Places to visit in Matale

Sigiriya, the Dambulla cave temple and spice gardens.

Main town MatalePlaces in this guide 4
Colour Matale on my mapPlan a trip here

Places to see

Heritage

Sigiriya

Dambulla

A 5th-century rock fortress with frescoes, a mirror wall and the giant lion’s paws at the top.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Spiritual

Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla

Five cave shrines filled with Buddha statues and painted ceilings, a World Heritage Site.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Spiritual

Aluvihare Rock Temple

Matale

Rock temple where the Buddhist scriptures were first written down on palm leaves.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Heritage

Nalanda Gedige

Naula

An ancient stone image house in a blend of Hindu and Buddhist styles, near the island’s centre.

Best time: Jan–Sep

Food to try in Matale

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Timings, permits and prices change. Check official sources before you travel.