Esala Perahera in Kandy
The month-long celebrations of the Kandy Esala Perahera, in specific, has special cultural significance to Buddhists as the oldest Buddhist Festival still in occurrence. This Perehera is done by the Holy Temple of the Tooth in Kandy which holds the tooth relic of Buddha.The Esala Perahera, is where everything revolves around the Buddha’s canine, “mounted” on the back of the last dozen elephants that travel Kandy’s streets.
Most Historical religious procesion in Asia
From ancient times, Esala Poya Day, that appears between July and August, has been a full moon day for much celebration for the Buddhists. They commemorate the conception, renunciation and first sermon of Buddha on this day. As a mainly Buddhist country, Esala is celebrated with Peraheras in temples all around Sri Lanka. Pereheras are a cross between parades and circuses, but with a traditional twist.The procession of the Esala Perahera is the central event of a week of festivities, dances, colors, music, fire, crowds and smells.
Travel to Sri Lanka with Eden Travels in July and August and participate in the largest procession in Asia.
Our tour guarantee you the best views seen from the clearest spots. Listen to jingling footsteps of the glittering decorated elephants that head the parade with the enshrined Tooth Relic of Buddha. Watch the Kandyan dancers whirling as they dance in the golden glow of lit torches planted along the parade route. Watch the rows of drummers and other traditional musical instrument players show off their skills. Feast your eyes on the blurring lines of fire from fire dancers and the dangerous glittering metallic arcs formed by the sword dancers. Many more wonderful sights await you in each Kandy Esala Perahera every year.
