The Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Five caves cut into a massive granite outcrop rising 160 metres above the surrounding plain contain a total of 153 Buddha statues, 3 statues of Sinhalese kings, and 4 statues of Hindu deities. The earliest inscriptions at the site date to the 1st century BCE, when King Vattagamini Abhaya sheltered here during his exile before reclaiming the throne and commissioning the first temple chambers in gratitude.
Cave II â the Maharaja Viharaya â is the largest, measuring 52 metres in length, with its ceiling and walls covered end-to-end with paintings depicting the life of the Buddha and Jataka tales. These paintings, restored and supplemented over many centuries, form the most comprehensive collection of Buddhist mural painting in Sri Lanka. Dambulla lies on the main road between Colombo and Sigiriya, making it a natural stop on any Cultural Triangle itinerary. Bare feet and covered shoulders are required in all cave temples.
Categories
Regions
Location
Nearby Listings
Only guests who have booked can leave a review.
