7 Reasons for Visiting Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth – A Fascinating and Unique Religious Attraction

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the focal point of the Sacred City of Kandy which has been recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its cultural, spiritual and historical significance. There are a total of 8 such UNESCO-listed sites in Sri Lanka with this temple perhaps being one of the most prominent. As you might expect, those interested in culture and religious attractions will be captivated by this greatly venerated and absorbing place of worship. 

This temple would be counted amongst the world’s most sacred sites for Buddhists as it is believed to house a tooth relic of none other than the founder of Buddhism, Gautama Buddha. This priceless relic was brought over to Sri Lanka from the nation of India during the 4th century. Interestingly, this relic has also influenced local politics as according to popular belief the holder of this relic has the right to govern the country. 

In contrast to some Buddhist sites the Temple of the Tooth Relic is very much a functioning place of worship. During your visit to this religious attraction, you will have the opportunity to observe the devotees as they offer flowers, move from one part of the temple to another and engage in quiet contemplation. Naturally, foreign visitors will be entranced by these engrossing devotional practices.  

Due to its inestimable value to the Buddhists of Sri Lanka, the priceless tooth relic is kept enshrined within a series of seven golden caskets. You may have the chance to briefly glimpse these golden caskets when the shrine room is opened fleetingly during the day. 

You will find that this temple features an abundance of lovely visual detailing in the form of moonstones, wooden frames and frescoes. Another nearby attraction is the eye-catching Royal Hall with its exquisite woodcarvings which you could view during your visit to this temple; interestingly, this structure has been constructed without the use of a single metal nail. An accommodation choice to consider from which you could easily visit the Temple of the Tooth would be Mountbatten Bungalow where you could stay at pleasingly located holiday bungalows in Kandy. 

Should you be visiting Kandy during July or August, you will have the opportunity to witness the Kandy Esala Perahera known for its elaborate processions that pay homage to the invaluable tooth relic. The main processions feature an array of majestic elephants, drummers, dancers, fire-eaters, whip-crackers and other performers and are well worth taking in.

During your visit to this remarkable place of worship, you will have the opportunity to observe several engrossing rituals that will capture your interest. Buddhist monks carry out worship rituals within the temple’s inner chamber three times each day. Additionally, on Wednesdays, a symbolic bathing of the tooth relic is performed using a specially prepared herbal-infused liquid.