For a small island in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka comes densely packed with historical and natural attractions. Making a mark on almost any historic landmark or building is the country’s main religion of Buddhism. Combining centuries old Buddhist art and a stunning natural location, the Dambulla Cave Temple is a wonderful place to discover an important piece of Sri Lanka. Its value as an outstanding example of religious art in South Asia has put the Dambulla cave temple on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
Standing 160 meters over the surrounding flatlands the ‘Dambulu gala’ or Dambulu rock is believed to be inhabited from prehistoric times. Five main caves at the top of the rock host a monastery that dates back to 1st century BC. Legend has it the King Valagambahu sought refuge from invaders at the monastery and enhanced the temples as a gift after victory. The entrance to the cave temple offers a panoramic view of the land and the nearby historic rock of Sigiriya.
The walls of the caves are covered with elaborate tempera paintings depicting scenes of the life of Lord Buddha and tales of kings. Over 150 statues of Lord Buddha, kings, gods and goddesses are arranged through the shrines and a magnificent reclining statue of Lord Buddha, cut away from the rock itself, is a highlight for devotees and sight-sight seers. Throughout history the art has been retouched and preserved, but major repairs conducted during the Kandyan era give most of them a “Kandyan touch”, that is distinctive to the era. Drip lines carved into the rock overhangs keep rainwater away from the inside if the caves. It is indeed breathtaking to see the main cave glow red and yellow from the sunlight. The Dambulla rock temple is an important religious site for the Buddhist visitors whose flowers of worship are laid at the foot of the reclining Buddha. Few meters away from the entrance to the rock a golden statue of Lord Buddha towers as the modern addition to the Dambulla heritage site.
Situated 148 km from Colombo the city of Dambulla falls inside the Cultural Triangle, which encompasses the most significant historical and cultural sites of Sri Lanka. Consider a Sri Lanka car rental to avoid the hazards of using public transport. Malkey Rent a Car is a place to find all your transport requirements from buses for extended tours across the island to chauffer driven premier car to airport transfers. Sri Lanka, with all its history and culture, is meant to be enjoyed in comfort at your own pace.