Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
Explore the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning Buddhist art and panoramic views in Sri Lanka's cultural heart.
The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage and artistic expression. Carved into a massive rock over 150 meters high, this impressive temple complex comprises five caves adorned with intricate frescoes and over 150 Buddha statues. The artistry found within these caves is breathtaking, with vibrant murals that date back to the first century BC, depicting the life of Buddha and various Jataka tales. Visitors are often captivated by the sheer scale and beauty of these ancient works, which exemplify the skill and devotion of the artisans of that era. As you explore the caves, the serene atmosphere is complemented by panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, filled with lush greenery and distant mountains. The temple is not only a spiritual haven but also a place of peace and reflection, making it a perfect spot for meditation and contemplation. The main cave, known as the Cave of the Great King, boasts a colossal reclining Buddha statue that stretches over 14 meters, a sight that evokes awe and reverence. Visiting the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple provides an opportunity to connect with Sri Lanka’s spiritual roots while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The temple is open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM, welcoming tourists and pilgrims alike. When planning your visit, consider arriving early to avoid crowds and fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of this sacred site.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site.
- Bring water and wear comfortable shoes, as there are steps to climb for access to the caves.
- Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the frescoes and statues in each cave.
A brief summary to Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
- VJ4W+8PV, Unnamed Road, Dambulla, LK
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
- Thursday 7 am-6 pm
- Friday 7 am-6 pm
- Saturday 7 am-6 pm
- Sunday 7 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, head to Dambulla from your location in the Cultural Triangle. The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple is located at VJ4W+8PV, Unnamed Road, Dambulla. From Sigiriya, take the A9 road towards Dambulla. This drive will take approximately 30 minutes. Upon arriving in Dambulla, follow signs to the temple, which is well-marked. There is a parking area available near the entrance of the temple, which may charge a small fee (approximately 100 LKR).
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Public Transportation
For public transportation, you can take a bus from Sigiriya or any nearby town to Dambulla. Buses run frequently and cost around 50 LKR. Disembark at the Dambulla bus station. From there, you can either walk (about 10-15 minutes) to the temple or hire a tuk-tuk for around 200 LKR. The tuk-tuk ride will take about 5 minutes. Make sure to ask the driver to take you to the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple.
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Tourist Taxi
Another option is to hire a tourist taxi for the day. You can book a taxi online or through your hotel. The cost will vary depending on the distance, but expect to pay around 3000-4000 LKR for a round trip from Sigiriya to Dambulla. The taxi will take you directly to the temple entrance, which saves you time and effort. Make sure to agree on the fare beforehand.
Attractions Nearby to Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
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Dambulla Rock
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Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple
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Buddhist Museum
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Museum Of Wall Painting
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Temple Lake View Point
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Painting Conservation & Research Center and Painting Museum
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Sri Lanka Jeep Safari
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Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium
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Randeniya Rock Temple
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Dambulla Clock Tower දඹුල්ල ඔරලෝසු කණුව
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Sathutu Dupatha (Pleasure Island) | සතුටු දූපත
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Ibbankatuwa Lake
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Gimanhala Hotel
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Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs
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Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Burial Site
Landmarks nearby to Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
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Rock Temple
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Dambulu Rock Inscription
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Rangiri Dambulu Rajamaha Viharaya (Dambulla Royal Cave Temple)
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Heritage Dambulla By Ceylon Hotels Corporation
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Sundaras Resort & Spa
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Gurupaura Picture Palace
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Rangiri Dambulla Resort
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Jetwing Lake
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Dambulla Rock Arch
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JC's Village
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Ibbankatuwa Ancient Cemetry
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Sri Lanka Ballooning - Sunrise Ballooning (Pvt) ltd
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Pelwehera Village Resort
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Athena Lake by Seedevi
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Heritance Kandalama