Staying near Mulkirigala Rock Temple and avoiding the tourist crowds

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Maya V.3625 rep2

We are staying at a homestay in the deep south and want to visit the Mulkirigala Rock Temple. I heard it is like the Dambulla caves but without the massive tourist buses. Is this true.

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4 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

Yes, Mulkirigala is often called the Dambulla of the South, and it is vastly less crowded. It features stunning reclining Buddhas and ancient murals painted inside natural caves on a massive rock rising out of the jungle. It has seven terraces, so be prepared for a steep climb. Your homestay in Tangalle or Beliatta can easily arrange a tuk-tuk for a half-day trip.

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Amali D.1150 rep1

It is incredibly peaceful. We were the only foreigners there when we went at 8 AM. Just be aware of the monkeys, they hang around the lower terraces looking for offerings.

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Ethan K.4630 rep2

The view from the very top stupa is breathtaking. You can see the entire southern jungle canopy stretching all the way to the coast.

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Jaxon R.5430 rep2

Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered. Since it gets very few tourists, the monks and caretakers are much stricter about traditional dress codes than the highly commercialized temples.

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Maya V.3625 rep2

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