Situated in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple is 2 km from the town centre and conveniently accessible.
Perched at an elevation of 1,118 feet above sea level, the Dambulla Cave Temple rises majestically from the surrounding plains of Dambulla. The rock towers are 600 feet high and stretch over 2,000 feet long. This site is renowned for its impressive cave complex, featuring magnificent Buddha images and vivid rock paintings from the 2nd century BC (Anuradhapura era) to the 18th century (Kandyan era). It is also known to the locals as ‘Dambulu Gala’ (Dambulla Rock). The temple at the base of the climb is called ‘Rangiri Dambulu Viharaya’ (Golden Rock Dambulla Temple), which features a 65-foot Golden Buddha Statue, the 9th tallest in Sri Lanka.
The origins of the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple date back to the reign of King Vattagamini Abhaya (commonly known as King Valagamba) in the 1st century BC. During a South Indian invasion, King Valagamba sought refuge in these caves for 12 years after being forced to abandon his kingdom of Anuradhapura. Upon regaining his throne, he transformed the caves into Buddhist temples as a gesture of gratitude. He constructed walled partitions beneath the rock overhang, creating a large, unified cave complex, and added drip ledges to prevent rainwater from seeping inside. He established the complex’s three primary caves, Devarajalena, Maharajalena, and Paccimalena.
For several centuries after King Valagamba’s reign, the cave temple received significant royal attention when King Vijayabahu I (1055-1110 AD) of Polonnaruwa undertook renovations. King Keerthi Sri Nissankamalla (1187-1196 AD) made substantial contributions, including constructing additional Buddha images and the gold plating of 73 statues. Subsequent kings, such as Buwanekabahu I (1372-1408 AD), Vickramabahu III (1360-1374 AD), Rajasinha I (1581-1591 AD), and Vimaladharmasuriya I (1592-1604 AD), also played roles in enhancing the temple’s status over the years.
Archaeological findings indicate that these caves served as dwellings in prehistoric eras and provided secluded refuge for meditation by forest-dwelling monks, further enhancing the site’s allure and historical significance.
As the sun begins its descent beyond the horizon, casting a golden hue over the landscape, the Dambulla Cave Complex transforms into a scene of breathtaking beauty. Perched atop the rock, overlooking the vast expanse below, couples are treated to a truly magical moment as they witness the silken sunset unfold before their eyes. The warm colours paint the sky in a mesmerising display, creating an ambience of serenity. For photography enthusiasts, capturing this fantastic setting sun scene against the backdrop of the lush landscape offers an opportunity for genuinely stunning photographs of this enchanting moment.
Experience a romantic stroll around the temple rock, a scenic 3.5 km walking trail that takes approximately 40 minutes to an hour. Follow the marked blue trail at the Golden Temple that doubles back to the ticket office. Enjoy the stunning scenery, which includes a small ruin along the way, Somawathi Stupa, which is believed to have been made for King Valagamba’s Queen Consort. The trail will also take you past a small lake and a tranquil paddy field.
From the mesmerising grandeur of its towering rock formations and silken sunsets to the ancient intricate sculptures and artistry displayed within the caves, every step of this journey is a testament to this sacred site’s rich history and cultural significance.
Rangiri Dambulla Temple
Kandy – Jaffna Hwy, Dambulla
Tel: +94662283605
Hours: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm (ticket counter closes at 5 pm)
Tickets: LKR 1,500 for adults and (LKR 750 for kids) (Prices current as of September 2024)