Dambulla

Introducing Dambulla

Dambulla is located in the center of Sri Lanka, 60 kilometers north of Kandy. It is a Buddhist pilgrimage center in Sri Lanka and is known as the "City of Remembering the Past".

The Dambulla Caves appear in numerous religious and historical texts. The statues depict Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, gods, goddesses, monks, disciples, and kings in various poses. The paintings within the temple, covering 25,000 square feet, are the largest in South Asia and the oldest in the world.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Dambulla Cave Temple

With a history of over 2,000 years, its exquisite murals and stone sculptures have captivated pilgrims for centuries. Comprising five caves, it is the most magnificent and majestic of Sri Lanka's many cave temples.

Recommended play time: 1 day

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Most Popular FAQs for Dambulla

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Dambulla is home to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 1st century BCE. It is a major pilgrimage site in Sri Lanka and contains over 150 Buddha statues and ancient murals depicting Buddhist history.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Dambulla is in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, approximately 148 km northeast of Colombo. Visitors can reach it by bus, private car, or taxi from major cities like Colombo, Kandy, or Sigiriya. Walking is only practical locally.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Dambulla Cave Temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds and heat.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around LKR 1,500 per adult for foreign visitors. Tickets are purchased on-site; online booking is generally not available.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not required for the Dambulla Cave Temple; tickets can be purchased upon arrival.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Allow 2–3 hours to explore all five caves, admire the murals, and climb the hill for views.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Cave I (Temple of the Great King) – largest Buddha statue and murals
• Cave II (Temple of the Royal Queens)
• Cave III (Temple of the Gods)
• Cave IV (Temple of the Mountain Spirits)
• Cave V (Temple of the Divine King)

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available on-site, primarily in English and Sinhala. Audio guides are generally not provided.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The entrance stairway offers panoramic views of Dambulla town and farmland.
• Inside the caves, photograph the Buddha statues and murals (respecting temple rules).

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, climb to Cave I and explore sequentially through Caves II to V, then descend and enjoy the surrounding viewpoints.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not allowed. There are no light shows; visiting is focused on cultural and historical exploration during the day.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can be busy during weekends and public holidays. Weekday mornings are the least crowded times.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Basic restrooms near the entrance
• Small shops selling water, snacks, and souvenirs
• Benches and shaded areas for resting

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The hill climb involves stairs and uneven surfaces, so accessibility is limited for elderly and disabled visitors. Children should be supervised.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is required for entrance fees; cards and mobile payments are rarely accepted on-site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Several local restaurants and small cafes are available near the temple entrance, serving Sri Lankan cuisine and snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. Halal options can be found in nearby restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Dambulla Pass Resort – mid-range
• Heritage Villa – boutique guesthouse
• Amaya Lake Hotel – resort option near Dambulla
• Budget guesthouses and hostels in Dambulla town

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress (20 km)
• Minneriya National Park for elephant safaris (30 km)
• Pidurangala Rock for hiking (near Sigiriya)

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the temple offer Buddha statues, religious artifacts, handicrafts, and local textiles.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Private car or taxi to Sigiriya, Kandy, or Anuradhapura
• Bus services connecting Dambulla to major cities
• Tour packages often combine Dambulla with nearby attractions