The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is one of Sri Lanka’s most revered religious sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated in the cultural city of Kandy, nestled amidst lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, this sacred temple holds immense historical, cultural, and spiritual significance for Buddhists around the world.
The temple’s primary attraction is the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, believed to be the left canine tooth of the Buddha himself. According to legend, the tooth relic was brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century CE, hidden within the hair of Princess Hemamali as she fled from India to protect it from sacrilegious forces. Since then, it has been enshrined in various locations across the island, with its final resting place being the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Stepping into the temple complex, visitors are greeted by a magnificent architectural masterpiece that reflects traditional Sri Lankan design elements, with intricate woodwork, graceful carvings, and colorful murals adorning its structures. The temple’s main shrine, known as the “Pattirippuwa” or “Octagon,” is a striking edifice featuring a golden roof and exquisite craftsmanship.
Within the inner sanctum of the temple lies the chamber housing the sacred tooth relic, which is preserved within a golden casket adorned with intricate gemstones and precious metals. Devotees and pilgrims flock to the temple daily to pay homage to the relic, offering prayers, flowers, and incense as a mark of reverence and devotion.
The temple complex also encompasses a series of pavilions, shrines, and museums that offer insight into the rich history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist tradition. Visitors can explore artifacts, relics, and religious artifacts dating back centuries, providing a fascinating glimpse into the island’s storied past.
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is not only a place of worship but also a center of cultural celebration and spiritual pilgrimage, especially during the annual Esala Perahera festival. This grand procession, held in July or August, honors the sacred tooth relic with vibrant parades, traditional music, dance performances, and elaborate elephant processions, attracting thousands of spectators from across the globe.
For visitors seeking a profound spiritual experience or a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic offers a captivating journey into the heart of Buddhism and the island’s revered traditions.