Thank you for visiting my site.
You are here: Home / Destinations / KANDY - SRI DALADA MALIGAWA
.jpeg)
The Tooth Relic Temple, also known as the Sri Dalada Maligawa, is one of the most sacred and significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. Located in the picturesque city of Kandy, the temple houses the sacred relic of the tooth of Lord Buddha, making it a place of great reverence and historical importance for Buddhists around the world. This majestic temple and its religious significance have earned it a UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
The origins of the Tooth Relic Temple date back to the 4th century BCE when a tooth relic of Lord Buddha was brought to Sri Lanka from India. The relic was believed to be one of the Buddha's teeth, saved from his funeral pyre. Sri Lanka's ancient kings vied for possession of this sacred relic as it was believed that whoever possessed the tooth relic had the divine right to rule the island.
The original construction of the Temple of the Tooth can be attributed to King Vimaladharmasuriya I, a prominent ruler of the Kandyan kingdom who reigned from 1592 to 1604 AD. King Vimaladharmasuriya I understood the religious and political significance of possessing the sacred tooth relic, and he wanted to establish a grand and secure temple to house the revered relic. The construction of the temple was completed in the early 17th century.
The Tooth Relic Temple is a fine example of traditional Sri Lankan architecture and craftsmanship. The temple complex comprises several buildings, each with its unique design and significance. The entrance to the temple is adorned with a grand stone staircase and beautifully carved wooden doors, setting the tone for the spiritual experience that awaits visitors.
Once inside, visitors will encounter the main shrine, known as the "Vahalé," which houses the golden casket containing the tooth relic. This inner chamber is an exquisite display of intricate wood carvings, decorative paintings, and shimmering golden embellishments.
The Temple of the Tooth is not only a place of worship but also a center for religious and cultural festivities. Every day, the temple conducts several religious rituals and offerings to honor the sacred relic. Visitors can witness these ceremonies, which involve drummers, dancers, and traditional musicians, creating a vibrant and captivating atmosphere.
One of the most celebrated festivals at the temple is the Esala Perahera, also known as the Kandy Perahera. This grand annual procession takes place during the month of Esala (July/August) and lasts for several nights. The sacred tooth relic is paraded through the streets of Kandy on the back of a lavishly decorated elephant, accompanied by dancers, drummers, fire performers, and a colorful array of traditional performers. The Esala Perahera attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from all over the world, making it a mesmerizing spectacle of culture and faith.
The Temple of the Tooth holds immense cultural significance for the people of Sri Lanka. It not only represents a major center of Buddhist spirituality but also serves as a symbol of national pride and unity. The temple plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Sri Lanka's cultural heritage and traditions.
The Tooth Relic Temple is open to visitors throughout the year, but it is essential to dress modestly and respectfully when entering the temple premises. It is customary to remove shoes and hats before entering the main shrine. Visitors are also required to maintain a peaceful and reverent demeanor while inside the temple.
Regarding the tooth relic itself, the contents of the casket at the Temple of the Tooth, believed to house the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, are not visible to the public or ordinary visitors. The tooth relic is kept within multiple caskets, nested within each other. Only the custodians and high-ranking Buddhist monks responsible for the temple's administration have access to the innermost casket that contains the actual tooth relic.
The secrecy surrounding the tooth relic is due to its immense religious and cultural significance, and it is believed that the relic possesses great spiritual power. Protecting and preserving the relic is of paramount importance, and access to it is strictly controlled to maintain its sanctity and reverence within the Buddhist tradition.
In conclusion, the Tooth Relic Temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka, stands as a testament to the country's rich religious and cultural history. It continues to be a cherished site of pilgrimage for Buddhists and a captivating destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the spiritual essence of this beautiful island nation. Visitors can partake in daily ceremonies and witness the grandeur of the temple while respecting the sacredness and privacy of the tooth relic housed within.
