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Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the pride of Buddhists in Sri Lanka and worldwide, enshrining the left canine tooth of Gautama Buddha. Its golden roof gleams above a moat as white-clad pilgrims bring lotus blossoms to worship, and it forms part of the Sacred City of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988.
What to know before you go
- Religious significance: Enshrines the left canine tooth of Gautama Buddha
- UNESCO status: Part of the Sacred City of Kandy, listed since 1988
- Architecture: Kandyan style, with a golden roof, carved woodwork, and ivory and lacquer decorations
- Puja (worship) times: Three times daily — morning, noon and evening
On the day
A working temple rather than a museum piece — expect pilgrims in white, the scent of incense and lotus offerings, and, if your visit lines up with a puja, the sound of traditional drumming as the ritual begins.
How this fits into your route
We time the temple visit to line up with one of the three daily puja ceremonies where your itinerary allows, and pair the evening with a Kandyan cultural show and a stop at a local gem shop.
Other places to visit
Questions about visiting Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Worship rituals are held three times daily — morning, noon and evening — though the temple can be visited at other times too.
Modest dress is required — shoulders and knees covered — and shoes are removed before entering.
Yes, it's open to visitors of any background, with the same dress expectations for everyone.
It's a separate evening activity, usually paired with the temple visit and a gem shop stop on the same day.
Yes, it's featured on all three of our current tour packages.
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