Temple of the Sacred Tooth Kandy: Guide to Sri Dalada Maligawa and Its Ceremonies
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Kandy, known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is one of the most important religious and cultural sites in Sri Lanka. The temple houses the revered Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha.
Every day, religious services known as Theva are held, accompanied by floral offerings, food, drinks and traditional music.
What Is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Kandy?
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is an important Buddhist shrine located within the former Royal Palace complex of Kandy.
The relic of the left canine tooth of Gautama Buddha is venerated by devotees from Sri Lanka and around the world. The temple is also an important example of traditional Kandyan architecture.
Kandy: A UNESCO World Heritage City
The Sacred City of Kandy was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is one of the central elements of the city's historical and cultural heritage.
The History of the Sacred Tooth Relic
According to Buddhist tradition, the Sacred Tooth Relic was brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD. Over the centuries, it was transferred along with the capitals of the kingdom and became one of the most important symbols of Sri Lankan royalty.
When Kandy became the last capital of the Kandyan Kingdom, the relic was kept within the royal complex, where it continues to be venerated today.
Why Is the Sacred Tooth Relic So Important?
For Buddhists, the Sacred Tooth Relic is a deeply revered relic and a symbol of the Buddha's presence and teachings.
Even today, devotees and visitors come to Kandy to pray, make offerings and participate in ceremonies dedicated to the Sacred Relic.
The Architecture of Sri Dalada Maligawa
The Temple of the Tooth Kandy combines elements of traditional Kandyan architecture, elaborate decorations and historic structures belonging to the former royal complex.
Among its most recognizable features are the Paththirippuwa, the famous octagonal pavilion, and the Hevisi Mandapaya, the drummers' courtyard used during ceremonies.
What Is Theva at the Temple of the Tooth?
The daily rituals dedicated to the Sacred Tooth Relic are known as Theva. They include offerings of flowers, food and drinks according to a traditional sequence.
The services are conducted by monks from the Malwathu and Asgiri chapters, two important monastic institutions in Sri Lanka.
The Three Daily Theva Services
Theva in Kandy is held three times a day according to the schedules published by the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
| Service | Time | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Theva | 5:30 – 7:00 | Fresh flowers, ritual offerings and traditional Hewisi drums accompany the service. |
| Midday Theva | 9:30 – 11:00 | The Buddha Pooja includes the daily food offerings made to the Sacred Relic. |
| Evening Theva | 18:30 – 20:00 | Gilan Pasa offerings, drinks and other traditional items are presented. |
Times may change during special ceremonies. It is recommended to always check the official information before visiting.
The Morning Theva
The morning service is accompanied by traditional Hewisi drums. Fresh flowers and ritual offerings are presented according to traditional procedures.
The Midday Buddha Pooja
The midday service, known as Buddha Pooja, includes the presentation of the daily meal to the Sacred Relic together with fresh flowers and traditional ceremonial sounds.
The Evening Theva and Gilan Pasa
The evening service is dedicated to offerings known as Gilan Pasa. Various drinks and traditional preparations are offered, accompanied by music and the presentation of fresh flowers.
Nanumura Mangallaya: The Wednesday Ceremony
Nanumura Mangallaya is a special ceremony associated with Wednesday. According to the temple's official information, it is held at 9:30 in the morning and includes a special herbal preparation.
Visiting Tip
If you wish to attend a specific ceremony, always check the temple's official schedule before travelling.
Amuthu Muluthen Poojawa
Amuthu Muluthen Poojawa is a special food offering connected with the tradition of the royal court. The ritual maintains the historical connection between Dalada Maligawa, the Kandyan monarchy and the veneration of the relic.
The Kandy Esala Perahera and the Sacred Relic
The connection between Kandy and the Sacred Tooth Relic is particularly visible during the Kandy Esala Perahera, one of the most important religious festivals in Sri Lanka.
