Joanna James
The historic city, known for paintings and artefacts, is worth your time and money. Though located off the tourist trail, Dambulla is one place in Sri Lanka that offers unforgettable memories.
This is a city often forgotten by tourists. Mainly because the nearby attractions like Sigiriya outshine Dambulla as a tourist city. But many don't know that this small historic town offers a range of experiences. The main attraction is the cave complex, but if you don't mind doing a bit of off the beaten path exploring, you are sure to discover many interesting places and attractions. Dambulla hotels are coming into high demand, and they are made popular by places like Aliya Resort, which means that you won't have any trouble in terms of accommodation.
The most important attraction in Dambulla, Dambulla Cave Temple, is one that must be visited on your tour. The UNESCO World Heritage Site received the title for its unmistakable historical value. Inside the complex are murals and Buddha statues of various sizes. The complex is comprised of five caves, which are filled with tokens from ancient Sri Lanka. You can visit the temple from 7 am to 7 pm, and the clothing should be modest as this is a religious site.
Another place of interest would be Minneriaya National Park. This sprawling stretch of land is a haven for a variety of wildlife species. A visit to Minneriaya National Park is a sure way of sighting Sri Lankan wild elephants; you will see migratory and endemic birds. A safari tour will take you through the thick wilderness of the park, exposing you to the unperturbed beauty of nature. The massive water tank is where elephants flock during the dry season, which runs from April to October. To see birds, you should visit in the morning, and late afternoons are best for seeing elephants.
If you are an adventurous soul, you should add Pidurangala Rock to your itinerary. A mere half an hour away from Dambulla, Pidurangala Rock is an excellent vantage point. Climbing to the top guarantees you the best views of the area, including Sigiriya Lion Rock. A hike through the forest precedes the mesmerizing views you are offered at the top of the rock. For the most breathtaking experience, a sunrise hike is recommended.
Aptly titled a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya is one of the most significant historical sites in Sri Lanka; it's a tribute to ancient Sri Lankan architecture too. The fortress found at the top is an awe-inspiring structure that baffles the most talented architects. A staircase is fashioned out of the rock itself, which enables accent to the top. In addition to the fortress, the peak of the rock is a site of beautiful ponds, gardens and things that are aesthetically pleasing to the beholder.
To get a taste of the local life, you should visit this local marketplace. Packed with fresh produce, Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre is the lifeline for many local farmers. A range of local fruits and vegetables fill up the stalls here, and the characteristic bustle of the farmers makes it quintessentially South Asian.
The first sight that greets anyone on the way to the Dambulla temple is the large golden Buddha statue. Thought to be the largest statue in Asia, this colossal statue is a representation of Dhyan Chakra mudra. The museum is filled with various other paintings and statues of equal importance. A visit to this museum is one of the free things you can do in Dambulla.
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