Buddhist temples
Dambulla Cave Temple
Dambulla, Matale District
Five cave shrines on a rock above Dambulla, filled with Buddha statues and painted ceilings. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A 5th-century royal citadel on top of a 200 m rock, with the famous Lion’s Paw gate, frescoes and water gardens. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Best time to visit
- Early morning, January to April
- Opening hours
- Daily, about 7:00 am – 5:30 pm
- Entry fee
- Ticket required; foreign visitors pay a higher rate
- Time needed
- 3–4 hours
Highlights
- Climb through the Lion’s Paw gate
- See the ancient frescoes and the Mirror Wall
- Walk the symmetrical water gardens
- Views over the plains from the summit
A 5th-century royal citadel on top of a 200 m rock, with the famous Lion’s Paw gate, frescoes and water gardens. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How to get there
About 15 km from Dambulla. Buses run from Dambulla to Sigiriya; tuk-tuks and taxis are easy to find.
Tips for visitors
Start early to beat the heat and crowds. Carry water and wear good shoes; there are about 1,200 steps.
