Dambulla - Cave Temple

Dambulla is the oldest Buddhist temple in the territory of the modern state of Sri Lanka, the construction dates back to the I century BC. The temple is carved at the base of the rock and has a large number of Buddha statues. It is the largest temple in South Asia. Pilgrims from all over the world come here to receive blessings and perform ritual acts.

The temple is located in the central part of the island state, 150 km from the capital. The premises of the temple are several large caves and about 25 small stone cells located at the very top of the mountain (about 350 meters above the ground), among dense thickets of trees. The walls and vaults are richly decorated with paintings on the history of Buddhism.

On the territory of Dambulla there is the largest collection of Buddha statues, some of them were created during the foundation of the temple. Seventy-three sculptures are gilded, which is why the temple is also called Golden.