The Spiritual Heart of Sri Lanka
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, or Sri Dalada Maligawa, stands as the most revered Buddhist shrine in Sri Lanka. Located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, this UNESCO World Heritage site houses the Buddha's sacred tooth relic, which has played a central role in Sri Lankan politics and Buddhism for centuries.
According to legend, whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. This belief made Kandy the capital of Sri Lanka and the temple the focal point of Sinhalese culture and identity. Today, thousands of pilgrims and visitors from around the world come to pay homage to this sacred relic and experience the profound spirituality that permeates every corner of this magnificent temple complex.
Experience Highlights
- Witness the daily puja ceremonies with traditional drumming
- View the ornate golden casket that houses the sacred tooth relic
- Explore the Royal Palace complex and Museum of World Buddhism
- Walk through the beautiful Audience Hall with its carved wooden pillars
- Experience the evening drumming ritual (Thevava)
- Visit during the Esala Perahera festival (July/August)
Architecture and Design
The temple complex showcases a unique blend of Kandyan and South Indian architectural styles. The two-story shrine, built in white with gold-tipped roofs, sits within a moat and fortified walls that once protected the royal city. The interior chambers are adorned with intricate woodcarvings, ivory, and lacquer work that demonstrate the finest craftsmanship of the Kandyan period.
The moat surrounding the temple, the Diyathilaka Mandapaya (Octagonal Pavilion), and the golden canopy over the main shrine all contribute to the temple's magnificent appearance. The latest addition, the golden roof over the relic chamber, was added in recent years and can be seen gleaming from across Kandy Lake.
Best Time to Visit
The temple is open year-round for worship and visits. However, the most spectacular time to visit is during the Esala Perahera festival in July or August, when the sacred tooth relic is paraded through the streets of Kandy on the back of a magnificently adorned elephant, accompanied by dancers, drummers, and torch bearers. This 10-day festival is considered one of Asia's most beautiful cultural pageants.
For a more contemplative experience, visit early morning (6:00-8:00 AM) or evening (6:00-7:00 PM) during the puja ceremonies when the temple is illuminated and the air fills with the sound of traditional drums and chanting.
