Dambulla Cave Temple
Explore ancient caves adorned with over 150 Buddha statues and vibrant murals, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Dambulla Cave Temple
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient caves adorned with over 150 Buddha statues and vibrant murals, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
"A must-see UNESCO site with stunning ancient art and breathtaking views after a rewarding climb."
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing over 300 steps, so good footwear is essential for the ascent and exploring the caves. :athletic_shoe:
🧕 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering. :temple_buddhist:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Five Sacred Caves
Upper Rock Level
Explore five ancient caves filled with over 150 Buddha statues and vibrant, centuries-old murals.
Golden Buddha Statue
Base of the Temple Complex
Marvel at the towering 30-meter-tall Golden Buddha, a striking modern addition to the ancient site.
Panoramic Views
Top of the Caves
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Dambulla landscape after your climb.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & Respect
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing over 300 steps, so good footwear is essential for the ascent and exploring the caves. :athletic_shoe:
🧕 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering. :temple_buddhist:
🗺️ Correct Entrance
Google Maps can be tricky; look for the 'Dambulla Cave New Entrance' for the ticket office. :round_pushpin:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during hotter months. The climb can be tiring. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing over 300 steps, so good footwear is essential for the ascent and exploring the caves. :athletic_shoe:
🧕 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering. :temple_buddhist:
🗺️ Correct Entrance
Google Maps can be tricky; look for the 'Dambulla Cave New Entrance' for the ticket office. :round_pushpin:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during hotter months. The climb can be tiring. :droplet:
💰 Entrance Fee
Foreign adults pay 1500 rupees. Consider it for a UNESCO site. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dambulla Cave Temple for its historical significance, well-preserved ancient murals, and numerous Buddha statues. The panoramic views from the top are a major highlight, offering a beautiful reward after the climb. However, some find the entrance fee steep and the site can get crowded, impacting the serene experience.
"is an impressive spot with a lot of history and religious importance. Be prepared for a bit of a climb — over 300 steps lead you to the top — and don’t forget that modest clothing is required (no bare shoulders, and legs should be covered below the knees).
At the top, you’ll find great views and caves filled with statues and centuries-old paintings that are still in good condition. The site is mainly dedicated to Buddhist figures, though you’ll notice some Hindu statues as well. The huge golden Buddha at the base is also quite a sight.
The only downside is that the caves have no real ventilation, so the air can feel heavy, especially when it’s crowded.
Overall, it’s worth seeing once for the cultural and spiritual value — especially if you’re into temples — but probably not a place you’d return to again and again.
In August 2025 the price is 3000 rupees"
Margo Sukhytska
"Great place to visit, very interesting and beautiful temple. Nice views from the top. Long trousers and sleeves needed. 1500 rupees per foreign adult. If u arrive from the gold Buddha and stupa side you will need hike over the hill to ticket office (uncool when 35°C outside)."
Lukasz Kurowski
"The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple and Golden Temple is a fascinating historic and religious site worth visiting. Be prepared for a climb — there are over 300 steps to reach the top, and it can get busy with tourists, so an early visit is ideal. As this is a sacred Buddhist site, a modest dress code is enforced: legs must be covered below the knee, and no bare shoulders are allowed.
Once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. Inside the caves, the statues and wall paintings are remarkably well preserved, showcasing centuries of artistry and devotion. While the majority of the site is dedicated to Buddhist figures, you will also spot a few statues of Hindu gods, adding a unique cultural touch. The Golden Temple at the base is equally striking, with its massive seated Buddha statue welcoming visitors.
Overall, it’s a place of spiritual significance, rich history, and stunning craftsmanship — a must-see when in the region."
