Sri Dalada Maligawa | The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic | Sri Lankan Guides
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a famous place where people go to worship. It holds the left canine tooth of Gautama Buddha. Many local and foreign visitors come to the temple every day, and it was recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1988.
The temple is very important to Buddhists worldwide and has a lot of cultural significance. Its architecture is special, following the unique Kandyan style. It combines elements from the style used to build the “Dalada Mandira,” the shrines that held the Sacred Tooth Relic in different kingdoms before.
The Sacred Tooth Relic temple is in Kandy, close to the old Royal Palace in the north, the “Udawaththa Kelaya” forest reserve in the east, the famous Kandy Lake (“Kiri Muhuda”) in the south, and the “Natha & Paththini Devala” in the west. The temple is decorated with detailed carvings made of gold, silver, bronze, and ivory.
The Sacred Tooth Relic of Gautama Buddha is now in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It was brought here by Princess Hemamala and Prince Dantha from ancient India during the time of King Keerthi Sri Meghavarna (Kithsirimevan 301-328). This relic became a symbol for Sri Lankan kings and was kept safe in a special shrine within the royal palace, no matter where the capital was. You can still see the remains of these buildings in old capitals like Anuradapura, Pollonnaruwa, Dambadeniya, Yapahuwa, Kurunegala, Kotte, and Gampola. In Kandy, the last kingdom, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the most important shrine and highly respected by Buddhists around the world.
In conclusion, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy is more than just an old place; it’s a special part of Sri Lanka’s history and Buddhist tradition. If you’re curious about the past and want to feel the deep connection people have with their faith, this temple is a must-see.
For anyone looking to explore Sri Lanka’s cultural roots and spiritual side, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the place to be. With its amazing buildings, stories from long ago, and a strong sense of respect, it’s an experience you won’t forget. So, why not visit? Take in the calm atmosphere, witness the rituals, and become part of the rich culture at this special temple. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is waiting for you to come and discover the timeless charm of this unique spiritual spot.
