Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is one of Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the Central Province, it has been a center of worship for over 2,000 years and is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka.

History

Dating back to the 1st century BCE, the temple was established by King Valagamba (Vattagamini Abhaya), who took refuge in the caves for 12 years after losing his throne. Upon reclaiming power, he converted the caves into a magnificent Buddhist monastery. Over centuries, successive kings and devotees enhanced the temple with more statues and murals, making it an extraordinary artistic and spiritual site.

Main Tourist Attractions in the Temple

The temple consists of five main caves, each adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and statues. Here are the key highlights;

1. Cave 1 – Devaraja Viharaya (Temple of the Lord of the Gods)

  • Houses a 14-meter-long reclining Buddha statue carved directly out of rock.
  • Features paintings depicting Buddha’s enlightenment and scenes from his life.

2. Cave 2 – Maharaja Viharaya (Temple of the Great Kings)

  • The largest and most impressive cave in the complex.
  • Contains over 50 Buddha statues, including a beautifully painted standing Buddha.
  • Features statues of King Valagamba and King Nissanka Malla, who contributed to the temple’s expansion.
  • Stunning mural paintings covering 1,000 square meters, depicting Buddhist history and Jataka tales (stories of Buddha’s previous lives).

3. Cave 3 – Maha Alut Viharaya (Great New Monastery)

  • Contains a large seated Buddha statue, surrounded by numerous other figures.
  • Walls and ceiling are covered with vibrant 18th-century murals, added during the reign of King Kirti Sri Rajasinha.

4. Cave 4 – Paccima Viharaya (Western Cave)

  • Features a small dagoba (stupa) believed to contain relics of the Buddha.
  • Several Buddha statues in different postures, surrounded by murals.

5. Cave 5 – Devana Alut Viharaya (Second New Temple)

  • The newest addition to the complex, housing a mix of Buddha statues and Hindu deity figures.
  • Thought to have been converted into a shrine during the Kandyan period.

Additional Points of Interest

  • Golden Buddha Statue & Museum – Located at the temple entrance, a massive golden Buddha statue welcomes visitors. The museum provides insights into Buddhist history and art.
  • Panoramic Viewpoint – Due to its elevated location 160 meters above the plains, the temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including Sigiriya Rock in the distance.
  • Sacred Bodhi Tree – A revered tree near the entrance, symbolizing the connection to the Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

Location & Distance from Major Cities

  • Dambulla Cave Temple is centrally located, making it easily accessible from several major destinations:
  • Sigiriya – 17 km (30-minute drive)
  • Kandy – 72 km (2-hour drive)
  • Colombo – 148 km (4-hour drive)
  • Anuradhapura – 65 km (1.5-hour drive)
  • Polonnaruwa – 45 km (1-hour drive)

Dambulla Cave Temple remains a must-visit for those exploring Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage, offering a unique blend of history, spirituality, and artistic brilliance.