Dambulla
Your complete travel guide to Dambulla, Sri Lanka — discover the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get there.
About Dambulla
Dambulla is home to Sri Lanka's most impressive cave temple complex - a UNESCO World Heritage Site with five caves containing over 150 Buddha statues and 2,100 square meters of ancient murals. Dating back to the 1st century BC, these caves have been a site of Buddhist worship for over 2,000 years.
The town itself is a major junction in Sri Lanka's road network, making it an excellent base for exploring the Cultural Triangle. From Dambulla, you can easily reach Sigiriya (17 km), Polonnaruwa (65 km), and Anuradhapura (65 km) on day trips.
The modern Golden Temple at the base of the rock features a striking 30-meter golden Buddha statue and a quirky museum. The climb to the ancient caves above offers views over the surrounding countryside, passing troops of monkeys along the way. Dambulla also hosts one of Sri Lanka's largest produce markets, worth visiting early morning.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round — The caves can be visited any time. Early morning is best to avoid crowds and heat. The area is generally drier May to September.
Quick Facts
Best Time
Year-round
Min. Days
1 day
From Colombo
4 hours
Known For
Cave temples, murals, UNESCO site
Things to Do in Dambulla
Dambulla Cave Temple
Five sacred caves with 153 Buddha statues and stunning ancient murals covering the walls and ceilings. Sri Lanka's best-preserved cave temple complex.
Tip: Climb early morning to avoid heat and crowds. Remove shoes and cover shoulders/knees.
Golden Temple
Modern temple at the base featuring a 30-meter seated Buddha statue. Houses a Buddhist museum with interesting displays.
Tip: The main attraction is the caves above, but worth a quick look.
Dambulla Produce Market
Sri Lanka's largest wholesale produce market. Fascinating early morning experience with mountains of vegetables and fruits.
Tip: Go before 6 AM for the full experience. Located on the edge of town.
Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs
Ancient burial site with 2,700-year-old tombs showing early human settlement. Small museum explains the findings.
Popham Arboretum
A rewilded dry zone forest with walking trails and diverse birdlife. A peaceful nature escape.
Getting to Dambulla
By Bus
Central junction with buses from Colombo, Kandy, Anuradhapura, and the east coast.
By Taxi/Car
Often combined with Sigiriya on Cultural Triangle tours.
By Train
Train to Habarana, then bus or tuk-tuk to Dambulla (20 km).
Getting Around Dambulla
The town is compact. Tuk-tuks available for the cave temple and nearby attractions. Rent a car/driver for Cultural Triangle exploration.
Where to Stay in Dambulla
Mid-Range Hotels
- Sundaras Resort & Spa$$
- Thilanka Resort & Spa$$
- Pelwehera Village Resort$$
Boutique Hotels
- Dambulla Rock Arch$$
Luxury Hotels
- Heritance Kandalama$$$
Where to Eat in Dambulla
- Mango Mango(International)$$
- Gimanhala Transit Hotel(Sri Lankan)$
- Benthota Restaurant(Local)$
Dambulla FAQs
How long do I need at Dambulla Cave Temple?
2-3 hours including the climb, exploring all five caves, and the Golden Temple below. Go early to avoid heat and crowds.
Is the climb to the caves difficult?
It's a moderate climb of about 15-20 minutes up stone steps. Take your time and bring water. There are rest stops along the way.
Should I stay in Dambulla or Sigiriya?
Dambulla has more accommodation options and is centrally located for all Cultural Triangle sites. Sigiriya is quieter with fewer budget options.
What should I wear to the cave temples?
Cover your shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering caves. Bring socks if the stone floor is too hot.
External Resources
Learn more about Dambulla from these authoritative sources: