The Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic: Dalada Maligawa
Explore the Dalada Maligawa, a historic temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, housing the sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, an emblem of spiritual devotion.
A brief summary to Dalada Maligawa Anuradhapura - අනුරාධපුර පුරාණ දළදා මාලිගාව
- 9C52+VH6, Anuradhapura, LK
The Dalada Maligawa, or the Temple of the Tooth Relic, is one of the most significant historical landmarks in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. This sacred site is known for housing the revered Tooth Relic of the Buddha, which is an important object of worship for Buddhists. As you approach the temple, you are greeted by its stunning architecture and intricate carvings that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. The temple complex is imbued with a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place for contemplation and reflection. Visitors to Dalada Maligawa can explore its beautifully landscaped gardens and admire the peaceful surroundings. The temple's interior features ornate decorations, and the relic is housed in a highly revered shrine that draws many pilgrims and tourists alike. The site is not only a place of worship but also a historical treasure trove, rich with stories of ancient Sri Lankan civilization and Buddhist traditions. As you wander through the temple, you will encounter monks engaged in rituals, giving you a glimpse into the spiritual practices that are still very much a part of life here. In addition to the temple itself, the surrounding area offers various attractions, including ancient ruins, stupas, and other historical landmarks that showcase the grandeur of Anuradhapura as an ancient capital. A visit to Dalada Maligawa is not just a cultural experience but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the spiritual essence of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, making it a highlight of your travels.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to experience a quieter atmosphere and witness the morning rituals performed by the monks.
- Dress modestly and respectfully, as this is a sacred site. Cover your shoulders and knees before entering.
- Take time to explore the surrounding gardens and ruins, which offer additional insights into the historical significance of the area.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the temple's history and cultural importance.
- Be mindful of the local customs and practices; participate in offerings if you wish to engage more deeply with the spiritual experience.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Anuradhapura Railway Station, exit the station and head towards the main road (Hospital Road). Turn left onto Hospital Road and continue straight. After about 1 kilometer, you will reach the main intersection. At the intersection, turn right onto the Anuradhapura - Mihintale Road. Continue walking straight for approximately 1.5 kilometers. You will pass several shops and eateries along the way. Keep an eye out for directional signs to Dalada Maligawa. After 1.5 kilometers, you will arrive at Dalada Maligawa, located at 9C52+VH6.
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Cycling
From the Anuradhapura city center, rent a bicycle from any local rental shop. Start cycling down the Anuradhapura - Mihintale Road. Follow the road for about 1.5 kilometers. You will pass by various landmarks and local shops. Look for signs indicating Dalada Maligawa as you approach. The site will be on your right-hand side at 9C52+VH6 when you reach it.
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Tuk-tuk
If you prefer a tuk-tuk, you can easily find one at the Anuradhapura Railway Station or any central location in the city. Tell the driver you want to go to Dalada Maligawa. The journey should take around 10 minutes, depending on traffic. The tuk-tuk will take you directly to the entrance, located at 9C52+VH6.
Attractions Nearby to Dalada Maligawa Anuradhapura - අනුරාධපුර පුරාණ දළදා මාලිගාව
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Mahapali Refectory
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Vaulted Vihara (Gedige) Image House of Anuradhapura - අනුරාධපුර ගෙඩිගේ ප්රතිමා ගෘහය
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Thuparama Alms Hall ථූපාරාම දාන ශාලාව
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Nakha Vehera
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Thuparamaya
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Thimbiri Pokuna - තිඹිරි පොකුණ
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Image House of Jethawanaramaya - ජේතවනාරාම පිළිම ගෙය
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Jethawanarama Pilima Geya - ජේතවනාරාමය පිළිම ගෙය
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Jethawanaramaya
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Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point
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අභයගිරි කෞතුකාගාරය - Abhayagiri Museum
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Jethawanarama Monastery Complex
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Ruwanweli Maha Seya Wheelchair Entry
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The Entrance for the Disabled to the Ruwanwalisaya
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Yathuru Pokuna
Landmarks nearby to Dalada Maligawa Anuradhapura - අනුරාධපුර පුරාණ දළදා මාලිගාව
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Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya පූරණ භික්ෂුණී උපාසය
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King Dutugemunu Pillar දුටුගැමුණු ශිලා ස්ථම්භය
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Ancient Round Well ඓතිහාසික වට පොකුණ
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Buddhist Railing
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Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery
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Ancient Lavetory Complex - පුරාණ වැසිකිලි සංකීර්ණය
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Main Image House
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Unidentified structure
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උත්තරමූළය - අභයගිරිය
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North Pond [ උතුරු පොකුණ ]
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Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura
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Rathna Prasadaya | මුරගල
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Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
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Maha Viharaya, Anuradhapura
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Tamil Householder's Inscription (දමිළ ගෘහපති ලිපිය)