Experience the
World most
Cultural
Festival
About Perahara
The Esala Perahera is one of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular and sacred festivals, held annually in Kandy to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. This vibrant procession spans over ten days in July or August, featuring elaborately adorned elephants, traditional Kandyan dancers, drummers, torchbearers, and whip crackers. The festival begins with the Kap Situweema ritual and culminates in the water-cutting ceremony at the Mahaweli River. Rooted in centuries-old tradition, it blends Buddhist devotion with Hindu devales dedicated to gods like Skanda, Vishnu, Natha, and Pattini, showcasing the island’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Final Randoli Procession
The final Randoli Perahera dazzled Kandy’s streets with majestic elephants, vibrant dancers, and sacred relics under moonlit reverence.
Final Kumbal Procession
Final Kumbal Perahera glows with sacred relics, royal tuskers, dancers, and drums—ushering in the next phase of celebration.
"Perahara Sannasa" to President
Perahera Sannasa scroll is ceremonially offered to the President, marking successful completion of Esala Perahera with divine blessings.
Honey Offering to the Sacred Tooth
Vedda chief offers wild honey to Sacred Tooth Relic, honoring ancient tradition and invoking blessings during Esala Perahera’s Randoli phase.
The planting of "Kapa"
Planting of Kapa begins Esala Perahera, invoking blessings with sacred jackfruit branch at four Devalayas in vibrant ritual.
The Perahara Exhibition
Perahera Art Exhibition showcases paintings, photos, and crafts honoring Kandy’s sacred procession, blending tradition with creative expression.