"Cyril was our driver and guide for the last nine days. We had the comfortable white Toyota van shown in the pic - it was just as clean and shiny, and not a scratch on it. He is clearly a very skilled driver. He is particularly knowledgeable about the history of the many places we visited. We were pleased we had Cyril as our driver. He had been recommended to us by an acquaintance. Andrew Speirs Melbourne, Australia Travel period 04 Jan - 12 Jan 2018" Mr. Andrew an Mrs. Suzy Speirs from Australia
" Dear Cyril, We are fortunate to have you as a friend here in Sri Lanka. You are extremly Knowledgeable and more than ever - having an attitude of helpful nature and the willingness to solve issues on hand whilst on our tour around Sri Lanka. As I have said to you we will reccommend you to all our friends who wish to tour in Sri Lanka. My family Karen, Kalvin and Andre also liked your company and wish you and your family well. God bless you all and we will keep in touch, for sur..." Alwyn Santhumayor & family
"Dear Cyril, Thanks for taking care of the Dr.Sethukavalar and his wife very well. They were indeed very happy for all the care you have shown during your tour. They were very impressed of your patience and kindness. I look forward to see you soon and maintain this good relationship we have developed in a short period of time. We will not hesitate a second to recommend you to all our friends who would like to visit Sri Lanka. Taking this opportunity of wishing you all the best. Thanks fo..." HARIDAS KANDASAMY
"Dear Cyril, Thank you for truly amazing oneweek tour your beautiful country.We have seen so many amazing sites in such a short space of time. From Sigiriya to beautiful temples, Scenic tea gardens of Nuwaraeliya the colonial land ark hotel Mount Lavinia. We have seen so much more. You have made this an utterly memorable holiday with your expert knowledge, amazing, facinating stories, patience, careful+safe drivingand your unforgetable smile. We will cetainly recommonding your tours to all of fr..." Sara Kitson - UK
"We had an excellent and memorable trip and all credits to Cyril. In-depth knowledge about the places, roads and history and culture. From the airport assistance - Food, accommodation provided and the vehicle was excellent. Very matured and patient, We being on safe hands. Thanks for making it a memorable experience for all of us. " Aubry De Souza and group from Dubai
"Cyril was an excellent guide and gave us a very good insight into the history and cultures of Sri Lanka. He was always polite, helpful and prompt. His driving was always calm and controlled - unlike some of the other vehicles we saw!!! We would recommend him to others traveling to Sri Lanka. WH - UK - January 2011" Wilson Harland
"Dear Cyril, We would like to thank youthat you have arrange ourholiday which we have enjoyed so much, that we can call them the best holiday we have ever had. You are avery helpful guide- because you know about your beautiful country very much. We also appriciate your advices that you gave us during our two weeks long journey and your perfect trip arrangement we have enjoyed every single day. All the best to you and your family. Hope to see you again. Martha & Jarda 08 No..." Martha & Jaroslav Jirout
"We had a trip planned with Cyril just when international travel closed down due to Covid. Cyril was great in planning a trip with me that had a great deal of flexibility and tailored to visit the places we wanted to seeUnfortunately we were unable to take the trip. Cyril's response to that was great, he dealt with everything for us in terms of cancellationsHe has kept in touch with us since then and has already contacted me with a revised plan for our trip to Sri Lanka. Which we will book with h..." Brian O: Keefe - Perth - Australia
"Traveled in April 2013 with Cyril . Family with three young children. Cyril match the trip plan problem on his part. Familiar with every corner of this beautiful island and we have managed to produce a great 17 days. Prices respect as well - we tested three competing proposals and was the cheapest. The fact that he was working independently and not through an agency that collects coupon trips generally significantly reduces the price of the package. A modern and spacious vehicle (van with seven ..." Maozd
"Hi Mr.Cyril, Hope you and family and grandchild are doing fine. Hope to come to Sri Lanka again. We really enjoyed our trip especially with your special help and guidance. We will definitely contact you if at all we wish to visit Sri Lanka again. Thanks & Best Regards Mr. & Mrs.Pillai Singapore 29/7/11 " Mr & Mrs.Pillai from Singapore
.JPG)
.jpg)
