The Dambulla cave temple has undergone many transformative phases, yet each of these changes has been well preserved. Snippets of Sri Lanka’s art history have been sketched onto the walls of its five most famous caves. The cave temple transports you to distant eras of Sri Lanka while also ensnaring you with the changes brought about by modernity. A visit to the Dambulla cave temple would be an integral part of cultural tours, Sri Lanka. If you intend on touring the most important locations of this island, which is so bountifully blessed with culture, Sunshine Travels and Tours would be an intelligent choice. It organizes a five nights, six day cultural tour which includes the most significant historical sites in Sri Lanka. A visit to the Dambulla cave temple is scheduled for the first day of your visit, and you would not be travel-weary when you set your eyes on the beautiful rock paintings.
Hidden in the semi-darkness of the caves and its crevices are the rock paintings of the temple. Certain paintings depict Lord Buddha in the most significant periods of his journey towards Nirvana. Hindu deities also adorn the five most famous rock temples. On close observation, the intricate details of the paintings are revealed. They certainly deserve your keen eye for detail.
Both a monastery and temple, it has also received the patronage of many great kings. King Valagambahu converted the monastery into a temple in thankfulness for reclaiming Anuradhapura -yet another important historical site- from the clutches of South Indian forces. King Nissanka Malla also made an important donation of 70 Buddha statues in 1190. You probably would be able to feel their haunting and magnificent presence when examining the caves.
Local and Foreign dignitaries continue to make donations to the Dambulla cave temple. The Golden Temple is proof that changes are being made. However, the cave’s historical landscape is the most fascinating element to date.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+