Buddhism has played a key role in Sri Lanka’s history and you can easily learn about its particular significance in Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple. Also known as the Dambulla Rock Temple, this living Buddhist centre is a World Heritage Site (1991), with its five sanctuaries carved into a rock towering 160 meters over the surrounding plains. Inside these cave shrines, visitors will see paintings and murals covering an area of 2,100 square metres with 157 statues of the Buddha and Hindu gods, making it the largest and best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka.
• Best things to do: Explore the ancient cave shrines with fabulous paintings, Take pictures of the Buddha statues (but not any of you with the Buddha), Admire sunrise and sunset from the top
• Insider’s tip: The climb up to the caves is over 300 steps long and there are no shops at the top, make sure to take your water with you. Monkeys are everywhere, so keep an eye on your valuables
