Dambulla Raja Maha Viharaya is a historic cave temple complex located in central Sri Lanka. This site is a great destination for tourists who want to explore ancient culture and spirituality. It is about 148 kilometers east of Colombo and 72 kilometers north of Kandy. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its impressive preservation and beauty.
Also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, the complex is renowned for its many caves, which are filled with detailed murals and statues. The temple is carved into a huge rock that rises 160 meters above the surrounding land. It includes over 80 caves, with five of them known for their stunning Buddhist art.
One of the most remarkable features of Dambulla Raja Maha Viharaya is its collection of 153 Buddha statues, three statues of Sri Lankan kings, and four statues of Hindu gods and goddesses, including Vishnu and Ganesha. The murals, which cover about 2,100 square meters, show important events from the life of Gautama Buddha, such as his first sermon and his temptation by the demon Mara. These detailed artworks give visitors a clear view of Buddhist history and art.
The Dambulla cave monastery dates back to the first century BCE and holds significant historical importance. It was first established as a major religious center during the Anuradhapura period. Later, various kings expanded it, including King Valagamba of Anuradhapura, who turned the caves into a temple after finding refuge there. By the 11th century, the complex had become an important place of worship and remains an active monastery today.
The largest cave in the complex is especially impressive. It measures about 52 meters long and 23 meters wide, and it stands 7 meters tall at its highest point. This cave has more than 1,500 paintings of Buddha on its ceiling. It, along with other caves, features beautiful arches and gabled entrances added during a restoration in the 1930s to enhance its beauty.
Visitors to Dambulla Raja Maha Viharaya will enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The path to the caves offers beautiful scenery, including a view of the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, which is just 19 kilometers away. Evening visits are particularly special, with flocks of swallows flying around the cave entrances, adding a touch of natural charm to the experience.
Route from Colombo
Getting to Dambulla Raja Maha Viharaya is easy. From the Bastian Mawatha Bus Stand in Pettah, Colombo, you can take a No. 15 bus to Anuradhapura, a No. 48 bus to Kaduruwela, or a No. 49 bus to Trincomalee, and get off at Dambulla. These buses run frequently, so finding one should be simple. From Dambulla, you can take a local bus or tuk-tuk to the temple.
