.
Don't miss in Dambulla
- Painted ceilings covering around 2,100 m²
- The 14 m reclining Buddha
- Views over the plains from the cave terrace
- Golden Temple at the base
Places & Sites to Visit in Dambulla
Dambulla Cave Temple
Step from bright sunshine into cool caves where every inch of rock glows with painted Buddhas, flowers and stories told over two thousand years.
Golden Temple of Dambulla
The temple and large golden Buddha at the foot of the cave rock.
Popham Arboretum
A small dry-zone forest reserve with walking trails.
Activities & Experiences in Dambulla
Hot-Air Ballooning
Nearby excursion · operates in the Sigiriya–Dambulla area
Rise at dawn over lakes, jungle and the silhouette of Sigiriya as the plains wake below.
Dambulla Market Visit
A visit to the large wholesale vegetable and fruit market.
Include Dambulla in a private tour
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