Journeying through Sri Dalada Maligawa and Kandy
Nestled in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka, the Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) is a sacred Buddhist shrine that is considered to be one of the most venerated relics in Buddhism: the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. A symbol of both spiritual and historical significance, this temple is an architectural masterpiece that is close to the heart of all Sri Lankans. The Sacred Tooth Relic, believed to be the tooth of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, is enshrined in a golden casket within the temple. This relic is symbolic to the rich, vibrant cultural heritage that Sri Lankan has.
The Dalada Maligawa dates back to the 16th century, when it’s purpose was established for safeguarding the Sacred Tooth Relic, an artifact that was brought from India. Since then, the temple has gone through a period of changes in expansion and renovation, where unique touches have been added over time, exemplifying it’s majestic nature. The Sacred Tooth Relic is celebrated by a maganimous event called the Esala Perahara, one of the oldest Buddhist festivals that Sri Lankans religiously celebrate. It is held annually, typically occuring in July or August and lasts for approximately 10 ten days, exhibiting glorious displays of cultural celebrations.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in this exciting experience, look no further as this following itinery is a guide that will take you through this trip (and be your best friend!). To start off, the ideal time to visit Kandy and specifically, Dalada Maligawa is during the period of Esala Perahara that is held in July or August. If you want a more quiet, calm experience, off-season is great too.
There are many diverse options for you to choose from when looking for accomodation in Kandy. One such great option is the Hermitage Boutique Hotel, known for its serene ambiance and a personalised touch of customer service that will have you integrated into the hustle and bustle of Kandy. Located along the edge of the Victoria Reservoir and spread over an area of six acresof virgin forest, the Hermitage is a journey of nature for you to explore and indulge in the serene atmosphere. Luxury suites like the “Kundalini” and “Samatha” named after traditional Sinhalese names emanate an atmosphere that makes the perfect sanctuary to take rest in while exploring Kandy. To top it off, you can have access to exclusive benefits including private viewing spots for the Perahera, a benefit that you might deem necessary as it gets massively crowded on the street during that time. We recommend that you book directly on the hotel website in order to make sure that you’ve got the best rate and package.
You can taste the heritage of Sri Lanka by exploring authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at locations such as Hermitage 32 Curry. Finish your first day off by visiting the Dalida Maligawa for an evening prayer (pooja) and reflect your journey through these pockets of peace. Your next day gets even better! The Esala Perahera Festival starts off with Kumbal Perahera, the first major event that will highlight traditional dances, music and intricately adorned elephants. Make sure you catch the best viewing spot in the main street around the temple. Next comes Randoli Perahara that tops the previous procession with its added extragavance and the best viewing spot for this can be found along the perimeter of the temple. Finally, the Diya Kepeeman, the water cutting ceremony is a sacred ritual that connotes the purification of the land. The nightly processions of the Perahara are unlike anything you’ve seen before, with its elaborate costumes, well-decorated elephants and energetic dancers, a beautiful picture is drawn giving you a glimpse into Sri Lankan culture. Furthermore, make sure that you don’t forget to bring your camera and avoid using flash due to the sensitivity of it that could affect the performances.
Your exploring does not have to end at Kandy. You can visit other bustling cities like Colombo, travelling through the main road marvelling at the vivid dynamics of each town. Enjoy these scenic routes with our transportation options that offer you a diverse range of comforts, perfectly tailored for your budget, from spacious vans to luxury SUVs.
Additionally, here are some customary rules for your knowledge so that you are able to have the best experience while respecting the traditions of Kandy. Before you do visit the Dalada Maligawa, please ensure that your attire is appropriate and you are dressed modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Due to the tropical climate where humidity is king, we recommend light cotton or linen clothing. Before you enter the temple, please remove your shoes and avoid pointing your feet at these sacred artificats. One safety tip you should heed to is to be mindful of your belongings and stay away from areas that might be too congested. Ensure that you are hydated at all times.
You can book your stay and choose to have an exclusive perahera viewing experience through our website as we have the perfect rates and special access that can enhance your visit to Kandy as one of the most memorable journeys that you have ever taken. Go to our booking page for more details