The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, stands as one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive and well-preserved historical sites. Located in the central part of the country, this UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back over 2,000 years and continues to draw visitors from around the world.
Historical Background
King Valagamba (also called Vattagamini Abhaya) established the temple in the 1st century BCE. Forced into exile by South Indian invaders, the king found refuge in these caves for 14 years. Upon regaining his throne, he transformed the caves into a magnificent temple as a gesture of gratitude.
Over the centuries, subsequent kings added to and expanded the temple complex, particularly during the 12th century when many of the statues and paintings were created or restored.
The Cave Complex
The temple consists of five separate caves containing a collection of 153 Buddha statues, three statues of Sri Lankan kings, and four statues of gods and goddesses. The walls and ceilings cover an area of 2,100 square meters with vibrant murals depicting Buddha’s life and Sri Lankan history.
The five main caves include:
- Devaraja Viharaya (Temple of the King of Gods) – Contains a 14-meter reclining Buddha statue carved from solid rock.
- Maharaja Viharaya (Temple of the Great King) – The largest cave with over 50 Buddha statues and depictions of gods.
- Maha Alut Viharaya (Great New Temple) – Added by King Kirti Sri Rajasinha in the 18th century with impressive paintings in the Kandyan style.
- Pachima Viharaya (Western Temple) – Features Buddha statues in the meditation posture and a small dagoba.
- Devana Alut Viharaya (Second New Temple) – The newest addition containing more Buddha statues.
Artistic Achievement
The artistry displayed in Dambulla represents the high point of Sri Lankan religious art. The murals cover nearly every inch of the cave walls and ceilings, depicting Buddha’s temptation by demon Mara, his first sermon, and the Sinhalese kings’ contributions to Buddhism.
The painting style combines Sinhalese art with influences from South Indian Dravidian styles. The artists used natural pigments on dry plaster, creating colors that have remained vibrant for centuries despite the humid conditions.
Religious Significance
Dambulla remains an active place of worship, with Buddhist monks maintaining the site and performing daily rituals. During special Buddhist festivals like Vesak, thousands of pilgrims visit the temple to make offerings and pray.
Visiting Today
Visitors must climb approximately 350 steps up the rock face to reach the temple entrance. The path passes a modern golden Buddha statue at the base of the hill, added in the 1990s.
Inside the caves, the temperature stays relatively cool despite the tropical heat outside. Visitors must remove their shoes before entering as a sign of respect, and modest dress is required.
The best time to visit is early morning to avoid crowds and heat. The caves are illuminated by natural light from the entrances, creating a mystical atmosphere as sunlight plays across the ancient statues and paintings.
Preservation Challenges
The site faces ongoing preservation challenges from humidity, tourist traffic, and the natural deterioration of ancient art. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining the delicate balance between accessibility and protection of this irreplaceable cultural treasure.
The Dambulla Cave Temple stands not just as a tourist attraction but as living proof of Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage and artistic achievement, continuing to inspire visitors as it has done for over two millennia.