Must-Try Foods In Dambulla (Sri Lanka) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Dambulla, located in the central province of Sri Lanka, has a rich history that extends to its cuisine. As a place that had significant historical settlements and as a crucial location within the ancient spice trade routes, Dambulla's food is influenced by a variety of flavors and traditions. The food here is characterized by the use of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, which are grown abundantly in the region. The cuisine is also impacted by the dietary preferences of the Buddhist community, which favors vegetarian and seafood options, as well as by the influence of Tamil, Muslim, and colonial heritages. Rice and curry are staples while fruits, vegetables, and fish are used frequently due to the city's vast agricultural landscapes and close proximity to freshwater lakes.

Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Dambulla, Sri Lanka

• 1. Vegetable Roti (Veg): A flatbread filled with spicy vegetables, often found at street-side vendors.
• 2. Kottu (Can be Veg/Non-Veg): A popular dish made with roti, vegetables, and egg, cheese, or meat if desired, chopped and mixed on a griddle.
• 3. Dhal Curry (Veg): A staple dish made with lentils, coconut milk, and spices, common in almost every meal.
• 4. Rice and Curry (Can be Veg/Non-Veg): A combination of rice served with a selection of different curries containing vegetables, fish or other non-cow meat options.
• 5. String Hoppers with Sothi and Sambol (Veg): Thin rice noodles served with a mild coconut soup and a side of spicy sambol.
• 6. Hoppers (Can be Veg/Non-Veg): Bowl-shaped pancakes that are often served with egg, sambol, or curry.
• 7. Jackfruit Curry (Veg): A flavorful and rich curry made with young or ripe jackfruit, a unique local treat.
• 8. Watalappan (Veg): A sweet and rich custard pudding made with coconut milk, eggs, and jaggery, often flavored with spices such as cardamom and nutmeg.
• 9. Pittu (Veg): A breakfast dish consisting of steamed cylinders of ground rice layered with coconut.
• 10. Fish Ambul Thiyal (Non-Veg): A sour fish curry, a speciality in Sri Lankan cuisine, which uses dried goraka to give the sour flavor.

Top Famous Restaurants in Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Athurugiriya Rotti Kade

Address: Anuradhapura Rd, Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Veg and Non-Veg Kottu

Gimanhala Restaurant

Address: 754 Anuradhapura Rd, Dambulla 21100, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Traditional Rice and Curry (Can be Veg/Non-Veg)

Mango Mango Restaurant

Address: Main Street, Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Veg and Non-Veg Hoppers

Jaga Food

Address: Kandy Rd, Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Jackfruit Curry (Veg)

Sakura

Address: 754 Anuradhapura Rd, Dambulla 21100, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Japanese cuisine with vegetarian options available

Rangiri Dambulla Resort Restaurant

Address: Kapuwatta, Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Famous Food: Traditional Sri Lankan Buffet (Can be Veg/Non-Veg)

Please note that while these are some of the famous dining options in Dambulla, the dishes and their vegetarian or non-vegetarian status might vary. It is always a good idea to ask the restaurant for their current offerings and any specialties that they may recommend during your visit.