established
1st century BC
caves
5 major temples
murals
2100+ square meters
statues
150+ Buddha statues
About Dambulla Cave Temple
Explore the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple complex, a masterpiece of ancient Buddhist art and architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises five caves containing over 150 Buddha statues and thousands of square meters of painted walls and ceilings, dating back to the 1st century BC. The temples offer an extraordinary glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage and artistic achievements.
Quick Facts
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Largest cave temple complex in Sri Lanka
- Over 2000 years of history
- Preserved ancient Buddhist artwork
- Key Cultural Triangle attraction
Best Time to Visit
peak
June to September
weather
Early morning or late afternoon best
duration
2-3 hours for full exploration
timing
Open 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM daily
Featured Activities
Guided Temple Tour
Expert-led tour of all five cave temples with detailed explanations of Buddhist art, history, and religious significance.
Art & Architecture Tour
Specialized tour focusing on artistic techniques, restoration work, and architectural features with art historian.
Sunrise Temple Visit
Early morning tour including cave temples and golden temple at sunrise, perfect for photography.
Cultural Triangle Pass
Combined ticket access to Dambulla, Sigiriya, and Polonnaruwa with guide booklet and map.
Buddhist Heritage Tour
Comprehensive tour combining cave temples with nearby Buddhist sites, including local monastery visit.
Dambulla Srilanka
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the climb to Dambulla Cave Temple?
The climb involves about 350 steps up a gentle slope, taking 10-15 minutes for most visitors. The path is well-maintained with handrails. Early morning or late afternoon visits recommended to avoid heat.
What should I wear to visit the temple?
Modest dress is required. Shoulders and knees must be covered, and shoes must be removed before entering temples. Bring socks as stone floors can be hot. Hats and caps must be removed inside caves.
Can I take photos inside the caves?
Photography is allowed inside caves for an additional fee. Flash photography is prohibited to preserve the ancient paintings. Professional photography/videography requires special permits.
How can I combine Dambulla with other sites?
Dambulla is ideally combined with Sigiriya (30 minutes away) and Polonnaruwa (1.5 hours). Many visitors explore these sites over 2-3 days using Cultural Triangle pass.