Things to Do in Dambulla
The city of Dambulla in Sri Lanka is only 5 hours from the clamoring Colombo. Situated in the Matale District, Central Province, Dambulla is popular in light of the fact that it houses the Dambulla Cave Temple ' the biggest, best-saved, cave temple complex in the nation. Dambulla has over 80 caves in the surrounding and some of them have been used by the monks as meditation locations. There are more than 80 documented caves in the surrounding. Major attractions are spread over 5 caves, which contain statues and paintings. This paintings and statues are related to Lord Buddha and his life. Ibbankatuwa prehistoric burial site near Dambulla cave temple complexes is the latest archaeological site of significant historical importance found in Dambulla. With the best things to do in Dambulla, it remains an important tourist attraction inciting historical and cultural interest in the imagination of every traveler with its serene beauty and tranquil ambience.
Otherwise called Golden Rock Temple, this World Heritage Site includes a cave monastery and five sanctuaries. Along with these caves there are other lovely sights around the city like the Rose Quartz Mountain, Iron Wood Forest and the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium which was worked in only 167 days. Iron Wood Forest and Rose Quartz Mountain was declared as a human sanctuary by King Dappula in 10 century AD and today geologically important because of the Rose Quartz mountain range in the garden, which is believed to be over 500 million years old. Most travellers combine a visit to Dambulla with a visit to Sigiriya' s ancient rock fortress. This 660-foot column of rock is in the middle of a thick green tropical forest and is called the ' Eighth Wonder of the World'. Looking how to plan your tour itinerary to Dambulla? View our carefully curated list of best things to do in Dambulla.
Highlights: Sigiriya Frescoes are truly beautiful which was hand painted by the king himself depicting celestial nymphs all around the circumference. And on top of these rocks, he built for himself a white palace which stands as an epitome of beauty.
Timing: Opens daily from 7 AM to 5:30 PM.
Price: Approximate price starts from $15 to $25
Highlights: Don’t forget to visit the Golden temple Buddhist museum which will leave you jaw dropped with its spectacular entrance from the golden mouth of lion like beast.
Location: You can come via Ambepussa and Kurunegala which is approximately 4 hours from Colombo.
Prices: There are no prices charged for the same, however you have to pay 200 LKR for keeping the luggage.
The Buddhist Museum in Dambulla, Sri Lanka, is a significant cultural and spiritual landmark, located near the iconic Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This museum offers visitors a comprehensive journey through the history and evolution of Buddhism, not only in Sri Lanka but across Asia.
The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing artifacts, scriptures, and art forms that highlight the rich Buddhist heritage. Its galleries house an impressive collection of Buddha statues, intricate paintings, ancient relics, and models of historic Buddhist structures. Each exhibit is thoughtfully curated, reflecting the deep connection between Buddhism and Sri Lankan culture over centuries.
One of the museum's standout features is its emphasis on the Mahayana and Theravada traditions, the two major schools of Buddhist thought. Visitors can explore displays that detail the life and teachings of the Buddha, as well as the spread of Buddhism across the region. The museum also includes interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations that enhance understanding for all age groups.