Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
-Sri Dalada Maligawa
Located in Kandy, Sri Dalada Maligawa houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, making it Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist shrine. A blend of spirituality, history, and stunning architecture, this temple stands as a symbol of faith and tradition.
Introduction
Sri Dalada Maligawa, or the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. Located in the heart of Kandy, it houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. This temple is an important religious, historical, and cultural landmark in Sri Lanka, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year. The temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its significance.
Historical and Religious Significance
Arrival of the Sacred Tooth Relic
The Sacred Tooth Relic was brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD from India. It was carried by Princess Hemamala and Prince Dantha, who disguised themselves as ordinary travelers to protect the relic from enemies. The relic was initially kept in Anuradhapura, then moved to several capitals over centuries, including Polonnaruwa, Dambadeniya, Yapahuwa, and Kotte, before finally reaching Kandy in the 16th century.
Symbol of Power
Sri Lankan kings protected the relic as it was believed that whoever possessed it had the right to rule the country. The relic became a sacred symbol of kingship, and the temple was built within the royal palace complex of the Kandyan Kingdom. Even today, the relic holds great religious importance and is a central part of Sri Lankan Buddhism.
Architectural and Artistic Beauty
Temple Structure
The architecture of Sri Dalada Maligawa is a blend of Kandyan, South Indian, and Buddhist styles. The temple has a multi-tiered roof, golden canopy, and intricate wood and stone carvings.
Main Features of the Temple:
- The Relic Chamber – The Sacred Tooth Relic is kept inside a golden casket, which is further enclosed in a heavily guarded chamber. The relic itself is never directly displayed to the public.
- Golden Canopy – A magnificent golden roof, built to protect the relic chamber.
- Moonstone and Doorways – The entrance is adorned with a beautifully carved moonstone and elaborately designed wooden doorways.
- Wall Paintings and Carvings – The temple features stunning murals and wooden carvings that depict Buddhist stories and the history of the relic.
Daily Rituals and Religious Activities
Three Main Daily Ceremonies
The Pooja (prayer offerings) are conducted three times a day:
- Morning (Dawn Pooja): Around 5:30 AM
- Midday (Noon Pooja): Around 9:30 AM
- Evening (Night Pooja): Around 6:30 PM
During these ceremonies, monks chant Buddhist scriptures, and devotees offer lotus flowers, incense, and prayers. The sound of traditional drumming (Hewisi drumming) creates a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
Offering of Nanumura Mangallaya
A special water offering ceremony known as Nanumura Mangallaya takes place every Wednesday. This ritual symbolizes the purification of the relic and involves using sacred water, which is later distributed to devotees as a blessing.
Esala Perahera – The Grand Procession
The Esala Perahera is one of the most spectacular Buddhist festivals in the world. This grand 10-day procession, held in July or August, is dedicated to the Sacred Tooth Relic. It features:
- Beautifully decorated elephants carrying the relic casket.
- Traditional Kandyan dancers and drummers.
- Torch bearers and whip crackers.
Thousands of devotees and tourists gather to witness this majestic procession, which represents the deep spiritual and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
Location
Sri Dalada Maligawa, Kandy, Sri Lanka
Opening Hours
🕰 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Open every day)
Entrance Fee
Sri Lankan Visitors: Free
Foreign Tourists: Entry ticket required (Check the official website for updated prices)
Dress Code
Wear modest clothing (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Remove shoes and hats before entering.
