Dambulla: Top 10 Things to Do

Dambulla, located in central Sri Lanka, is a popular destination to experience the country's rich culture and history. The area contains several ancient temples and caves and is known for its magnificent natural scenery. These are our recommendations for the top 10 things to do when visiting Dambulla.

1. Visit the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple

This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises five caves converted into a Buddhist temple. Inside the caves, you'll find an extensive collection of statues and paintings depicting the life of Lord Buddha. The temples are a must-see for anyone interested in Buddhism or Sri Lankan history.

Each of the five caves has a unique collection of statues, murals, and paintings. In total, there are over 150 images of Buddha, along with statues of Sri Lankan kings as well as gods and goddesses. The murals cover an area of over 2,100 square meters and depict scenes from the life of the Buddha, including his previous lives and important events in Sri Lankan history.

The cave temple is one of the most well-preserved ancient temples in the country, and it's a great place to learn about Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage.
Learn more about the Dambulla Cave Temple.

2. Watch a Cricket Match at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium

This magnificent stadium is known for being one of the most picturesque in the world. Visitors can watch a match and experience the passion and excitement of Sri Lanka's most popular sport. Visitors planning to attend a cricket match at the stadium should consider purchasing tickets in advance, as matches featuring the Sri Lankan national team often sell out.

Ticket prices may vary depending on the match and the seating area, but they are generally affordable, making it an accessible experience for travelers on a budget. The stadium is known for its unique design, which blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. It's a great place to enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan experience.

3. Take a Safari in Minneriya National Park

The Minneriya National Park is home to a large population of elephants and many other wildlife species. Visitors can take a safari to see the elephants in their natural habitat. It is one of the best places on the island to see wild elephants up close. Visitors can also spot leopards, deer, and many species of birds. The park is also home to the Minneriya Tank, a reservoir built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD, which provides a vital water source for the local wildlife.

In addition to elephants, the park is home to other species, such as sambar deer, spotted deer, axis deer, wild buffalo, and various species of monkeys. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the park's diverse birdlife, including endemic species such as the Sri Lanka junglefowl, hanging parrot, and the crimson-fronted barbet.
Find out more about the Minneriya National Park.

4. Explore Sigiriya Rock

Sigiriya Rock, also known as the Lion Rock, is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. It is an ancient fortress and palace built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD. The site was selected for its strategic location and the natural defense provided by the 200-meter-high rock. The fortress is surrounded by a series of moats, ramparts, and gardens, which are an example of early urban planning and landscape architecture.

This ancient fortress is located just a short distance from Dambulla and is one of the most well-known travel destinations in the entire world. The fortress allows you to explore the ancient city, gardens, and frescoes. Sigiriya is a must-see attraction in Sri Lanka, with its complex palaces and gardens, frescoes, and the famous Lion's staircase. You can climb to the summit for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Learn more about Sigiriya Rock.

5. Visit the Pidurangala Rock

This massive rock is located just a short distance from Sigiriya Rock Fortress and offers a great alternative to those who want to avoid crowds. Pidurangala Rock is a massive rock formation that has played a significant role in the region's history. It is said that when King Kashyapa built his fortress on Sigiriya Rock, he relocated the monks living there to a newly built monastery at Pidurangala.

The rock is also home to a reclining Buddha statue, which is believed to be one of the oldest and largest brick-built statues in Sri Lanka. The climb to the top of Pidurangala rock provides beautiful views of the surrounding area and the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. It is one of Sri Lanka's most famous photo spots. Learn more about Pidurangala Rock.

6. Take a Visit to the Dambulla Economic Centre

The Dambulla Economic Centre sells a wide variety of local goods, including handicrafts, spices, and clothing. This modern market is not only a marketplace for local products but also a crucial hub for the agricultural trade in Sri Lanka.

While exploring the market, you'll find a wide range of seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as aromatic spices such as cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and black pepper. The market is a great place to find unique souvenirs and handicrafts to take home as a reminder of your visit to Dambulla. You can also find a variety of local spices and traditional clothing.

7. Explore the Kandalama Reservoir

This beautiful reservoir is located just outside Dambulla. The reservoir serves as an essential water source for agriculture in the region and plays a vital role in maintaining the area's ecosystem. It attracts various species of birds, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching.

Boat tours are available for visitors to explore the reservoir and its surroundings. These tours often include visits to small islands within the reservoir, where you can observe the local wildlife and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The reservoir is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

8. Visit the Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs

Located just a short distance from Dambulla, the Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs are a fascinating archaeological site that dates back to the Iron Age. The tombs are made of large stone slabs and are thought to have been used for burials. Visitors can explore the tombs and learn about the ancient culture that built them.

The tombs are also known for their intricate carvings and are a must-see for history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts. The tombs are considered one of the oldest megalithic burials in Sri Lanka, and it's an excellent opportunity to see an example of ancient burials from over 2,500 years ago.

9. Visit the Rose Quartz Mountain

Located just outside of Dambulla, the Rose Quartz Mountain is a unique natural formation made of rose quartz, a type of pink-colored mineral. The mountain is said to be over 500 million years old and is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.

Not only is it a geological marvel, but also home to an ancient ironwood forest, considered the largest in Asia. The forest is of significant cultural and religious importance to the people of Sri Lanka, as the ironwood tree is the national tree of the country and is associated with Buddhism.

You can hike to the top of the mountain to take in the stunning views of the surrounding area and to see the beautiful pink-colored rocks up close.

10. Climb the Arangala Mountain Peak

This scenic hike will take you to the top of the mountain, where you can admire the beautiful views of the surrounding area, including the Sigiriya Rock and the Minneriya National Park. This is a strenuous hike. So visitors are encouraged to be well-prepared with proper hiking gear and enough water. The summit offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area and is a great place to see the sunrise or sunset.

In addition to these top 10 things to do, Dambulla is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area, including the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. With its rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and friendly locals, Dambulla is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Sri Lanka.