Renowned for ‘The Cave temple’ that sits hundreds of statues of Buddha and
bodhisattvas, many carved directly from the cave rock, the walls are alive with
frescoes of religious and secular scenes and beautiful geometric designs in warm
oranges and gold.
+
A site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive
column of rock nearly 200 metres (660 ft) high. According to the ancient Sri Lankan
chronicle the Culavamsa, this site was selected by King Kasyapa (477 – 495 CE) for his
new capital. He built his palace on the top of this rock and decorated its sides
with colourful frescoes.
On a small plateau about halfway up the side of this rock he built a gateway in the
form of an enormous lion. The name of this place is derived from this structure —
Sīhāgiri, the Lion Rock.
The capital and the royal palace was abandoned after the king’s death. It was used as
a Buddhist monastery until the 14th century.
Also known as the Dambulu Raja Maha Viharaya – it is the most venerated,
celebrated and most probably the most visited. The cave complex that consists of five
viharayas is a spectacular setting on a massive rock some 1118 ft. above sea level. Initial
temple built by King Valagamba in the first century BC houses over 60 buddha
statues.
you might like to stay at
DAMBULLA
KOSLANDA
KANDY
