Have you ever wondered what it would be like to visit a place where a sacred relic of the Buddha is enshrined? A place where you can witness the rich and diverse culture and heritage of Sri Lanka? A place where you can experience the beauty and serenity of nature and spirituality?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should definitely consider visiting the temple of the tooth, also known as the Dalada Maligawa, in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The temple of the tooth is one of the most revered and spectacular sites in Sri Lanka, and a must-see for anyone who wants to learn more about the history, architecture, religion, and culture of this island nation.
In this article, we will explore the origin and evolution of the temple of the tooth, as well as the best ways to visit and experience this sacred site. Let’s start by learning more about how the temple of the tooth came to be.
How the temple of the tooth came to be
The temple of the tooth is named after the relic of the tooth of the Buddha, which is believed to have been taken from his funeral pyre in India in the 5th century BCE. The tooth was then smuggled into Sri Lanka in the 4th century CE by a princess who hid it in her hair. The tooth became a symbol of the sovereignty and identity of Sri Lanka, and was revered by the kings and the people alike.
The tooth was moved from one place to another over the centuries, depending on the political and religious situation of the country. It was also attacked and threatened by various invaders and rulers, such as the Cholas, the Pandyas, the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British. However, the tooth always survived and remained in the custody of the Sinhalese kings.
The current location of the temple of the tooth is in Kandy, the last capital of the Sinhalese kingdom. The temple was built by King Vimaladharmasuriya I in the late 16th century, and was later expanded and renovated by his successors. The temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, along with the rest of the Kandy city.
Why the temple of the tooth matters
The temple of the tooth is not only a historical and architectural marvel, but also a religious and cultural treasure. The temple is the most important pilgrimage site for Buddhists in Sri Lanka and around the world, as it houses the sacred tooth of the Buddha, which is believed to have miraculous powers and blessings.
The temple is also the center of the Esala Perahera, the grand annual festival that honors the relic and showcases the culture and heritage of Sri Lanka. The festival is held in July or August, and lasts for 10 days. It involves a series of processions that feature thousands of dancers, drummers, musicians, elephants, and other performers, who parade through the streets of Kandy with the replica of the tooth.
The temple of the tooth is also a symbol of the unity and resilience of Sri Lanka, as it has survived and thrived despite the challenges and threats it faced over the centuries. The temple is a source of pride and inspiration for the Sri Lankan people, and a testament to their faith and devotion.
What you need to know about the history of the temple of the tooth
Here are some key facts and dates that you should remember about the history of the temple of the tooth:
1. The tooth of the Buddha was taken from his funeral pyre in India in the 5th century BCE by his disciple Khema, who gave it to King Brahmadatta of Kalinga.
2. The tooth was smuggled into Sri Lanka in the 4th century CE by Princess Hemamala and her husband Prince Dantha, who hid it in her hair. They brought it to the king of Anuradhapura, who enshrined it in a temple.
3. The tooth was moved from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa, to Dambadeniya, to Kurunegala, to Yapahuwa, to Gampola, to Kotte, and to Sitawaka, depending on the political and religious situation of the country.
4. The tooth was attacked and threatened by various invaders and rulers, such as the Cholas, the Pandyas, the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the British. The Portuguese even tried to destroy it by burning it, but it miraculously survived.
5. The current location of the temple of the tooth is in Kandy, the last capital of the Sinhalese kingdom. The temple was built by King Vimaladharmasuriya I in the late 16th century, and was later expanded and renovated by his successors, such as King Kirti Sri Rajasinha and King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha.
6. The temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, along with the rest of the Kandy city.
Now that we have learned about the history of the temple of the tooth, let’s take a closer look at its architecture and design.
How the temple of the tooth looks like
The temple of the tooth is a complex of several buildings and chambers, each with its own function and style. The main buildings and chambers are:
The main shrine, which is the heart of the temple and the place where the relic is enshrined. The main shrine consists of two floors: the lower floor, which is called the Pallemaluwa, and the upper floor, which is called the Vadahitina Maligawa. The lower floor contains a large hall, where the devotees can pray and offer flowers. The upper floor contains a small chamber, where the relic is kept in a golden casket inside seven more caskets. The chamber is guarded by two elephant tusks and decorated with paintings and carvings.
The relic chamber, which is the most sacred and restricted area of the temple, where only the monks and the custodians can enter. The relic chamber is located behind the main shrine, and is accessed by a narrow staircase. The relic chamber contains a small altar, where the original tooth of the Buddha is placed in a silver casket. The relic chamber is also adorned with precious stones, jewels, and gifts from various kings and dignitaries.
