Search the best hotels in Dambulla

About Dambulla

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!

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The best hotels in Dambulla

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Amaya Lake Kandalama

Dambulla (Sri Lanka)

Contemporary and eco-friendly Amaya Lake provides stylish cottage accommodation at a steal of a price. Suites boast private terraces complete with pool & separate lounge areas. Samara Restaurant dishes up a modern Sri Lankan affair whilst cocktails can be enjoyed at Lake Bar. Don't miss the spa!

  • Families - Family-friendly cottages are ideal for groups of all ages, who will love the pool, games room & expansive grounds
  • Cycling - Hop aboard the hotel's bicycles to zip along trails in 50 acres of grounds, or to follow a riverside path
  • Other Activities - Boat trips on Kandalama Lake are stunning, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon
  • Romantic Break - Cottages with private pools are ideal for romantic couples looking to hide away together
from $161 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Kalundewa Retreat

Dambulla

A tranquil hideaway in Sri Lanka's lush countryside, this stylish retreat boasts contemporary decor with a touch of rustic charm. Guests can expect mango tree-lined paths, fireflies flitting over paddies, gourmet dining, and refreshing pools. Ideal for a rejuvenating getaway amidst nature's beauty.

  • Back to Nature - A nature lover's paradise, with birdwatching, serene lake views, and lush paddy fields perfect for tranquil walks and cycling
  • Honeymoons - A magical honeymoon with candle-lit dinners on bridges and the soft glow of fireflies, nestled in a secluded tropical haven
  • Sights nearby - Explore the historic Dambulla cave temples, adorned with intricate Buddha statues and stunning frescoes
  • Other Activities - Relax in the secluded plunge pool of a floating villa, surrounded by lake views and gentle breezes
from $176 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Jetwing Lake

Dambulla (Sri Lanka)

A chic hotel on the edge of the Siyambalawewa Tank, close to Dambulla. Spacious rooms & suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows, big beds, clean lines & generous contemporary bathrooms. Six dining options, an infinity pool & spa, plus myriad activities add to the appeal. Deservedly popular.

  • Safari - Jon the hotel's resident naturalist for safaris to Kaudulla & Minneriya National Parks, where elephants gather in their hundreds
  • Active Holiday - A chic contemporary springboard for hiking, cycling, wildlife excursions & cultural explorations
  • Total relaxation - Unwind with rejuvenating treatments using organic ingredients at the Suwa Arana Spa
  • Restaurant - Six dining options including The Viewing Gallery, which specialises in Sri Lankan fare, and Lu Lin, offering Chinese cuisine
from $178 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Lake Lodge Boutique Hotel

Dambulla (Sri Lanka)

A charming B&B, well-placed for sightseeing in the Cultural Triangle, overlooking the gorgeous Kandalama Reservoir. Simple airy rooms with large balconies and panoramic views of the hills, a swimming pool and leafy terrace add to the appeal. A great spot for enjoying Sri Lanka's abundant wildlife.

  • Safari - Jeep safaris to Kaudulla or Minneriya National Parks come highly recommended, especially during the annual elephant gathering
  • Birdwatching - Make the most of the fantastic location and enjoy excellent bird watching tours with an expect guide
  • Back to Nature - A laid-back little hotel overlooking the Kandalama Reservoir, perfect for bird watching & unwinding
  • Groups - A great base for groups of friends looking to explore the Dambulla area's many cultural sites
from $186 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Heritance Kandalama

Dambulla (Sri Lanka)

Stunning, modernist hotel overlooking Kandalama Reservoir. Designed by Geoffrey Bawa, rooms enjoy mod-cons, whirlpool baths & private balconies. Boasting a Six Senses Spa, unique cave dining experiences and plenty of on site activities: wellness enthusiasts, couples and families alike will love it.

  • Birdwatching - With 233 resident bird species, birdwatchers with adore jungle treks or boat trips with the hotel's naturalists
  • Romantic Break - An iconic design hotel, created by architect Geoffrey Bawa & offering a soothing spa & romantic private dining
  • Spa breaks - The acclaimed Coco Spa offering rejuvenating treatments using organic ingredients & age-old techniques
  • Cycling - Bikes are available for guests to explore the Kandalama Reservoir
from $238 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia