Dambulla Royal Cave Temple

About

Elegantly perched on a hilltop, the Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple is a living Buddhist haven that cradles a series of five awe-inspiring cave shrines. Since the 3rd century BCE, these natural caves have harbored forest-dwelling Buddhist monks and, over the ages, transformed into one of Southern and South Eastern Asia's most remarkable Buddhist complexes. Continuous royal patronage and unwavering Buddhist practices have shaped and refurbished the caves, culminating in their present form, marked by masterful sculptures, vibrant mural paintings, and innovative spatial design. In the shade of the lion-like creature guarding the entrance and through a short hillside trek, visitors embark on an enchanting journey through five resplendent caves adorned with larger-than-life statues and vibrant Buddha paintings. The mural paintings, spread over a vast 2,100 m2 area, depict exceptional craftsmanship, and the sublime sculptures reflect a deliberate arrangement designed to elevate the spiritual experience. As you explore the complex, colonial-style outdoor hallways connect the caves and lead to man-made lily ponds, enhancing the temple's serene ambience.