Nestled in the heart of Kandy beside a tranquil lake, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist shrine. Known locally as Sri Dalada Maligawa, it houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, making it one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the country.

Built within the former royal palace complex, the temple is a masterpiece of Kandyan architecture, rich in carvings, golden ornamentation, and cultural significance. The relic, kept in a golden casket, is not directly visible but is deeply venerated by Buddhists from around the world.

The temple comes alive with daily rituals, drumming ceremonies, and offerings. Its spiritual importance reaches its peak during the Esala Perahera, an annual festival where the relic casket is paraded through the streets in a grand procession of elephants, dancers, and traditional performers.

More than a religious site, Sri Dalada Maligawa stands as a powerful symbol of Sri Lanka’s heritage, royal history, and Buddhist identity.