The audience hall, which is the largest and most impressive building of the temple, where the kings and the nobles used to hold their meetings and ceremonies. The audience hall is located in front of the main shrine, and is connected to it by a tunnel. The audience hall is a magnificent structure, with a high roof supported by wooden pillars, and a spacious courtyard surrounded by a moat. The audience hall is also embellished with intricate carvings, paintings, and sculptures, depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha and the history of Sri Lanka.
The museum, which is the newest addition to the temple, where the visitors can learn more about the history, culture, and art of the temple and Sri Lanka. The museum is located in the former royal palace, which is adjacent to the main shrine. The museum displays a collection of artifacts, relics, paintings, photographs, and documents, related to the temple and Sri Lanka. The museum also offers audio-visual guides, interactive exhibits, and souvenir shops.
What makes the temple of the tooth unique
The temple of the tooth is not only a historical and architectural marvel, but also a religious and cultural treasure. The temple of the tooth is unique because of the following reasons:
1. The temple of the tooth is the only place in the world where a relic of the tooth of the Buddha is enshrined and worshipped. The tooth of the Buddha is considered to be one of the most sacred and powerful relics in Buddhism, as it represents the wisdom and compassion of the Buddha. The tooth of the Buddha is also believed to have miraculous powers and blessings, such as protecting the country from natural disasters, ensuring peace and prosperity, and granting wishes and prayers.
2. The temple of the tooth is the most important pilgrimage site for Buddhists in Sri Lanka and around the world, as it houses the sacred tooth of the Buddha, which is exposed to the public only three times a day: at dawn, at noon, and at dusk. The devotees flock to the temple to catch a glimpse of the tooth, and to offer flowers, incense, lamps, and food. The temple is also the center of the Esala Perahera, the grand annual festival that honors the relic and showcases the culture and heritage of Sri Lanka.
3. The temple of the tooth is a symbol of the unity and resilience of Sri Lanka, as it has survived and thrived despite the challenges and threats it faced over the centuries. The temple of the tooth is a source of pride and inspiration for the Sri Lankan people, and a testament to their faith and devotion. The temple of the tooth is also a place of harmony and tolerance, where people of different religions, ethnicities, and backgrounds can come together and share their respect and admiration for the temple and the relic.
How to appreciate the architecture of the temple of the tooth
The temple of the tooth is a stunning example of the Kandyan, Sinhalese, Tamil, and colonial styles of architecture, which reflect the diversity and richness of the Sri Lankan culture and history. The temple of the tooth is also a masterpiece of craftsmanship and artistry, which showcase the skills and talents of the Sri Lankan artisans and craftsmen.
Here are some tips and suggestions for exploring and appreciating the architecture of the temple of the temple of the tooth:
1. The best time to visit the temple of the tooth is in the early morning or in the evening, when the crowds are less and the atmosphere is more serene and peaceful. You can also avoid the heat and the humidity of the day, and enjoy the cool breeze and the soft light of the sun.
2. The best way to explore the temple of the tooth is to follow the clockwise direction, starting from the main entrance and ending at the exit. You can also join a guided tour, which will provide you with more information and insights about the temple and the relic.
3. The best way to appreciate the temple of the tooth is to observe and admire the details and the intricacies of the buildings and the chambers, such as the carvings, the paintings, the sculptures, and the decorations. You can also look for the symbols and the motifs that represent the Buddhist teachings and the Sri Lankan culture, such as the lotus, the elephant, the lion, and the swan.
4. The best way to respect the temple of the tooth is to follow the rules and the etiquette of the temple, such as wearing modest and appropriate clothing, removing your shoes and hats, covering your head and shoulders, not touching or pointing at the relic or the statues, not taking photographs or videos inside the relic chamber or the museum, and not making loud noises or disturbances.
After admiring the architecture of the temple of the tooth, let’s discover the rituals and festivals that take place at the temple.
How the temple of the tooth is worshipped
The temple of the tooth is not only a historical and architectural marvel, but also a religious and cultural treasure. The temple of the tooth is worshipped by the devotees and the visitors in various ways, such as:
The puja, which is the daily ritual of offering prayers and homage to the relic. The puja is performed three times a day: at dawn, at noon, and at dusk. The puja involves chanting, drumming, lighting lamps, and burning incense. The highlight of the puja is the opening of the window of the relic chamber, where the devotees can catch a glimpse of the golden casket that contains the tooth.
The offering, which is the act of presenting flowers, fruits, sweets, and other items to the relic. The offering is done by the devotees and the visitors, who place their gifts on a large tray in front of the main shrine. The offering is a way of expressing gratitude and devotion to the relic, as well as seeking blessings and protection from it.
