The Majestic Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple
Discover the spiritual and artistic marvels of Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Sri Lanka featuring stunning murals and statues.
The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a captivating Buddhist complex that showcases stunning cave paintings and impressive statues. It is a must-visit for any traveler in Sri Lanka.
A brief summary to Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple
- Kandy - Jaffna Hwy, Dambulla, LK
- +94662283605
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as it is a sacred site.
- Don't forget to bring your camera; the views and artwork are breathtaking.
- Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
- Plan your visit around sunset for stunning photographic opportunities.
Getting There
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Car
From Minneriya National Park, head southwest on the A1 highway towards Dambulla. Drive for about 25 kilometers, which should take approximately 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for the signs for Dambulla. Once you reach Dambulla, look for signs for the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple. The temple is located right off the Kandy - Jaffna Highway (A9). There is parking available near the entrance, but a fee of approximately LKR 100-200 may apply.
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Public Transportation
From the entrance of Minneriya National Park, you can take a local bus heading towards Dambulla. Buses are relatively frequent and the fare is quite affordable, usually around LKR 50-100. The bus journey will take about 1 hour. Once you arrive at the Dambulla bus station, you can either walk (approximately 1 km) or take a tuk-tuk (costing around LKR 200) to the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, which is well-signposted.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you are already in the vicinity of Dambulla town, you can hire a tuk-tuk from your accommodation or a nearby point. The ride from central Dambulla to the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple typically costs around LKR 200-300 and takes about 10 minutes. Ensure to negotiate the fare beforehand or ask your hotel for a reliable tuk-tuk service.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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