Spectacular Buddha statues and colorful murals beautify this ancient complex of rock-cut temples set high above the plains of Dambulla.
Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple for a glimpse into Sinhalese Buddhist art and the opulent lifestyles of Sri Lankan kings. Established by King Valagambahu I in the 1st century B.C., Dambulla Cave Temple was used by royalty until the 18th century. This revered pilgrimage site sits on a hilltop with five cavernous temples decorated with portrayals of the life of Gautama Buddha. See over 150 statues and an impressive 23,000 square feet (2,100 square meters) of paintings.
Reach the temples via a hillside path, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and Sigiriya rock fortress. Dominating the first cave, the Temple of the Lord of the Gods, is a 46-foot (14-meter) long sleeping Buddha. Spot an image of the Hindu god Vishnu and Ananda, one of Buddha’s disciples. In this cave is a Brahmin inscription that honors the foundation of the temple.
The second cave, the Temple of the Great Kings, is the largest and most impressive. Note the statues of Valagambahu and Nissankamalla, who were two of the most celebrated Sinhalese kings. To the rear of the cave are 20 Buddha statues. Murals that portray scenes from Buddha’s life decorate the walls. Go to the third cave, the Great New Temple, to admire a collection of 50 Buddha images carved from solid rock.
While smaller in stature, the other two caves also house interesting artworks. Admire the many identical seated Buddhas in the Western Temple. The Second New Temple, which is actually the most westerly, features statues made from brick rather than rock.
Also within the complex is the Golden Temple, a garish building topped by a huge golden Buddha. Next to it is the Dambulla Museum. Step inside to see exhibits of cave paintings, cave artifacts and murals from the 1700s.
The complex is located less than 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) from Dambulla’s main bus terminal. Walk to most of the town’s hotels in a short time.
Dambulla Cave Temple is open daily and has an admission fee. Purchase tickets at the Gold Temple. Consider visiting the caves in reverse order to appreciate the increasing level of grandeur.
