Experience sacred caves at Dowa Rock Temple
Ella, Sri Lanka • 
Must Do
Must Do
Best months to visit
Jan, Feb, Mar
19°C – 29°C, january offers comfortable temperatures ranging from 18, high crowds, peak season
19°C – 29°C, january offers comfortable temperatures ranging from 18, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Steep stairs and uneven terrain; not wheelchair accessible.
Steep stairs and uneven terrain; not wheelchair accessible.
Value for money
High
Free entry and a culturally rich, unique experience.
Free entry and a culturally rich, unique experience.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Peaceful Retreat
Couples found the temple's serene environment perfect for a quiet escape and reflection.
Historical Beauty
The unfinished Buddha and cave art captivated couples, offering unique insights.
Easy Access
Couples appreciated the straightforward access, making for a smooth visit.
No Amenities
Travelers felt a lack of facilities detracted from comfort during the visit.
Stairs Challenge
Couples with mobility issues found the stairs a significant drawback.
Overcrowded Times
Some couples reported the area could become crowded during peak times.
How to book
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Hours of operation
Monday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
A duo embarks on a captivating journey to Dowa Rock Temple.
Join a traveler on a visit to Dowa Rock Temple and beyond.
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
December
HIGH
17-24°C
Minimal rainfall with clear skies; ideal hiking weather.
Minimal rainfall with clear skies; ideal hiking weather.
Open
Early bookings are highly recommended due to increased demand.
Early bookings are highly recommended due to increased demand.
Recommended
December marks the beginning of the peak tourist season with minimal rainfall and clear skies, making it ideal for visiting the Dowa Rock Temple. However, tourist numbers rise sharply mid-month, leading to higher accommodation rates and the need for early bookings.
December marks the beginning of the peak tourist season with minimal rainfall and clear skies, making it ideal for visiting the Dowa Rock Temple. However, tourist numbers rise sharply mid-month, leading to higher accommodation rates and the need for early bookings.
January
HIGH
19-29°C
January offers comfortable temperatures ranging from 18.8°C to 29.3°C, with a precipitation chance of 22%. The weather is characterized by some humidity and light wind, creating a favorable climate for outdoor excursions.
January offers comfortable temperatures ranging from 18.8°C to 29.3°C, with a precipitation chance of 22%. The weather is characterized by some humidity and light wind, creating a favorable climate for outdoor excursions.
Open
Due to high demand, it's advisable to book accommodations and tours in advance.
Due to high demand, it's advisable to book accommodations and tours in advance.
Recommended
January is an excellent time to visit the Dowa Rock Temple, with pleasant weather and ample daylight. However, expect higher crowd levels and increased prices due to peak tourist season. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds.
January is an excellent time to visit the Dowa Rock Temple, with pleasant weather and ample daylight. However, expect higher crowd levels and increased prices due to peak tourist season. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds.
February
MEDIUM
19-29°C
February maintains comfortable temperatures similar to January, with a precipitation chance of 22%. The weather remains favorable for outdoor activities.
February maintains comfortable temperatures similar to January, with a precipitation chance of 22%. The weather remains favorable for outdoor activities.
Open
While still in peak season, availability is better than in January. Booking in advance is recommended.
While still in peak season, availability is better than in January. Booking in advance is recommended.
Recommended
February offers pleasant weather and moderate crowd levels, making it a suitable time to visit the Dowa Rock Temple. Early morning visits are advisable to enjoy a more serene experience.
February offers pleasant weather and moderate crowd levels, making it a suitable time to visit the Dowa Rock Temple. Early morning visits are advisable to enjoy a more serene experience.
March
MEDIUM
21-31°C
March sees a slight increase in temperatures, ranging from 21.1°C to 31.1°C, with a precipitation chance of 22%. The weather remains suitable for outdoor activities.
March sees a slight increase in temperatures, ranging from 21.1°C to 31.1°C, with a precipitation chance of 22%. The weather remains suitable for outdoor activities.
Open
Availability is generally good, but booking in advance is still recommended due to peak season.
Availability is generally good, but booking in advance is still recommended due to peak season.
Recommended
March offers warm temperatures and moderate crowd levels, making it a favorable time to visit the Dowa Rock Temple. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
March offers warm temperatures and moderate crowd levels, making it a favorable time to visit the Dowa Rock Temple. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
How to get there
Bike
Recommended
Renting a bicycle in Ella offers a scenic ride to the temple via Dowa Road.
Taxi
Recommended
Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available for a direct journey from Ella, Bandarawela, or Badulla.
Walking
Recommended
It is possible to walk to the temple from Ella, which is approximately 1.2 kilometers to the turn-off onto Dowa Road, followed by another 800 meters to the temple entrance.
Bus
Buses heading towards Bandarawela from Ella or towards Badulla from Bandarawela can drop passengers near the temple. Inform the conductor to alight at the Dhowa Rock Temple bus stop.
Car
The temple is easily accessible by car via the A16 highway. A car park is available at the entrance.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Not suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets not allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required