Discover the Wonders of Menikdena Archeological Reserve and Arboretum
Explore the historical treasures and lush greenery of Menikdena Archeological Reserve and Arboretum in Dambulla, Sri Lanka.
Menikdena Archeological Reserve and Arboretum is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka, offering a rich tapestry of history and nature. This historical landmark invites tourists to explore its ancient remnants and lush botanical gardens, making it an unforgettable stop in your travel itinerary.
A brief summary to Menikdena Archeological Reserve and Arboretum | මැණික්දෙන පුරාවිද්යා රක්ෂිතය සහ වෘක්ෂෝද්යානය
- QJ8R+M44, Dambulla, LK
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid larger crowds.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven in some areas.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historical remnants.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the site's historical significance.
- Pack water and snacks, as facilities within the reserve may be limited.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from Matale town and head towards Dambulla. Take the A9 road towards Dambulla and continue for about 14 kilometers. Look for a sign indicating Menikdena Archeological Reserve and Arboretum. The coordinates for the location are 7.7666305 latitude and 80.6403223 longitude. Parking is available near the entrance of the reserve.
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Public Transportation
To reach Menikdena Archeological Reserve and Arboretum via public transportation, take a bus from Matale to Dambulla. Buses frequently run between these two towns and the fare is typically around 50 LKR. Once you arrive in Dambulla, you can take a tuk-tuk or a local taxi to Menikdena, which is approximately 8 kilometers away from the Dambulla bus station. The taxi fare should be around 500-800 LKR depending on negotiation.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you prefer to take a tuk-tuk directly from Matale, you can hire one at a local stand or book one through an app. The journey will take about 20-30 minutes and cost approximately 1,200-1,500 LKR for a round trip. Make sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
Discover more about Menikdena Archeological Reserve and Arboretum | මැණික්දෙන පුරාවිද්යා රක්ෂිතය සහ වෘක්ෂෝද්යානය
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
JC's Village
7.7 km
Discover the charm of Dambulla at JC's Village, a cozy guest house offering authentic Sri Lankan hospitality and easy access to local attractions.
Ibbankatuwa Ancient Cemetry
7.9 km
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Jetwing Lake
8.2 km
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Rangiri Dambulla Resort
9.1 km
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Sundaras Resort & Spa
9.3 km
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Rock Temple
10.0 km
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Dambulu Rock Inscription
10.0 km
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Rangiri Dambulu Rajamaha Viharaya (Dambulla Royal Cave Temple)
10.1 km
Dambulla Royal Cave Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing breathtaking Buddhist art and serene spirituality in Sri Lanka.
Heritage Dambulla By Ceylon Hotels Corporation
10.5 km
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Gurupaura Picture Palace
11.3 km
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Sri Lanka Ballooning - Sunrise Ballooning (Pvt) ltd
11.5 km
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Dambulla Rock Arch
12.4 km
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Heritance Kandalama
13.8 km
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Erawulgala Peak
14.2 km
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Amaya Signature Kandalama Dambulla
15.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Minneriya National Park Safari
6.7 km
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Wewkotuwa wewa
7.2 km
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Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Burial Site
7.9 km
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Arangala Mountain Peak
7.9 km
Experience breathtaking views and adventure at Arangala Mountain Peak, a must-visit hiking destination in Sri Lanka.
Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs
8.0 km
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Ruksala wood carving
9.1 km
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Painting Conservation & Research Center and Painting Museum
9.7 km
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Museum Of Wall Painting
9.8 km
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Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple
9.9 km
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Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
9.9 km
Explore the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning Buddhist art and panoramic views in Sri Lanka's cultural heart.
Buddhist Museum
10.0 km
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Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium
10.3 km
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Dambulla Rock
10.3 km
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Temple Lake View Point
10.6 km
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Sri Lanka Jeep Safari
10.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Sigiriana Resort by Thilanka
6.4 km
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Delum Uyana Restaurants and fruits garden
6.7 km
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Jungle Food
7.0 km
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OSHALA Sri Lankan Food.
7.8 km
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Pubudu Family Restaurants & Reception
8.8 km
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Athula Restaurant
9.0 km
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Araliya Bistro Cafe & Restaurant
9.3 km
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Sundaras Restaurant & Pool BAR
9.3 km
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Sandra Restaurant
9.5 km
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Heritage rangiri villa restaurant and hotel
9.6 km
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UpRising Restaurant
10.4 km
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Gami gedara - ගැමි ගෙදර
11.5 km
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Pizza Hut - Dambulla
11.9 km
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Ninu Restaurant
12.1 km
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Manj Restaurant & Bar
12.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rathnayake Stores
2.7 km
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City Fancy
12.0 km
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Sadaru Palace
12.1 km
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ESB Gift
12.5 km
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sajan mobile shop
12.5 km
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Chocolate.lk
12.5 km
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Bunny.srilanka
12.5 km
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Music Stores
12.5 km
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Smartwatch Arcade
12.5 km
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Earphones.lk
12.5 km
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Kaushi with beauty
12.5 km
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Threads of love
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AAS GIFT SHOP
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Ceylon Diagon Alley
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Agraa Heritage Center
12.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
K.M.P Wine Stores
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Samagi Wine Stores
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Arayuma restaurant and bar
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Fruit juice
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Thilini Tedars
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169 Restaurant
11.4 km
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Kandy Liqour Restorunt
12.2 km
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Machan Dambulla - මචං දඹුල්ල
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DUMBARA WINE(BAR)
13.4 km
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Laki's chill lounge
15.9 km
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Juice Bar
16.0 km
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Greeno Restaurant & Juice Bar
16.3 km
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Kamal Rest & Bar
16.3 km
Discover Kamal Rest & Bar - a tranquil retreat on the Kandy - Jaffna Highway offering delightful drinks and local charm.
Pool Bar Al Forno
16.8 km
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S.P.J Wine Stores
17.4 km
Experience a delightful selection of wines at S.P.J Wine Stores, nestled in the serene surroundings of Madawala Ulpotha.
