Question 1

What is the Temple of the Tooth?

Accepted Answer

The Temple of the Tooth, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a Buddhist temple located in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites as it houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha.

Question 2

Why is the Temple of the Tooth significant?

Accepted Answer

The Temple of the Tooth is significant because it holds the relic of the tooth of the Buddha, which has played an important role in Sri Lankan politics and history. It is believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a center for the Buddhist faith.

Question 3

Where is the Temple of the Tooth located?

Accepted Answer

The Temple of the Tooth is located in the city of Kandy, in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. It is situated adjacent to the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy.

Question 4

How do I get to the Temple of the Tooth?

Accepted Answer

Visitors can reach the Temple of the Tooth by flying into Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo and then taking a bus, train, or hiring a private vehicle to travel to Kandy. The temple is located in the heart of Kandy and is easily accessible by local transportation within the city.

Question 5

What is the best time to visit the Temple of the Tooth?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit the Temple of the Tooth is during the annual Esala Perahera festival, which takes place in July or August. During the festival, the sacred tooth relic is paraded through the streets, accompanied by dancers, drummers, and beautifully decorated elephants. However, the temple is open year-round, and visiting outside of festival times can offer a more peaceful experience.

Question 6

Are there any dress codes for visiting the Temple of the Tooth?

Accepted Answer

Yes, visitors to the Temple of the Tooth are expected to dress modestly. Shoulders and legs should be covered, and it is recommended to remove hats and shoes before entering the temple premises as a sign of respect.

Question 7

Are there entrance fees to visit the Temple of the Tooth?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is an entrance fee for foreign tourists visiting the Temple of the Tooth. The fee helps with the maintenance and preservation of the temple. Make sure to check the most up-to-date entrance fee before your visit, as prices can change.

Question 8

What should tourists expect when visiting the Temple of the Tooth?

Accepted Answer

Tourists can expect to see richly decorated interiors with wood and ivory carvings, murals, and a golden canopy over the chamber that houses the tooth relic. Visitors may also witness traditional rituals, including offerings and prayers, particularly during 'puja' (worship) times which occur thrice daily.

Question 9

Can tourists see the actual tooth relic at the Temple of the Tooth?

Accepted Answer

No, the actual tooth relic is not displayed to the public. It is kept in a gold casket shaped like a dagoba (stupa), which contains six smaller caskets of diminishing size nested inside one another. Visitors can see the outermost casket during 'puja' times when the shrine room is open.

Question 10

What are the opening hours of the Temple of the Tooth?

Accepted Answer

The Temple of the Tooth is generally open to visitors from early morning to late evening, but the specific times can vary. It's best to check the current opening hours in advance, especially if you plan to attend one of the 'puja' services.

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