Experience the vibrant and captivating Kumbal Perahera night festivities of the Kandy Esala Perahera. Join the Devale Peraheras, enjoy traditional music and drumming, and witness the firing of cannonballs.
-
Esala Perahera Festival - The Esala Perahera in Kandy is one of the oldest and grandest of all Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka, featuring dancers, jugglers, musicians, fire-breathers, & many more. This is held in Esala (July or August) which is the month that is believed to commemorate the first teaching given by the Buddha after he attained enlightenment. The Kandy Esala Perahera lasts for ten days while various festivities can be witnessed right throughout. The Sinhalese term
Perahera
means a parade of musicians, dancers, singers, acrobats and various other performers.
- Entry OR Admission Fee
- Private seat to view Kandy Esala Perahara
Kumbal Perahera
On the sixth night, the Kumbal Perahera commences and continues for five days. Initially, the Devale Perahera gathers in front of the Temple of the Tooth. The emblems placed on the ransivige (a dome-like structure) are accompanied by the Basnayake Nilames (the lay custodians of the Devales). Drummers and dancers are present in all these Peraheras.
For the next five nights, the “Devale Peraheras” take place within the premises of the four Devales, with the priest of each Devale taking the pole every evening, accompanied by music and drumming, flag and canopy bearers, spearmen, and the Ran Ayudha, the sacred insignia of the Gods.
The following important times are announced by the firing of cannonballs, which can be heard all across Kandy:
• The commencement of the Devale Perahera
• The commencement of the Dalada Maligawa Perahera
• The completion of the Perahera
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
