The Kandy Esala Perahera: Sri Lanka’s Grandest super Festival
The Kandy Esala Perahera in Sri Lanka is a land of vibrant festivals, but nothing compares to the grandeur and spiritual significance of the Kandy Esala Perahera. This magnificent annual event, held in Kandy, is one of the oldest and most spectacular Buddhist festivals in the world.
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The Kandy Esala Perahera is a dazzling procession of elephants, traditional dancers, drummers, fire performers, and Buddhist monks that winds through the streets of Kandy, paying homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha housed at the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa).
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, witnessing the Kandy Esala Perahera is an unforgettable experience filled with culture, tradition, and spirituality. This guide covers everything you need to know about the festival’s history, rituals, procession details, best viewing spots, and travel tips.
1. What is the Kandy Esala Perahera?
The Kandy Esala Perahera is a Buddhist festival held annually in July or August to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, enshrined at the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
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The festival is a blend of religious devotion, traditional performances, and cultural pageantry, believed to bring blessings, prosperity, and rainfall for agriculture. It spans ten nights, culminating in the Randoli Perahera, the grandest and most elaborate procession.
📅 Duration: 10 days (Late July – Early August)
📍 Location: Kandy, Sri Lanka
🕌 Main Purpose: Honoring the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha and invoking blessings for the country.
2. History and Significance of the Kandy Esala Perahera
The festival dates back to the 3rd century BCE, when Sri Lanka adopted Buddhism under King Devanampiya Tissa. However, the modern Esala Perahera tradition began in the 18th century during the reign of King Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe.
🔹 The Sacred Tooth Relic: The relic is believed to be a symbol of Buddhist sovereignty, and its possession signifies the right to rule the nation.
🔹 Hindu Influence: The Esala Perahera also incorporates Hindu elements, featuring processions for the deities Vishnu, Kataragama, Natha, and Pattini.
🔹 Rain Ceremony (Kap Situweema): The festival is linked to ancient rituals invoking rainfall for a good harvest.
3. Rituals & Highlights of the Festival
The Kandy Esala Perahera consists of five separate processions:
1. Dalada Maligawa Perahera (Sacred Tooth Relic Procession)
2. Natha Devale Perahera (Dedicated to Lord Natha)
3. Vishnu Devale Perahera (Dedicated to Lord Vishnu)
4. Kataragama Devale Perahera (Dedicated to Lord Kataragama)
5. Pattini Devale Perahera (Dedicated to Goddess Pattini)
🔹 Key Events & Traditions
🔥 Kap Situweema (Planting the Holy Log): The festival begins with a sacred log-cutting ceremony, signifying the start of the Perahera.
🕯️ Kumbal Perahera (First 5 Nights): The initial procession with elephants, drummers, and dancers—less elaborate than the final nights.
🕯️ Randoli Perahera (Final 5 Nights): The most spectacular part of the festival, featuring the golden casket carrying the Sacred Tooth Relic, lavishly decorated elephants, and grand performances.
🐘 The Maligawa Tusker: The most revered elephant in the procession carries the golden relic casket on its back.
🎶 Traditional Kandyan Dances & Drumming: Performers in vibrant costumes showcase fire-dancing, whip-cracking, and drumming.
✨ Fire Dancers & Torch Bearers: The night sky is lit with fire torches, enhancing the mystical atmosphere.
🛕 Diya Kapeema (Water Cutting Ceremony): The festival concludes with a ritual at the Mahaweli River, symbolizing spiritual purification.
4. Best Places to Watch the Kandy Esala Perahera
The Perahera route passes through central Kandy, and finding a good spot is crucial.
🔹 Best Viewing Spots
📍 Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) – The most sacred and prestigious location.
📍 Queen’s Hotel Balcony – Offers an elevated view of the parade.
📍 Yatinuwara Street & Dalada Veediya – Close to the Temple, great for seeing elephants up close.
📍 Earl’s Regency & Other Hotels – Some hotels offer private viewing balconies.
💡 Tip: Book your seat early (at least 2-3 months in advance), as premium seating sells out fast.
5. How to Get to The Kandy Esala Perahera
Kandy is easily accessible from Colombo and other major cities.
🚆 By Train: The scenic Colombo to Kandy train is the most beautiful way to travel (3.5 hours).
🚗 By Car/Taxi: A private taxi from Colombo to Kandy takes around 3-4 hours.
🚌 By Bus: Public and private buses operate frequently but can be crowded.
💡 Tip: Arrive in Kandy at least one day before the Perahera to secure accommodation.
6. Travel Tips for Experiencing the Perahera
✔️ Arrive Early: Streets get crowded hours before the procession starts.
✔️ Book Accommodation in Advance: Hotels in Kandy fill up months before the festival.
✔️ Wear Modest Clothing: As this is a religious event, wear long pants/skirts and cover your shoulders.
✔️ Bring Water & Snacks: The event lasts several hours.
✔️ Respect the Elephants: Avoid unethical elephant-riding tours; only watch them in the parade.
7. Where to Stay During the Kandy Esala Perahera?
Hotels fill up quickly, so book in advance. Here are some top recommendations:
🏨 Luxury Stay:
Earl’s Regency – Stunning views and a balcony for Perahera viewing.
The Grand Kandyan Hotel – 5-star comfort close to the procession route.
🏨 Mid-Range Stay:
OZO Kandy – Modern amenities and good accessibility.
Thilanka Hotel – Great views of the festival.
🏨 Budget Stay:
Kandy City Hotel – Affordable and centrally located.
Kandy View Hotel – Basic but comfortable.
8. Why You Should Experience the Kandy Esala Perahera
✨ Cultural & Religious Experience: Immerse yourself in Buddhism, Kandyan traditions, and Sri Lankan heritage.
✨ Breathtaking Performances: Witness fire dancers, drummers, and traditional costumes.
✨ Majestic Elephants: See beautifully adorned elephants carrying sacred relics.
✨ A Once-in-a-Lifetime Event: One of the most spectacular processions in the world!
The Kandy Esala Perahera is not just a festival—it’s an experience that captures the heart and soul of Sri Lanka. Whether you’re drawn by its religious significance, cultural performances, or dazzling pageantry, witnessing this grand spectacle will be one of the most unforgettable moments of your travels.
