The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, locally known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, traces its origins to the 4th century CE when the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha was brought to Sri Lanka from India, symbolizing safeguarding the nation and Buddhist faith. The present temple complex, built in its current form in the late 18th century after the Kandyan Kingdom era, showcases exquisite Kandyan architecture featuring intricate wood carvings, tiered golden roofs, and elaborate murals.
As a repository of immense religious significance, the temple attracts thousands of worshippers who come to pay homage to the tooth relic, believed to embody the living presence of the Buddha. The atmosphere inside is serene yet filled with reverence, with the aroma of incense and the soft chanting of monks creating a profound spiritual ambiance.
Visitors experience not only a witnessing of sacred traditions but also cultural enrichment through daily rituals performed with elegant precision, especially during the evening pooja, where the relic is paraded in a golden casket. Unique to this site is its integral role in Sri Lanka’s history, politics, and culture as the religious legitimacy for kingship rested on possession of the relic.
The temple’s proximity to picturesque Kandy Lake and the vibrant streets of Kandy city offers travelers a blend of contemplative spirituality and lively local culture.