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Malwathu Maha Viharaya

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Malwathu Maha Viharaya

Malwathu Maha Viharaya

This Buddhist temple in Kandy serves as the head temple of the Malwatta chapter of the Siam Nikaya. It is one of two institutions responsible for the care of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which is enshrined at the nearby Temple of the Tooth. Visitors go here to observe the administrative and spiritual center of the monastic order and to participate in pilgrimage activities.

Getting There

The temple is located within the central area of Kandy. From the city center, it is accessible via a short walk or a quick tuk-tuk ride, typically taking less than 10 minutes depending on the exact starting point.

Duration of Visit

Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to walk through the grounds and observe the temple architecture and monastic environment.

When to Visit

The site can become crowded during Buddhist religious festivals and public holidays. To avoid the largest crowds, visit during weekday mornings. The weather in Kandy is generally temperate, though the rainy season can affect outdoor movement.

Nearby Attractions

Because of its central location, this site can be combined with several other points of interest within walking distance:

  • Temple of the Tooth (0.4km)
  • National Museum of Kandy (0.4km)
  • Wales Park (0.4km)
  • Temple of the Tooth Museum (0.5km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Malwathu Maha Viharaya

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Good to visit alongside

National Museum of Kandy

Museums & galleries

National Museum of Kandy

A museum right next to the Temple of the Tooth, on the site of the former Kandy royal palace. Exhibits are spread across the former queens' residence and the main palace building, offering a look at royal life and history.

0.4 km away
Temple of the Tooth

Temples & religious sites

Temple of the Tooth

A Buddhist temple on the site of the former Kandy royal palace, enshrining a tooth relic of the Buddha. Its historical and religious significance is such that it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

0.4 km away
Wales Park

Parks & gardens

Wales Park

A small park on a hill in central Kandy, offering sweeping views over Kandy Lake and the town below. It was originally laid out by a Sri Lankan king and later renamed during British rule in honor of the Prince of Wales.

0.4 km away
Temple of the Tooth Museum

Museums & galleries

Temple of the Tooth Museum

A museum housed in the first- and second-floor exhibition spaces of the Temple of the Tooth building. It's a great place to explore artifacts and records related to the temple and learn about the history of Kandy's Temple of the Tooth in depth.

0.5 km away
Royal Palace of Kandy

Castles & palaces

Royal Palace of Kandy

This palace served as the residence of the monarchs of the Kingdom of Kandy until British colonial rule began in 1815. It preserves intricate wood carvings, stone sculptures, and murals in the traditional Kandyan style.

0.5 km away
International Buddhist Museum

Museums & galleries

International Buddhist Museum

The world's first international Buddhist museum, located next to the Temple of the Tooth and the Kandy National Museum. It's housed in a British colonial-era building on the site of the former royal palace, adding to its historical significance.

0.5 km away