Boutique Sri Lanka
Our flagship itinerary for curious first-timers. An alternative perspective on Sri Lanka with characterful boutique hotels.
- Info
- Comments
- Holidays
- Map
Dating back to the 1st century BC, the cave temple at Dambulla is one of the most impressive in Asia. Consisting of five caves overhung by a vast rock towering 160metres over the surrounding plains, the temple was embellished with arched colonnades and gabled entrances in 1938 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.
Each of the five caves at Dambulla house ancient statues of the Buddha and historic artwork depicting the Buddhas life. The grounds surrounding the cave temple also feature a functioning Buddhist Monastery which dates back to the second and third centuries BC.
Whilst all five of the Dambulla Cave Temples are worth exploring, three really stand out. These are the Cave of the Divine King (home to a carved rock Buddha statue reaching 14 metres high), the Cave of the Great Kings (home to 56 statues of the Buddha), and the Great New Monastery (contains 50 statues of the Buddha as well as a statue of King Kirti Sri Rajasinha, the reigning King at the time of the painting of the walls and ceiling).
Spend a couple of hours wandering around the cave temple immersing yourself in Sri Lankan history.
You can include this experience as part of an Experience Travel Group holiday designed exclusively with you.
Classic Family Sri Lanka
Travel at a relaxed pace enjoying safaris, making connections, having fun and that all-important relaxing beach time.
Classic Sri Lanka & Undiscovered Maldives
Our trademark authentic experiences and boutique accommodation in Sri Lanka combined with a different take on The Maldives.
Family Sri Lanka & Undiscovered Maldives
Sri Lanka's diverse wildlife, countryside and culture combined with a unique local island adventure and a resort holiday in The Maldives.
Luxury Sri Lanka & Maldives Holiday
Luxurious holiday with the best hotels in Sri Lanka and The Maldives and with our exclusive ETG experiences.
Luxury Winter Wedding
Escape winter and wedding hassle: go to Sri Lanka for our Luxury Winter Wedding!
Luxury with a Touch of Adventure
A full immersion in Sri Lanka culture and some exceptional, characterful & luxurious hotels.
Sri Lanka and the work of Geoffrey Bawa
This holiday takes in Sri Lanka's varied highlights with a focus on the work of its most famous architect Geoffrey Bawa.
Sri Lanka In Depth With The Maldives
Three-week holiday taking in the local culture, nature, wildlife and of Sri Lanka with five blissful days in The Maldives.
The History & Culture of Sri Lanka
An in-depth journey through Sri Lanka's fascinating history, culture and scenic landscapes.
Map centered on Dambulla Cave Temples. Zoom out to view other hotels (H) and experiences (E) in the area.
A fascinating place, with the odd Buddha or two (hundred)!
Gary, September 2012