The splendid Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy houses a tooth of Lord Gautama Buddha. Many devotees, as well as sightseers, visit this distinctive and unique cultural attraction in Sri Lanka.
History
When Kandy became the capital of the Sinhalese kingdom, the tooth relic was taken to this city and enshrined in fine temples constructed to house it. The temple that houses the relic was initially constructed between the years of 1687 to 1707; however, in later times, the temple was extensively damaged in the colonial conflicts against the Dutch and Portuguese.
What to See
Painted in white featuring reddish coloured roofs, the temple buildings are situated around the picturesque Kandy Lake. Surrounding the temple complex visitors will see a low stone wall, also painted white, featuring carved openings that create a distinctive visual effect.
Festivals and Events
An important festival associated with the tooth relic is the Esala Perahera, which is the name given to a splendid parade featuring dignitaries, elephants, dancers, drummers and many other performers. As you experience the attractions, base yourself in one of the Kandy hotels the likes of Cinnamon Citadel Kandy which makes an ideal base from which to explore the city.
Appropriate Ways of Dressing and When to Visit
The tooth relic is regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most revered objects and the locals show great respect for this priceless national treasure. Men should attire themselves in long loose-fitting trousers and a shirt that covers the shoulders. On the other hand, ladies should take care to wear decent long loose-fitting pants or alternatively a long skirt which covers the legs.
Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+
