Kandy Tour - Temple of the Tooth Relic

Visiting the Temple of the Tooth

The temple is an active place of worship, so a visit is shaped by religious life as well as architecture. You could take time to observe the setting and learn why the relic is important to Sri Lankan Buddhism. Dress respectfully, with shoulders and knees covered, and follow the temple’s instructions about footwear and photography. If you are interested in a particular ceremony, check its timing before deciding when to visit.

Time beyond the temple

A walk beside Kandy Lake could provide a break between visits, while a traditional dance performance offers another way to encounter local cultural traditions. You do not have to fit every option into one day. Consider whether you would prefer time for the city itself or use Kandy as one stage of a wider journey into the hills. The Esala Perahera needs separate planning around the festival dates.

From Kandy into the hill country

Nuwara Eliya and Ella could follow Kandy in a longer itinerary, with tea country and walks replacing the focus on city sights. Before choosing your next stop, think about how much travelling you want to do between stays. A train journey is an option to investigate, not something to assume is available throughout the route. Services, seats and the practical connection with the rest of your trip need checking.

Including a visit in your trip

A stay in Kandy could leave time for the temple and lake, with the possibility of a traditional dance performance. If the Esala Perahera interests you, its dates would need to be checked against your travel plans.

Tell us what you would like to do. We will work with you to explore the options and help arrange activities that suit your interests, travel dates and pace, subject to local availability and conditions.