Dambulla Cave Temple is a group of five caves in a rock about 160 metres above the plain in Central Province, Sri Lanka. Monks used the caves first, and later kings turned them into a temple complex. The caves hold more than 150 Buddha statues, along with figures of kings and deities, and their walls and ceilings are covered in painted scenes. The climb up the stone steps takes some effort, and the view over the countryside repays it.
Built into the rock
The caves were first used as a monastery in the 1st century BC. Monks lived and worshipped here, and the site grew into a temple complex under King Valagamba of the Anuradhapura Kingdom. The king had taken refuge in the caves during his exile, and he later returned to his throne.
Five caves sit beneath a large overhanging rock. A drip line along the rock edge keeps the chambers dry. The cave fronts have arched porticos and sloping entrances that follow the shape of the stone.
The site was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. It is Sri Lanka's largest cave temple group, and one of its most intact.
Inside the caves
The caves hold about 150 to 157 statues, depending on the count. They show the Buddha in several poses, and there are also figures of kings and gods. The largest cave contains a reclining Buddha.
Murals and frescoes cover the walls and ceilings across roughly 2,100 square metres. Many show scenes from the life of the Buddha, and some of the ceiling paintings tell stories in sequence. King Valagamba appears among the royal figures.
Because much of the painted work is overhead, look up as you walk through each chamber.
The climb and the views
The path to the caves runs up rock-cut steps. Some are uneven and steep, and rest posts stand along the route. The climb takes roughly 15 to 30 minutes at a steady pace.
The caves sit about 160 metres above the plain. From the top you look out over the countryside around Dambulla, and on a clear day the rock fortress of Sigiriya is visible about 20 km away.
Before you visit
Tickets are sold at the base of the hill, so buy yours before you climb. Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Remove your shoes at the entrance, and carry socks for the hot stone.
Do not turn your back to the Buddha statues when you take a photo.
Monkeys live around the site and come close to visitors. Keep food out of sight, and hold bags and phones close to you.
Facilities around the site
Parking is free and sits close to the entrance. A restaurant and juice bar is near the parking area, and clean public toilets are there too. The cave area itself has no toilets, so use them before you climb.
Dambulla lies in Central Province, about 148 kilometres east of Colombo.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, you need a ticket to enter, and it is sold at the base of the hill before the climb. This guide does not list the price, so check it at the ticket counter.
How long do you need?
Plan 1 to 2 hours. The climb to the caves takes roughly 15 to 30 minutes, and the rest of the time goes on the caves and the views.
What should I wear?
Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. You remove your shoes at the entrance, so bring socks for the hot stone.
Are there toilets at the site?
Clean public toilets are near the parking area, not inside the cave area. Use them before you climb.
Is parking available?
Yes, free parking is available close to the entrance to the cave temple.
