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Dambulla Rock Cave Temple
Sigiriya is famous for its palace ruins on top of a massive 200 meter high rock surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs and other structures. This remarkable attraction is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered by some to be the eighth wonder of the world. The environment around the Sigiriya may have been inhabited since prehistoric times. The many rock shelters and caves in the vicinity were occupied by Buddhist monks and ascetics from as early as the 3rd century BC. The population of Sigiriya is quite sparse but the town is significant due to the number of tourist hotels that host visitors who come to view and climb the famous rock. The rock cave temples of Dambulla consists of 5 caves which have been converted to shrines. During an invasion from South India, king Walagambahu took refuge in the caves at Dambulla and through meditation gained the strength to drive the invaders away. He then declared the caves a sacred area and built the first cave shrine. Since then 4 more caves were converted into shrines and the cave temples of Dambulla is today an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world. Afterwards have a memorable and inspiring conversation with the in house self-composed monk at Dambulla Rock cave temple. You will be told the stories of Buddha’s life and understand the Buddha as a human being as well as learn the basics of Buddhism and Buddhist practices and customs. Practice a few minutes of guided meditation to relax your mind. Lastly visit the Dambulla Economic Centre, a wholesale market specializing in Vegetables and Fruit. Produce from the region is brought here for distribution to retail outlets across the country.