The bathing, which is the weekly ritual of cleansing and anointing the relic. The bathing is done by the monks and the custodians, who carefully take out the tooth from the silver casket and wash it with scented water and fragrant oils. The bathing is a way of honoring and venerating the relic, as well as preserving and enhancing its power and beauty.
The viewing, which is the rare opportunity of seeing the actual tooth of the Buddha. The viewing is done by the monks and the custodians, who occasionally display the tooth to the public on special occasions, such as the full moon day, the Vesak day, or the Independence day. The viewing is a way of witnessing and celebrating the relic, as well as receiving its grace and merit.
What is the Esala Perahera
The Esala Perahera is the grand annual festival of the temple of the tooth, which honors the relic and showcases the culture and heritage of Sri Lanka. The Esala Perahera is held in July or August, and lasts for 10 days. It involves a series of processions that feature thousands of dancers, drummers, musicians, elephants, and other performers, who parade through the streets of Kandy with the replica of the tooth.
The Esala Perahera is one of the oldest and most spectacular festivals in the world, dating back to the 4th century CE. The Esala Perahera is also one of the most diverse and colorful festivals in the world, incorporating elements from various traditions and religions, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity.
The Esala Perahera consists of five main processions, each representing a different aspect of the temple and the relic. The five main processions are:
The Devale Perahera, which is the procession of the four guardian deities of the temple: Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama, and Pattini. The Devale Perahera starts from the four shrines dedicated to these deities, and joins the main procession at the temple.
The Kumbal Perahera, which is the procession of the first five nights of the festival. The Kumbal Perahera is characterized by the simplicity and elegance of the costumes and decorations, as well as the absence of the tusker elephant that carries the replica of the tooth.
The Randoli Perahera, which is the procession of the last five nights of the festival. The Randoli Perahera is characterized by the splendor and extravagance of the costumes and decorations, as well as the presence of the tusker elephant that carries the replica of the tooth.
The Maha Randoli Perahera, which is the procession of the final night of the festival. The Maha Randoli Perahera is the most magnificent and grandiose of all the processions, with the largest number of participants and spectators, as well as the most elaborate and dazzling displays of lights, sounds, and colors.
The Diya Kepeema, which is the water-cutting ceremony that marks the end of the festival. The Diya Kepeema is performed by the chief custodian of the temple, who dips the replica of the tooth into the Mahaweli river, and then returns it to the temple. The Diya Kepeema is a way of symbolizing the renewal and purification of the temple and the relic, as well as the blessing and prosperity of the country.
How to experience the rituals and festivals of the temple of the tooth
The rituals and festivals of the temple of the tooth are not only a spectacle to behold, but also a privilege to participate in.
Here are some tips and suggestions for witnessing and experiencing the rituals and festivals of the temple of the tooth:
1. The best time to see the puja and the offering is in the morning or in the evening, when the atmosphere is more lively and festive. You can also join the queue of the devotees and the visitors, who line up to enter the main shrine and pay their respects to the relic. You can also bring your own flowers, fruits, sweets, or other items to offer to the relic, or buy them from the stalls outside the temple.
2. The best time to see the bathing and the viewing is on special occasions, such as the full moon day, the Vesak day, or the Independence day, when the temple organizes special ceremonies and events for the public. You can also check the temple website or the local media for the announcements and the schedules of these occasions. You can also expect large crowds and long waits for these occasions, so you should plan ahead and arrive early.
3. The best time to see the Esala Perahera is in July or August, when the festival takes place. You can also check the temple website or the local media for the exact dates and the routes of the festival. You can also book your tickets and your seats in advance, as the festival attracts millions of visitors and spectators from all over the world. You can also dress up and join the procession, as some of the performers and the participants are volunteers and guests.
Besides the temple of the tooth, there are many other attractions and activities that you can enjoy in and around Kandy.
What else to do in Kandy
Kandy is a beautiful and vibrant city, with a lot of things to see and do. Here are some of the must-see and must-do things in Kandy:
1. The Kandy lake, which is a scenic and serene lake that surrounds the temple of the tooth. The Kandy lake is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the temple and the city. You can also take a boat ride, a walk, or a bike ride around the lake, and visit the nearby historical sites, such as the Temple of the Tooth Museum, the Royal Palace, and the Queen’s Bathing Pavilion.
2. The Royal Botanical Gardens, which is a lush and lovely garden that showcases the flora and fauna of Sri Lanka. The Royal Botanical Gardens is a paradise for nature lovers, with over 4,000 species of plants, flowers, trees, and herbs. You can also spot various birds, butterflies, and animals, such as monkeys, squirrels, and bats. You can also visit the Orchid House, the Spice Garden, and the Memorial Trees, where famous people have planted their own trees.
