Joanna James
The vibrant town of Dambulla, which is nearly in the centre of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, is well-known for its amazing cultural offerings. Check out these six excursions which make unique cultural experiences in this bustling city.
One of the most famous attractions on this site is the five cave temples that contain more than 150 outstanding pieces of art. Noted across the world as a UNESCO Heritage Site, each of these caves is lavishly decorated with elaborate statues and murals that showcase the magnificence of Sinhalese Buddhist art. Another place in which you can encounter some Buddhist art pieces is at the Buddhist Museum. This little-known destination houses rooms full of artwork copies of Sri Lankan cave temples and shrines.
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the culture of the region is to visit crowd-infested spots in the region. Dambulla market is an ideal place to experience the local lifestyle. This place is dubbed the biggest fruits and vegetables wholesale market on the island. You will encounter local fruits and vegetables and handpick any of them. Purchase them and bring them back to your accommodation to include them in your meal.
Sri Lankan music and dance are rich in history and traditions because they are deeply rooted in history. Out of the three dance forms: Kandyan, Low Country and Sabaragamuwa, the Kandyan dance form is especially popular in this region. Some hotels in Dambulla have even included cultural shows as part and parcel of their experience to encourage tourists to stay at their accommodations. If you witness such an event, you are most likely to see the famous Kohomba Kankariya, a long nighttime performance supposedly based on an ancient healing ritual deriving from the God Kohomba.
One of the simplest means of encountering the local culture is through its diverse and vibrant cuisine. There are many places in this historic town which offer dishes and beverages that have special links with the region. Such delicacies include narang kewm (deep-fried coconut and honey balls coated in dough), pittu (steamed rice flour and coconut dish) and belimal flower drink.
In addition to its historical temples, Dambulla has a thriving art scene that encourages visitors to interact with local artists. Travellers who enter this region are motivated to learn about traditional sculptures and paintings through interactive experiences at the art galleries and workshops dotting the area. Some places even offer guests the opportunity to try their hands at making the products like crafting batik textiles. You will also be able to purchase some splendid handmade items like detailed wood carvings and delicate pottery.
Meet Puranagama. As the name suggests it is all about encounters with ancient village life. If you are someone who has a deep love for exploring the cultural roots of the region, then Puranagama is your go-to destination. Some of the attractions you will encounter here include huge man-made rainwater reservoirs, restored great Buddhist shrines, and preserved ruins. Guests at Heritance Kandalama can easily access this location as it is situated within a 25-minute walk from the hotel.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
