Sri Lanka is a country that is rich in culture and tradition, and one of the most spectacular displays of this culture is the Kandy Esala Perahera. This annual event is held in the city of Kandy, which is located in the central province of Sri Lanka. The Kandy Esala Perahera is a vibrant and colorful event that attracts tourists from all over the world.

What is the Kandy Esala Perahera?

The Kandy Esala Perahera is a religious and cultural festival that is celebrated annually in the month of July or August. It is a 10-day event that culminates in a grand parade, which is known as the Perahera. The parade is a procession of elephants, dancers, drummers, and other performers who march through the streets of Kandy.

The Perahera is led by the Temple of the Tooth Relic, which is one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. The temple houses a tooth relic of the Buddha, which is believed to have been brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD. The tooth relic is considered to be a symbol of power and prosperity, and it is believed to have the ability to protect the country from harm.

The Perahera begins with the Kumbal Perahera, which is a small procession that takes place for the first five nights of the event. The second five nights of the event are known as the Randoli Perahera, which is a much larger procession that is accompanied by hundreds of dancers and drummers.

What to expect at the Kandy Esala Perahera?

The Kandy Esala Perahera is a spectacular display of Sri Lankan culture and tradition. Visitors can expect to see a colorful procession of elephants, dancers, drummers, and other performers. The performers are dressed in vibrant costumes, and they perform traditional dances and music.

The highlight of the event is the tusker elephants, which are decorated with bright and colorful costumes. The elephants carry a replica of the tooth relic, which is placed on a gold casket. The sight of these majestic elephants, adorned in brightly colored costumes, is a truly breathtaking experience.

The Kandy Esala Perahera is also an opportunity to experience the local Sri Lankan cuisine. Visitors can sample traditional Sri Lankan food, which is cooked in the streets and sold by local vendors.

Tips for visiting the Kandy Esala Perahera

If you are planning to visit the Kandy Esala Perahera, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:

  1. Book your accommodation in advance, as hotels tend to fill up quickly during the festival.
  2. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the parade route.
  3. Dress appropriately, as the weather can be hot and humid during the festival.
  4. Respect the local culture and customs, and be mindful of the sacred nature of the event.

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Conclusion

The Kandy Esala Perahera is a must-see event for anyone visiting Sri Lanka. It is a spectacular display of Sri Lankan culture and tradition, and it provides a unique opportunity to experience the local customs and cuisine. Whether you are a cultural enthusiast or just looking for a fun and exciting experience, the Kandy Esala Perahera is an event that you will not want to miss.