Dambulla is a town in the central province of Sri Lanka, famous for its historical and natural attractions. It is home to the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in the country, as well as the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Dambulla also offers a variety of other activities and places to visit, such as wildlife safaris, hiking, museums, markets, and more. In this article, we will explore the best things to do and see in Dambulla, and provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip.
Dambulla Cave Temple: A Sacred and Spectacular Site
The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is the most popular and impressive attraction in Dambulla. It is a complex of five caves that contain over 150 statues and paintings of Buddha, as well as other deities and historical figures. The caves date back to the 1st century BC and have been a place of worship and pilgrimage for centuries. The caves are also decorated with colorful and intricate murals that depict scenes from the life of Buddha and the history of Sri Lanka. The Dambulla Cave Temple is a must-see for anyone interested in Buddhism, culture, and art.

What to Expect at the Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple is located about 2 km from the town center of Dambulla, on a hill overlooking the plains. You can reach the temple by tuk-tuk, taxi, or bus, or by walking if you are feeling adventurous.
The entrance fee for the temple is 1,500 LKR (about 8 USD) for foreigners and free for locals. You can buy your tickets at the ticket office near the Golden Buddha statue at the base of the hill.
The temple is open daily from 7 am to 7 pm, but the best time to visit is in the morning or evening, when the temperature is cooler and the crowds are smaller.
You will need to climb about 300 steps to reach the caves, which can be challenging for some people. The steps are steep and uneven, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sunscreen. You can also hire a guide at the entrance for a small fee, who can explain the history and significance of the caves and the statues.
You will need to remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and knees before entering the caves, as a sign of respect. You can leave your shoes at the shoe rack near the entrance and borrow a sarong or a shawl if you need one. You are also not allowed to take photos with flash or touch the statues or paintings, as they are considered sacred.
You can spend as much time as you want in the caves, but we recommend at least an hour to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the temple. The caves are numbered from 1 to 5, and each one has a different name and theme. The most impressive and popular ones are Cave 2 (the Temple of the Great Kings) and Cave 3 (the Great New Temple), which have the largest and most elaborate statues and paintings. You can also enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside from the caves and the terrace.
Tips and Suggestions for Visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple
1. The Dambulla Cave Temple is a popular tourist destination, so expect to see many other visitors, especially during peak seasons and weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, or on weekdays.
2. The Dambulla Cave Temple is also a religious site, so be respectful and mindful of the local customs and beliefs. Do not disturb the monks or the worshippers, and do not make loud noises or gestures. You can also join the locals in offering flowers, incense, or candles to the statues, or meditating in the caves, if you wish.
3. The Dambulla Cave Temple is a part of the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, which also includes the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy. You can buy a combined ticket for all these sites for 50 USD, which is valid for 10 days. This can save you money and time if you plan to visit more than one of these sites.
4. The Dambulla Cave Temple is also close to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, another UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic landmarks of Sri Lanka. You can easily visit both sites in one day, as they are only about 20 km apart. You can also find many hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants near both sites, which can make your stay more convenient and comfortable.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress: A Majestic and Mysterious Monument
The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as the Lion Rock, is a massive rock formation that rises 200 meters above the surrounding jungle. It was once the royal palace and fortress of King Kasyapa, who ruled Sri Lanka in the 5th century AD. He built his palace on top of the rock, and decorated it with gardens, pools, fountains, and frescoes. He also carved a huge lion’s head at the entrance of the rock, which gave it its name. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is considered one of the most remarkable examples of ancient engineering and art, and one of the eight wonders of the world.

What to Expect at the Sigiriya Rock Fortress
The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is located about 20 km from Dambulla, and you can reach it by tuk-tuk, taxi, or bus. You can also hire a bike or a scooter and explore the area on your own.
The entrance fee for the fortress is 4,500 LKR (about 24 USD) for foreigners and 50 LKR (about 0.3 USD) for locals. You can buy your tickets at the ticket office near the main gate of the site.
The fortress is open daily from 7 am to 5:30 pm, but the best time to visit is in the morning or evening, when the temperature is cooler and the light is better for photography. The site can get very crowded and hot during the day, especially during peak seasons and weekends.
