Sri Lanka is a country steeped in history and culture, and one of its most important sites is the Temple of the Tooth. The Temple of the Tooth, popularly known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a Buddhist palace in Kandy, Sri Lanka. The temple is one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage places on earth and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most sacred temples in Sri Lanka and is home to the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha.
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History of the Temple
The history of the Temple of the Tooth dates back to the 4th century BC when the Tooth Relic arrived in Sri Lanka from India. The relic was enshrined in several temples across the country, but in the 16th century, the Tooth Relic was brought to Kandy and enshrined in the Temple of the Tooth.
The temple has undergone numerous modifications and reconstructions over time due to various invasions and natural disasters. Today, the temple is a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
Festivals and Celebrations at the Temple
Worldwide, Buddhists gather at The Temple of the Tooth to worship, a religious and cultural activity centre in Sri Lanka. Every morning and evening, the temple conducts a special ritual known as the “puja,” which involves offering flowers, incense, and other items to the Buddha and other deities.
Throughout the year, the temple also holds several festivals; one of the most famous festivals is the Esala Perahera, a 10-day festival in July or August. It features a parade of elephants, drummers, dancers, and fire-eaters, culminating in a grand procession in which the Sacred Tooth is paraded through the streets.
Visiting the Temple
Visitors to the Temple of the Tooth are required to follow specific rules and regulations, including dressing modestly and removing shoes before entering the temple. Inside the temple, photography is not permitted, but visitors can take photos outside and in the temple courtyard.
The ideal time for visiting the temple is early morning or late afternoon, as it tends to be less crowded during these times. Visitors can also attend the puja rituals held every morning and evening.
Attractions within the Temple
The Temple of the Tooth features several other attractions besides the sacred tooth relic. One of these is the Raja Tusker Hall, which houses a collection of ancient royal artefacts, including an elephant howdah, a decorative seat for a king to ride on an elephant. Another highlight is the temple’s library, which contains many Buddhist scriptures. Visitors can also see the stunning frescoes, and the temple’s walls and ceiling are covered in paintings.
Some other places to visit in Kandy
These are some additional attractive spots to see in Kandy:
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
Located just outside of Kandy, the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens is a must-see place for anyone interested in botany or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the city. The gardens feature over 4,000 different species of plants, including orchids, palm trees, and medicinal plants. Visitors can also explore the garden’s many ponds, fountains, and other water features.
Kandy Lake
Located in the heart of Kandy, Kandy Lake is a beautiful artificial lake built in the 19th century by the last king of Sri Lanka. The lake is surrounded by a lush environment and is a popular location for jogging, picnicking, and strolling. Visitors can also rent a paddle boat and explore the lake from a different perspective.
Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue
Perched on a hill overlooking Kandy, the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The statue stands over 88 feet tall and is visible from most of the city. Visitors can climb the hill to get a closer look at the statue and enjoy panoramic views of Kandy and the surrounding mountains.
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is a protected forest reserve outside Kandy, Sri Lanka. The sanctuary covers an area of over 100 hectares, and It is home to over 80 species of birds, including several endemic species, such as the Sri Lankan hanging parrot and the Sri Lankan grey hornbill. Visitors can also spot a variety of mammals, including monkeys, deer, wild boars, reptiles, and amphibians.
The sanctuary was first established as a protected area in the 19th century during British colonial rule in Sri Lanka. Today, it is managed by the Forest Department of Sri Lanka. It is open to visitors who want to explore the sanctuary’s natural beauty and learn more about its unique ecosystem.
Overall, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is a hidden gem in Kandy, allowing tourists to see Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage in one place. So, if you’re planning a trip to Kandy with Surabilanka Travel, you definitely will add this sanctuary to the itinerary.
Temple of the Gadaladeniya
Located just a short drive from Kandy, the Temple of the Gadaladeniya is a beautifully preserved Buddhist temple built in the fourteenth century. The temple features intricate carvings and murals depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life and teachings. It is a great place to learn more about Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
Overall, Kandy is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty, and there are plenty of other destinations to explore beyond the Temple of the Tooth. So, if you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, set aside some time to discover what Kandy offers.
Conclusion
The Temple of the Tooth symbolizes Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage and is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Sri Lanka. Whether you are a Buddhist or not, the temple’s stunning architecture and rich history make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience. When you plan a trip to Sri Lanka, include the Temple of the Tooth in your itinerary and connect with our company by entering surabilankatravel.com.
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