Dambulla’s cave temples, Sri Lanka’s ancient spiritual marvel

Dambulla, in Sri Lanka, hosts the largest and best-preserved cave complex, featuring over 80 caves with five major ones housing sprawling temples. The complex is rich with Buddha statues, including a 100-foot-long golden statue, and a ceiling with over 1,500 Buddha paintings. The caves also depict Sri Lankan kings and various deities. These temples have existed for over 22 centuries and are undergoing conservation to ensure their longevity.

What makes the five major caves in Dambulla particularly popular among visitors?

• Each contains a sprawling temple.

• They are the oldest caves in the area.

• They are located at the highest point in Dambulla.

• They have the most colorful paintings.

How long is the golden statue of Buddha found in the Dambulla cave complex?

• 150 feet

• 100 feet

• 75 feet

• 50 feet

How many statues are found in the Cave of Kings?

• 25

• 40

• 55

• 70

What is depicted on the ceiling of one of the caves in Dambulla?

• Astrological symbols

• A map of the cave complex

• Over 1,500 paintings of Buddha

• Scenes from Sri Lankan history

For how many centuries have the Dambulla cave temples existed?

• 22 centuries

• 15 centuries

• 30 centuries

• 10 centuries