With Kandy Lake on your right, follow the path with your host to the Royal Palace Complex and Sri Dalada Maligawa or the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
A journey through Sri Lankan history, religion and an essential part of any trip to Kandy, enter the temple itself at Mahawahalkada steps. The moat-encircled temple itself was constructed in 1595, is typically Kandyan in its architecture with Buddhist influences. Important for not only religious reasons, but also politically significant, the location of the tooth once determined that of the country’s governance. Explore this elaborate, incense bathed temple and witness local Buddhists coming to make puja (offerings and prayers), learn more about Kandy, its festivals and the Royal Palace from its days as Sri Lanka’s last kingdom.
- Gain insights into Kandy’s cultural landscape and historical legacy
- Marvel at the traditional Kandyan architecture of the Mahawahalkada temple
- Explore the temple’s historical importance as the former repository of the sacred tooth relic
What's Included ?
Conservative dress/flip flops
What's Excluded ?
Conservative dress/flip flops.
Explore the spirituality and history of Sri Lanka by visiting the Mahawahalkada stairs in Kandy. This moat-enclosed temple, which dates to 1595, is a prime example of traditional Kandyan architecture mixed with Buddhist design. Beyond just being aesthetically pleasing, the temple has great political significance because it originally held the tooth relic, which is considered to be a sacred symbol of national governance.
Enter this hallowed area and breathe in the fragrant incense as you see the people perform puja, paying respect and offering prayers. Discover the colourful festivities of Kandy and the historical significance of its Royal Palace, which are relics from the city’s former reign as the last kingdom of Sri Lanka. Visitors are left with a lasting impression as this all-encompassing encounter reveals the island’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy.
What can participants expect during the Temple of the Tooth experience?
In the Temple of the Tooth’s spiritual atmosphere, the participants will learn the cultural value, and rich history. Visitors can watch customary rites, honour the holy tooth relic, and peruse the wonderful artwork and artefacts in the temple. The hosts will give insights into the architecture, customs, and tales related with the temple.
Why is the Temple of the Tooth considered a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka?
Because of its significance in both history and religion, the Temple of the Tooth is regarded as a must-see location in Sri Lanka. As the guardian of the holiest tooth relic, which is thought to be Lord Buddha’s left canine tooth, the temple is very important to Buddhists and represents faith, harmony, and Sri Lanka’s rich cultural legacy.
What to wear during the Temple of the Tooth visit?
When visiting the Temple of the Tooth, it’s essential to dress modestly and respectfully. The Temple of the Tooth is a sacred Buddhist site, and visitors are expected to adhere to a certain dress code to show respect for the religious and cultural significance of the place. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Both men and women should avoid wearing sleeveless tops, shorts, or skirts that are above the knee.