Saarangi Balasingam
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily take public transport from Kandy to Dambulla, often on buses heading towards Sigiriya or Anuradhapura. The journey takes about 2-3 hours. Many travelers also use private taxis or tuk-tuks for a more direct route. :bus: :taxi:
Yes, it's a popular day trip from Colombo, though it's a long day (around 4-5 hours drive each way). Many visitors combine it with a visit to Sigiriya Rock. :car: :clock:
Tuk-tuks are readily available and a convenient way to travel between Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya Rock, taking about 20-30 minutes. :tuk_tuk:
Absolutely! Dambulla is a major hub, and you can find buses connecting it to most major cities in Sri Lanka, including Colombo, Kandy, and Anuradhapura. :bus:
There are parking facilities available, though they can get busy during peak times. It's advisable to arrive early if you're driving. :parking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for foreign adults is typically 1500 Sri Lankan Rupees. This fee contributes to the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. :moneywithwings:
The temple complex is generally open from early morning around 7:00 AM until sunset, usually around 7:00 PM. It's best to check current hours closer to your visit. :clock:
Tickets are usually purchased on-site at the ticket office. Booking in advance is generally not required, but arriving early can help you avoid queues. :ticket:
Yes, a modest dress code is strictly enforced. You must cover your shoulders and knees. Shoes must be removed before entering the sacred areas. :temple_buddhist:
Yes, your ticket typically grants access to both the Golden Temple at the base and the cave temples above. The Golden Buddha is a prominent feature at the base. :statueofliberty:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the five caves, admire the murals and statues, and enjoy the views. If you're taking your time or hiring a guide, you might need longer. :stopwatch:
There are over 300 steps to reach the cave temples. While it can be steep and uneven in parts, it's generally manageable for most visitors. Go slow and take breaks. :climbing:
Yes, official guides are available for hire at the entrance. They can provide historical context and insights into the murals and statues. You can also use apps like ChatGPT for self-guided tours. :man_teacher:
The murals depict scenes from Buddha's life and Jataka tales, while the statues represent various stages of enlightenment. They are over 2,000 years old and are remarkably well-preserved. :scroll:
Restrooms are available near the entrance and at the top. Water can be purchased, but it's advisable to carry your own, especially during hot weather. :toilet: :water_wave:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the caves, but without flash. The flash can damage the ancient murals. Be respectful of other visitors and the sacred nature of the site. :camerawithflash:
The panoramic views from the top are stunning. Inside the caves, focus on capturing the intricate details of the murals and the variety of Buddha statues. The Golden Buddha at the base is also a great photo opportunity. :camera:
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious and heritage sites to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. :noentrysign:
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, which is ideal for photography. The golden hour can create beautiful shots of the Golden Buddha and the surrounding landscape. :sunrise: :sunset:
Yes, you can take photos of the Golden Buddha statue from various angles. It's a prominent landmark and a popular spot for pictures. :golden_heart:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for kids, consider hiring a guide who can tell stories about the statues and paintings in an engaging way. Alternatively, use a child-friendly app or pre-downloaded information to share interesting facts. The panoramic views from the top also offer a great reward after the climb.
🚶 Budget Travelers
While guides are available, you can save money by researching the site beforehand or using free online resources and apps to learn about the history and significance of the caves. Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices within the site.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The Golden Buddha at the base is a striking subject, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The panoramic views from the top of the temple complex are also a photographer's dream, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape. Early morning visits are ideal for capturing the best light and avoiding crowds, allowing for more creative freedom with your shots.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Dambulla Cave Temple
+1The complex comprises five distinct caves, each housing a unique collection of Buddhist art. These caves are adorned with over 150 Buddha statues of various sizes and materials, alongside intricate wall paintings and murals that depict scenes from the Buddha's life, his enlightenment, and various Jataka tales (stories of his previous lives). The artistry and preservation of these ancient works are remarkable, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural and religious heritage.
+1While primarily a Buddhist site, you'll also find some Hindu deities depicted, reflecting the historical syncretism in Sri Lankan culture. The Golden Temple at the base, featuring the imposing 30-meter-tall Golden Buddha statue, is a more recent addition but has become an iconic symbol of the complex. The site's spiritual significance continues to draw devotees and visitors seeking peace and cultural immersion.
Navigating the Climb and Views
It's highly recommended to start your visit early in the morning to avoid the intense heat and the largest crowds. This will make the climb more comfortable and allow for a more peaceful exploration of the caves. Take your time, pause at resting spots, and stay hydrated.
Upon reaching the top, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Dambulla landscape. This vista offers a beautiful perspective of the rural Sri Lankan countryside, making the climb well worth the effort.
Understanding the 'Golden Temple' vs. 'Cave Temple'
The 'Cave Temples' refer to the five ancient caves carved into the rock face, which house the majority of the historical Buddha statues and murals. This is the core of the ancient religious complex.
+1The 'Golden Temple' typically refers to the more modern structure at the base of the complex, most notably featuring the impressive, towering 30-meter-tall Golden Buddha statue. This serves as a grand entrance and a significant landmark.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit