The Golden Temple of Dambulla (දඹුල්ල රජ මහා විහාරය), in Dambulla is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, situated in the central part of the country. The rock towers 160 m over the surrounding plains. There are more than 80 documented caves in the surrounding area. This temple complex dates back to the first century BCE. It has five caves under a vast overhanging rock, carved with a drip line to keep the interiors dry. Inside the caves, the ceilings are painted with intricate patterns of religious images following the contours of the rock. There are images of the Lord Buddha and bodhisattvas, as well as various gods and goddesses. The Dambulla cave monastery is still functional and remains the best-preserved ancient edifice in Sri Lanka.

Below is a selection of photos taken during a visit to the cave temple complex on February 26th 2014. Click on a small photo for a larger view, then select the next one with the cursor keys or the arrows on either side of the photo.