Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Sacred Buddhist site
Description
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist sites. Located in Kandy, the temple houses a relic believed to be a tooth of Gautama Buddha, making it an important pilgrimage site. The temple complex is an architectural masterpiece, featuring intricate woodwork, gold-plated roof decorations, and traditional Kandyan designs. The relic itself is kept inside a gold casket and is not directly visible to the public.
Visitor Fee
- Foreigners: ~$8–10 (USD)
- SAARC Nationals: ~$5–6
- Sri Lankan Citizens: Free
(Prices may vary; check official sources before visiting.)
Transportation
- By Air: The nearest international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo), about 102 km away.
- By Train: A scenic train ride from Colombo to Kandy (~3–4 hours).
- By Bus: Regular buses connect Colombo, Nuwara Eliya, and other cities to Kandy.
- By Car: Private taxis or rental vehicles are available for a more comfortable journey.
Things to Do
- Attend the Thevava Ceremony – A daily ritual with drumming and offerings.
- Explore the Temple Museum – Learn about the history of the relic.
- Visit the Royal Palace of Kandy – Adjacent to the temple, it once housed the last kings of Sri Lanka.
- Stroll Around Kandy Lake – A scenic man-made lake right next to the temple.
- Experience the Esala Perahera Festival – A grand annual procession featuring elephants, dancers, and fire performers (held in July/August).
Why People Enjoy Coming Here
- Religious and spiritual significance, attracting Buddhist pilgrims from around the world.
- Beautiful Kandyan architecture, with intricate carvings and golden decorations.
- Serene and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for meditation and reflection.
- Cultural richness, including traditional ceremonies and vibrant festivals.
- Proximity to other attractions, making it an essential stop in Kandy.
Age of the Temple
The temple was built in 1595 during the reign of King Vimaladharmasuriya I, making it over 425 years old. The sacred tooth relic itself was brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD.
List of Activities
- Witnessing the daily Thevava (Puja) ceremonies
- Exploring ancient Kandyan architecture
- Visiting the Temple of the Tooth Museum
- Walking around Kandy Lake
- Watching cultural performances nearby
- Attending the Esala Perahera festival (if visiting in July/August)
Additional Nearby Attractions
- Kandy Lake – A picturesque lake next to the temple.
- Udawattakele Forest Reserve – A lush green sanctuary with scenic walking trails (~1 km away).
- Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue – A massive Buddha statue with panoramic views (~2 km away).
- Peradeniya Botanical Gardens – A stunning botanical garden with exotic plants (~6 km away).
- Ceylon Tea Museum – A great place to learn about Sri Lanka’s famous tea culture (~4 km away).