Ideally situated at the center of Sri Lanka's 3 sacred cities (Kandy, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura), Dambulla is an essential stop for exploring the famous Cultural Triangle. Renowned for its numerous caves that over time have been transformed into true rock temples (caverns carved from stone) by successive kings, this city has become a major pilgrimage site, and has been for over 20 years. Counted among Sri Lanka's most beautiful destinations, a stay in Dambulla promises unforgettable moments.

History

Based on inscriptions found on the caves of Dambulla, they have been inhabited since the first century BCE. Curiously, however, official historical records of the island make no mention of these caves. Yet between the years 89 and 77 BCE, Dambulla and the 3 sacred cities were ruled by King Vattagamani Abhaya. Legend has it that when invaded by South Indians, this valiant sovereign was forced to flee and abandon his kingdom to take refuge in the famous caves of Dambulla. His successor was named Mahaculi Maha Tissa, who was known for spending most of his time engaged in religious activities.

Several centuries later, under the reign of Nissankamalla, the city of Dambulla experienced rapid growth and gained prominence. The king was so fascinated by Dambulla's history and its caves that during one of his tours, he decided to visit and construct 70 gilded Buddha statues there. By the end of the 12th century, the city gradually fell into obscurity. The shift of the seat of power, accompanied by a declining population, relegated religious centers like Dambulla to secondary importance. However, from the 18th century onward, under the reign of Senaratna, King of Kandy, the city regained its significance. Numerous places of worship were renovated.

Today

Located in the heart of Sri Lanka, 72 km north of Kandy, Dambulla is a place worthy of attention during a visit to this country. Beyond being the most important distribution center for fruits and vegetables in the entire country, this city is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site. Indeed, it houses 5 caves containing a total of 150 Buddha statues, as well as historical figures of Buddhism. Known as the Golden Temple, this network of caves was transformed into a place of worship by King Vattagamani Abhaya when he reclaimed his throne after being driven out by the Tamils.

In fact, the Golden Temple consists of 80 caves, but only 5 of them are accessible to visitors. Within each, you will find various representations of Buddha, including one completely covered in gold leaf, which explains the temple's name. One of the caves is also adorned with paintings depicting Buddha's temptation by a demon. This representation covers an area of more than 2,000 m². Also within these caves is a reclining Buddha statue carved directly from the rock, measuring nearly 15 meters in length.

Climate and Geography

Dambulla is a city built around a large granite rock containing an important network of caves, dating from the 1st century. It enjoys a savanna climate with a dry winter. In this city, rainfall is considerably higher in summer than in winter.

Dambulla is easily accessible. Whether you depart from Colombo or one of the sacred cities, you will have no trouble finding buses to take you there. Once you arrive at the city's bus station, you'll have plenty of transport options to reach the Golden Temple.

Alternatively, if you're traveling from Kandy, you can get off directly at the temple without passing through the city. Buses pass right in front of the temple, and you need only ask your driver to drop you off directly opposite. This saves time and spares you the short journey that separates the temple from the city.