Malwathu Viharaya, adjacent to the Temple of the Tooth complex on its northern side, is one of the two most important monastic chapters in Sri Lankan Theravada Buddhism. The monastery complex contains an eighteenth-century image house, a chapter hall, and monks' residences surrounding several courtyards. The architecture is classical Kandyan, with intricate painted wooden eaves and carved stone moonstones.
Visitors are welcome outside of ceremonial periods, but this is an active and important monastery — dress conservatively, move quietly, and be aware that some areas are restricted to ordained monks. The monastery is closely linked to the Temple of the Tooth and can be seen in the same visit.