As I arrived in the heart of the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, the enchanting city of Dambulla immediately captured my heart. Known for its rich history and stunning landmarks, this vibrant town seemed to whisper tales of ancient kingdoms and sacred traditions. My journey began with a visit to the iconic Dambulla Rock Cave Temple, a site I had heard so much about. Climbing up the rocky steps, I felt a sense of awe as the entrance revealed intricate Dambulla cave paintings and serene statues of the Buddha, which had been preserved for centuries. It wasn’t just a temple—it was a gateway to Sri Lanka’s spiritual past, one of Dambulla’s most revered sacred Buddhist temples.
The golden gleam of the Dambulla Golden Temple was the next highlight. Towering over the city, the massive golden Buddha statue stood as a symbol of peace and wisdom. Standing there, I couldn’t help but marvel at the artistry and devotion that made this place one of the most popular places to visit in Dambulla. It’s no wonder the Dambulla heritage sites have been recognized as some of the finest in Sri Lanka.
Beyond the temples, Dambulla’s charm continued to unfold. I wandered through the lively Dambulla market, where the colourful stalls were brimming with fresh produce, spices, and local crafts. Here, I felt the pulse of the city—the perfect blend of tradition and everyday life. Exploring the market was one of the best things to do in Dambulla, offering a glimpse into the lives of its people.
The surrounding landscapes offer incredible opportunities for those looking for more places to visit in Dambulla. A short trip led me to Sigiriya and Dambulla, two iconic destinations that perfectly complement one another. The majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and its panoramic views left me speechless, adding another layer to my cultural adventure.
Whether you’re captivated by the Dambulla tourist places, the serene beauty of its temples, or the vibrant energy of its market, Dambulla Sri Lanka offers an experience like no other. But this is just scratching the surface. Let’s dive deeper into what makes Dambulla such a fascinating destination—its hidden gems, vibrant history, and the stories waiting to be uncovered at every corner.
Contents of this Dambulla Article
List of Places to Visit in Dambulla
Things to Do in Dambulla
Dambulla offers a variety of experiences that go beyond its iconic temples and heritage sites. For a truly unforgettable adventure, start your day with a hot air balloon ride over the lush landscapes of Dambulla. As you float above the city, you’ll witness breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including paddy fields, forests, and even landmarks like Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
For those seeking adventure, horse-riding and safari in national parks near Dambulla are exciting ways to explore the region. These guided tours take you through scenic trails, offering a unique perspective of Dambulla’s countryside and its serene beauty.
If you want to make the most of your visit, day tours around Dambulla’s attractions are necessary. From exploring the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple to visiting nearby destinations like Sigiriya, Minneriya National Park, and Kandalama Lake, these tours provide a convenient way to soak in the best of the area. Whether spotting elephants on safari, hiking trails, or discovering ancient ruins, Dambulla offers something for every traveller.
Book your next adventure with our partner Viator to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience in Dambulla!
The best time to Visit Dambulla
| Season | Months | Weather Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | January to April, July to September | Warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities |
| Monsoon Season | October to December | Rainy but lush and tranquil |
| Inter-monsoon Season | May to June | Occasional showers, moderate temperatures |
Weather in next Seven days in Dambulla
Places to Stay in Dambulla
Dambulla offers many accommodations to suit every traveller’s preference and budget. The city has everything from luxurious resorts and boutique hotels with breathtaking views to cosy guesthouses and eco-friendly lodges surrounded by nature. For budget-conscious travellers, some affordable hostels and homestays provide comfort and local hospitality. Whether you are seeking a serene retreat, family-friendly options, or a convenient base to explore nearby attractions, Dambulla’s diverse accommodations ensure a memorable and comfortable stay for all.
Book your perfect stay with our partner, Booking.com, and enjoy the best deals in Dambulla!
How to reach Dambulla
Dambulla, located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, is accessible by various modes of transportation.
By Car: The fastest and most convenient way to reach Dambulla is by car. It is approximately 148 km from Colombo, taking around 3 hours and 30 minutes. It’s just 72 km from Kandy, requiring about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
By Bus: Regular buses operate to Dambulla from major cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Anuradhapura. The journey from Colombo by bus takes approximately 4–5 hours, while Kandy takes about 2–3 hours.
