Dambulla, situated in central Sri Lanka, is a historic town renowned for its ancient cave temples and rich cultural heritage. It is approximately 148 kilometers northeast of Colombo and is easily accessible by road or rail. The centerpiece of Dambulla is the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Dambulla Cave Temple, also referred to as the Golden Temple of Dambulla. This complex consists of five caves carved into the rock face of a massive granite outcrop, each adorned with exquisite Buddhist murals and over 150 stunning statues of Buddha in various poses. It is Sri Lanka’s best-preserved Buddhist shrine within ancient caves.

In addition to its religious significance, Dambulla is surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It is located close to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors to Dambulla often combine a visit to the cave temples with an excursion to Sigiriya, where they can climb the ancient rock fortress and marvel at its remarkable frescoes and panoramic views.

Nature enthusiasts are drawn to Dambulla’s picturesque hiking trails up the Arangala Mountain Peak and Jathika Namal Uyana Rose Quartz mountain, which offer sweeping views, ponds, and Buddhist temple ruins. Overall, Dambulla is a treasure trove of historical Buddhist and megalithic monuments, mountains with thick tropical forests and lakes, naturally formed sky-high rocks, and centuries-old temples.