How to Celebrate the Esala Perahera Festival Like a Local in Kandy

The Esala Perahera is one of the oldest cultural festivals in Sri Lanka. It takes place in Kandy during July or August. Many locals gather to honour the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. The festival lasts for about ten nights, and it ends with a grand procession featuring dancers, drummers, and elephants. If you want to take part like a local, preparation matters. Let us take a look at how to best experience the Esala Perahera like a local.

Know the Festival Dates

The Perahera follows the lunar calendar, which is why the dates can change. Check the exact dates before you plan your trip. The last five nights are generally the most crowded, as these are also the most impressive. If it’s your first time, you can consider attending one of the earlier nights as the crowds tend to be smaller. You will still get to see everything. If you are choosing to attend the last night, be prepared to wade through large crowds just to get closer to see the processions.

Book Your Stay in Advance

Kandy fills up quickly during the Perahera. As many locals often host friends and family.

Hotels and guesthouses usually get booked out early. Make sure to start looking and find a place to stay at least a month before the festival. Choose somewhere near the Temple of the Tooth or the lake. You will be able to avoid long walks or traffic jams later in the day. Many roads will also be closed beforehand, and so walking will be the best option. After the procession is finished, you will want to get back to your hotel to rest, so it is important to choose somewhere close by.

Arrive Early to Get a Good Spot

Make sure you get to Kandy early; many tour operators, such as Ceylon Tours, will be able to arrange transport for you to arrive on time rather than relying on public transport. It is advisable to choose a reputable travel company in Sri Lanka, as you do not want to arrive late to Kandy because of transport issues. Locals start reserving places along the street in the afternoon itself. Bring a mat or a small stool to sit on. Some people even use cardboard. If you want to sit in the front row close to the procession, you will need to get there before 4:00 pm. Pack water and snacks. There are long waits before the parade begins.

Dress Respectfully

The Esala Perahera is a religious event, and so locals wear modest clothing. Cover your shoulders and knees. White clothes are commonly worn as they show respect and will help you blend in with the crowd.

Understand What You’re Seeing

Each night features dancers from different provinces.

Fire twirlers will usually lead the way. Drummers and whip crackers will follow. The elephants carry sacred symbols. The main elephant carries the casket that houses the tooth relics, and it walks last in the parade. Ask someone next to you to explain what’s happening, as most locals are happy to share.

Avoid Flash Photography

The light disturbs the dancers and animals. Many locals don’t take photos at all, and instead, they focus on the rituals. If you want to take pictures, make sure you do it without a flash, and you should never step into the street while the procession is going on.

Stay for the Day Perahera

On the final day, there’s a daytime procession which starts in the morning.

Fewer people attend, but it is quite impressive and detailed. If you missed the night shows or want a different view, this is a good option.