Where to stay: Dambulla or Sigiriya
When planning a visit to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, you will be faced with the decision on where to stay; Dambulla or Sigiriya. We chose to stay in Dambulla, but I would suggest that Sigiriya is the better option. Continue reading to see why.
Dambulla: Accessibility & Convenience
Dambulla is a bustling town known for its well-connected transportation network. The main bus stand offers regular services to various parts of the country, making it a convenient base for travellers relying on public transport.
The town provides a range of accommodations, from budget apartments & guest houses to mid-range hotels.
Dining options are predominantly local (with very few Google reviews), & fewer tourist-oriented restaurants. This is not a problem, but I would say we didn’t choose our dining options that well. I would recommend heading somewhere that looks busy & trusting that the locals know where is good, as the Google reviews do not give much away.
A highlight of Dambulla is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dambulla Cave Temple Complex. This site features a series of intricately decorated caves filled with carvings & statues of Buddha dating back to the 1st century BC. The climb to the complex is moderate, & the cave temples are impressive… Quite literally carved into the caves.
Sigiriya: Proximity to Landmarks & Buzzy Atmosphere
Sigiriya offers a more buzzy setting, with lots of restaurants & bars on a charming road, ‘Sigiriya Road’. But with that comes a lot more tourists…
Staying here places you in close proximity to two significant landmarks; Sigiriya Rock & also, Pidurangala Rock. Read more about those here.
Conclusion of where to stay: Dambulla or Sigiriya
If you are on a flying visit (like I was), & are prioritising easy access to transportation & amenities, the Dambulla is a great choice. However, if you prefer a fun environment with closer proximity to major historical sites & a variety of dining options, Sigiriya would be more suitable.
Both locations offer unique experiences that cater to different traveller preferences. My suggestions would be Sigiriya as it is the prettier of the two, & also, has much nicer restaurant options.
Enjoy!
