Temple of the Tooth - Kandy

Sacred Relic

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, or Sri Dalada Maligawa, is located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy. According to legend, the tooth was taken from the Buddha as he lay on his funeral pyre and was smuggled to Sri Lanka from India in the 4th century CE. The relic has played an important role in local politics because it is believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country.

Kandy - The Cultural Capital

Kandy, Sri Lanka's last royal capital, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is beautifully situated among hills and centered around the scenic Kandy Lake. The Temple of the Tooth is the centerpiece of this cultural capital, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists daily. The annual Esala Perahera festival, held in July or August, is one of the most spectacular Buddhist celebrations in Asia, featuring elaborately decorated elephants, traditional dancers, and drummers.

Visiting the Temple

Visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering the temple. The relic is housed in a gold casket and is not visible to visitors, but the temple itself is a magnificent example of Kandyan architecture. Daily pujas (offerings) are held at dawn, midday, and in the evening, accompanied by traditional drumming. The temple complex also houses museums displaying gifts received from well-wishers around the world.