How To Experience The Vesak Festival In Colombo

Each year, the city of Colombo in Sri Lanka turns into a festive wonder during the Vesak festival. It is the island’s biggest Buddhist festival. The festival focuses on the Journey of Lord Buddha from his birth, enlightenment, to death. Colombo becomes a living canvas where traditions and culture are expressed in art. Whether you are a foreigner or a local rediscovering its magic, here is how to have an unforgettable experience during Vesak in Colombo.

Plan Your Trip Around The Full Moon

In May, on the full moon day, Vesak is celebrated. Dates vary slightly every year, so it is important to check the Sri Lankan Buddhist calendar before you book your flights. Most festivities last for a few days, with main events concentrated on the day of the full moon, locally known as Vesak Poya. If you arrive in Colombo a day or two earlier, you will see the transformation of this beautiful city. The weather in May is perfect for outdoor activities like exploring Vesak exhibits; however, there may be occasional rain showers. Make sure to take your umbrella or a raincoat with you.  

Stay In A Central Location

Accommodation is the key if you want easy access to Vesak hotspots. If you stay on the outskirts of Colombo, you will encounter traffic while entering the city limits. Therefore, it is important to pick a location at the heart of Colombo, like NH Collection Colombo, which will allow you to travel easily on foot or by bicycle. You can enjoy the major Vesak displays and local attractions while also enjoying the quiet, modern retreat after a night of festivities.

See The Lanterns Light Up The City

You will have a lot of Colombo things to do during Vesak. Colombo streets are filled with elaborate Vesak lanterns, known as Vesak koodu in Sinhala and massive light displays called Thorang. Thorangs are massive artistic displays about Lord Buddha's journey, scriptures and stories from the 550 stories of lord buddha. Some of these are made of thousands of tiny colored bulbs. These installations often take months, however, the result is jaw-dropping. You will see some amazing lanterns, thorangs and Dan-sals in Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Gangaramaya Temple area and Viharamahadevi Park.

Participate In Dan-Sal (Almsgivings)

Another important part of Vesak is Dan-sal. They are free food stalls run by volunteers offering meals, drinks, snacks or even things like perfumes to anyone passing by. From traditional rice and curry to chilled faluda drinks and ice creams, this is where the festival’s spirit of generosity is seen. To participate, simply stand in the queue. No payments, no catches, just goodwill of the community. You will meet many locals in these queues who are very friendly, they might even share stories or translate things for you and guide you to have an amazing time.

Immerse Yourself In The Spiritual Side

While the beautiful decorations and authentic Sri Lankan food are amazing, don’t miss the spiritual essence of Vesak. Visit local temples like Gangaramaya, Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya or Seema Malaka for calm reflections. If visiting a temple, wear something long, sleeved and white. You can light oil lamps, offer flowers and light scented sticks to pray for your future and your loved ones. You can join meditation retreats or observe Sil at temples like Sri Sambodhi Viharaya, which involves listening to priests preach about Buddha's teachings. Even if you are not a Buddhist, you can experience the Buddhist ways. It is a beautiful way to understand Sri Lankan culture and values on a deeper level.

Explore Other Things In Colombo

Vesak is a fantastic gateway into Sri Lankan culture, but Colombo has much more to offer. During the daytime, explore the national museum, walk around the Independence Square or enjoy a peaceful boat ride at Diyatha Uyana. After a night of lantern-gazing, you might enjoy relaxing at a rooftop café.