The celebration generally takes place in July or August and includes processions featuring dancers, traditional musicians and decorated elephants. The festival is deeply connected with the religious and cultural traditions of Kandy.
When to Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth?
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Kandy is open to devotees every day from 5:30 to 20:00, according to the temple's official information.
| Experience | Recommended Time | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Theva | 5:30 – 7:00 | To observe the first offerings and traditional Hewisi drums. |
| Buddha Pooja | 9:30 – 11:00 | To witness the food offerings dedicated to the Sacred Relic. |
| Nanumura Mangallaya | Wednesday, 9:30 | To experience one of the temple's special ceremonies. |
| Evening Theva | 18:30 – 20:00 | To experience the evening offerings and the atmosphere of the temple. |
How to Dress When Visiting the Temple of the Tooth
Since Sri Dalada Maligawa is an important Buddhist place of worship, visitors are expected to follow certain dress and behaviour guidelines.
- Cover your shoulders and legs: Choose respectful clothing.
- Avoid very short shorts: Respect the temple's rules.
- Remove your shoes: In areas where required.
- Behave respectfully: Avoid loud noises and disruptive behaviour.
- Follow photography instructions: Photography may not be permitted in certain areas.
Tips for Photographing Sri Dalada Maligawa
- Photograph the architecture: Doors, decorations, roofs and architectural details are particularly interesting.
- Respect the ceremonies: During Theva, do not obstruct devotees or monks.
- Avoid flash when not permitted: Follow the instructions displayed inside the temple.
- Do not photograph where prohibited: Some areas have specific photography rules.
Tickets and Visitor Information
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic has an official ticketing system. Tickets are issued through the machines located at Sri Dalada Maligawa.
The ticket may include access to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, the Dalada Museum, the World Buddhist Museum, the Tusker Museum and the Royal Elephant Stable, according to the conditions indicated by the temple.
What to See Near the Temple of the Tooth
- Kandy Lake: Located beside the temple complex.
- Paththirippuwa: The famous octagonal pavilion.
- Royal Palace of Kandy: Part of the former royal complex.
- World Buddhist Museum: Dedicated to the history and spread of Buddhism.
- Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya: One of Sri Lanka's major botanical gardens.
- Udawattakele Forest Reserve: A historic forest reserve above Kandy.
Kandy at the Heart of Cultural Sri Lanka
Kandy is an ideal destination for combining culture, spirituality, nature and history. The city can be included in itineraries covering the Cultural Triangle, the central highlands and tea plantations.
An itinerary can connect Kandy, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Nuwara Eliya and Ella, before continuing towards the beaches of the southern coast.
How to Include the Temple of the Tooth in a Sri Lanka Itinerary
A visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth can be organized as part of a cultural itinerary in Kandy.
A day can begin with a visit to the temple and a Theva ceremony, continue with Kandy Lake and the Royal Palace, and finish with the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya.
An Experience Beyond Simple Tourism
Visiting Sri Dalada Maligawa means encountering a living religious tradition. It is therefore worthwhile to take time to understand the history, rituals and cultural significance of the Sacred Relic.
Why Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth During a Sri Lanka Trip?
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Kandy offers an opportunity to discover one of the most important religious traditions of Sri Lanka. Its history, Kandyan architecture, daily rituals and living religious traditions make Sri Dalada Maligawa a significant cultural destination.
Kandy is also an important connection point between the Cultural Triangle and the central highlands, allowing travellers to combine cultural heritage, nature and mountain landscapes.
Plan Your Trip to Kandy and Sri Lanka
Would you like to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Kandy during your trip to Sri Lanka? Sri Lanka Eden Travels can help you create a personalized itinerary including Kandy, Sri Dalada Maligawa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Nuwara Eliya, Ella and the island's main destinations.
We can organize your journey according to the length of your stay and your interests, combining temples, UNESCO heritage sites, nature, mountains, wildlife safaris and tropical beaches.
