Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the central province of Sri Lanka. The temple complex consists of five caves that have been converted into shrines and contain over 150 Buddha statues and paintings. The caves are adorned with intricate carvings and frescoes that depict the life of Buddha and other important figures in Buddhism.
The largest cave, known as the Maharaja Vihara, is 52 meters long and 23 meters wide. It contains a 14-meter-long reclining Buddha statue and several other statues of standing and seated Buddhas. The walls and ceiling of the cave are covered in colorful frescoes that date back to the 18th century.
The other four caves are smaller but equally impressive. The second cave, known as the Maharaja Vihara, contains a statue of the Hindu god Vishnu, while the third cave, known as the Maha Alut Vihara, contains a statue of the goddess Tara. The fourth and fifth caves are the smallest and contain several smaller Buddha statues.
The temple complex is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can climb up to the top of the hill to get a panoramic view of the area. The temple is also home to several resident monkeys who are known to be mischievous and may try to steal food or belongings from visitors.
Overall, the Dambulla Cave Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Buddhism or Sri Lankan culture. Its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and beautiful frescoes make it one of the most impressive religious sites in the world.