Where ancient craftsmanship lives on
One of the main tourist attractions in Dambulla is the sacred cave complex. Spread over an area of 2,100 sq metres, it has been a pilgrimage site visited by Buddhists for over 22 centuries. Established as one of the most important monasteries as far back as the 3rd century BC, these caves were protected and enhanced by successive kings till the 11th century, and they are deemed sacred even today.
Apart from being historically significant, Dambulla continues to be a busy hub activity, and there are many places of interest to visit.
Places to visit
The largest and the best preserved cave monastery in the island, its five sanctuaries comprise 157 statues and intricate frescoes covering the walls.
There is perhaps no better way to get a bird’s eye view of Dambulla and take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Around 180 and 300 metres above sea level, this unusual pink quartz mountain range is believed to be over 500 million years old.
