Dambulla Cave Temple: The Golden Rock Shrines
The Dambulla Cave Temple is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on a rock above the town. It is an easy, atmospheric stop between Kandy and Sigiriya.
The caves
Five caves hold more than 150 Buddha statues along with images of kings and deities, under ceilings covered in murals that follow the curve of the rock. The largest cave is the most striking, lined with dozens of seated Buddhas.
The climb
A short but steep set of steps leads up to the cave terrace, with views over the plains toward Sigiriya. Remove shoes and cover shoulders and knees before entering.
Good to know
The Golden Temple with its large gilded Buddha sits at the base and is separate from the historic caves higher up. Watch for monkeys near the entrance.
Nearby
Sigiriya is about twenty minutes away, and the Kandalama reservoir and forest make a quiet contrast to the temples.
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