The Sacred Heart of Sri Lanka: Discover Sri Dalada Maligawa
Explore the enchanting Sri Dalada Maligawa, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Kandy, home to the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.
Nestled in the heart of Kandy, Sri Dalada Maligawa is not just a temple; it is a symbol of Sri Lanka's rich Buddhist heritage. This revered site is home to the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, making it one of the most important pilgrimage destinations for Buddhists worldwide. The temple's exquisite architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant frescoes, captivates visitors as soon as they enter its hallowed grounds. As you stroll through the temple complex, you'll encounter the serene atmosphere and the rhythmic sound of chanting monks, which adds to the spiritual ambiance. The main shrine, where the tooth relic is housed, is often bustling with devotees offering prayers and flowers, while the scent of incense fills the air. Visitors can also explore the museum within the temple complex, which showcases artifacts and historical items related to Buddhism in Sri Lanka, providing deeper insight into its cultural significance. The best time to visit Sri Dalada Maligawa is during the day, from early morning to late afternoon, when the temple is alive with activity. However, attending the evening puja ceremony offers a unique experience, as the temple is illuminated and filled with the sounds of rituals. Remember to dress modestly to respect the sanctity of this sacred site. A visit to Sri Dalada Maligawa is not only a journey into a place of worship but also a step into the heart of Sri Lankan history and culture.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to experience a more tranquil atmosphere before the crowds arrive.
- Dress modestly; long skirts or trousers and covered shoulders are required to enter the temple.
- Attend the evening puja ceremony for a unique spiritual experience enhanced by the temple's beautiful lighting.
- Take your time exploring the museum within the temple complex for a deeper understanding of its historical significance.
- Respect the customs and traditions observed by the local worshippers during your visit.
A brief summary to Sri Dalada Maligawa
- Kandy, LK
- +94812234226
- Visit website
- Monday 5:30 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 5:30 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 5:30 am-8 pm
- Thursday 5:30 am-8 pm
- Friday 5:30 am-8 pm
- Saturday 5:30 am-8 pm
- Sunday 5:30 am-8 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Kegalle, head towards the A1 highway. Follow the A1 towards Kandy. The distance from Kegalle to Sri Dalada Maligawa is approximately 30 km and should take about 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Once you reach Kandy, follow signs for the city center and the temple. There is parking available nearby, but be prepared for parking fees that may range from LKR 100 to LKR 500.
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Public Bus
From Kegalle, take a bus heading to Kandy. Buses leave frequently from the Kegalle bus station, and the fare is around LKR 50-100. The journey takes about 1-1.5 hours. Once you arrive at the Kandy bus station, you can either take a tuk-tuk or walk to Sri Dalada Maligawa, which is approximately 1 km away. A tuk-tuk ride will cost around LKR 100-200.
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Tuk-Tuk
If you prefer a more direct route from Kegalle, you can hire a tuk-tuk. Negotiate the fare beforehand, which should be around LKR 1,500-2,000 for a one-way trip to Sri Dalada Maligawa. The journey will take approximately 45 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Sri Dalada Maligawa
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Udawatta Kele
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Sri Dalada Museum
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Sri dalada maligawa Pattirippuwa
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Magul maduwa .Daladamaligawa
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Magul Maduwa Audience Hall
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Queen's Palace - Madawasala
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International Buddhist Museum
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Sacred City of Kandy
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Kandy National Museum
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Museum of the Tusker Rajah
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Open Air Museum - Temple of the Tooth
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Sri Natha Devalaya - ශ්රී නාථ දේවාලය
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Old Royal Palace
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Kandy Unesco Signage
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athgala - ඇත්ගාල
