Introducing the Temple of the Tooth Relic
Located in Kandy, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka's second-largest city, the Temple of the Tooth Relic is renowned for housing the Buddha's tooth relic and is a must-see for pilgrims. Built in the 15th century, it has been expanded by successive kings to a magnificent scale.
Built in the 15th century, the Temple of the Tooth Relic has been expanded by successive kings to a magnificent and majestic scale. The entire temple is built on a platform approximately 6 meters high, surrounded by a large, artificially excavated lake and a wide, tree-lined avenue. The main buildings within the temple include the Main Hall, Drum Hall, Long Hall, Great Treasury, and Chanting Hall, with the most important being the Central Hall.
The hall is decorated with stone carvings, wood carvings, ivory carvings, gold and silver ornaments, bronze carvings, cast iron ornaments, and terracotta. The walls, pillars, and ceilings are covered with colorful paintings. The entire hall is considered a museum of Kandy's art. A large seated Buddha statue is located in the hall. To the left of the hall is a secret room dedicated to the tooth of the Buddha. Within this room is a golden pagoda, a pagoda within a pagoda, totaling seven stories.
Climate and best time to travel
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
The temple holds sacrificial ceremonies in the morning, noon and evening every day.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
Tickets
1000 rupees
Attraction opening hours
The time for viewing the tooth of Buddha is: 18:30-19:30
Most Popular FAQs for Buddha Tooth Relic Temple
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a prominent Buddhist temple located in Colombo, Sri Lanka, built to house a relic of the Buddha’s tooth. It serves as an important place of worship and pilgrimage for Buddhists and is also a cultural center for the local community. The temple is designed in a traditional Sri Lankan style, with exquisite sculptures and murals that reflect the spiritual and historical significance of the site.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is located in Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. It can be reached easily by taxi, tuk-tuk, or public bus from anywhere in Colombo. Walking is possible if you're staying nearby, as it is situated in a central part of the city.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- The best times to visit are early mornings and late afternoons when the temple is less crowded, and the atmosphere is peaceful.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- The entrance fee for foreign visitors is approximately LKR 500, and tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the temple.
- No online booking is required, but it’s advisable to check if there are any special events that might alter the usual schedule.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
No advance booking is required for individual visitors. You can purchase tickets directly at the temple entrance on the day of your visit.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- You should allocate about 1-2 hours to explore the temple, depending on your interest in the exhibits and time spent in prayer or meditation.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- The Buddha Tooth Relic Stupa, which houses the sacred relic.
- The beautiful murals and carvings depicting Buddha’s life and teachings.
- The temple’s museum, which contains historical and cultural artifacts related to Buddhism.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
- Guided tours are available upon request, and they are usually conducted in English.
- Audio guides may also be available, depending on the temple’s offerings on the day of your visit.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- The Buddha Tooth Relic Stupa is the central attraction and provides a stunning backdrop for photographs.
- The tranquil temple grounds also offer beautiful spots for photography, especially near the garden and the temple’s architectural features.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start by visiting the main hall to see the Buddha Tooth Relic, then explore the museum exhibits.
- Afterward, take time to walk around the temple’s beautiful grounds and gardens for a peaceful experience.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Night visits are not available, as the temple closes by 7:00 PM.
- However, special tours may be offered during cultural events or festivals, so it’s worth checking the temple’s schedule before your visit.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- The temple can be busy during weekends and religious holidays, particularly in the afternoon.
- The least crowded times are early in the morning or on weekdays.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Toilets and basic rest areas are available at the temple.
- There are a few small shops selling Buddhist-related souvenirs and items like incense and statues.
- Food and drinks are not sold inside the temple but are available in nearby areas around Colombo.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- The temple is mostly accessible for elderly and children, but there may be some steps and uneven surfaces to navigate.
- It is not fully accessible for disabled visitors due to the temple’s traditional design, which includes stairs and narrow paths.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Cash is required for entrance fees and any purchases inside the temple complex.
- It’s advisable to carry cash in Sri Lankan Rupees for entry fees and donations.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- There are several cafes and restaurants near the temple in Colombo, where you can enjoy traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, such as rice and curry or vegetarian options.
- For a more upscale dining experience, you can visit one of Colombo’s hotels or restaurants serving international cuisine.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
- Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available in the nearby restaurants, and many places also serve halal food for Muslim visitors.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Hotels such as Cinnamon Grand, Taj Samudra, and The Kingsbury are within a short distance from the temple and offer a range of accommodation options.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Nearby attractions include Gangaramaya Temple, Viharamahadevi Park, and Colombo National Museum, all of which can be easily visited in a day trip.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- There are souvenir shops near the temple selling Buddhist artifacts, incense, prayer beads, and small statues of Buddha.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available for further exploration of Colombo or nearby attractions.
- Public buses and local trains are available but may be less convenient for tourists unfamiliar with the area.
