Experience Buddhist Enlightenment in the Heart of Sri Lanka

The Sri Dalada Vandanawa, or the Special Sacred Exposition of the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, is a sacred and once-in-a-generation event happening at the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) in Kandy, Sri Lanka from 18th to 27th April 2025. This marks the first public exposition in 16 years, making it a truly historic and spiritual moment for Buddhists and visitors from around the world.

Organized under the guidance of the Mahanayake Theras and supported by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, this event coincides with the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, aiming to promote peace, unity, and spiritual renewal throughout the nation.

What is the Sri Dalada Vandanawa?

It is a special 10-day public exposition of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, which is normally kept hidden inside the Temple of the Tooth. Devotees and tourists have a rare chance to worship the relic during this limited period.

When can I see the Sacred Tooth Relic?

  • 18th April 2025 ā€“ from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM

  • 19th to 27th April 2025 ā€“ from 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM daily

How can I travel to Kandy for this event?

You can use regular trains and buses to reach Kandy, but two special trains have been arranged exclusively for the Sri Dalada Vandanawa 2025. These trains will operate daily from April 18 to April 28, providing convenient travel options for thousands of expected pilgrims.

Special Train Time Table for Dalada Vandanawa 2025

Special Train Number 01 (Colombo Fort to Kandy)

šŸ—“ļø Daily from April 18 to April 28
šŸ•” Departure: 05:00 AM from Colombo Fort

Stops and Times:

  • Colombo Fort ā€“ 05:00 AM
  • Ragama ā€“ 05:19 AM
  • Gampaha ā€“ 05:31 AM
  • Veyangoda ā€“ 05:41 AM
  • Mirigama ā€“ 05:54 AM
  • Polgahawela ā€“ 06:06 AM
  • Rambukkana ā€“ 06:27 AM
  • Ihala Kotte ā€“ 06:52 AM
  • Balana ā€“ 07:10 AM
  • Peradeniya ā€“ 07:43 AM
  • Kandy ā€“ 07:57 AM

This early morning train ensures you arrive well in time to attend the event and peacefully join the exposition queue.

Special Train Number 02 (Kandy to Colombo Fort)

šŸ—“ļø Daily from April 18 to April 28
šŸ•˜ Departure: 09:10 AM from Kandy
Stops and Times:

  • Kandy ā€“ 09:10 AM

  • Peradeniya ā€“ 09:19 AM

  • Kadigamuwa ā€“ 10:10 AM

  • Rambukkana ā€“ 10:27 AM

  • Polgahawela ā€“ 10:38 AM

  • Mirigama ā€“ 11:02 AM

  • Veyangoda ā€“ 11:15 AM

  • Gampaha ā€“ 11:26 AM

  • Ragama ā€“ 11:39 AM

  • Maradana ā€“ 11:55 AM

  • Colombo Fort ā€“ 12:01 PM

This train is perfect for returning pilgrims or those wishing to travel back after an overnight stay in Kandy.

Where is the event held?

At the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth), a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the city of Kandy, Central Province.

Whom should I contact for more information?

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – Contact Numbers
šŸ“ž +94 812234226 / +94 812205901 / +94 812236201
šŸ“± +94 701564347
šŸ“§ Email: info@sridaladamaligawa.lk

Are there facilities for food, toilets, and water?

Yes. Organizers have taken every step to provide:

  • Sanitary facilities for all attendees
  • Drinking water stations in and around the temple
  • Approval for ā€œDansalsā€ (free food stalls) for devotees

What should I do in an emergency?

šŸ“ž Police Emergency: 118 / 119
šŸš‘ Ambulance/Fire: 1990 / 110
šŸ„ Kandy Hospital: 081-2233337 / 081-2222261
šŸ„ Peradeniya Hospital: 081-2388001ā€“6
šŸ“ž Government Helpline: 1919

How safe is the event?

  • The event is highly secure:
  • Three dedicated entry lines for crowd control
  • Medical and traffic teams deployed on-site
  • Government and military support for public safety
  • Guidance from Buddhist clergy and event officials

Can tourists attend?

Yes! Tourists are welcome to participate.

You can:

  • Join locals in the spiritual journey
  • Learn about Sri Lankan Buddhist culture
  • Enjoy the serene beauty of Kandy and its heritage sites

Why is this event important?

  • Itā€™s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the Sacred Tooth Relic
  • It strengthens cultural identity and religious unity
  • It brings people together during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year
  • It offers a chance for spiritual reflection and enlightenment

Final Tips for Visitors:

  • Dress modestly and respectfully (white clothes preferred)
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds
  • Carry only essentials
  • Follow local customs and temple guidelines
  • Be patient and compassionate ā€” it’s a shared spiritual space

Come be part of a once-in-16-years event that blends tradition, faith, and community spirit. Whether you’re a local pilgrim or a curious traveler, Sri Dalada Vandanawa 2025 promises to be a soulful and unforgettable experience in the heart of Sri Lanka.