The temple housing Buddha's tooth is Sri Lanka's holiest shrine and a place determining the legitimacy of power for 16 centuries. Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy is not just a temple but a symbol of Sinhalese identity, a pilgrimage center, and a UNESCO-listed architectural complex.

The Relic

According to legend, the tooth was retrieved from Buddha's funeral pyre in 543 BC. In the 4th century, Princess Hemamala brought it to Sri Lanka, hidden in her hair. Since then, the tooth has been the island's talisman: whoever possesses the tooth rules the country.

Temple Complex

White walls, red roofs, wood carvings, surrounding moat - Kandyan style. The main temple is two-story: the tooth is kept on the upper floor, in a golden stupa behind seven nested caskets. Pilgrims don't see the tooth itself - only the golden dagoba.

Puja

Three times daily (around 5:30, 9:30, 18:30) - puja ceremony. The sanctuary doors open, drums and flutes sound, pilgrims offer lotus flowers. Arrive 30-40 minutes before puja.

Esala Perahera

Once a year (July-August) - a grand festival: 10 nights of processions with elephants, dancers, drummers. Asia's largest Buddhist festival.

Practical Information

Ticket about 2000 rupees. Hours 5:30-20:00. Strict dress code: white or light clothing, covered shoulders and knees, no shoes. Since the 1998 attack - serious security checks at entrance.

Kandy

The temple is the center of Kandy, the last capital of Sinhalese kings. Lake in front of temple, surrounding hills - the city deserves a separate day.