Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic | Kandy

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is one of the most revered Buddhist temples in the world, located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It houses the tooth relic of Lord Buddha, a symbol of Sri Lanka's ancient Buddhist tradition and an important religious and cultural landmark for Buddhists worldwide. The temple is not only a major pilgrimage site but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting millions of visitors annually.

Overview

• Location: The temple is situated in the heart of Kandy, a city nestled in the central hills of Sri Lanka. It is located near the Kandy Lake, enhancing its picturesque setting.
• Historical Significance: The tooth relic, which is believed to have been the actual tooth of Buddha, has a rich history dating back to the 4th century BCE. It is said to have been brought to Sri Lanka during the reign of King Kanishka of India and has played a crucial role in the island’s religious and political history.
• Cultural Significance: The temple holds immense cultural and spiritual value for the Buddhist community, and it is a symbol of Sri Lanka's religious heritage. The relic is believed to bestow divine protection and power to the kingdom and its rulers, making the temple a central part of the nation’s history.

Key Features of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

The Sacred Tooth Relic:

• The temple's most important feature is the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. It is housed in a special chamber called the Relic Room, which is situated within the inner sanctum of the temple. The relic is kept in a golden casket and is rarely displayed to the public, but it is shown during special ceremonies.
• The tooth relic is believed to have been brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century CE by Princess Hemamala and Prince Dantha from India. It was smuggled to Sri Lanka to safeguard it from the threat of destruction after the Buddha's passing.
• The relic has been venerated as a powerful object, associated with the legitimacy of the king and the sovereignty of the country. Historically, possession of the tooth relic was believed to confer divine right to rule.

Architectural Design:

• The temple complex features an intricate blend of traditional Kandyan and colonial architecture. The main structure is an elaborately decorated two-story building with an ornate roof and wooden carvings.
• The temple also has several pavilions, halls, and courtyards, including the Queen's Palace and the Royal Audience Hall, both of which add to the charm and grandeur of the temple.
• The outer walls are adorned with sculptures, paintings, and carvings that depict scenes from Buddhist mythology and history. These include images of the Buddha, symbols of Buddhism, and motifs from Sri Lankan heritage.

The Maligawa (Temple) Complex:

• The temple complex includes several important buildings, such as the Buddha statues, the bell tower, the golden canopy, and the courtyard.
• The inner sanctum, where the tooth relic is housed, is surrounded by an elaborate stone railing and ornate wooden structures. Visitors can offer flowers and incense in this sacred area to pay homage to the relic.
• The Kandy Lake, which is adjacent to the temple, enhances the temple’s serene and tranquil atmosphere.

Rituals and Festivals:

• The Esala Perahera is the most famous event associated with the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Held annually in July or August, this grand festival is one of the largest and oldest Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka. The Esala Perahera is a cultural and religious procession that features elaborate elephants, dancers, drummers, and priests.
• During the festival, the relic casket is taken in a procession around the city of Kandy. The relic is carried in a golden palanquin, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists.
• Daily rituals take place at the temple, with offerings made to the Buddha and prayers recited by monks. The temple is especially lively during morning and evening ceremonies.

Cultural and Religious Symbolism:

• The temple plays a central role in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist culture. It symbolizes the relationship between the monarchy and the Buddhist religion, with the tooth relic serving as a symbol of the king’s divine right to rule.
• Over the centuries, the temple has been a place for Buddhist learning, where monks gather to study and practice the teachings of Buddha. It is also a focal point for the practice of meditation and spiritual reflection.

Visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Access:

• The temple is easily accessible from most parts of Kandy and Sri Lanka’s central regions. Visitors can travel to the temple via taxi, tuk-tuk, or public transport.
• Kandy Railway Station is located about 1.5 km from the temple, making it easy to access by foot or vehicle.

Opening Hours:

• The temple is open every day from 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM. Visitors can witness the morning and evening rituals, which are an integral part of the temple's religious significance.
• The Relic Room, where the Sacred Tooth Relic is kept, is typically open to the public during these hours, though access may be restricted during certain religious observances.

Dress Code:

• As a place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly when visiting the temple. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and legs.
• Footwear should be removed before entering the temple, as it is customary in many religious places in Sri Lanka.

Photography:

• Photography is allowed in the outer areas of the temple, but visitors should ask for permission before taking photographs inside the temple, especially near the Relic Room.
• No flash photography is allowed in the inner sanctum or during religious ceremonies to maintain the sanctity of the environment.

Nearby Attractions:

• Kandy Lake: The temple is located by Kandy Lake, which is perfect for a leisurely walk around the perimeter while taking in the tranquil surroundings.
• Royal Palace of Kandy: Located near the temple, the Royal Palace once served as the residence of the Kandy kings.
• Udawatta Kele Sanctuary: This forest reserve is located nearby and offers scenic hiking trails, birdwatching, and a peaceful escape from the busy city.

Conclusion

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is not only an architectural marvel but also a profound symbol of Sri Lanka's Buddhist heritage. With its rich history, cultural significance, and religious importance, it stands as one of the country’s most revered sites. Whether you are visiting for spiritual reasons, to witness its stunning architecture, or to participate in one of its many festivals, the temple offers a unique and enriching experience that connects visitors to Sri Lanka's ancient traditions.