In the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, Kandy, a momentous event is set to unfold in April 2025—the Kandy Dalada Pradarshanaya. This special exhibition of the Sacred Tooth Relic, housed in the revered Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth), promises to draw millions of devotees and visitors from across the globe. Scheduled from April 18 to April 28, 2025, this rare occasion marks the first such exposition in 16 years, making it a historic pilgrimage opportunity.
A Sacred Legacy
The Sacred Tooth Relic, believed to be the left canine tooth of Lord Buddha, holds profound significance for Buddhists worldwide. Brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD by Princess Hemamala and Prince Dantha from Kalinga, India, it has since been a symbol of sovereignty and spiritual power. Housed in Kandy since the 16th century, the relic is enshrined within the golden casket of the Sri Dalada Maligawa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Dalada Pradarshanaya—or exhibition—offers a rare chance to view this venerated relic up close, an event steeped in reverence and tradition.
What to Expect in 2025
The exhibition kicks off on April 18, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM, followed by public viewing from April 19 to April 28, daily between 12:00 noon and 5:30 PM. Organized at the request of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and approved by the Mahanayake Theras of the Malwatta and Asgiriya Chapters, this event is expected to attract over two million visitors. The city of Kandy will transform into a vibrant hub of spirituality, with streets adorned with Buddhist flags, illuminated by lights, and filled with the chants of devotees.
Venerable Urulewatte Dhammarakkhita Thero of the Asgiriya Chapter has urged the public to display Buddhist flags on homes and vehicles, emphasizing decorum and unity during this sacred period. The event will not only honor the relic but also showcase Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, blending ancient traditions with communal devotion.
Why It Matters
For Buddhists, the Sacred Tooth Relic is a living representation of Lord Buddha, believed to bring blessings of rain, prosperity, and peace. Historically, its guardianship signified a ruler’s legitimacy, a tradition that echoes through Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms—from Anuradhapura to Kandy. The 2025 exhibition, the first since March 6, 2009, revives this legacy, offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience for pilgrims and travelers alike.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re planning to attend, book your accommodation in Kandy well in advance, as the city will buzz with activity. Arrive early to secure a spot, dress modestly to respect local customs, and prepare for a deeply moving experience. The Sri Dalada Maligawa, nestled beside the Kandy Lake and framed by the Udawattakele Forest, is a sight to behold even beyond the exhibition.
A Connection to Sigiriya
Like Sigiriya, a testament to Sri Lanka’s architectural and cultural prowess, the Dalada Pradarshanaya reflects the island’s enduring spiritual heritage. Both sites—Sigiriya with its rock fortress and Kandy with its sacred temple—invite visitors to explore the layers of history that define this remarkable nation. A trip combining these destinations in 2025 promises an unforgettable journey through time and faith.
Mark your calendars for April 2025 and join the millions who will gather in Kandy to witness this extraordinary event. The Kandy Dalada Pradarshanaya is more than an exhibition—it’s a celebration of devotion, history, and the unbreakable spirit of Sri Lanka.
