Dambulla Cave Temple
Introduction
Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the central part of Sri Lanka.
It is a magnificent and ancient cave temple that has a rich history and significance. And it attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.
The Origins of Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple is said to have been established during the 1st century BC by King Valagamba, who was exiled from Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka.
He took refuge in these caves and later transformed them into a temple complex.
The Five Caves of Dambulla
The temple complex is comprised of five separate caves, each filled with an array of statues, paintings, and religious iconography. The five caves at Dambulla are the Devaraja Lena, Maharaja Lena, Maha Alut Vihara, Paccima Viharaya, and the Devana Alut Vihara.
The Devaraja Lena is the largest of the caves. And it houses a 14-meter-long statue of the reclining Buddha. The Maharaja Lena is the second-largest cave. And it features a stunning array of Buddha statues and frescoes on its walls and ceiling. The Maha Alut Vihara is the third cave. And it is home to a large standing Buddha statue. The Paccima Viharaya, also known as the Western Monastery, is the fourth cave. And it contains a smaller collection of Buddha statues and frescoes. Lastly, the Devana Alut Vihara is the fifth cave. And its location is the outside of the temple complex, housing an array of rock carvings and statues.
The Historical Significance of Dambulla Cave Temple
The Dambulla Cave Temple is also significant due to its role in Sri Lankan history. During the 18th century, the temple complex served as a sanctuary for the King of Kandy, who was seeking refuge from the invading British forces.
The temple was later restored in the 19th century by the British, who recognized its historical and cultural significance.
Exploring Dambulla Cave Temple
Today, the Dambulla Cave Temple is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. It is a fascinating example of ancient Sri Lankan art and architecture, with the cave walls and ceilings adorned with intricate murals and frescoes that depict the life of Buddha and other religious figures.
Visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the caves, as is customary in many Buddhist temples. The caves can be quite dark and humid, so it is important to dress appropriately and bring a flashlight.
A Panoramic View of the Surrounding Countryside
The stunning panoramic view from the top of the hill (location of the temple) is one of the highlights to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple. The view stretches across the lush Sri Lankan countryside, and it is particularly beautiful at sunset.
Other Attractions Nearby
In addition to the temple complex, there are also a number of other attractions in the surrounding area that tourists may wish to visit. The nearby Sigiriya Rock Fortress, for example, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of the most impressive ancient monuments in Sri Lanka.
The fortress is located about 20 kilometers from the Dambulla Cave Temple and is well worth a visit.
Conclusion
Dambulla Cave Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Sri Lanka. It is a magnificent and ancient temple complex that is rich in history and significance. Visitors can explore the five separate caves.
