The Raja Museum

The Raja Museum is a very special and unique place located in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is a small museum dedicated entirely to one famous elephant named Raja. Raja was a majestic “tusker” (an elephant with tusks) who served the Temple of the Tooth Relic for over 50 years.

When Raja died in 1988, he was so loved that the government and the temple decided to preserve his body. Today, you can see his life-sized taxidermied body standing tall inside this museum. It is located right inside the complex of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), near the old Royal Palace. It serves as a tribute to this noble animal who is considered a national hero in Sri Lanka.

📌 Why Should Visit

✅ A National Treasure: Raja was not just an ordinary elephant. In 1986, the President of Sri Lanka declared him a “National Treasure.” He is one of the few animals in the world to receive such a high honor.

✅ Cultural History: Visiting here helps you understand the deep bond between Sri Lankan culture, Buddhism, and elephants.

✅ Unique Sight: It is rare to see a preserved elephant of this size up close. It gives you a real sense of how grand and majestic he was when he was alive.

📌 Other Important Details 

↔️ Service: Raja carried the sacred casket (which holds the Tooth Relic of the Buddha) in the famous Kandy Esala Perahera procession for 37 years.

↔️ Respect: He was known for his very good behavior and noble qualities. Even when he was in pain or old, he performed his duties calmly.

↔️ Preservation: After he passed away, taxidermists carefully preserved his skin and tusks to make him look exactly as he did when he was alive.

📌 Things to Do 

🌟 View the Tusker: Stand in front of the massive, preserved body of Raja.

🌟 See the Photos: Walk around the hall to see a collection of rare photographs showing Raja from his childhood until his old age.

🌟 See the Costumes: Look at the special equipment and costumes Raja wore during the festivals.

🌟 Read the Story: Read the information boards that tell the story of how he was captured, trained, and how he served the temple.

📌 How to Get There 

 The museum is located inside the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.

🚌 By Bus/Train: Take a bus or train to Kandy City.

🚶 Walk: From Kandy city center (Clock Tower), it is a short 10-minute walk to the Temple.

📍 Inside the Complex: Once you enter the main gate of the Temple of the Tooth, walk towards the Royal Palace area on the left side. You will see signs for the “Raja Tusker Museum.”

📌 What Experience Visitors Can Get

➕ Emotional Connection: Many locals feel very emotional here because they remember seeing Raja when they were young.

➕ Educational: You will learn about how elephants are trained and treated in traditional Sri Lankan culture.

➕ Awe: Standing next to such a huge animal is a powerful feeling. You can see the size of his tusks and his gentle eyes up close.

📌 Important Tips and Guides 

⚠️ Dress Code: Since this is inside the temple complex, you must wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.

⚠️ Remove Shoes: You will likely need to remove your shoes before entering the museum area, just like in the main temple.

⚠️ Be Quiet: It is a respectful place, so speak softly.

⚠️ No Flash Photography: Check the signs before taking photos. Sometimes flash is not allowed to protect the exhibits.

The Raja Museum is a quick but meaningful stop when you visit Kandy. It is a heartwarming tribute to an animal that gave his whole life to service and tradition. Whether you love history, animals, or culture, seeing Raja is a memory you will keep forever.