RANK#17

Temple of the Tooth

ශ්‍රී දළදා මාළිගාව

📍 Kandy, Sri Lanka🕐 16th century👥 2 million visitors/year🏛️ UNESCO World Heritage

Sri Dalada Maligawa houses the relic of the tooth of Buddha, making it one of the most sacred places of worship in the Buddhist world. The tooth relic has played an important role in local politics since ancient times.

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✨ Historical Significance

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Why Temple of the Tooth Matters

Ranked #17 among the world's top 100

UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tooth relic is considered so sacred that whoever holds it is believed to hold the governance of the country.

Built

16th century

Location

Sri Lanka

Annual Visitors

2 million

UNESCO

✓ ID: 450

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📅 Plan Your Visit to Temple of the Tooth

🌤️

Best Season

Dry Season (Dec–Mar)

Recommended months: December to March (West/South)

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Temperature

Average: 27–30°C (80–86°F)

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Visit Duration

Recommended: 1–3 hours

🎫

Entry Fee

$5–$15 USD (international visitors may pay more)

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Dress Code

Remove shoes before entering. Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid sleeveless tops and shorts. Some temples require long pants/skirts.

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Getting There

Located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Reach Kandy by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Kandy center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.

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💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Temple of the Tooth

1

Remove your shoes before entering any temple or pagoda building. Carry a bag for your shoes.

2

Visit early morning (6–8 AM) to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures and golden light for photography.

3

Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Carry small bills for entrance fees and donations.

4

Language: Sinhala, Tamil. Learn basic greetings in the local language — locals appreciate the effort.

5

This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site — follow all preservation rules and stay on designated paths.

6

Best time to visit: December to March (West/South). E-visa (ETA) required.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Temple of the Tooth

Everything you need to know before visiting Temple of the Tooth.

1

Where is Temple of the Tooth located?

Temple of the Tooth is located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is ranked #17 in our Top 100 World Pagodas list.

2

When was Temple of the Tooth built?

Temple of the Tooth was built in 16th century. UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tooth relic is considered so sacred that whoever holds it is believed to hold the governance of the country.

3

What is the best time to visit Temple of the Tooth?

The best time to visit Temple of the Tooth in Sri Lanka is during December to March (West/South). This is the Dry Season (Dec–Mar) when weather is most comfortable for sightseeing, with average temperatures of 27–30°C (80–86°F).

4

How much does it cost to visit Temple of the Tooth?

Entry fees for Temple of the Tooth are approximately $5–$15 USD (international visitors may pay more). Prices may vary by season and nationality. Check the official website for current rates.

5

How long should I spend at Temple of the Tooth?

Plan to spend 1–3 hours at Temple of the Tooth. Take time to appreciate the architecture and historical significance.

6

Is Temple of the Tooth a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes, Temple of the Tooth is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (ID: 450). It has been recognized for its outstanding universal value and is protected under international heritage conservation agreements.

7

What should I wear when visiting Temple of the Tooth?

Remove shoes before entering. Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid sleeveless tops and shorts. Some temples require long pants/skirts.

8

How many people visit Temple of the Tooth each year?

Temple of the Tooth receives approximately 2 million visitors per year, making it one of the popular pagodas in Sri Lanka.

9

How do I get to Temple of the Tooth?

Located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Reach Kandy by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Kandy center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.

10

Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?

E-visa (ETA) required. The local currency is Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Sri Lanka is in the UTC+5:30 timezone.

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