Travel Plan
Temple of the Tooth

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ATTRACTION GUIDE · KANDY

Temple of the Tooth

Sri Lanka's holiest Buddhist temple, Sri Dalada Maligawa, home to a tooth relic of the Buddha, beside Kandy Lake.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
2 hours
Entry
Paid (foreigner ticket)
Best time
Morning or evening puja
Area
Kandy

Sri Lanka's most sacred temple, holding a relic of the Buddha.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy

  • On foot: In the centre of Kandy by the lake.
  • Tuk-tuk: Drop-off at the main gate.
  • Train: Kandy station is 15 minutes on foot.

The story of Temple of the Tooth

The tooth relic arrived in Sri Lanka in the 4th century and became a symbol of royal power. The temple was built in the royal palace complex of the Kandyan kings.

Three times a day drummers announce the puja, when crowds gather to see the casket holding the relic. The complex also includes museums and the old royal palace.

Best time to visit

Best season

January to April.

Best time of day

Morning (around 9am) or evening (around 6:30pm) puja.

Festival

Esala Perahera in July or August.

Tips before you go

  • Visit during the evening puja.
  • Wear white or light, modest clothes.
  • Leave shoes at the shoe counter.

Best hotels near Temple of the Tooth

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Queen's Hotel

Historic hotel by the lake.

See prices

Earl's Regency

Resort with river views.

See prices

Hotels in Kandy

Near the lake and temple.

See prices
All hotels near Temple of the Tooth

What's around Temple of the Tooth

  • Kandy LakeNext to the temple.
  • Royal PalaceIn the complex.
  • Kandyan dance show5 minutes away.

Questions travellers ask

Can I see the tooth?

No, only the golden casket.

How long do I need?

1–2 hours.

What should I wear?

Cover shoulders and knees.

More in Kandy

Kandy Lake

Kandy Lake

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Bahirawakanda Buddha

Bahirawakanda Buddha

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Back to the Kandy guide
Travel Plan · Temple of the Tooth Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure · Contact us