Festivals

There are many festivals in Sri Lanka mainly of two sorts, cultural and religious. Buddhist religious festivals such as Vesak (Buddha Poornima) or Poson are celebrated island wide, with Vesak lanterns and “Thorana” (pandols – huge story-telling pictures lit with electric bulbs – which have now gone digital). Thaipongal and Deepavali, and Hajj and Ramadan are celebrated by the Hindu and Muslim brethren respectively. Christmas is an event enjoyed by many Sri Lankans irrespective of their religions. The most dominant festival of all, celebrated by almost all Sri Lankans, is the New Year. Visit during the month of April and you can taste yummy sweetmeats, experience the rituals at the auspicious times and participate in New Year games! In addition, the Kandy “Esala” and Colombo “Navam” processions display spectacular festivities of native dance, parades, colours and traditions brought together. Better reserve your tickets for these as they sell fast.