3. The Udawattakele Forest Reserve, which is a natural and tranquil forest that lies behind the temple of the tooth. The Udawattakele Forest Reserve is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with over 80 species of birds, 15 species of mammals, and 20 species of reptiles. You can also explore the trails, the caves, the ponds, and the ruins, such as the Senkada Cave, the Garrison Cemetery, and the Royal Pond.
4. The Tea Museum, which is a fascinating and informative museum that tells the story of the tea industry in Sri Lanka. The Tea Museum is located in a former tea factory, and displays various exhibits, artifacts, machinery, and documents, related to the tea production and trade. You can also watch a documentary, taste different types of tea, and buy some souvenirs from the shop.
5. The Kandy Cultural Centre, which is a lively and entertaining centre that showcases the culture and heritage of Kandy and Sri Lanka. The Kandy Cultural Centre is the place to watch the traditional dances, music, and costumes of Sri Lanka, such as the Kandyan Dance, the Drum Dance, the Fire Dance, and the Devil Dance. You can also learn more about the history and the legends behind these performances, and interact with the artists.
What else to do in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a diverse and wonderful country, with a lot of destinations and experiences to offer. Here are some of the recommended and popular places and activities in Sri Lanka:
The beaches, which are the most attractive and relaxing features of Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has over 1,300 km of coastline, with some of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the world. You can enjoy the sun, the sand, and the sea, as well as the activities, such as swimming, surfing, snorkeling, diving, fishing, and whale watching. Some of the best beaches in Sri Lanka are Unawatuna, Mirissa, Hikkaduwa, Bentota, and Arugam Bay.
The wildlife, which is one of the most diverse and abundant in the world. Sri Lanka has over 26 national parks, 61 sanctuaries, and 18 biosphere reserves, where you can encounter a variety of animals, birds, reptiles, and plants. You can also take a safari, a trek, or a camp, and observe the wildlife in their natural habitat. Some of the best wildlife destinations in Sri Lanka are Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park, Wilpattu National Park, Sinharaja Forest Reserve, and Minneriya National Park.
The mountains, which are the most scenic and adventurous features of Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has over 100 mountains, with some of the highest and most spectacular peaks in the world. You can enjoy the views, the climate, and the atmosphere, as well as the activities, such as hiking, climbing, biking, and rafting. Some of the best mountain destinations in Sri Lanka are Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Haputale, Knuckles Range, and Adam’s Peak.
The culture, which is one of the most rich and diverse in the world. Sri Lanka has a long and complex history, with influences from various civilizations, religions, and ethnicities. You can learn more about the culture and heritage of Sri Lanka, as well as the art, architecture, cuisine, and festivals. Some of the best cultural destinations in Sri Lanka are Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Galle.
How to plan your visit to the temple of the tooth and Sri Lanka
The temple of the tooth and Sri Lanka are both amazing and rewarding places to visit, but they also require some planning and preparation. Here are some of the essential and helpful information and resources for travelers:
The currency, which is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). You can exchange your money at the airport, banks, hotels, or authorized dealers. You can also withdraw money from ATMs, which are widely available in major cities and towns. You can also use credit cards, which are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. You can check the exchange rates and the conversion rates at the official website of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
The weather, which is tropical and humid throughout the year. Sri Lanka has two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season lasts from December to March, and is the best time to visit the west and south coasts, and the hill country. The wet season lasts from May to September, and is the best time to visit the east and north coasts, and the cultural triangle. You can check the weather forecast and the climate data at the official website of the Department of Meteorology of Sri Lanka.
The transport, which is varied and convenient in Sri Lanka. You can travel by air, by road, by rail, or by sea, depending on your budget, preference, and destination. You can also choose from different modes of transport, such as buses, trains, taxis, tuk-tuks, cars, bikes, or boats. You can check the transport options and the fares at the official website of the Sri Lanka Transport Board.
The accommodation, which is diverse and affordable in Sri Lanka. You can find a range of accommodation options, such as hotels, guesthouses, hostels, homestays, or campsites, depending on your comfort, convenience, and cost. You can also book your accommodation online, through various platforms, such as Tripoto, Booking.com, Airbnb, or Agoda. You can check the accommodation reviews and ratings at the official website of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.
The tours, which are plentiful and enjoyable in Sri Lanka. You can find a variety of tours and packages, such as cultural, historical, natural, adventure, or spiritual, depending on your interest, preference, and duration. You can also customize your own tour, with the help of a local guide, a travel agent, or a tour operator. You can check the tour options and the deals at the official website of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau.
We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about the temple of the tooth and Sri Lanka. If you are looking for a memorable and meaningful travel experience, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the temple of the tooth and Sri Lanka. Have a wonderful day and happy travels!
