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Temple of the Tooth, Kandy: A Complete Visitor's Guide
Visiting Kandy for the first time? Add the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy to your Sri Lanka itinerary. Locally known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, this is the most spiritually significant site in Sri Lanka. Set beside the picturesque Kandy Lake, the temple is believed to house a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, making it an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
From admiring its traditional Kandyan architecture and ornate interiors to enjoying peaceful surroundings, this is one of the best places in Kandy to experience Sri Lanka’s culture, history and spirituality. This guide covers what you actually need to know before visiting the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy, from ticket prices and puja timings to dress code and how to visit.
Quick Facts
Detail | Information |
| Opening hours | 5:30 AM – 8:00 PM, every day |
| Puja (ritual) times | 5:30 AM, 9:30 AM, 6:30 PM |
| Entry fee (foreign visitors) | 3,000 LKR (₹870) |
| Entry fee (SAARC nationals) | 2,500 LKR (₹725) |
| Entry fee (Sri Lankan citizens) | Free |
| Recommended visit duration | 1 to 1.5 hours |
| UNESCO status | Part of the Sacred City of Kandy World Heritage Site |
| Dress code | Shoulders and knees covered, no shorts or sleeveless tops |
Where is the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy
The Temple of the Tooth (locally known as Sri Dalada Maligawa) is located in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It sits right inside the historic Royal Palace Complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, positioned immediately north of the iconic Kandy Lake.
- Address: Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM.
Temple Of The Tooth Entrance Fee
The Temple of the Tooth entrance fee varies depending on nationality and age. International visitors generally need to purchase a ticket, while Sri Lankan citizens and children under 12 can enter free of charge.
Category | Ticket Price in LKR | Equivalent Price in INR* |
| Sri Lankan Citizens | Free Entry | ₹0 |
| SAARC Country Citizens (including India, Maldives, etc.) | 2,500 LKR | ₹725 |
| Thailand & Myanmar Citizens | 2,500 LKR | ₹725 |
| Other International Foreigners | 3,000 LKR | ₹870 |
| Children under 12 (All Nationalities) | Free Entry | ₹0 |
*Ticket prices can change, so check the latest rates before visiting.
History of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth
The sacred tooth relic is believed to have arrived in Sri Lanka in the 4th century and was later moved between royal capitals before reaching Kandy, the last royal capital. The present temple dates mainly to the 16th and 17th centuries under Kandyan royal patronage.
Today, the relic is preserved inside nested golden caskets and is not directly displayed. The temple was damaged in a 1998 bomb attack but has since been restored.
What to Expect When Visiting the Temple of the Tooth
Your visit includes security screening, ticket checks and shoe removal. Carry socks for comfort on the stone floors. During the daily Puja ceremony, experience traditional drumming, jasmine and incense before approaching the relic chamber to view the outer casket. To experience the city’s cultural and religious heritage, this is a must-add spot to your Kandy tour packages.
Other Places to See Around the Temple
- World Buddhist Museum: Explore exhibits on the spread of Buddhism across Asia; allow around 20 minutes.
- Sri Dalada Museum: See royal gifts, historical documents and photographs linked to the sacred relic.
- Royal Palace & Audience Hall: Discover remnants of the former Kandyan royal kingdom.
- Kandy Lake: Enjoy a short, relaxing walk around the lake after your temple visit.
Best Time to Visit Temple of the Tooth, Kandy
The best time to visit the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy is during one of its three daily Puja (Thewawa) ceremonies, when visitors can experience traditional drumming, flower offerings and the opening of the inner shrine. Choose your timing based on whether you prefer a quieter visit or a more lively atmosphere:
- 5:30 AM – Tevava Puja: Quietest option, with fewer tourists and a more peaceful atmosphere.
- 9:30 AM – Nanumura Puja: A good balance of manageable crowds and a chance to observe the rituals.
- 6:30 PM – Deweva Puja: The most atmospheric ceremony, with traditional drumming, incense and larger crowds. Queues can be longer.
Travel tip: Arrive 15–20 minutes early for any puja, especially the evening ceremony.
Best Time to Avoid Crowds
For a quieter visit, go between 7:30 and 9:00 AM or 1:00 and 4:00 PM. Avoid Full Moon (Poya) days and major Buddhist festivals, when visitor numbers are much higher.
Best Time for Esala Perahera
Visit in July or August for the spectacular Esala Perahera, featuring traditional dancers, drummers and decorated elephants. Festival dates vary each year.
