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The Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla cave temples are a magnificent portrayal of Sri Lanka’s rich history. Soaring 160m above the surrounding terrain, this iconic complex boasts over 80 caves with five of them showcasing intricate artwork and sculptures that reflect the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, these exquisite cave temples remain a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates the beauty of ancient art and the grandeur of historic monuments.

The climb to Dambulla Cave Temples is a journey well worth taking. With approximately 200 steps, the climb is realtively easy and can be completed in 30 minutes with your guide by your side. To truly savor your experience, aim to visit in the early morning or late afternoon hours when the sun is not too strong. As a sign of respect, you are advised to cover your knees and shoulders and leave your footwear behind. During this visit of approximately 1.5 hours, brace yourself to be transported back in time to an era of grandeur.

Highlights

  • Learn about the history of the Dambulla Cave temples.
  • Soak in historical yet vibrant murals that cover the wall and the ceilings.
  • The impressive Buddha statues and monuments.

Includes

  • Water entrance fees and your guide

Kid-Friendly

  • More Suitable for children aged 7 and above.

Difficulty & Accessibility

  • Easy
  • Visitors with mobility limitations can explore the area with assistance.

Timings

  • Duration approximately 30 minutes.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Wear comfortable cool clothing. As with all religious sites in Sri Lanka, everyone is expected to dress modestly to cover both shoulders and knees. No hats or footwear are allowed inside temples, so flip flops (which you would have to leave at the entrance) and a pair of white socks would come
  • Keep in mind not to take pictures with your back facing Lord Buddha.
  • Watch out for the cheeky monkeys in the area they are quick to grab your biscuits right out of your hand!
Any of our experiences can be included in your travel itinerary when planning your trip with our travel specialists as we help you plan the best way to include Sri Lankas destinations and experiences into your trip.
To add this or any other experience to your itinerary please get in touch with our travel specialists.