The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, locally known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is the most revered religious site in Sri Lanka and one of the most significant Buddhist temples in the world. Located in the heart of Kandy, this sacred temple houses the left upper canine tooth of Lord Buddha, making it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key destination for pilgrims and travelers alike. The temple complex is part of the Royal Palace of Kandy, the last stronghold of the Kandyan Kingdom before it fell to the British in 1815. Its architecture is a masterpiece of Kandyan craftsmanship, with golden roofs, carved wooden pillars, intricate frescoes, and lotus-filled ponds adding to its grandeur. The temple’s spiritual importance is felt the moment you step through its gates, where the scent of jasmine and the rhythmic chanting of monks create a deeply serene atmosphere. One of the most unique features of the temple is the daily ritual of worship, where the relic, kept inside a golden casket, is honored with offerings of flowers, incense, and music. Though the relic itself is not displayed, the inner shrine and its ornate casket draw thousands of visitors every day. The temple is also central to the annual Esala Perahera, a grand festival held in July or August, where the Sacred Tooth Relic is paraded through the streets of Kandy in a magnificent cultural procession with elephants, drummers, dancers, and fire-breathers. This event is considered one of Asia’s greatest festivals. Visiting the Temple of the Tooth is not just about sightseeing — it is a journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s spirituality, history, and cultural pride. It remains a place where devotion and tradition come alive, offering every visitor a profound experience.