By Train: Although there is no direct train to Dambulla, travellers can take a train to Habarana or Anuradhapura and then continue by bus or taxi. From Habarana, it’s a short 30-minute drive (26 km) to Dambulla.
Interactive Map: You can view the exact routes and plan your trip by car, bus, or train using Seach City.
| City | Distance (km) | Estimated Travel Time | Route Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo | 148 km | 3 hours 30 mins | |
| Kandy | 72 km | 1 hour 45 mins | |
| Anuradhapura | 66 km | 1 hour 30 mins | |
| Trincomalee | 98 km | 2 hours | |
| Ella | 133 km | 3 hours 15 mins | |
| Habarana | 26 km | 30 mins | |
| Sigiriya | 18 km | 25 mins | |
| Mirissa | 225 km | 4 hours 45 mins | |
| Galle | 217 km | 4 hours 30 mins | |
| Negombo | 126 km | 2 hours 45 mins |
Interactive Map
Emergency Contacts for Dambulla
Dambulla Hospital: +94 662 284 761
Dambulla Police Station: +94 662 284 722
Ambulance: 1990
Tourist Emergency Contact: 1997
About Dambulla and Geography
Dambulla, located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Positioned within the Matale District, Dambulla serves as an administrative and economic hub under the governance of the Dambulla Municipal Council.
Geographical Highlights
- Total Area: 444.0 km² (171.4 sq mi), encompassing rural landscapes, urban spaces, and significant landmarks.
- Urban Area: 54.0 km² (20.8 sq mi), with well-planned neighbourhoods and thriving infrastructure.
- Population Density:
- City: 162.9 people per km² (422 per sq mi).
- Urban: 441.0 people per km² (1,142 per sq mi).
As of 2012, the Dambulla Division boasts a population of 72,306, while the urban population of the Dambulla Municipality stands at 23,814.
Guide to Grama Niladhari Divisions in Dambulla
Explore the detailed list of Grama Niladhari divisions in Dambulla, a key administrative region in Sri Lanka known for its cultural and historical significance.
| GN Code | GN Name |
|---|---|
| 005 | Siyambalawewa |
| 010 | Avudangawa |
| 015 | Gedigaswalana |
| 020 | Pidurangala |
| 025 | Thalkote |
| 030 | Digampathaha |
| 035 | Inamaluwa |
| 040 | Nagalawewa |
| 045 | Pothana |
| 050 | Kimbissa |
| 055 | Egodawewa |
| 060 | Palutawa |
| 065 | Sigiriya |
| 070 | Mailattawa |
| 075 | Polattawa |
| 080 | Nikawatawana |
| 085 | Kumbukkandanwala |
| 090 | Bellanneoya |
| 095 | Rathmalkatuwa |
| 100 | Welihena |
| 105 | Etawarahena |
| 110 | Pallegama |
| 115 | Bulagala |
| 120 | Pelwehera |
| 125 | Kandalama |
| 130 | Pahala Erevula |
| 135 | Ihala Erevula |
| 140 | Welangolla |
| 145 | Wewalawewa |
| 150 | Yakkuragala North |
| 155 | Vilhatha |
| 160 | Athuparayaya |
| 165 | Pahalawewa |
| 170 | Dambulla Town |
| 175 | Dambulugama |
| 180 | Haluapullanawewa |
| 185 | Pohoranwewa |
| 190 | Yapagama |
| 195 | Rathmalgaha-Ela |
| 200 | Yakkuragala South |
| 205 | Kalundewa Aluthgama |
| 210 | Angunawelpelessa |
| 215 | Kalogaha-Ela |
| 220 | Thittawelgolla |
| 225 | Moragollewa |
| 230 | Kapuwatta |
| 235 | Kiralagolla |
| 240 | Wavulambe |
| 245 | Embulambe |
| 250 | Puwakattawala |
| 255 | Kalundewa Paranagama |
| 260 | Walgamwewa |
| 265 | Kiralessa |
| 270 | Pannampitiya |
| 275 | Welamitiyawa |
| 280 | Ethabandiwewa |
| 285 | Lenadora North |
| 290 | Lenadora South |
| 295 | Nayakumbura |