As I ascend the gentle slope of the Dambulla rock, I look forward to yet another visit to this amazing temple complex. The name itself, Dambulla, resonates with significance – a fusion of “Damba,” meaning rock, and “Ulla,” meaning fountain.

Fueled by tales that echo with centuries of history, the Dambulla Cave Temple, commonly referred to as the Royal Rock Temple, stands as a testament to over two millennia of history and profound religious importance. Comprising a sequence of five caves, this temple complex serves as a reservoir of Buddhist art, showcasing a rich array of statues and murals depicting the revered Buddha. Each cave within the complex is a repository of cultural and spiritual heritage, bearing witness to the passage of time and the enduring devotion of those who contributed to its legacy.

Each time I enter the Cave Temple, I am gobsmacked at the first sight. The gentle glow of the artificial lighting illuminating the murals and images are breathtaking. These caves, once the refuge of King Valagambahu in the 1st century BC, have evolved into a sacred haven adorned with over 1,500 ceiling murals and images of the Buddha. The rock, a silent witness to history, had transformed into a spiritual sanctuary as a gesture of gratitude by the exiled king who later reclaimed his capital.

As I wander through the cavernous expanse, I marvel at the intricate details of the temple. King Nissankamalla’s golden touch in the 12th century had earned the temple the epithet “Ran Giri” or Golden Rock. The walls whispers tales of devotion, with 70 statues of the Buddha added to the ensemble over the centuries.

The Dambulla Cave Temple has stood as a testament to time, the best-preserved and largest among Sri Lanka’s cave temples, unfolding a tapestry of vivid colors and shapes, and depicting the rich history of the island from the Anuradhapura era to the Kandyan era.

Standing amidst the ancient caves and gilded statues, I feel a profound connection to the past, a journey through time etched in the golden hues of the Dambulla Cave Temple.

Good to Know:

Abide by the dress code. No shorts, short skirts, and women must cover their shoulders.

This is not your property. So do not litter, touch, deface or steal anything from the cave temple. 

There is a significant climb to the temple. Take it slow. Carry your water.

Do not feed the monkeys along the way. They are fierce and can harm you.

Entrance fee for foreigners is LKR 2000. Cash only. Locals enter free.

Opening times are 7 a.m to 7 p.m. Ticket counter closes at 5 p.m.