Festivals & events
Festivals and events that shape a trip — celebrations, closures, peak prices and when to book ahead.
Duruthu Perahera
Celebration
Jan · approximate dates
January procession at the Kelaniya temple near Colombo, marking the Buddha's visit to the island.
Sinhala & Tamil New Year
Closures
Apr
Island-wide new year (mid-April). Shops close and transport is very busy for several days.
Vesak Poya
Celebration
May · approximate dates
The most sacred Buddhist full moon, streets lit with lanterns and free food stalls (dansala). Usually May.
Kandy Esala Perahera
Book ahead
Jul–Aug · approximate dates
Spectacular ten-night procession of drummers, dancers and decorated elephants in Kandy. Lunar dates, Jul–Aug.
