Nestled in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, amidst the misty hills and the serene Kandy Lake, lies one of the most revered and significant Buddhist sites in the world: the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, known locally as Sri Dalada Maligawa. For centuries, this magnificent temple complex has stood as a symbol of spiritual devotion, cultural heritage, and national pride. Whether you are deeply interested in religious history or simply looking to experience the profound tranquility of ancient architecture, a visit to this temple is an essential part of any Sri Lankan itinerary. At Traviora Ceylon, we take pride in guiding visitors through this historic site, ensuring they understand the deep cultural significance that permeates every stone and ritual.

The Fascinating History of the Sacred Tooth Relic

The story of the Sacred Tooth Relic is as captivating as the temple itself. According to Buddhist tradition, the left canine tooth was retrieved from the Buddha’s funeral pyre in Kushinagar, India, in 543 BC. For centuries, it was kept in Kalinga (modern-day Odisha in India), where it became an object of immense veneration. However, as political instability threatened the safety of the relic, a decision was made to move it to a more secure location.

In the 4th century AD, the relic was brought to Sri Lanka by Princess Hemamali and her husband, Prince Dantha, hidden carefully within the princess’s hair to evade detection. The arrival of the relic in Sri Lanka marked a turning point in the island’s history. It quickly became associated with royal authority. The belief grew that whoever held the Sacred Tooth Relic had the divine right to rule the country. As a result, the relic was moved several times as the capital of the kingdom shifted from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa, Dambadeniya, and eventually to Kandy.

Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings, provided a natural fortress surrounded by mountains, making it the perfect final resting place for the relic. The initial temple was built by King Vimaladharmasuriya I in the late 16th century, though the structure we see today is the result of numerous additions and renovations by subsequent kings. Understanding this history is crucial to fully appreciating the significance of the temple, a narrative that our knowledgeable guides at Traviora Ceylon always strive to share with our guests.

Architectural Splendor of Sri Dalada Maligawa

The architecture of the Temple of the Tooth Relic is a stunning example of traditional Kandyan design, characterized by its intricate wood carvings, painted ceilings, and sturdy stone foundations. The temple complex is not just a single building but a series of interconnected structures, each serving a specific purpose in the daily rituals and the overall functioning of the site.

The Mahawahalkada (Main Entrance)

Your journey into the temple begins at the Mahawahalkada, the grand main entrance. This structure is adorned with a moonstone (Sandakada Pahana) at the base of the steps, a semicircular carved stone feature typical of ancient Sri Lankan architecture, symbolizing the cycle of Samsara. Flanking the steps are two guard stones (Muragala), depicting mythical Naga kings holding vases of plenty, which are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity. As you pass through this entrance, you immediately sense the shift from the bustling streets of Kandy to a place of quiet reverence.

The Ambarawa and the Hewisi Mandapaya

Passing through the entrance, you walk through the Ambarawa, a beautifully painted tunnel-like passageway, which leads into the Hewisi Mandapaya, the Drummers’ Courtyard. This open-air pavilion is where traditional drumming and music are performed during the daily rituals (Thewawa). The rhythmic sound of the drums echoing through the courtyard creates an atmosphere that is both powerful and deeply spiritual.

The Inner Shrine (Vadahsitina Maligawa)

The heart of the temple is the Vadahsitina Maligawa, the two-story inner shrine where the Sacred Tooth Relic is housed. The relic itself is kept in the upper chamber (Handun Kunama) and rests upon a solid gold lotus flower, encased in seven nested caskets (Karanduwa) made of gold and adorned with precious gemstones. The inner shrine is heavily guarded, and the doors are intricately carved with ivory and silver. While visitors cannot see the actual tooth, viewing the magnificent casket and experiencing the devotion of the pilgrims who gather here is a profoundly moving experience.

The Octagon (Pattirippuwa)

One of the most recognizable features of the temple complex is the Pattirippuwa, the octagonal structure built by King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha in the early 19th century. Originally, the king used this pavilion to address his subjects and view festivals. Today, it houses a valuable collection of ancient Ola leaf manuscripts, preserving centuries of Buddhist philosophy, history, and Ayurvedic medicine. The architecture of the Octagon stands out against the rectangular buildings of the main temple, adding a unique silhouette to the Kandy skyline.

