About Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy
The Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy houses a tooth of the Buddha, the most precious relic in Sri Lanka. According to tradition it was smuggled from India in the fourth century hidden in a princess's hair, and over the centuries possession of the relic came to symbolize the right to rule the island. The temple stands beside the royal palace complex on the shore of Kandy Lake.
The relic itself rests in a gold casket shaped like a stupa inside an inner chamber, and pilgrims file past during the daily pujas accompanied by drumming. Each July or August the Esala Perahera parades a replica casket through the streets on a decorated elephant, with dancers and torch bearers. The temple is part of the Sacred City of Kandy World Heritage Site.
What to see
- Inner shrine of the tooth relic
- Drumming during the three daily pujas
- Octagonal Pattirippuwa pavilion
- Esala Perahera procession
- Kandy Lake and royal palace complex
Visiting Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy: practical guide
- Best time
- December to April; July or August for Esala Perahera
- Hours
- Usually 5:30 am to 8 pm; puja at dawn, midday and evening
- Entry
- About LKR 2,000 for foreigners
- Dress code
- White or light modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
- Nearest airport
- Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo (CMB), 100 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Attend the evening puja around 6:30 pm
- Do not pose with your back to Buddha images
- Book Kandy hotels early for Perahera
Festivals and special days
- Esala Perahera
- Vesak Poya
- Poson Poya
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Buddhism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes and hats before entering temple halls.
- Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing.
- Never point your feet toward a Buddha image or monk.
- Women should not touch or hand items directly to Theravada monks.
- Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels.
- Do not climb on or pose disrespectfully with Buddha statues.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy?
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy is in Kandy, Central Province, Sri Lanka, Asia. GPS coordinates: 7.2936, 80.6413. The nearest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo (CMB), 100 km.
What is the best time to visit Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy?
December to April; July or August for Esala Perahera
Is there an entry fee for Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy?
About LKR 2,000 for foreigners Opening hours: Usually 5:30 am to 8 pm; puja at dawn, midday and evening
What should I wear when visiting Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy?
White or light modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
Which religion is Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy sacred to?
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy is sacred to Buddhism. Active place of worship. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
