Dambulla cave temple also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla is a World Heritage Site and the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka situated in the central part of the country. This site is situated 148 kilometres east of Colombo, There are five caves inside, each with a different interior and statues, though many people at a quick glance would assume they are pretty similar. The monastery dates back to the first century (BC) when it is believed the caves were converted. It has been added to over the years and has been home to many different religions. The caves you can visit today were restored and re-painted as they stand now by the Kingdom of Kandy in the 18th century.

The Sinhalese king Kassyapa (reigned 477–495) built a palace in the shape of a monumental lion on several acres of ground at the summit, intending it to be a safeguard against his enemies. However, the king was defeated in 495, and the palace fell into ruin. The site soon became a pilgrimage destination, however, and it is now a popular tourist spot. Visitors begin the final ascent to the top through the open paws of the lion, one of the few remaining portions of the palace that are still intact. Also notable are 21 rock paintings of Apsara (celestial singers and dancers). Sigiriya was designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1982.

return to Colombo or to the starting point.