Joanna James
Part of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, the town of Dambulla is filled to the brim with religious & archaeological wonders, nature-friendly getaways and a distinct vibe that draws in history and leisure lovers. Have a look at these 6 attractions in 2025.
Rising to an astonishing 340 metres over nearby plains and grasslands, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dambulla Cave Temple is a sight that must not be missed. With a history that goes back to the 1st Century BC when King Walagamba reigned, this heritage site replete with a magnificent golden Buddha statuette at its entrance will be a rewarding and insightful journey. Well-known for 5 caves that contain a series of statues of the Buddha, his followers and other deities, the Dambulla Cave Temple boasts elaborate murals that adorn its ceilings together with sloped entrances and arched porticos. Found near Heritance Kandalama, which ranks among the best hotels in Dambulla, this sacred site is popular with both locals and foreigners.
The work of Sam Popham that saw the light of day in 1963, Popham’s Arboretum, as the sole dry zone arboretum in Sri Lanka, sure does pull out all the stops in offering patrons with a sublime outing. Showcasing a wide spectrum of plant life, including Tamarind trees, Ebony trees and Ceylon Ironwood; this natural attraction permits the visitor to embark on a night safari where you will be able to enjoy a stroll along a trail habitually frequented by the Red Slender Loris. Also, you will stumble upon other mammals, free-flowing streams and wooden bridges.
Thought to be the biggest wholesale vegetable and fruit market in the country, the Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre will certainly be a breath of fresh air. An ideal stopover to witness how wholesale purchases are bargained for and eventually sold, herein lies a chance to also exchange a few pleasantries with locals and catch a glimpse of how life is lived in this part of Sri Lanka.
Uncover the hidden past of Sri Lanka’s prehistoric and protohistoric times by beelining for the Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs. Situated a mere 5 km from Dambulla, this archaeological site features a number of artefacts that will successfully bring out the ‘Indiana Jones’ in you. Take time to appreciate the value of the Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs and be sure to set foot within the on-site museum before you leave. Within its four walls are priceless treasures from yesteryear, covering finds from ancient burial grounds such as clay pots, urns and jewellery.
The appeal of Kaludiya Pokuna cannot be summarised in words alone. An outstanding escape if searching for a wildlife experience that does not involve visiting a national park, Kaludiya Pokuna is an archaeological site that contains an age-old stupa. With regards to the animals that you will have a good chance of spotting, the White-bellied Sea Eagle, Indian Rock Python, Purple-faced Langur and the Fishing Cat are among those that call Kaludiya Pokuna home.
Home to Southeast Asia’s biggest ironwood forest, the acclaimed setting of Jathika Namal Uyana makes way for those who long for nature walks and gorgeous views. Replete with a pink quartz mountain range, this attraction was where Buddhist monks once sought refuge. As testament to this revelation, the Jathika Namal Uyana is made up of a number of ruins that include a monastery and an abandoned palace.
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.
