The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is a Buddhist temple in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is located in the royal palace complex which housed the last ruling kings of Sri Lanka.
According to historical accounts, the tooth relic was brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century CE, hidden in the hair of a princess. Since ancient times, it has been believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country.
The temple complex draws millions of pilgrims each year, and the Esala Perahera festival — one of Asia's greatest street pageants — is held in its honour every July and August.