You will need to climb about 1,200 steps to reach the top of the rock, which can be challenging for some people. The steps are steep and narrow, and some parts are exposed and slippery. You will also need to pass through a spiral staircase and a metal staircase, which can be scary for those who are afraid of heights. You should wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sunscreen. You can also hire a guide at the entrance for a small fee, who can explain the history and significance of the fortress and the frescoes.
You will see many attractions and features along the way, such as the water gardens, the boulder gardens, the mirror wall, the lion’s paw, and the frescoes. The water gardens are a series of pools, fountains, and ponds that were fed by an ancient hydraulic system. The boulder gardens are a collection of huge rocks that were used as shelters and meditation spots by the monks. The mirror wall is a wall that was polished to reflect the image of the king and the visitors. The lion’s paw is a pair of giant stone paws that mark the entrance to the summit. The frescoes are paintings of beautiful women that adorn the walls of a rock gallery. They are considered some of the finest examples of ancient Sri Lankan art.
You will also enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the rock, which are breathtaking and panoramic. You can see the green jungle, the blue sky, the lakes, and the mountains. You can also spot some wildlife, such as monkeys, birds, lizards, and butterflies. You can spend as much time as you want on the summit, but we recommend at least an hour to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the site.
Tips and Suggestions for Visiting the Sigiriya Rock Fortress
1. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a popular tourist destination, so expect to see many other visitors, especially during peak seasons and weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, or on weekdays.
2. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is also a historical and archaeological site, so be respectful and mindful of the local customs and beliefs. Do not disturb the site or the wildlife, and do not take photos with flash or touch the frescoes, as they are considered sacred and fragile.
3. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a part of the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, which also includes the ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy. You can buy a combined ticket for all these sites for 50 USD, which is valid for 10 days. This can save you money and time if you plan to visit more than one of these sites.
4. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is also close to the Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive attractions in Dambulla. You can easily visit both sites in one day, as they are only about 20 km apart. You can also find many hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants near both sites, which can make your stay more convenient and comfortable.
Minneriya National Park: A Wildlife Paradise
Minneriya National Park is a wildlife sanctuary that covers an area of 8,889 hectares in the north-central province of Sri Lanka. It is famous for its large population of wild elephants, which can be seen in large herds, especially during the dry season. The park also hosts a variety of other animals, such as leopards, deer, monkeys, crocodiles, birds, and butterflies.
The park also features a large artificial lake, which was built by an ancient king and provides water and habitat for the wildlife. Minneriya National Park is a great place to enjoy nature and wildlife, and to witness one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world: the elephant gathering.

What to Expect at Minneriya National Park
Minneriya National Park is located about 40 km from Dambulla, and you can reach it by tuk-tuk, taxi, or bus. You can also hire a bike or a scooter and explore the area on your own.
The entrance fee for the park is 3,500 LKR (about 19 USD) for foreigners and 60 LKR (about 0.3 USD) for locals. You can buy your tickets at the ticket office near the main gate of the park.
The park is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm, but the best time to visit is in the afternoon, when the animals are more active and visible. The park can get very crowded and noisy during the dry season, especially during the elephant gathering, which occurs from July to October.
You will need to hire a jeep and a driver to enter the park, as the roads are rough and dusty. You can book a jeep tour online or at the entrance of the park, or join a group tour from Dambulla or nearby towns. The jeep tours usually last for 3 to 4 hours and cost around 5,000 to 10,000 LKR (about 27 to 54 USD) per jeep, depending on the number of passengers and the season. You can also hire a guide for a small fee, who can explain the wildlife and the park.
You will see many animals and birds in the park, but the main attraction is the elephants. Minneriya National Park is home to the largest known gathering of Asian elephants in the world, which can number up to 300 at a time. The elephants come to the park to feed on the grass and drink from the lake, and they form social groups and interact with each other. The elephant gathering is a unique and unforgettable sight, and a rare opportunity to observe the behavior and intelligence of these magnificent creatures.
