Kandy’s UNESCO World Heritage Site & Sri Lanka’s Holiest Buddhist Shrine

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy is the most sacred Buddhist site in Sri Lanka, housing the left canine tooth of Lord Buddha. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple is not just a spiritual center but also a masterpiece of Kandyan architecture, royal history, and cultural traditions.

Why Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic?

• UNESCO-listed – A living heritage site
• Home to Buddha’s Tooth Relic – Deeply revered by Buddhists worldwide
• Kandyan architecture – Intricate wood carvings, golden roofs, and historic murals
• Esala Perahera Festival – One of Asia’s grandest cultural processions

History & Significance

• - Built in 1595 by King Vimaladharmasuriya I to enshrine the sacred relic
• - The tooth was brought from Kalinga (India) in the 4th century AD
• - Served as the royal temple during the Kandyan Kingdom (last Sinhalese dynasty)
• - Survived multiple invasions due to its spiritual importance

Key Features of the Temple

1. The Sacred Relic Chamber (Vadahitina Maligawa)

• - The golden casket containing the tooth is kept here
• - Three layers of security – Only visible during special rituals
• - Daily Poojas (Offerings) at 5:30 AM, 9:30 AM, and 6:30 PM

2. Paththirippuwa (Octagonal Pavilion)

• - Originally the king’s library, now a Buddhist museum
• - Offers panoramic views of Kandy Lake

3. Maha Wahalkada (Grand Entrance)

• - Decorated with moonstones, guardian statues, and lotus motifs
• - Symbolizes the transition from worldly life to spiritual devotion

4. Hewisi Drummers’ Pavilion

• - Traditional Kandyan drummers perform daily rituals
• - Part of the "Dalada Hewisi" ceremony

5. Aluth Maligawa (New Shrine)

• - Built for devotees to peacefully offer prayers
• - Features murals depicting the tooth relic’s history

6. Magul Maduwa (Audience Hall)

• - A wooden pavilion where kings held court
• - Used today for religious ceremonies

Festivals & Rituals

1. Esala Perahera (July/August)

• - 10-day festival featuring elephants, dancers, and drummers
• - The sacred tooth relic casket is paraded on a royal tusker
• - One of the world’s most spectacular cultural events

2. Aluth Sahal Mangallaya (New Rice Festival – January)

• - First harvest offered to the tooth relic
• - Celebrates the bond between Buddhism and agriculture

3. Karthika Mangalaya (November Full Moon)

• - Oil lamp procession honoring God Katharagama

4. Sinhala New Year (April)

• - Milk boiling ceremony – A royal tradition

Visitor Tips

• Opening Hours: 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Pooja times best for rituals)
• Dress Code: Cover shoulders & knees (no shorts/sleeveless tops)
• Photography: Allowed (No flash near relic chamber)
• Entrance Fee: ~LKR 2,000 (Foreigners) | Free for locals

How to Reach:

• - From Colombo: 3-hour drive (A1 highway)
• - By Train: Scenic Kandy-Colombo route

Nearby Attractions:

• - Kandy Lake (5-min walk)
• - Royal Botanical Gardens (20-min drive)
• - Bahiravokanda Buddha Statue (Panoramic city views)

Book a Sacred Kandy Tour!

Experience temple rituals + cultural insights with expert guides:

 srilankatourhelp.org

Why This Temple is a Must-Visit

Whether you seek spiritual solace, history, or cultural spectacle, the Temple of the Tooth Relic offers an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s living heritage.

Plan your visit today and witness the heart of Sri Lankan Buddhism!