Dambulla Cave Temple

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Dambulla Cave Temple




Highlights & route
Climb the paved stairway past playful macaques to five main caves rich with paintings and gilded statues. Pair with a spice garden visit or village lunch nearby.

Insider tips
Cover shoulders/knees; remove footwear at the shrine. Bring socks for hot stone steps.

Best time
Year-round; mornings are cooler and calmer.

Suggested add-ons
Sigiriya, Minneriya/Kaudulla safaris, or Matale for spices.

Overview
Carved into a rock outcrop, Dambulla’s cave temples house extraordinary murals and hundreds of serene Buddha statues.

Why travelers love it
  • Vivid frescoes spanning centuries.
  • Hilltop panoramas over the plains.
  • Harmonious, meditative ambiance.