The Sri Dalada Maligawa, or Temple of the Tooth, is one of Kandy’s most emblematic monuments. This 17th-century temple is said to house a sacred relic: the upper left canine tooth of the Buddha. Every day, white-clad pilgrims flock to the site, their arms laden with lotus flowers and frangipani, to pay homage to this precious relic.
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🕰️ The fascinating history of the Temple of the Tooth
🔍 Origins of the relic
Legend has it that Buddha’s tooth was recovered from his funeral pyre, before being smuggled into Sri Lanka in 313 AD. Princess Hemamali, fleeing Hindu armies, is said to have hidden the relic in her hair for protection.
Once on the island, the tooth became a symbol of sacred respect. Sri Lankan rulers encased it in a series of gem-encrusted reliquaries. On special occasions, it was displayed to the public, carried on the backs of sacred elephants.
🏛️ Installation in Kandy
When Kandy became the capital, the relic was transferred and installed in a temple specially built to honor it. Between 1687 and 1707, Kandy’s kings built the present temple, although it suffered severe damage during the colonial wars against the Portuguese and Dutch. These wooden structures were restored in stone after the conflicts.
In 1998, an attack by Tamil separatists damaged the temple’s facade and roof. Restoration work began immediately, restoring the site to its former glory.
🏛️ What can you see at the Temple of the Tooth?
🌄 A sober exterior
From the outside, the temple buildings appear modest. With their white walls and red roofs, they rise around Kandy Lake, once surrounded by the royal harem.
✨ A richly decorated interior
Inside, the contrast is striking: wooden sculptures inlaid with ivory and lacquer decorate every nook and cranny. The complex is encircled by a small wall of finely carved white stone, creating a filigree effect. During celebrations, candles illuminate these openings, providing a magical atmosphere.
💎 The sacred relic
The sacred tooth rests in a two-storey inner sanctum, surrounded by large elephant tusks. Enclosed in coffins adorned with precious stones and resting on a solid gold lotus flower, the relic symbolizes the spiritual heart of the temple.
📜 Pattiripuwa Tower and the Royal Palace
The temple connects to the Pattiripuwa Tower, or Octagon, built in 1803. This tower, once used as a prison, today preserves ancient manuscripts on palm leaves. Nearby, the Royal Palace completes the site’s historic ensemble.
💵 Prices and practical information
Entrance to the temple costs 10 USD per person (updated 2024). Don’t forget to wear clothing covering shoulders and knees to comply with the dress code. Early morning or evening visits are preferable to avoid the crowds.
The Temple of the Tooth, with its rich history and spirituality, remains an essential stop-off point for understanding the history and Buddhist culture of Sri Lanka.
🛤️ How to get to the Temple of the Tooth?
The temple is ideally located in the center of Kandy, just a few minutes from the famous lake.
- From Colombo: Take a scenic train to Kandy station, about 15 minutes’ walk from the temple.
- By tuk-tuk: Tuk-tuks are a convenient and economical way to get around the city.
For your convenience, here’s a Google Maps link to the temple: Directions to the Temple of the Tooth.
🌟 My experience at the Temple of the Tooth
During my visit to Sri Dalada Maligawa, I was amazed by the deeply spiritual atmosphere of the place. As I entered, the smell of fresh flowers and the murmur of prayers immediately immersed me in a soothing atmosphere. I was fascinated by the rich wooden decorations and ornate caskets housing the relic.
However, the site was quite crowded, especially in the main hall, which sometimes made it difficult to fully appreciate everything. I recommend going early in the morning to take advantage of the calm and avoid the heat. The subdued lighting in the evening, with the candles lit, also brings a special magic that I’ll never forget.