Located in the royal city of Kandy, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is one of the most revered Buddhist temples in the world. It houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, an object of immense spiritual and historical significance believed to grant legitimacy to Sri Lanka’s rulers throughout history.
Built in the 18th century within the royal palace complex, the temple showcases classic Kandyan architecture, featuring golden roofs, intricate wood carvings, and tranquil courtyards overlooking the Kandy Lake. Inside, the relic is enshrined in a golden casket protected within several nested chambers, where daily rituals and offerings are performed by resident monks.
Every year, the temple becomes the focal point of the grand Esala Perahera, a centuries-old procession of elephants, drummers, and dancers celebrating faith and culture.
Today, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic stands not only as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also as a living symbol of devotion, heritage, and the enduring spiritual identity of Sri Lanka.
