Written by Muhammad Thahir · Sources checked 4 November 2026
The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, Sri Dalada Maligawa, is open daily from 5.30 am to 8 pm. The best time to visit is during one of the three daily rituals, when drummers play and the inner shrine doors open. Foreign visitors pay LKR 3,000, wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees, and leave shoes at the entrance.
When are the daily rituals?
The temple’s daily service page lists three ceremonies, known as thevava. Drums announce each one, and visitors queue to pass the shrine room when the doors open.
| Ritual | Listed time | What to expect |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 5.30–7 am | Quietest; local devotees bring flowers before work |
| Midday | 9.30–11 am | Busy with tour groups |
| Evening | 6.30–8 pm | The most atmospheric, with drumming and oil lamps |
Checked 4 November 2026The temple’s own pages give slightly different end times for some rituals. Arrive at the start time, and check on the day with the temple or your guide.
Tickets, dress and entry rules
The temple’s visitor FAQ sets these rules.
- Tickets: LKR 3,000 for most foreign visitors, and LKR 2,500 for SAARC, Thai and Myanmar nationals. Buy only from the machines on site.
- What the ticket covers: the temple, the Dalada Museum, the World Buddhist Museum, the Tusker Museum and the Royal Elephant Stable.
- Dress: shorts, sleeveless tops and revealing clothes are not allowed. Suitable clothing is available at the entrances.
- Shoes and bags: leave footwear and bulky bags at the reception booths, and keep the token.
- Security: all visitors and offerings are scanned. Plastic bags and containers are not allowed.
How to plan your visit
Allow 90 minutes
Time for the security check, the ritual queue and at least one of the museums.
Carry socks
The stone floors get hot in the middle of the day.
Pair with a dance show
Evening cultural shows near Kandy Lake end in time for the evening ritual. See our traditional dance guide.
Avoid peak Poya crowds
Full-moon days are very busy with pilgrims. Visit the day before or after for an easier experience.
Read our temple etiquette guide for photo rules and offerings. The temple is also the starting point of the Kandy Esala Perahera.
Kandy and Colombo in a few days?
Our heritage explorer tour includes Kandy’s temple and the capital’s historic districts.
Time your Kandy visit to a ritual
Tell us your arrival day in Kandy. Our tailor-made team can schedule the drive so you reach the temple for the evening ceremony.
Temple of the Tooth questions
What time is the puja at the Temple of the Tooth?
The temple lists three daily rituals: morning from 5.30 am, midday from 9.30 am and evening from 6.30 pm. The evening ritual is the most atmospheric. Arrive at the start time, as end times vary slightly.
How much is the Temple of the Tooth ticket?
The temple lists LKR 3,000 for most foreign visitors and LKR 2,500 for SAARC, Thai and Myanmar nationals. The ticket also covers several museums on site. Buy tickets only from the official machines.
What should I wear to the Temple of the Tooth?
Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops and revealing clothes are not allowed, though suitable clothing is available at the entrance. You will also leave your shoes at a reception booth.
Featured photo: Ruwan Lakmal / Pexels. Temple of the Tooth, Kandy; illustrative destination photograph.
