Can You Enjoy Life in Dambulla? Pros and Cons of Living in This Sri Lankan City

Dambulla is a colorful and vibrant city located in the Matale district of Sri Lanka. It is home to the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which attracts thousands of tourists every year. The city is also known for its scenic beauty, ancient ruins, and rich cultural heritage. But if you’re thinking about moving to Dambulla, you might be wondering if it’s a good place to live. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together this guide on the pros and cons of living in Dambulla.

The Pros of Living in Dambulla

1. Rich Cultural Heritage

Dambulla is a city steeped in history and culture. It is home to the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, which dates back to the 1st century BC. The temple is a complex of five caves that are adorned with murals and sculptures depicting the life of Lord Buddha. Along with the temple, there are many other ancient ruins in the city, such as the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Polonnaruwa ruins. Living in Dambulla will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

2. Beautiful Scenery

Dambulla is situated in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, surrounded by verdant hills and lush forests. The city’s scenic beauty is breathtaking, and it provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching. There are many national parks and wildlife reserves in the area, such as Minneriya National Park and Kaudulla National Park, where you can observe elephants, leopards, and other exotic animals in their natural habitat.

3. Good Infrastructure

Dambulla has good infrastructure, with access to modern amenities such as supermarkets, hospitals, banks, and schools. The city is well-connected to other parts of Sri Lanka, with a network of highways and public transportation. The Bandaranaike International Airport is just a two-hour drive from the city, making it a convenient location for international travelers.

4. Affordable Cost of Living

Compared to other cities in Sri Lanka, Dambulla has a relatively low cost of living. Housing, food, and other essentials are affordable, and you can live comfortably on a modest budget. If you’re looking for a place to retire or to start a new life, Dambulla might be a good option.

The Cons of Living in Dambulla

1. Hot and Humid Climate

Dambulla has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. Temperatures can reach up to 35 degrees Celsius during the day, and the humidity can make it feel even hotter. If you’re not used to the heat, you might find it difficult to adjust to the climate in Dambulla.

2. Limited Job Opportunities

Dambulla is primarily a tourist destination, and the local economy relies heavily on the tourism industry. If you’re looking for a job in a different field, you might struggle to find opportunities in the city. The nearest major city is Kandy, which is about an hour’s drive away, and it might be necessary to commute for work.

3. Lack of Nightlife

Dambulla is not known for its nightlife, and there are limited entertainment options in the city. If you’re looking for a vibrant social scene, you might be disappointed. However, there are many cultural events and festivals that take place throughout the year, which can be a great way to experience the local culture.

Conclusion

Dambulla is a beautiful and culturally-rich city, and it can be a great place to live if you’re looking for a peaceful and affordable lifestyle. However, it’s important to consider the pros and cons before making the decision to relocate. If you can handle the hot and humid climate, and you have a job or a source of income, then Dambulla might be the perfect place for you.

If you’re still unsure, it might be worth visiting the city for a short period of time before making a final decision. Talk to the locals, experience the culture, and get a feel for the city before committing to the move. We hope this guide has been helpful in your decision-making process, and we wish you the best of luck in your journey!

An Insider’s Guide to Dambulla: Exploring the Hidden Gems of This Sri Lankan City

Dambulla, a charming city in central Sri Lanka, is known for its iconic rock temple and stunning landscapes. As a local, I can attest that there is so much more to this city than what meets the eye. In this insider’s guide, we’ll discover the hidden gems that only locals know and explore the unique culture and history of Dambulla.

Discovering the Hidden Gems

While exploring the rock temple, the Sigiriya fortress, and the Golden Temple may be on your to-do list, Dambulla has so much more to offer than just the typical tourist attractions. To experience the essence of this city, I suggest taking a walk through the Dambulla market, where you can find fresh vegetables, tropical fruits, and handmade souvenirs. Not too far from the market is a unique labyrinth of caves known as the Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs, which are over 2500 years old!

Another hidden gem in Dambulla is the Kalundewa Retreat – a natural lake set in a private nature reserve. Here, you can indulge in various water activities like kayaking, swimming, and paddle boating, surrounded by beautiful wildlife and lush greenery.

Indulging in Local Cuisine

When it comes to food, Dambulla has a plethora of options to choose from. Rotis, hoppers, and string hoppers are famous Sri Lankan dishes, but in Dambulla, you should not miss out on trying the spicy Sambol made with grated coconut, lime, and chili or the creamy Pol Sambol made with coconut and onions.

Food stalls and small eateries dot every street, but for an authentic Sri Lankan dining experience, head to Priyamali Gedara, a homestay that serves traditional Sri Lankan food made with fresh ingredients sourced from their farm.

Embracing the Local Culture

Sri Lanka is a country of traditions and culture, and Dambulla is no exception. The city celebrates several festivals throughout the year, but none more important than the Kandy Esala Perahera, a grand procession that goes on for ten days in August each year.

You can also witness locals weaving vibrant Kandyan sarees and creating intricate wood carvings at the Dambulla Handicraft Center. The center showcases Sri Lankan handicrafts and also provides insight into the art of traditional handloom weaving.

Exploring Dambulla’s History

Dambulla has been a hub for traders and travelers for centuries, and there is a fascinating history behind every corner. Visit the Ancient City of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands tall as a geological wonder and a symbol of ancient engineering and heritage.

Also, make sure to visit the rose quartz mountain range, where valuable quartz was mined during ancient times, and be sure to take a stroll through the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple, carved out of the rock.

Off-the-beaten-path Activities

For a unique experience that goes beyond the conventional, I suggest visiting the Ironwood Forest, where you can be one with nature while trekking or indulging in bird watching. And, If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can try a hot air balloon ride over the city and its stunning surroundings.

In conclusion, Dambulla is a city waiting to be explored. Take a slow and easy pace, interact with the friendly locals, and let the city’s diverse and fascinating history, culture, and hidden gems unravel. This way, you can have an unforgettable and unique experience, and you’ll surely fall in love with Dambulla’s charming essence.