Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
A Buddhist Temple in Kandy
If you're in Sri Lanka and itching to see something incredible then, look no further than the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy! This place isn't just a fancy name – it's a massive deal for Buddhists around the world. They believe it houses a real tooth of the Buddha himself, making it a super holy site. Buckle up, because this temple complex is a dazzling mix of history, culture, and serious devotion.
Best time to visit: From Jan-To-Mar
How to Reach Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Kandy's a popular spot in Sri Lanka, so getting there is very easy. Trains and buses zoom in from Colombo, the capital city. Flights are also an option if you're short on time. Once you're in Kandy, the temple's right by the Kandy Lake. Tuk-tuks and taxis are everywhere, ready to take you there.
- Exploring the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Kandy's pretty walkable, with most cool spots, including the temple, close by. Tuk-tuks are your best option if you feel tired. You can also hail a ride-sharing app like Uber or PickMe for a convenient scoot around town.
- Food to Try in Kandy
- Kandy's food scene is like a party in your mouth. Gotta try Kottu Roti, a stir-fried flatbread with veggies, eggs, and sometimes even meat. Feeling veggie? Go for the Potato Curry or Isso Wade, fried lentil balls bursting with flavor. Don't forget to leave room for dessert – Wattalapam, a creamy spiced egg custard, will hit the spot.
Hotels Near Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Kandy caters to all budgets when it comes to the best hotels. Here's a quick cheat sheet:
- Fancy Hotels: Spoil yourself silly at a swanky hotel like Radisson Hotel Kandy. Think posh amenities, big rooms, and service fit for a king or a queen.
- Boutique Hotels: A boutique hotel like Viyana Boutique Hotel offers a charming stay with a local touch.
- Mid-Range Comforts: Pick Ceyloni Lake Residency close to the temple complex, without breaking the bank.
- Budget-Friendly Guesthouses: Experience Sri Lankan hospitality at Kandy City Mission or The Lake Round Guest House, a cozy guesthouse. It's a great way to meet fellow travelers and get insider tips.
- Live Like a Local: Dive into Sri Lankan life by staying at a homestay. You'll get to connect with a local family and see how they live.
Other Must-See Sights in Kandy
- While the temple is the main attraction, Kandy has tons to offer:
- Kandy Lake: Take a scenic walk or rent a boat and cruise around this beautiful man-made lake.
- Royal Palace Ruins: Explore the remains of the old palace of the Kandyan kings, right next to the temple.
- Kandy Market: Hit the vibrant Kandy markets for souvenirs, local crafts, and fresh produce.
- Kandy Esala Perahera: If you're here in July or August, don't miss the Kandy Esala Perahera, a crazy cool parade with elephants, dancers, and drummers galore.
- The Verdict
- Visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is an unforgettable experience, religious or not. Whether you're a history lover or just curious about Sri Lankan culture, Kandy and its treasured temple are guaranteed to leave you awestruck.