Central Province
4.7 Rating
Temple of the Tooth Relic
Sacred temple housing Buddha's tooth
Duration
2-3 hours
Difficulty
Easy (urban location)
The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is among Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist sites. It houses an ancient relic - a tooth of the Buddha - and features Kandyan architecture with intricate carvings. The temple overlooks a peaceful lake and is the focus of the annual Esala Perahera procession, a vibrant cultural festival.
3 unique experiences await
Essential Information
Everything you need to know for your visit
Climate
20-25°C
Est. Duration
2-3 hours
Difficulty
Easy (urban location)
Best Season
December to April
The Experience
The Soul of Temple of the Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is among Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist sites. It houses an ancient relic - a tooth of the Buddha - and features Kandyan architecture with intricate carvings. The temple overlooks a peaceful lake and is the focus of the annual Esala Perahera procession, a vibrant cultural festival.
Key Highlights
Buddha tooth relic shrine
Esala Perahera festival (July–August)
Colonial-era architecture by Kandy Lake
An Immersive Journey
The Temple of the Tooth Relic, or Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a revered Buddhist temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It houses a sacred relic believed to be a tooth of the Buddha, making it one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists worldwide. The temple complex features stunning Kandyan architecture, with intricate carvings and vibrant frescoes. The serene Kandy Lake surrounds the temple, adding to its spiritual ambiance.
Visiting the Temple of the Tooth is a profound experience, especially during the daily puja ceremonies where devotees offer flowers and light candles. The temple also hosts the annual Esala Perahera festival in July–August, a grand procession featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and beautifully adorned elephants. This festival attracts thousands of visitors and showcases Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.
The temple's significance extends beyond its religious importance; it is a symbol of Sri Lankan identity and unity. The relic is housed in a golden casket, which is displayed to the public during special ceremonies. The temple's peaceful atmosphere, combined with its historical and cultural significance, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Sri Lanka.
Visual Journey
Experience Temple of the Tooth Relic through stunning photography