Dambulla

Dambulla, a major town in the Central Province, is a key junction and the center for supplying fruits & vegetables across the country. Dambulla also houses the largest & the most well-preserved cave complex in Sri Lanka. 

Major Attractions of Dambulla

Dambulla Cave Temple/Golden Temple of Dambulla

The legend of Dambulla dates back to 1st century BC when the exiled King Valagama Bahu took refuge in the caves with the monks of Dambulla and later converted the caves into a beautiful temple complex in gratitude for the help. Accessible by climbing up the steps carved in the rock, the five caves of Dambulla enshrine around 157 statues of Buddha in different sizes depicting various poses; the focal point being a 15 meter long reclining Buddha. The ceilings & walls of the caves are covered with colorful murals & frescos depicting various stories from Buddhism.

Dambulla Museum

Located right near the cave complex, Dambulla Museum is highlighted by the huge golden statue of Buddha in the Dhyan Chakra pose resplendent at its helm. As you walk inside, various paintings, all re-created art from the murals & frescos in the cave temple, are proud illustrations of the historical & artistic heritage of Sri Lanka. The terrace offers beautiful & tranquil vistas.

Kaludiya Pokuna / Dakkinagiriya Vihara

Kaludiya Pokuna or the “black water pond”, that lends its name to the surrounding forest & the monastery, is still black but quite shallow & still. A protective moat guards the ruins of this ancient monastery that lies in a forest, off the beaten track. A barely legible inscription on a guard-stone attributes the complex to King Sena II, who ruled in the 9th century

Dambulla Produce Market

A constant hub of activities, the produce market at Dambulla is a major supplier of fruits & vegetables that are supplied by truckloads to the other parts of the country.

Traditional Food Sales Centre

A visit to Dambulla entails a tasting spree at the government Food Sales Centre. The unique flavors of Sri Lanka captured in the appetizing Pittu (steamed rice flower patty with savory sauce), Narang Kewum (fried coconut and honey ball), and Belimal Flower Tea are a delight for the travelers.  

Best Time to Visit Dambulla

Travel to Dambulla is best in the months of dry season from June to August and then from December to February.

How to Reach Dambulla

By Air- The nearest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo, around 130 kilometers from Dambulla.

By Road- Dambulla is well-connected to all the major Sri Lankan cities via an impressive network of roads. Buses & hired taxis are easily available for travel.

By Rail- There is no train station in Dambulla but it is equidistant (45 km) from the Gal Oya Junction on the Eastern Railway Line and from Matale on the Main Line.