Golden Temple of Dambulla in Sri Lanka

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
Travel Guide (Embassy of Sri Lanka)

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1991
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: 80,649°
Latitude: 7,857°

Summary

A sacred pilgrimage site for 22 centuries, this cave monastery, with its five sanctuaries, is the largest, best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. The Buddhist mural paintings (covering an area of 2,100 m2 ) are of particular importance, as are the 157 statues.

Location on Map

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Golden Temple of Dambulla: A Sacred UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka

The Golden Temple of Dambulla, located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka's Matale District, is a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site that holds immense historical and religious significance. Also known as the Dambulla Cave Temple, it is one of the most well-preserved cave temple complexes in the country, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

History

The history of the Golden Temple of Dambulla dates back over 2,000 years. It is believed that King Valagamba, who ruled Sri Lanka during the 1st century BCE, sought refuge in these caves when he was exiled from his kingdom by South Indian invaders. During his time in exile, the king transformed the caves into a place of worship and sanctity.

Over the centuries, subsequent kings and rulers made significant contributions to the temple complex, adding more caves, statues, and murals. The caves were continuously embellished and expanded, making it a significant religious and cultural center in Sri Lanka.

Architecture and Design

The Golden Temple of Dambulla is comprised of five main caves, each adorned with intricate murals and statues. The caves are carved into a massive granite outcrop, creating a breathtaking sight against the backdrop of the surrounding lush greenery.

Upon entering the caves, visitors are greeted by a stunning collection of over 150 Buddha statues, ranging from small to colossal in size. These statues, made of various materials such as gold, bronze, and stone, depict the Buddha in different postures and expressions, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

The cave walls are adorned with vibrant frescoes that depict scenes from the life of the Buddha, as well as various gods and goddesses from Buddhist and Hindu mythology. These murals, dating back to the 1st century BCE, showcase the exceptional artistic skills of ancient Sri Lankan craftsmen.

Current State

The Golden Temple of Dambulla remains an active place of worship and pilgrimage for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. The temple complex is meticulously maintained by the Buddhist clergy, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, the Golden Temple of Dambulla was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991. This prestigious status has helped to raise awareness about the temple complex and attract a growing number of international tourists.

Address
Distance: 3,5 mi
BULAGALA JUNCTION HABARANA ROAD
21120 DAMBULLA
Sri Lanka

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin:
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

What to see in Sri Lanka - Dambulla Cave Temple HighLights - KanCanDo

Published: April 28, 2013
Length: 43:46 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Kanchana Mallawathantri

Highlights of What to see in Dambulla Dambulla Cave Temple or the Golden Temple of Dambulla (Rangiri Dambulla in Sinhala) is one of the eight World Heritage spots in Sri Lanka Dambulla Cave...

Dambulla Sri Lanka Acme Travels

Published: June 09, 2012
Length: 08:18 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Acmetravels

Dambulla cave Temple (also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla) is a world heritage site (1991) in Sri Lanka, situated in the central part of the country. This site is situated 148 km (92...