You will also enjoy the scenery and the atmosphere of the park, which are serene and beautiful. You can see the green forest, the blue lake, the brown earth, and the colorful flowers. You can also spot some ancient ruins and monuments, such as the Minneriya Tank, which was built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD, and the Kaudulla Wewa, which was built by King Mahasen’s son. These structures are evidence of the rich and ancient history of the region.
Tips and Suggestions for Visiting Minneriya National Park
1. Minneriya National Park is a popular tourist destination, so expect to see many other visitors, especially during the dry season and the elephant gathering. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, or on weekdays.
2. Minneriya National Park is also a natural and ecological site, so be respectful and mindful of the environment and the wildlife. Do not disturb the animals or the plants, and do not litter or feed the animals. You are also not allowed to take photos with flash or touch the animals, as they are wild and unpredictable.
3. Minneriya National Park is a part of the Elephant Corridor of Sri Lanka, which also includes the Kaudulla National Park and the Hurulu Eco Park. These parks are connected by a network of forest patches and grasslands, which allow the elephants to migrate and roam freely. You can visit more than one of these parks, as they have different landscapes and wildlife. You can also find many hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants near these parks, which can make your stay more convenient and comfortable.
Buddhist Museum: A Treasure Trove of Art and History
The Buddhist Museum is a museum that showcases the history and culture of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and other Asian countries. It is located in the premises of the Dambulla Cave Temple, and it is the first and only museum of its kind in the world.
The museum displays a collection of over 2,000 artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and relics that depict the evolution and diversity of Buddhism across different regions and periods. The museum also features interactive exhibits, audio-visual presentations, and guided tours that enhance the learning and appreciation of the visitors. The Buddhist Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhism, art, and history.

What to Expect at the Buddhist Museum
The Buddhist Museum is located near the entrance of the Dambulla Cave Temple, and you can reach it by tuk-tuk, taxi, or bus, or by walking from the town center of Dambulla.
The entrance fee for the museum is 500 LKR (about 3 USD) for foreigners and free for locals. You can buy your tickets at the ticket office near the museum gate.
The museum is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, but the best time to visit is in the morning or evening, when the temperature is cooler and the crowds are smaller. The museum can get very busy and noisy during peak seasons and weekends.
You will need to remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and knees before entering the museum, as a sign of respect. You can leave your shoes at the shoe rack near the entrance and borrow a sarong or a shawl if you need one. You are also not allowed to take photos with flash or touch the exhibits, as they are valuable and delicate.
You can spend as much time as you want in the museum, but we recommend at least two hours to explore the museum thoroughly. The museum is divided into four sections, each representing a different country or region where Buddhism has spread and flourished. The sections are Sri Lanka, India, China, and Southeast Asia. Each section has a different theme and style, and displays various artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and relics that illustrate the history and culture of Buddhism in that area. You can also learn more about the exhibits by reading the labels, listening to the audio guides, or watching the video presentations.
You will also enjoy the architecture and the atmosphere of the museum, which are elegant and serene. The museum is housed in a modern building that blends well with the natural and historical surroundings. The museum also has a spacious and airy courtyard, where you can relax and admire the views of the Dambulla Cave Temple and the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Tips and Suggestions for Visiting the Buddhist Museum
1. The Buddhist Museum is a popular tourist destination, so expect to see many other visitors, especially during peak seasons and weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, or on weekdays.
2. The Buddhist Museum is also an educational and cultural site, so be respectful and mindful of the local customs and beliefs. Do not disturb the exhibits or the staff, and do not make loud noises or gestures. You can also join the locals in offering flowers, incense, or candles to the Buddha statues, or meditating in the museum, if you wish.
3. The Buddhist Museum is a part of the Dambulla Cave Temple complex, which also includes the Cave Temple, the Golden Temple, and the Museum of Wall Paintings. You can buy a combined ticket for all these sites for 2,000 LKR (about 11 USD), which is valid for one day. This can save you money and time if you plan to visit more than one of these sites.
