Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave temple complex. It features stunning rock paintings and over 150 Buddha statues, beautifully set within five ancient caves.
Province
Central Province
District
Matale
How to get to
Dambulla Cave Temple
Dambulla Cave Temple is located in central Sri Lanka, about 160 km from Colombo and 70 km from Kandy, making it easy to reach from most major cities.
The most convenient way is by car or taxi, taking around 2 hours from Kandy or 4 hours from Colombo.
Buses frequently run to Dambulla from Colombo, Kandy, and Anuradhapura, and the temple is just a short tuk-tuk ride from the main Dambulla town.
For those traveling by train, the nearest station is Habarana, about 25 km away, from where you can take a bus or tuk-tuk to the temple.
The Dambulla Cave Temple is a magnificent testament to Sri Lanka’s artistic and spiritual heritage. Carved into a massive rock face, its five caves are adorned with intricate murals and hundreds of serene Buddha statues that have watched over pilgrims for more than 2,000 years. The vibrant paintings and sacred atmosphere offer a glimpse into the island’s deep devotion and craftsmanship, making Dambulla not just a religious site but a breathtaking journey through history and faith, an experience every traveler to Sri Lanka should witness.
