Also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, Dambulla Cave Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that should be visited by every tourist. Consisting of five caves, the temple houses statues of Buddha and Hindu gods. The temple complex also forms part of the Cultural Triangle.
Getting here and accommodation
A 30-minute drive from Hotel Sigiriya is Dambulla Cave Temple. To get to the temple, you have to climb up a steep rock. The climb is moderately difficult, but you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the area. As for accommodation, Dambulla is one of the most visited places in the country, and tourists are offered a diverse list of accommodation options around the area, which also includes many Sigiriya hotels.
Entrance Fee and best time to visit
You can visit the temple from 7 am to 7 pm, and the entrance fee for tourists is LKR 1500. The best time to visit the temple is from January to September.
Tips to keep in mind
As Dambulla Cave Temple is a religious place, make sure you dress modestly. You will be asked to remove your shoes and leave them at the foot of the rock, but you need to wear socks as the rock can get extremely hot during the day. Bring plenty of water, and don’t forget your sunscreen.