What Can I Expect from the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic?
Expect a deeply spiritual and culturally rich experience. You will witness daily rituals, hear the rhythm of traditional drums, see devoted pilgrims in prayer, and explore centuries-old Kandyan architecture. The atmosphere is serene yet powerful, offering insight into Sri Lanka’s living Buddhist heritage.
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Things to See and Do
Must-See Highlights
- Sacred Tooth Relic Chamber
- Golden Canopy (Vadahitina Maligawa)
- Octagon (Paththirippuwa)
- Temple Museum
- Sacred drumming rituals
- Kandy Lake surroundings
Experiences & Activities
- Attend morning or evening Thewava (rituals)
- Offer flowers at prayer halls
- Explore temple museums
- Walk around Kandy Lake
- Join cultural evenings in Kandy
Offbeat/Hidden Gems
- International Buddhist Museum
- Royal Palace complex next to the temple
- Quiet meditation areas during non-peak hours
Esala Perahera Festival
The Esala Perahera is Kandy’s most magnificent festival, held each year to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic. For ten vibrant nights, the city comes alive with richly dressed elephants, traditional dancers, fire acts, and powerful drums in a breathtaking display of culture and devotion.
Tooth Relic Chamber
The sacred Tooth Relic Chamber is the spiritual heart of the temple, where the revered relic is enshrined within a series of golden caskets. Devotees gather here daily to offer flowers and prayers amid rhythmic drumming, incense, and a deeply moving atmosphere of faith.
Nearest Destinations
- Kandy Lake – 0.1 km / Walking distance
- Royal Palace of Kandy – 0.2 km / 2 minutes
- International Buddhist Museum – 0.3 km / 3 minutes
- Udawatta Kele Sanctuary – 2 km / 10 minutes
- Peradeniya Botanical Gardens – 6 km / 20 minutes
How to Reach the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
By Road
Kandy is well connected by A-class highways from Colombo, Nuwara Eliya, and Dambulla. From Kandy town, the temple is within walking distance or a short tuk-tuk ride.
By Train
Take a train to Kandy Railway Station, located about 1.5 km from the temple. From there, tuk-tuks and taxis are easily available.
Guidelines & Rules
- Modest dress required (cover shoulders & knees)
- Shoes must be removed before entering
- Photography restricted inside relic chambers
- No loud behavior or inappropriate conduct
- No plastic bags inside the temple
- Follow security checks and instructions
Best Time to Visit
The temple can be visited year-round. The best time is early morning (9–10 AM) or evening (6–7 PM) during daily rituals. July–August is especially vibrant during the Esala Perahera festival.
Practical Travel Tips
- Visit during non-peak hours for a peaceful experience
- Carry socks for walking on hot temple floors
- Avoid weekends and Poya days if crowd-sensitive
- Keep valuables secured during rituals
- Combine visit with Royal Palace and Kandy Lake
FAQs
The relic itself is kept inside a golden casket and is not directly visible.
Photography is allowed in outer areas but restricted inside inner chambers.
Typically 1–2 hours depending on crowds.
Yes, with proper supervision.