Some places in Sri Lanka are beautiful. A few are felt. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy is one of those places.
Known locally as Sri Dalada Maligawa, it is one of the most important Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka. Even if you are not religious, you can feel the atmosphere: temple drums, flower offerings, quiet prayers and visitors moving respectfully through the complex.
Here is what to know before your visit, so you can enjoy the experience without worrying about the practical details.
What is the Temple of the Tooth?
The Temple of the Tooth is believed to house a tooth relic of the Buddha. It stands beside Kandy Lake, in the centre of the historic city of Kandy.
For Buddhists, the relic is deeply sacred. People travel from across Sri Lanka to pray, make offerings and take part in religious ceremonies. Visitors are welcome, but it is important to remember that this is an active place of worship, not simply a historical monument.
The temple complex usually opens early in the morning and remains open until the evening. Opening hours and visitor arrangements can change, so check the latest information before your visit.
The best time to visit: puja ceremonies
The temple holds three daily puja ceremonies. During puja, devotees make offerings while traditional drums and horns create a powerful atmosphere around the shrine.
The approximate ceremony times are:
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Early morning: around 5:30 am.
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Mid-morning: around 9:30 am.
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Evening: around 6:30 pm.
Ceremony times can change, so confirm them locally on the day.
The evening puja is a beautiful time to visit. As the light becomes softer, the temple takes on a calm and atmospheric feeling. However, it can also be busy, so arrive early and allow extra time for security checks and queues.
What should you wear?
Visitors should dress modestly because the Temple of the Tooth is a sacred Buddhist site.
Please follow these guidelines:
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Cover your shoulders and knees.
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Wear a top with sleeves.
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Choose long trousers, a long skirt or a dress that covers the knees.
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Remove your shoes and hat before entering the temple buildings.
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Avoid tight or revealing clothing.
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White clothing is traditional and welcomed, but it is not compulsory.
If you are wearing shorts or clothing that does not cover your knees, you may need to use a shawl or sarong. It is a good idea to carry a light scarf or shawl in your day bag.
The ground can become warm, especially during the middle of the day. Comfortable socks can be useful if you are not used to walking barefoot.
Tickets and security
Foreign visitors normally purchase an entrance ticket before entering the temple complex. Security checks are also carried out at the entrance.
Ticket prices and entry procedures can change, so check the current price before visiting. Keep some local currency with you, and allow extra time if you are visiting during a puja ceremony or a busy travel period.
Large bags may be checked or restricted. Carry only what you need, such as:
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Your phone.
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A small amount of cash.
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Water.
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A scarf or shawl.
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Your camera, if photography is permitted in the area you are visiting.
Always follow the instructions given by temple staff.
Photography and respectful behaviour
Photography may be allowed in some parts of the complex, but it is not appropriate everywhere.
Remember to:
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Follow signs and staff instructions.
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Do not use flash near religious objects.
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Never turn your back casually towards a shrine or religious ceremony.
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Do not climb on walls or sacred structures.
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Ask before photographing worshippers.
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Keep your voice low.
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Do not pose in a way that disrespects the temple or Buddha images.
A respectful visitor observes first and photographs second.
How long should you spend there?
Allow between one and two hours for the temple visit, depending on whether you attend a puja ceremony.
You can easily make it part of a relaxed half-day in Kandy. After visiting the temple, take a walk beside Kandy Lake, explore the surrounding streets or stop for a cup of Ceylon tea.
If you have more time, you can also visit a viewpoint overlooking the city or explore Kandy’s markets with a local guide.
What else can you do in Kandy?
Kandy is more than a quick stop between Colombo and the hill country. It is a city of culture, history and everyday life.
You can combine the Temple of the Tooth with:
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A walk around Kandy Lake.
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A visit to the Kandy Market.
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A traditional cultural performance.
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A tea experience.
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A visit to a nearby botanical garden.
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A scenic drive into the surrounding hills.
Your route should depend on your interests and the time available. Some visitors prefer a short cultural visit, while others enjoy spending two nights in Kandy before continuing towards Nuwara Eliya or Ella.
Why visit with a local guide?
The temple is easier to appreciate when you understand what you are seeing.
A local guide can explain the meaning behind the ceremonies, the history of Kandy and the traditions connected with the Sacred Tooth Relic. They can also help you choose a suitable visiting time and remind you about dress and photography etiquette.
At Mein Lanka Travels, we plan each visit around your travel style, interests and schedule. We can arrange transport, coordinate your route and help you experience Kandy respectfully and comfortably.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Temple of the Tooth?
The Temple of the Tooth is in the centre of Kandy, beside Kandy Lake in Sri Lanka.
What is the dress code?
Visitors should cover their shoulders and knees. Shoes and hats must be removed before entering the temple buildings.
Can non-Buddhists visit the temple?
Yes. Visitors of all backgrounds are welcome, provided they follow the temple’s rules and behave respectfully.
How long does a visit take?
Most visitors should allow one to two hours. Allow additional time if you want to attend a puja ceremony.
Can I take photographs?
Photography rules vary within the complex. Follow signs and staff instructions, and avoid photographing worshippers without permission.
What is the best time to visit?
The early morning and evening ceremonies are meaningful times to visit. Arrive early because the temple can become busy during puja.
Plan your Kandy experience
Kandy is one of the places that gives Sri Lanka its character. It combines religion, history, nature and everyday local life in one beautiful setting.
If you would like to include the Temple of the Tooth in your Sri Lanka itinerary, Mein Lanka Travels can help plan the route from airport pick-up to airport drop-off.