Kandy & Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

The ancient hill city of Kandy, Sri Lanka's last royal capital, lies approximately 7 km from Hantana House, making it an ideal half or full-day excursion. At its heart stands Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, enshrining the left canine tooth of Gautama Buddha in seven nested golden caskets. One of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world, the temple sits at the centre of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sacred City of Kandy (inscribed 1988), surrounded by the royal palace complex, the Udawatta Kelaya forest reserve, and the serene Kandy Lake.
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Highlights
• Daily Puja Ceremonies: Three rituals performed at dawn, noon, and evening by monks of the Malwatte and Asgiriya chapters, accompanied by traditional drumming. The evening puja is especially atmospheric.
• Kandy Lake Walk: A peaceful stroll around the lake built in 1807 by the last Kandyan king, with views of the temple and forest.
• National Museum of Kandy: Royal regalia and Kandyan heritage housed in the former palace.
• Local Markets: Spices, gemstones, and handicrafts.
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Visitor Tips
• Dress Code: Shoulders and knees must be covered; sarongs are available to borrow at the entrance.
• Entry: An entrance fee applies.
• Footwear: Shoes are removed before entering the temple.
• No cameras or bags inside the inner temple.