How to Get to the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy
The Temple of the Tooth is in the heart of Kandy, beside Kandy Lake, making it easy to reach from most parts of the city.
- From Kandy Railway Station: Around 1–1.5 km away. Take a tuk-tuk or walk along the lake.
- From Colombo: The train to Kandy is a scenic option; by road, the journey usually takes around 2.5–3 hours.
- From Bandaranaike International Airport: A taxi or private transfer takes roughly 2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Within Kandy: Tuk-tuks and taxis are convenient for reaching the temple, while many central hotels are within walking distance.
Tip: If you have luggage, take a tuk-tuk or taxi rather than walking from the railway station.
Essential Tips for Visiting the Temple of the Tooth
- Dress modestly: Cover your shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops and revealing clothing.
- Remove shoes: Footwear must be removed before entering the temple; carrying socks can make walking on hot or rough floors more comfortable.
- Arrive early: Reach 15–20 minutes before Puja if you want to experience the ceremony.
- Expect security checks: Bags are screened, and visitors may pass through a scanner.
- Carry minimal luggage: Large bags can make security and entry more time-consuming.
- Respect local customs: Keep quiet, avoid touching religious objects and follow instructions from temple staff.
- Allow 1–2 hours: This gives you enough time to visit the shrine, museums and surrounding complex.
Is the Temple of the Tooth Worth Visiting?
The Temple of the Tooth, Kandy, is worth adding to your Sri Lanka tour packages if you want to experience the country’s Buddhist heritage, royal history and local traditions. For the most memorable experience, visit during a Puja ceremony, but choose an off-peak time if you prefer fewer crowds. Dress respectfully, allow around 1–2 hours, and be prepared for security checks and shoe removal.
What’s Next on Your Sri Lankan Adventure? Your Kandy experience doesn’t end at the temple. Continue your journey to explore Sri Lanka’s beautiful beaches, wildlife, scenic hill towns and cultural attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Temple of the Tooth in Sri Lanka famous for?
A: The Temple of the Tooth, or Sri Dalada Maligawa, is famous for housing a sacred tooth relic believed to belong to the Buddha. It is one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites and a key cultural attraction in Kandy.
2. Where is the Temple of the Tooth located?
A: The Temple of the Tooth is located in central Kandy, beside Kandy Lake and within the historic Royal Palace Complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy. Its address is Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy 20000, Sri Lanka.
3. What are the Temple of the Tooth opening hours?
A: The Temple of the Tooth is generally open every day from 5:30 AM to 8:00 PM. The three daily Puja ceremonies take place at 5:30 AM, 9:30 AM and 6:30 PM.
4. How much does it cost to visit the Temple of the Tooth?
A: Foreign visitors generally pay 3,000 LKR (around ₹870), while visitors from SAARC countries, including India, pay 2,500 LKR (around ₹725). Sri Lankan citizens and children under 12 can enter free. Ticket prices may change, so check the latest rates before visiting.
5. What should tourists wear when visiting the Temple of the Tooth?
A: Visitors should dress modestly, with their shoulders and knees covered. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops and revealing clothing. Since shoes must be removed before entering, wearing comfortable socks can also be helpful.
6. Can tourists take photos inside the Temple of the Tooth?
A: Photography is generally permitted in designated areas, but visitors should follow temple instructions and avoid photographing restricted areas or religious ceremonies when prohibited. Always respect worshippers and local customs.
7. What is the best time to visit the Temple of the Tooth?
A: The best time depends on your preference. Visit during a Puja ceremony at 5:30 AM, 9:30 AM or 6:30 PM to experience traditional rituals and drumming. For fewer crowds, consider visiting between 7:30–9:00 AM or 1:00–4:00 PM.
8. Is the Temple of the Tooth worth visiting in Kandy?
A: Yes. The Temple of the Tooth is worth visiting if you want to experience Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage, Kandyan architecture, royal history and local traditions. Combining your visit with Kandy Lake and the nearby museums makes for a more complete cultural experience.
9. How long does it take to visit the Temple of the Tooth?
A: Allow around 1 to 1.5 hours for the temple itself. If you also want to explore the museums and surrounding Royal Palace Complex, plan for around 2 hours.
10. What are the main things to see inside the Temple of the Tooth?
A: Key highlights include the sacred tooth relic chamber and its golden caskets, traditional Kandyan architecture, ornate interiors and religious artwork. You can also visit the Sri Dalada Museum and World Buddhist Museum nearby to learn more about the relic and Buddhist heritage.
