Dambulla

Dambulla's cave temple complex, also known as the Golden Temple, is carved into a granite outcrop above the surrounding plains and contains some of the best-preserved Buddhist murals and statues in Sri Lanka. It's usually visited alongside Sigiriya, a short drive away.

Why visit Dambulla

• Five cave temples containing statues and murals dating back over a thousand years
• A short, manageable climb compared to Sigiriya
• Conveniently placed alongside Sigiriya for a combined day

Things to do in Dambulla

• Explore the five cave temples and their painted ceilings
• Climb the stairway for views over the surrounding countryside
• Combine with a Sigiriya climb earlier or later the same day

Where to stay

Most visitors stay in Sigiriya or Habarana and visit Dambulla as a day trip.

Food to try

Local restaurants in Dambulla town serve standard Sri Lankan curries; Dambulla is also a major regional produce market town.

Travel tips

• Cover shoulders and knees and remove shoes before entering the caves
• The stairway can be crowded with monkeys — keep food out of sight
• Works well as a half-day add-on to a Sigiriya visit rather than a standalone stop

Gallery

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