Dambulla Cave Temple -Sri Lanka’s Largest & Most Spectacular Cave Complex

Sri Lanka is a land that has a proud history that spans as far back as 2500 years. In its glorious past, many great Kings and Queens ruled the island and left monuments that still stand strong and proud, astounding travellers from all over the world. One of these great monarchs was King Valagamba. During his reign, the country was invaded by South Indian armies, and the King escaped and sought refuge in a complex of caves situated in the central part of the island. Now, these particular caves were inhabited by meditating Buddhist monks who provided protection to the King. During his refuge within these caves, King Valagamba gathered his armies and eventually rode out to battle and regained his motherland. The king was exulted throughout as a great saviour but he never forgot those who cared for him during his troubled times. To show his gratitude, King Valagamba converted those very caves into a magnificent Buddhist temple complex. This is the Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Rock Dambulla Temple.

Today, this cave complex is a grand tourist attraction that is frequented by many local and international tourists. If you’re in the country holidaying at a Sri Lanka hotel do make it a point to go and see it as it is well worth your time. Some hotels like those by Heritance Hotels & Resorts even arrange tours to the temple so it will be all the more convenient for their guests. The temple is located about 4 hours away from Colombo, the commercial capital where the main airport is situated at.

So what makes this temple so special you ask? The Dambulla Cave Temple consists of 05 caves that vary in size as well as magnificence. Within these massive caves, you will find an enchanting array statues and murals depicting either the Buddha or specific moments from his life. Altogether there are 150 statues of the Buddha in the cave complex. These stunning masterpieces have been created in a style that is said to be belonging to the 8th Century.

Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.

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