Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla Cave Temple History

Now, let’s talk about the story behind this wonderful place.

As for the period, the Dambulla Cave Temple has been around for over 2,000 years.

Yeah, that’s right—this place has seen centuries of history.

Legend has it that King Valagamba (also called Vattagamani Abhaya) first used these caves as a hiding spot when he was chased out of his kingdom back in the 1st century BCE.

However, once he reclaimed his throne, he decided to turn the caves into a sacred space.

With that, over the years, the temple developed. Whereas kings and monks added statues, murals, and carvings by layering the caves with spiritual facts and artistry.

Anyway, what’s really remarkable is how the temple survived the challenging times that Sri Lanka experienced.

For instance, wars were something familiar back then; empires rose and fell, but the Dambulla Cave Temple stood strong, almost like a silent guardian of Sri Lanka’s heritage.

For that reason, walking through the caves today feels like you are going into a time machine.

Plus, the walls are covered in colourful murals by highlighting the scenes from Buddha’s life, while hundreds of statues—some massive, some tiny—line the interiors. 

Location

So, where exactly is this magical place?

Well, Dambulla Cave Temple is in the middle of Sri Lanka, which is about 148 kilometres northeast of Colombo.

So, if you’re travelling from Kandy, it’s roughly an hour and a half drive by making it quite convenient for a day trip.

Trust us, spotting this place isn’t a challenge as the temple is on a massive rock that towers over the surrounding area.

Speaking of which, the area around the temple is a great place to relax your mind.

Whereas you could think of rice paddies, coconut trees, and little roadside stalls that sell fresh fruit and snacks.

Plus, on your way up to the temple, you’ll climb a series of steps flanked by monkeys swinging from tree to tree.

Note: These friends are everywhere, so keep a close eye on your belongings, as they can easily take your stuff.

Entrance Fee

Alright, let’s get down to the most essential part, well, that’s the fee.

So, how much does it cost to visit?

To be honest, the entrance fee for Dambulla Cave Temple is pretty reasonable.

As for foreign visitors, it’s around $10-$15 USD, and for children from 6-12 years of age, it costs $5-$8 USD.

Locals, on the other hand, pay significantly less, often just a couple of dollars.

Here’s a quick tip: If you plan to visit multiple UNESCO sites in Sri Lanka, consider purchasing a combined ticket. This is because it might save you a bit of money in the long run. Also, try to carry cash in the local currency (Sri Lankan Rupees), as card payments may not always be accepted.

Opening Time

Actually, there is a schedule for visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple.

The temple is open daily from:

• 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

However, we recommend that you arrive early.

Now, why would we say that? Well, for starters, the morning light that comes into the caves is absolutely stunning.

Plus, you will not face the crowd, which means you can take your time to experience the beauty without feeling rushed.

Moreover, another reason to visit early is the weather. Whereas Sri Lanka can get pretty hot and humid, especially during the midday hours.

Therefore, starting your climb early ensures you’re done before the sun gets too intense.

Anyway, if mornings aren’t your thing, late afternoon is another good option. Although, just make sure you leave enough time to fully enjoy the experience before ending your trip.

Dress Code

Now, let’s talk about what to wear.

The dress code at Dambulla Cave Temple is strict, and you know why—it’s a sacred site.

Whereas both men and women are required to cover their shoulders and knees.

This means no tank tops, shorts, or skirts above the knee.

Anyway, if you show up dressed inappropriately, the temple provides shawls and sarongs for rent at the entrance.

With that being said, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking and climbing.

• Avoid flashy jewellery or anything that might distract from the spiritual atmosphere.

• Bring a scarf just in case, as it’s always better to be prepared.

Conclusion

Visiting Dambulla Cave Temple is like walking in a dream.

This is because the combination of history, art, and spirituality makes it one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left.

However, what most people love about this place is how accessible it is.

Whereas you don’t need to be an expert in Buddhism or history to appreciate it.

In fact, all you need is an open mind and a sense of wonder.

So, if you ever find yourself in Sri Lanka, make sure Dambulla Cave Temple is on your itinerary because it’s an experience that you won’t regret.

FAQs

Where is Dambulla Cave Temple located?

Dambulla Cave Temple is in central Sri Lanka, about 148 kilometres northeast of Colombo.

Is Dambulla Cave Temple a UNESCO site?

Yes, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its cultural and historical aspects.

What is the entrance fee for Dambulla Cave Temple?

For foreign visitors, it’s around $10-$15 USD, and for children from 6-12 years of age, it costs $5-$8 USD, although locals pay much less.

How many caves are there in Dambulla Temple?

There are five main caves, each with statues, murals, and religious artifacts.