UNESCO Status
World Heritage Site (Inscribed 1991)
Number of Caves
5 Main Sanctum Caves
Sacred Imagery
153 Buddha statues, 3 Kings, 4 Hindu Deities
Rock Height
160-metre granite outcrop above plains
History of King Valagamba's Sanctuary
Rising 160 meters above the surrounding plains, the Dambulla Cave Temple (also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla) has been a sacred pilgrimage sanctuary for over 22 centuries. In the 1st century BC, King Valagamba took refuge here for 14 years when exiled from Anuradhapura by South Indian invaders; upon regaining his throne, he commissioned rock monasteries inside the sheltering overhangs.
The Five Sacred Caves
- Cave 1 (Devaraja Lena): Dominated by a massive 14-meter rock-cut reclining Buddha receiving homage from Ananda and Lord Vishnu.
- Cave 2 (Maharaja Lena): The largest and most spectacular cave (50m wide, 7m high), containing 56 statues, dripping holy water from the ceiling, and intricate wall paintings depicting King Dutugemunu's victory.
- Cave 3 (Maha Alut Vihara): Commissioned in the 18th century by the King of Kandy with 50 Buddha statues.
- Caves 4 & 5 (Pachima & Devana Alut Vihara): Smaller intimate shrines featuring seated meditating Buddhas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I purchase tickets for Dambulla Cave Temple?
The ticket counter is at the base of the rock near the modern Golden Temple complex. Buy your ticket BEFORE climbing the 350+ stone steps, as tickets are not sold at the top entrance.