The Enchanting Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple
Explore the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning murals and statues, showcasing Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage.
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka, the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a breathtaking experience of ancient artistry and spirituality. With its stunning cave paintings and intricate statues, this site is a must-visit for every traveler seeking to explore the rich cultural heritage of the island.
A brief summary to Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple
- Kandy - Jaffna Hwy, Dambulla, LK
- +94662283605
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many steps to climb.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views from the top of the rock.
- Respect the local customs; dress modestly when visiting the temple.
- Consider hiring a local guide for deeper insights into the history and significance of the temple.
Getting There
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Tuk-Tuk
From Sigiriya, find a tuk-tuk near the entrance of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Inform the driver that you want to go to Dambulla Royal Cave Temple. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes. The driver will take you along the main road (Kandy - Jaffna Hwy). Once you reach Dambulla, the temple will be on your right side, marked by signage. You can ask the tuk-tuk driver to drop you off at the entrance.
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Bus
Walk to the main bus stop in Sigiriya, located near the entrance to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Look for buses heading to Dambulla, which are frequent throughout the day. The bus ride will take about 45 minutes. Once you arrive at Dambulla, get off at the main bus station. From there, you can either walk for about 15 minutes following the main road (Kandy - Jaffna Hwy) to reach the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, or hire a tuk-tuk for a short ride.
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Walking
If you're feeling adventurous, you can walk from Sigiriya to Dambulla. Start from the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and head towards the main road (Kandy - Jaffna Hwy). Follow the road heading south for about 15 kilometers. The walk will take approximately 3-4 hours, so ensure you have enough water and sun protection. As you approach Dambulla, the temple will be visible on your right.
Discover more about Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Rangiri Dambulu Rajamaha Viharaya (Dambulla Royal Cave Temple)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Buddhist Museum
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Painting Conservation & Research Center and Painting Museum
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Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
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Dambulla Rock
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Gimanhala Hotel
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Essential places to dine
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Royal Tasty Cafe
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Sambole Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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