A vibrant, bustling city in Sri Lanka's Matale district, Dambulla forms part of the country's Cultural Triangle. Renowned for its Rock Temple — a two-thousand-year-old historic site housed within a complex of 80 caves containing 153 Buddha statues and numerous busts of kings, gods, and goddesses — Dambulla attracts visitors from around the world. The area's growing number of hotels and guesthouses range from impressive resorts to beautiful houseboats, fit for a range of tastes and budgets. Most of the best places to stay in Dambulla also boast stunning views of the Kandalama Reservoir.

Dambulla itself is also well worth a guided wander, with rickety street stalls and a bustling market selling everything from bicycles and household utensils to fresh fruit and spices. Rising above the chaos are the rose quartz mountains, part of the highest range in South Asia, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city and the wider area. The surrounding iron wood forest, a holy sanctuary created in the 10th century, will delight nature enthusiasts.

Beyond the famous Rock Temple, Dambulla boasts several other significant historical sites worth exploring. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a 5th-century fortress perched atop an enormous outcrop, is not to be missed, nor are the Menikdena Archaeological Reserve and Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs, dating back 2,500 years. Safaris at Minneriya and Kaudulla yield sightings of herds of elephants, deer and tropical birds galore, whilst boats trips on the Kandalama Reservoir are a real treat. This is a very popular part of Sri Lanka — book your room at one of the best places to stay in Dambulla well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Dambulla

For Boutique Charm

• Lake Lodge Boutique Hotel has just 12 charming guest rooms with lovely lake views. Airy, minimalist spaces have private balconies, panoramic views and a refreshing swimming pool. Brilliant for bird watching and spotting monkeys flitting through the trees.
• Kalundewa Retreat, perched at the edge of the reservoir, offers pared-back contemporary interiors with floor-to-ceiling windows, jungle views, a cooling swimming pool — and one room moored out on the water. A beautiful boutique escape for nature lovers and romantics.

For Design-Led Luxury

• Heritance Kandalama is a stunning modernist hotel, famously designed by Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka's best-known architect. Expect a spoiling spa, whirlpool baths, a games room and tennis court, along with multiple bars and eateries. A luxurious choice for fans of iconic architecture.
• Jetwing Lake, perched on the edge of the Siyambalawewa, has spacious rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, clean lines and a crisp, contemporary feel. Six dining options, an infinity pool and spa plus stacks of private activities add to the appeal. Popular with couples and families.

For a Family-Friendly Resort

• Amaya Lake Kandalama is a big, contemporary resort on the banks of the Kandalama Reservoir. An eco-friendly spot with a pampering spa, swimming pool, excellent restaurant and popular cocktail bar. Families and groups will love the individual cottages, as well as the games room and extensive grounds.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR PRIVATE VILLA

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Dambulla is 3 hours’ drive from Bandaranaike International Airport. Most hotels will be happy to arrange an airport pickup with a reliable driver who knows the roads well.
• Alternatively, hop aboard the train from Fort Station in Colombo for a scenic journey. Tickets are cheap and trains are slow, but this is a superb way to experience Sri Lanka. Regular local buses are also available.
• Temperatures in Sri Lanka hit their peak in March - April, making for a very sticky exploratory experience, but Dambulla is a popular year-round destination.
• You’ll need to cover your knees and shoulders when visiting sacred sites - that goes for men & women - and you will be asked to remove your shoes, so do plan your outfit accordingly!

STILL NOT SURE?

• Expand your search to explore our list of the best places to stay in Sigiriya.
• Alternatively, see our pick of all the best places to stay in Sri Lanka.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.