Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic | Kandy

Information

Landmark: Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
City: Kandy
Country: Sri Lanka
Continent: Asia

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy, Sri Lanka, Asia

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a Buddhist temple located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha.

Visual Characteristics

The temple complex is constructed primarily from stone and brick, with gilded roofs and white-washed walls. It features multiple tiers of roofs, characteristic of Kandyan architecture. The main shrine building is a multi-story structure with intricately carved wooden pillars and doorways. The relic is housed within a series of nested golden caskets.

Location & Access Logistics

The temple is situated in the center of Kandy, adjacent to the Kandy Lake. It is accessible via Dharmapala Mawatha. From Colombo, it is approximately a 2-hour drive (115 km) via the A1 highway. Public bus services operate frequently from Colombo to Kandy. Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available within Kandy for transport to the temple. Limited street parking is available in the vicinity, and dedicated parking facilities are scarce.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The temple's origins date back to the 16th century, though the relic itself is believed to have been brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century CE. It was established by King Vira Narendra Sinha. The temple's purpose is to house and venerate the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, a significant object of Buddhist pilgrimage.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the daily rituals (puja) performed three times a day. Access to the inner sanctum where the relic is kept is restricted, but the outer chambers and courtyards are open. Photography is permitted in designated areas. The temple complex includes several smaller shrines and museums.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the temple complex. Shaded areas are provided in courtyards and verandas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good within the temple grounds. Food vendors and small shops are located outside the temple perimeter.

Best Time to Visit

The temple is open daily from 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM. For observing the rituals, the morning puja (around 5:30 AM) and evening puja (around 6:30 PM) are recommended. The months of December to March offer drier weather conditions. Lighting for photography is best in the early morning or late afternoon.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of the temple is the "Pola" or market held within its premises during ancient times, where goods were exchanged. It is believed that whoever possesses the Sacred Tooth Relic rules the country. The relic is never displayed publicly, only its golden caskets are visible.