Your Guide to the best of Sri Lanka, the Destination Paradise
Sri Lanka Leisure Guide will provide you with information about what Sri Lanka has to offer to the outside world along with information for you to plan your Sri Lanka holiday. The accommodations guide will help you search for hotels and resorts within close proximity to all the exciting areas spread across the country.
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Leisure >> World Heritage Cities >> Dambulla World Heritage City Dambulla
Location Just 92 miles / 148 kilometres from Colombo, 45 miles / 72 kilometres from Kandy, 41 miles / 66 kilometres from Anuradhapura, 34 miles / 55 kilometres from Kurunegala, and 12 miles / 19 kilometres from Sigiriya. History During his 14 year long exile from Anuradhapura, King Walagambahu of Sri Lanka was protected at this third century BC rock temple in the caves of Dambulla. He built a spectacular rock temple 350 feet above the plains after regaining his throne. Below the temple are five caves that have been turned into shrines. A 14 foot long recumbent image of Lord Buddha, cut out of the rock can be found in the first cave. The walls are adorned with the images of deities linked with Buddhism. Stunning frescos from the 15th to 18th centuries adorn the ceiling and walls. Many images of Lord Buddha and around 150 life size statues of deities can be found in the second and largest cave. Monumental events in the life of Lord Buddha, Sri Lankan and Sinhalese history can be found featured on colourful frescoes on the ceiling. Attractions The view of the plains below from the top, cave temples and rock statues. Directions From Colombo Follow the A1 to Warakapola. Then, follow the A6 East to Dambulla. From Anuradhapura Follow the A12 East. Then, turn right to the A13 South. Follow this road until you arrive at Maradankadawala. Next, follow the A9 to Dambulla. From Polonnaruwa Follow the A11 East until you meet the A6. Then, turn left and follow the A6 until you meet the A9. Next, turn left again and drive down the A9 until you arrive at Dambulla. From Kurunegala Follow the A6 East to Dambulla. From Kandy Follow the A9 North to Dambulla. Getting there Travel by car or coach. Alternatively, take the train up to Habarana and catch a bus to Dambulla. The most economical means of travel is by public transport. Other Activities Mountain biking is possible on hillocks in the area. Travellers can also hike or cycle along the wooded roads around the large Dambulla Tank. The wilderness surrounding the tank and the forested area nearby are perfect for bird watching.
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