Temple of the Tooth
This evening you will visit The Temple of the Tooth. The stunning 17th-century Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is believed to house the left upper canine tooth of the Lord Buddha himself.
Area
Kandy and the Hill Country
Type
Art & Architecture
History
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Teens
Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
1-2 Hours
Every day this precious relic attracts white-clad pilgrims, bearing lotus blossoms and frangipani. On the outside, the temple buildings are not magnificent or elaborately decorated, concealing the grandeur within. White with red roofs, they cluster around Kandy Lake (the island in the middle once housed the king's harem). Around the entire complex is a low white stone wall, delicately and simply carved with openings that give a filigree effect. During celebrations, candles are placed in the openings, lighting up the entire front. The relic of the tooth is kept in a two-story inner shrine fronted by two large elephant tusks. The relic rests on a solid gold lotus flower, encased in jewelled caskets that sit on a throne. The temple is joined to the Pattiripuwa (Octagon) tower, built in 1803, that was originally a prison but now houses a collection of palm-leaf manuscripts. The king's palace is also in the temple compound.
Tours Featuring This Experience
Be inspired by the itineraries below which include this experience and let our travel specialists craft a bespoke luxury holiday for you.
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View TourIconic Sri Lanka
Showcasing our most popular properties and a route that remains a firm favourite with our guests, this journey captures the very best of Sri Lanka in effortless style. From serene colonial gardens to the untouched wilderness of Wilpattu, you’ll experience immersive culture, meaningful encounters and refined luxury throughout. Explore ancient kingdoms by bike and on foot, journey through emerald tea hills, and unwind on the southern coast—this is Sri Lanka’s classic highlights.
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View TourJust us: Sri Lanka
If your dream honeymoon combines idyllic beaches, breathtaking adventures, and a touch of culture, Sri Lanka offers the perfect mix. From spotting leopards on safari and sipping fresh tea in the rolling hills to indulging in oceanfront luxury, this itinerary promises unforgettable memories for two.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationRosyth Estate
Built in 1926, Roysth Estate is an old colonial planter’s bungalow set on a 62-acre private working tea and rubber estate. This charming property offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of rural Sri Lanka.
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View AccommodationElephant Stables
From its hilltop position, Elephant Stables boasts breathtaking views over Kandy and the Knuckles mountain range. This ancestral home turned boutique hotel offers guests a tranquil stay from which they can explore Kandy's cultural heritage.
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View AccommodationAliya Resort & Spa
Aliya Resort and Spa is a modern property with stunning views of the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of the most important landmarks in the Cultural Triangle. Aliya is surrounded by greenery and the design is inspired by the Asian elephant.
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View AccommodationKings Pavilion Kandy
Kings Pavilion is based just 15 minutes outside the centre of Kandy, a bustling town which is home to the Temple of the Tooth. Situated on a hill side this boutique hotel gives great views down over the valley and town below.
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View AccommodationKalkudah Beach House
A hidden gem on Sri Lanka’s untouched east coast, Kalkudah Beach House is an elegant and understated beach front retreat, ideal for guests looking to reconnect and unwind in complete seclusion.
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View AccommodationCamellia Hills
Camellia Hills is a luxurious five-bedroom bungalow nestled in Sri Lanka's tea plantations. It has a dining room, two lounge areas, and a swimming pool. The bungalow boasts breathtaking views across the Castlereagh Reservoir.
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View Accommodation98 Acres
98 Acres is located on a scenic tea estate in the hillside town of Ella. A eco-friendly retreat, it has been built almost entirely out of recycled materials. With chalets nestled into its lush green surroundings, enjoy views out over the southern plains.
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View AccommodationCeylon Tea Trails
Walk among emerald hills at Ceylon Tea Trails, where restored tea-planters’ bungalows, bespoke service and rich plantation heritage invite you to slow down, savour exquisite teas and live the timeless rhythm of Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands.
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View AccommodationGal Oya Lodge
Nestled on the edge of Gal Oya National Park, Gal Oya Lodge is a secluded sanctuary of handcrafted bungalows, jungle vistas and unforgettable wildlife encounters, where boat safaris, nature walks and authentic local experiences shape every stay.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceExplore the Tea Plantations
During your stay in the Hill Country, explore the tea plantations where you can see the tea pluckers at work, visit a tea factory, or go for a walk through the rolling green hills.
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View ExperienceTrekking in the Knuckles Range
This is a must for trekking enthusiasts, who will love the striking landscapes and ever-changing fauna on this 4-5 hour trek from Illukkumbura to Riverston. Expect sweeping panoramas and waterfalls in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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View ExperienceGuided Tour of Kandy: Gods, Kings & Men
Today head to the centre of Kandy, once known as the Kingdom of Kandy. Take some time to visit the famous UNESCO protected Temple of the Tooth. Next wander around the colourful market followed by some tea at the historic Queen's Hotel.
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View ExperienceBiking in the Hills
Grab a helmet and set off on mountain bike trails that wind through Sri Lanka's tea estates, hillside villages, and highland ridgelines.
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View ExperienceKandy Temple Trail
Head a little more off the beaten track to explore some of Sri Lanka's more historically and architecturally interesting temples. Gadaladeniya, Embekke and Lankathilaka are set away from the main tourist trail but are still easily accessible from Kandy.
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View ExperienceKandy Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, Kandy, is renowned for its wide variety of plant species
and beautiful flowers. Of particular note is the collection of a variety of orchids.
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View ExperienceKandy by tuk tuk
Travel through Kandy's unique landscape of hills and rivers, exploring its colonial history and religious sites, riding a tuk tuk to scenic hills and markets, and concluding with delicious treats and Ceylon tea with breathtaking city views.
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View Experience
Soap-Making Experience
Experience a unique journey in Sri Lanka's Central Province, where a women-led business blends wellness, sustainability and luxury allowing you to explore the art of soap-making, enjoy fresh estate produce, and create lasting memories.
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View ExperienceWalking in Horton Plains
Horton Plains is a beautiful national park in the Southern Hill Country with some wonderful hikes and breath-taking views.
Call us on +852 2829 2000 to start planning