Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum - All You Need to Know

There is something about Singapore that has held so much attention over the years. Despite being one of the busiest city-states in the world and time and again frequented by travellers, people have yet barely managed to scratch the surface of its intricate beauty. If you too, like others are intrigued by the essence of the country, browse from our available Singapore tour packages to book your very own getaway to this melting pot culture and timeless destinations.

Much like the official mascot of this island country - the Merlion - Singapore pulsates with energy, culture, and a blend of traditions. So much so that its reflections can be seen and felt in every nook and cranny. From urban marvels to parks and human-designed forests, marinas, temples, and museums, a vibrant tapestry is woven into the bricks and hearts of its residents. And among these marvels is one that stands true to the traditions and is a celebrated place of worship - a repository of spiritually significant artefacts, relics and age-old wisdom - the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum.

Here’s what this blog covers: -

• About the Temple of Tooth
• The Museum and Other Attractions
• Etiquettes to Follow During Your Visit
• Best Time to Visit the Buddha Tooth Temple

About the Temple of Tooth

Located in Chinatown, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Singapore, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is not only a revered place of worship but also a testament to the thousands of years old rich Buddhist heritage.

Beautifully designed and built shadowing the Tang Dynasty, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple stands as a testament to Singapore’s multicultural heritage. The facade of the temple complete with its four storied floors, intricately carved sanctums, murals depicting Buddhist stories and teachings, lacquered red roofs and green shutters stands out from the high-rise complexes surrounding the temple.

If that is not enough to catch your attention, the soft chanting of monks and flickering butter lamps lining the outer halls will surely drag you in like a moth to a flame.

The temple was built in 2007 to commemorate its centrepiece, the sacred relic of the Buddha’s tooth enshrined inside the inner chamber of the fourth floor. The piece is believed to have been discovered after his cremation and is a relic to be worshipped. Dominating the room is the gold Sacred Buddha's Tooth Relic Stupa that holds the relic. Surrounding the stupa are ancient structures, paintings and carvings of dragons and heavenly beings that keep watch over the temple.

Similar to many famous places in Singapore, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is an amalgamation of what Buddhism stands for. A perfect place for devout worshippers and curious travellers alike.

The Museum and Other Attractions

Aside from the religious significance of the Buddha Tooth, the temple also houses a museum dedicated to Buddhist art, culture and teachings. The museum exhibits a vast collection of artefacts, relics, and artworks, offering visitors a deeper understanding of Buddhism's rich history and teachings.

Besides the temple and museum, there is a huge prayer hall on the first floor; a second floor that serves as a library that adds to the visitor’s experience and the basement is perfect for holding seminars, workshops, and performances;

Etiquettes to Follow During Your Visit

The Temple of the Buddha Tooth Relic is a place of worship and like any other temple, there are certain ethics that you should follow. Taking the time to learn about them before your trip is a sure-shot way of having a great experience.

• Dress Modestly - Though temples in Singapore are not as strict as those found across the world, as a sign of respect, it is advisable to wear modest clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. As the saying goes, it never hurts to overdress.
• Maintain Silence - When you are exploring the sanctum, halls and chambers of the temple, it is best to maintain silence and show respect for the devotees, priests, relics and artefacts housed within the temple.
• Follow Temple Rules - Temples are sacred places, the zen centre of life where rules and regulations are practised to maintain sanctity. During your visit, pay attention to any instructions provided at the time of entry, and keep to the designated pathways. No matter how tempting it may be, respect the areas marked as off-limits.

Respecting the environment, the local community, and cultural sensitivity is in our culture. When you travel to a new place, there is no doubt that you are going to leave a footprint. But there is an old saying, leave the world a better place than how you found it.

Best Time to Visit the Buddha Tooth Temple

The Tooth Relic Temple is much more than an architectural splendour. It stands as a tranquil hideaway in the lap of spirituality. But to truly witness the spiritual essence of the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum, you need to time your visit.

Opening Hours

The temple is open to the public from Monday to Sunday between 7 AM to 7 PM.

The museum and stupa chambers are open all 7 days between 9 AM to 6 PM.

Entry inside this imposing structure is completely free of cost and you can explore the Buddhist Culture Museum, Sacred Relic Chamber and the Eminent Sangha Museum with ease.

For those who yearn to explore the temple in tranquillity and avoid the crowd, early mornings and early evenings are the best time to slip into the peaceful sanctum of the temple. With the bells chiming, monotonous chanting, and the smell of incense wafting through the rooms, even the air feels lighter to breathe.

But, if you are one for chasing the morning hours and want to spectate the architecture bathing in the golden hues, wide gawking eyes taking in the splendour and tour groups lining the halls, then visit during mid-afternoon.

Throughout the year, the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum hosts ceremonies, cultural and religious events, and meditation sessions. With its awe-inspiring architecture, the spiritual ambience adds to the charm of the place, inviting both locals and tourists to participate in the celebration of life.

Especially on Vesak, what many call Buddha Jayanti, a day commemorating the birth, enlightenment and passing of the Lord Buddha, the temple is adorned with colourful decorations, and devotees flocking from across the world chanting sutras. The temple is illuminated with lanterns and cultural displays, and relics are displayed for those on the journey of discovery and enlightenment.

Singapore and its bustling cities with fancy malls, parks for private exploration, elite suburbs, unrivalled views and a distinct romantic charm make it just right for honeymooners, solo travellers, and family trips. Whether you spend your time exploring Chinatown, promenading at the waterfront, visiting Marina Bay, taking in the panoramic views from the Tiger Sky Tower, or sitting in one of the cafes at Little Town, Singapore promises a transformative experience.

Tailor your visit or opt for one of the group tour packages and have a dedicated tour guide accompany you. We also have a dedicated list of Singapore family packages and Singapore packages for couples that will provide you with a complete experience - right from accommodation to activity, tour and transfer.

From cultural engagement to romantic escapades, there is no shortage of adventures that await you in the Lion City.