The Esala Perahera: A Spectacle of Devotion

If you have the opportunity to visit Kandy in July or August, you may witness the Esala Perahera, one of the most spectacular religious festivals in the world. This ten-day festival honors the Sacred Tooth Relic and the four guardian deities of Sri Lanka: Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama, and Goddess Pattini.

The Perahera (procession) is a vibrant display of traditional Kandyan culture. The streets of Kandy come alive with hundreds of drummers, dancers, fire-breathers, and whip-crackers. The centerpiece of the procession is the majestic Maligawa Tusker, an ornately decorated elephant that carries a replica of the relic casket through the city. The sight of the beautifully adorned elephants walking gracefully under the glow of thousands of lights is truly unforgettable. The festival culminates in the Randoli Perahera, the grandest procession held on the final full moon night. Experiencing the Esala Perahera is a highlight for many travelers, and at Traviora Ceylon, we recommend booking your accommodations well in advance, as Kandy fills up quickly during this time.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Visiting the Temple of the Tooth Relic is a sensory experience. As you approach the complex, the scent of jasmine and lotus flowers, offered by devotees, fills the air. The sound of traditional chanting and the steady beat of the drums during the puja times create a serene auditory backdrop.

The temple is a living place of worship, meaning it is constantly active with pilgrims and monks. You will see devotees dressed in white, holding trays of beautiful flowers, quietly making their way to the inner shrine. The atmosphere is one of deep respect and tranquility. It is common to see people sitting quietly on the floor, meditating or reading religious texts.

The daily rituals, known as Thewawa, take place three times a day: at dawn, midday, and in the evening. During these times, the doors to the inner shrine are opened, and devotees can view the outer casket holding the relic. The evening puja is particularly atmospheric, as the temple is beautifully illuminated, and the drumming seems to resonate even more powerfully in the cool night air.

Important Guidelines and Tips for Visitors

To ensure a respectful and fulfilling visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, there are several important guidelines and practical tips to keep in mind.

• Dress Code is Strictly Enforced: As this is a sacred site, modest dress is mandatory. Both men and women must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. T-shirts and long trousers or skirts are appropriate. If your clothing is deemed unsuitable, you may be asked to rent a sarong at the entrance. Furthermore, white clothing is customary for visitors and devotees as a sign of purity, though it is not strictly required.
• Footwear Must be Removed: Before entering the main temple complex, you must remove your shoes and hats. There is a secure shoe counter near the entrance where you can leave your footwear for a small fee. The stone floors can get warm during the day, so wearing socks is a practical option if you have sensitive feet.
• Photography Rules: Photography is generally allowed within the temple grounds and in most of the buildings. However, you are strictly prohibited from taking photographs inside the inner shrine room where the relic casket is kept. Always look for signage indicating photography rules, and be respectful of people who are praying or meditating; avoid using a flash.
• Timing Your Visit: The temple is open from early morning until late evening. If you wish to witness the daily rituals and hear the drumming, plan your visit to coincide with the morning (around 5:30 AM), midday (around 9:30 AM), or evening (around 6:30 PM) pujas. These times are the busiest, but they offer the most authentic experience. If you prefer a quieter visit to admire the architecture in peace, the mid-afternoon is an excellent time.
• Allow Ample Time: The temple complex is large and includes several smaller shrines and museums, such as the World Buddhism Museum and the Royal Palace archaeological museum. Plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring the site thoroughly.

Embracing the Spirit of Kandy

A visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic offers a profound insight into the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka. It is a place where history, art, and living faith converge, offering a deeply moving experience regardless of your personal beliefs. The serenity of the temple, contrasted with the vibrant energy of its rituals, creates a lasting impression.

At Traviora Ceylon, we believe that understanding a country’s culture is key to a meaningful travel experience. Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth are central to the Sri Lankan identity. Whether we are arranging a knowledgeable guide to explain the intricate details of the temple’s history, or simply ensuring you arrive at the perfect time to witness the evening puja, our goal is to make your visit to this sacred site as enriching and seamless as possible. The Temple of the Tooth is not just a monument; it is the beating heart of Sri Lankan Buddhism, and exploring it is an absolute privilege.