Why to visit Temple of the Tooth Relic (Kandy)
Temple of the Tooth Relic, or Sri Dalada Maligawa, is one of the world's most sacred pilgrimage centers for Buddhists. Located in Kandy, it houses a tooth relic of Lord Buddha, symbolizing the spiritual and political authority of Sri Lanka. With its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere, the temple welcomes tourists in pursuit of spiritual experience as well as cultural heritage.
What's Special About the Temple of the Tooth Relic
- Sacred Relic: The temple houses a tooth relic of Buddha, which is said to have been brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century. The relic is so sacred that it has influenced the country's monarchy over the centuries.
- Spiritual Significance: The temple symbolizes oneness and power in Sri Lanka's Buddhist community. It is also the focal point of the annual Esala Perahera, a breathtaking festival in honor of the relic.
- Exquisite Architecture: The temple's golden-roofed building is a combination of traditional Kandyan architecture and colonial designs, and thus an architectural wonder in the heart of Kandy.
- Historical Importance: The temple has been a seat of political power, as the kings used to be crowned holding the relic, symbolizing their authority to rule.
Things to Do at the Temple of the Tooth Relic
- Visit the Inner Chamber: You are welcome to witness the sacred tooth relic. It is housed in a golden shrine inside the temple. The relic is made available to tourists during special rituals.
- Walk through the temple complex: Stroll through the scenic temple complex, including the peaceful ponds, gardens, and beautifully designed pavilions.
- Watch the Esala Perahera: If you are visiting in July or August, watch the grand procession of dancers, elephants, and drummers celebrating the tooth relic.
- Learn about the History of the Relic: Visit the museum in the temple complex to learn more about the history and origins of the tooth relic and its significance in Sri Lankan Buddhism.
Unknown Facts About the Temple of the Tooth Relic
- The relic is kept in a series of golden caskets, one inside the other, representing its value and sanctity.
- The temple was initially constructed in the 16th century by King Vimaladharmasuriya I after the relic was relocated to Kandy from India.
- During the colonial period, the British attempted to capture the relic, but the sanctity of the temple protected it.
- The Esala Perahera, a festival designated by UNESCO, is more than 400 years old and one of Sri Lanka's oldest religious festivals.
Entry Fee
- Foreigners: $10 (USD) approximately
- Sri Lankan Citizens: LKR 100-500 approximately
- Children: Free
Timings
Open Daily: 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Ceremonies are conducted throughout the day, with the most important ceremony at 7:00 PM)
Average Duration to Explore
1 to 2 Hours: Most people spend an hour or two looking at the temple, but you might want to linger longer during religious ceremonies.
Distance from Major Locations
- From Colombo: 115 km (3.5-hour drive)
- From Kandy Railway Station: 1 km (5-minute walk)
- From Bandaranaike International Airport: 104 km (3.5-hour drive)
Tourist Attractions Nearby
- Kandy Lake (0.2 km)
- Royal Botanical Gardens (5 km)
- Bahirawakanda Temple (1.5 km)
- Kandy Museum (0.1 km)
