Visit Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy is one of Sri Lanka's most venerated Buddhist shrines. The temple complex houses what is believed to be a tooth relic of the Buddha and sits within the historic royal palace complex. Visitors experience ornate Kandyan architecture, daily puja (worship) ceremonies, and a small museum that explains the relic's history and the temple's role in Sri Lankan culture.
Location
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), Kandy, Sri Lanka
Duration
1–2 hours (longer if attending puja ceremonies or visiting the museum)
Best Time to Visit
Year-round, with two highlights: drier months (November–April) for comfortable walking; and Esala Perahera festival (usually July/August) if you want the grand procession experience—expect large crowds then.
Pricing
Approximate entrance fees and costs: LKR 500–1,500 for foreigners (varies by ticket type and access to the museum/chamber). Local prices are lower and some areas require a small donation. Fees and opening hours change, so check locally or online before visiting.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Houses the revered tooth relic of the Buddha (Sri Dalada)
Ornate Kandyan-era architecture and gilded interior
Daily morning and evening puja ceremonies—opportunity to observe traditional rituals
On-site museum with royal and religious artifacts
Central location beside Kandy Lake and near the city market
Esala Perahera (annual festival) — one of Sri Lanka's largest cultural pageants
Itinerary
Enter the temple complex, pay the entrance fee, and collect any visitor information or leaflets.
Buy tickets at the official ticket counter; keep your ticket for re-entry.
Attend or observe the morning puja if you are an early visitor.
Morning puja is quieter and more atmospheric; check exact times—times vary seasonally.
Approach the main shrine, observe rituals from the outer area; inner sanctum access may be restricted.
Photography is often prohibited in the inner sanctum—look for signs and follow staff instructions.
Visit the small museum to learn about the relic, historic regalia, and the Kandyan kingdom.
Museum may charge a separate fee; allow 30–45 minutes.
Walk around Kandy Lake, visit nearby market and streets for local crafts and refreshments.
Combine with a longer Kandy city stroll or other nearby sites, such as Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha statue.
Attend the evening puja for a more ornate ceremony with lamps and chanting.
Evening ceremonies can be more crowded; arrive early for a good viewing spot.
Safety Requirements
Dress respectfully: shoulders and knees should be covered; no revealing clothing.
Remove shoes and hats before entering temple buildings.
Photography restrictions: no photos inside the inner sanctum and follow signage.
Keep voices low and behave respectfully—this is an active place of worship.
Watch your belongings in crowded times, especially during festivals.
Tips
Wear lightweight, modest clothing; keep a scarf or shawl handy for covering shoulders.
Bring small change for tickets, donations, or offerings.
Visit early morning to avoid crowds and to experience a peaceful puja.
If you want to experience the Esala Perahera festival, book accommodation and tickets well in advance.
Hire a local guide or use a guidebook/app to understand the history and symbolism—many artifacts are explained in the museum.
Check opening hours and puja times ahead of your visit as they can change for ceremonies or special events.
Respect local customs: follow temple notices, keep silence in prayer areas, and follow instructions from temple staff.