4. The Buddhist Museum is also close to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Minneriya National Park, which are two of the most popular and impressive attractions in Dambulla. You can easily visit all these sites in one day, as they are only about 20 to 40 km apart. You can also find many hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants near these sites, which can make your stay more convenient and comfortable.
Pidurangala Rock: A Hiker’s Delight
Pidurangala Rock is a massive rock formation that lies about 2 km north of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. It is a popular hiking destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers, as it offers a challenging and rewarding climb to the top, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Sigiriya Rock and the surrounding countryside.
Pidurangala Rock is also a sacred site, as it has a history of being a Buddhist monastery and a meditation center for centuries. Pidurangala Rock is a great place to experience the beauty and spirituality of Dambulla, and to witness one of the most spectacular sunrises or sunsets in the world.
What to Expect at Pidurangala Rock
Pidurangala Rock is located about 22 km from Dambulla, and you can reach it by tuk-tuk, taxi, or bus. You can also hire a bike or a scooter and explore the area on your own.
The entrance fee for the rock is 500 LKR (about 3 USD) for foreigners and free for locals. You can buy your tickets at the ticket office near the Pidurangala Temple, which is at the base of the rock.
The rock is open daily from 5 am to 6 pm, but the best time to visit is in the morning or evening, when the temperature is cooler and the light is better for photography. The rock can get very crowded and noisy during peak seasons and weekends, especially during sunrise or sunset.
You will need to hike for about 30 to 45 minutes to reach the top of the rock, which can be challenging for some people. The hike is steep and rocky, and some parts are slippery and require scrambling. You should wear comfortable shoes and bring water and sunscreen. You can also hire a guide at the entrance for a small fee, who can explain the history and significance of the rock and the temple.
You will see many attractions and features along the way, such as the Pidurangala Temple, the reclining Buddha statue, the cave paintings, and the rock formations. The Pidurangala Temple is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 1st century BC and was used as a monastery and a meditation center by the monks. The reclining Buddha statue is a 12-meter-long statue that lies in a cave and is one of the largest statues of its kind in Sri Lanka. The cave paintings are paintings of Buddha and other deities that adorn the walls of the caves. The rock formations are natural sculptures that resemble various shapes and animals, such as a cobra, a lion, and an elephant.
You will also enjoy the views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the rock, which are breathtaking and panoramic. You can see the green jungle, the blue sky, the lakes, and the mountains. You can also see the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, which looks like a lion’s head from this angle. You can also witness one of the most beautiful sunrises or sunsets in the world, as the sun paints the sky and the landscape with different colors and shades.
Tips and Suggestions for Visiting Pidurangala Rock
1. Pidurangala Rock is a popular tourist destination, so expect to see many other visitors, especially during peak seasons and weekends. If you want to avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon, or on weekdays.
2. Pidurangala Rock is also a natural and religious site, so be respectful and mindful of the environment and the beliefs. Do not disturb the site or the wildlife, and do not litter or feed the animals. You are also not allowed to take photos with flash or touch the statues or paintings, as they are considered sacred and fragile.
3. Pidurangala Rock is a part of the Sigiriya Rock complex, which also includes the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the Sigiriya Museum, and the Sigiriya Frescoes. You can buy a combined ticket for all these sites for 5,000 LKR (about 27 USD), which is valid for one day. This can save you money and time if you plan to visit more than one of these sites.
4. Pidurangala Rock is also close to the Dambulla Cave Temple and the Minneriya National Park, which are two of the most popular and impressive attractions in Dambulla. You can easily visit all these sites in one day, as they are only about 20 to 40 km apart. You can also find many hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants near these sites, which can make your stay more convenient and comfortable.
Dambulla is a town that offers a rich and diverse experience for travelers who want to explore the historical and natural wonders of Sri Lanka. It is home to some of the most remarkable and impressive attractions in the country, such as the Dambulla Cave Temple, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the Minneriya National Park, the Buddhist Museum, and the Pidurangala Rock.
These attractions showcase the history, culture, art, and wildlife of Sri Lanka, and provide opportunities for adventure, learning, and enjoyment.
Dambulla is a destination that you should not miss if you are looking for a memorable and fulfilling trip to Sri Lanka.