Dambulla

Dambulla Travel Guide 2026

Home to the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 150 Buddha statues and ancient cave paintings spanning 22 centuries.

🗓️ Best time to visit: January to April

🏛️ Top Attractions in Dambulla

Dambulla Cave Temple

Golden Temple

Dambulla Wholesale Market

Ibbankatuwa Tombs

🎯 Things to Do in Dambulla

Cave temple exploration

Photography

Local market visits

Day trips to Sigiriya

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Dambulla

Allow 1.5-2 hours including the climb (about 15 minutes uphill). There are five caves with over 150 Buddha statues and beautiful ceiling paintings. Entrance fee is $10 for foreigners.

Yes! Dambulla and Sigiriya are only 17km apart (30-minute drive). Visit Sigiriya early morning, then Dambulla Cave Temple in the afternoon. Many travelers base themselves in Dambulla for both sites.

Plan Your Visit

Other Destinations

→ Colombo

→ Ella

→ Sigiriya

→ Galle

Itineraries Featuring Dambulla

7 Days in Sri Lanka: Classic Highlights

The perfect first-time itinerary covering Sri Lanka's must-see destinations. From ancient temples to misty mountains, beaches to wildlife safaris.

7 days

Moderate

$800-1200

10-Day Sri Lanka Surf & Beach Trip

The ultimate beach and surf itinerary covering Sri Lanka's best coastal destinations. Perfect for surfers, beach lovers, and water sports enthusiasts.

10 days

Easy

$600-1000