The Temple of the Tooth Tour is a cultural journey into the heart of Sri Lankan Buddhism. The temple, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. Visitors are usually greeted by the striking architecture, the sound of temple drums, and the scent of lotus flowers. The main shrine room (Vahit Kema) and the golden canopy over the shrine where the Tooth Relic is kept are the primary focal points. Pilgrims and tourists alike can witness daily puja ceremonies (Thevava) where offerings and chants create a meditative atmosphere. Attendees may also explore the temple museum, which features a collection of gifts from Buddhist leaders across the world. The guided tour gives insights into the religious, cultural, and historical significance of the temple. Visitors are advised to wear modest clothing covering legs and shoulders.
The Kandyan Cultural Show is a vibrant display of Sri Lankan traditional dances and music held in the Kandy Lake Club, a short distance from the Temple of the Tooth. The show features energetic dance performances, which include the famous Kandyan dances, mask dances, and fire walking displays that are based on ancient rituals and folklore. Colorful costumes and the dynamic drum rhythms provide a captivating experience for visitors. The highlight of the show often includes the traditional 'Ves' dance, which showcases the elaborate costumes and the flexibility and skill of the dancers. Watching this show is a must-do for everyone interested in learning about the rich culture of Kandy and the island’s history. After the performance, visitors get the opportunity to take photos with the performers.
The Evening Pooja (Thevava) Ceremony at the Temple of the Tooth is an essential spiritual ritual. It provides a chance to witness a traditional Buddhist service marked by the beating of drums, chanting of monks, and offering of flowers and incense to the sacred Tooth Relic. As the sun sets, the temple lights up, and the sound of the ritual drumming fills the air, creating a reverent and mystical atmosphere. Devotees dressed in white bring offerings in a procession into the inner chamber where the Tooth Relic is enshrined. The ceremony is an opportunity to observe the deep reverence in which Sri Lankans hold the Buddha's teachings and to experience the serenity and harmony that the ritual brings to participants and observers alike. It is an immersive cultural and religious experience.
A visit to the Temple of the Tooth Museum is an enriching experience that complements the temple tour. Located within the same premises, the museum contains two main sections; the World Buddhism museum and the Sri Dalada Museum. Here, visitors can explore centuries-old artifacts, historical photographs, and gifts received by the temple from devotees and foreign dignitaries. Exhibits include representations of the Temple of the Tooth throughout history, the history of Kandy, and an extensive array of relics that showcase the spread of Buddhism around the world. The museum visit offers insight into how the temple has withstood colonial and other historical challenges and provides context to the importance of the temple in present-day Sri Lanka.
For many Buddhists, a pilgrimage to the Temple of the Tooth is a significant spiritual event. The pilgrimage involves more than just a visit; it's an act of reverence and devotion. Pilgrims often begin with a purification process, such as bathing in the nearby Kandy Lake or wearing white symbolic attire. They then proceed to offer flowers (often lotus), light oil lamps, and meditate within the temple grounds. The act of making a 'Pindapatha' almsgiving is also common where pilgrims donate food and other essentials to the monks. The pilgrimage allows participants to immerse themselves in the Buddhist lifestyle of peace, mindfulness, and respect for the sacred Tooth Relic. It promotes personal reflection and merits for spiritual growth.
The Photography Tour of the Temple of the Tooth taps into the aesthetic appeal of this sacred site. As visitors move through the temple's richly decorated halls, opulent chambers, and peaceful courtyards, there are countless opportunities for capturing stunning photographs. With intricate wood carvings, detailed frescoes, and golden statues, the temple is an excellent subject for photographers looking to document the spiritual and cultural essence of Sri Lanka. Participation in the photography tour may include tips from a professional photographer guide on how to best capture the light and majesty of the temple's architecture and rituals. Note that photography is often restricted inside the main shrine room where the Tooth Relic is enshrined.
Meditation sessions at the Temple of the Tooth offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing visitors to center themselves in a place of historical and spiritual significance. While the temple is typically bustling, finding a quiet corner for reflection is a deeply personal and restorative activity. Experienced meditators and novices alike can join group sessions or find solitude within the temple grounds to practice mindfulness or loving-kindness meditation. Participating in this activity reinforces the temple's purpose as a place of worship and spiritual connection, offering a chance to connect with oneself and the teachings of the Buddha in a truly impactful setting.
The Temple of the Tooth houses an extensive library that is a repository of Buddhist literature, including ancient palm-leaf manuscripts. Visitors with an interest in Buddhist teachings and historical literature will find this resource invaluable. The library is a quiet space apt for study and contemplation, and it also serves as a center for research on Buddhist philosophy, history, and culture. With texts in both Sinhalese and Pali languages, and some in English, the library provides a rare educational opportunity for those looking to deepen their understanding of Buddhism's rich literary tradition.
Viewing the Relic Chamber is perhaps one of the most anticipated parts of visiting the Temple of the Tooth. While the actual tooth relic is kept inside seven golden caskets and not on public display, visitors can enter the room where the caskets are enshrined. Surrounded by protective glass and under heavy security, the exterior of the golden caskets can be seen from a distance. The elaborately carved caskets are themselves a sight to behold, and their significance lies in housing what is considered to be the Buddha's left canine tooth. This viewing allows devotees and tourists alike to stand just a few feet away from one of the most important religious relics in the world, providing a unique spiritual experience.
The tranquil Lotus Pond within the temple grounds is an oasis of calm and an often overlooked gem. Surrounded by intricately carved pillars in the form of lotus stems, the pond is designed to represent a blossoming lotus flower, symbolizing purity and enlightenment in Buddhism. Visitors can walk around the pond while admiring the reflection of the sky and the surrounding architecture in its still waters. Sitting by the Lotus Pond provides a perfect moment to reflect on the beauty of the natural environment and the temple's spiritual ambiance. This visit is particularly recommended for those seeking a moment of peace away from the busier areas of the temple complex.
Hill Stations (1)
Beaches (7)
Religious Places (24)
Historical Places (35)
Museums (8)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (7)
National Parks (3)
Forts (1)
Zoos (1)
Island (1)
Gardens (5)
Waterfalls (4)
Dams (2)
Lakes (1)
