August
The Kandy Esala Perahera is Sri Lanka’s grandest event, a fascinating parade of almost 100 caparisoned elephants, accompanied by dozens of drummers, dynamic Kandyan dancers, whirling fire dancers, standard bearers, agile acrobats, spinning jugglers, students and dignitaries dressed in the traditional, elaborate Kandyan costume. It is a kaleidoscopic spectacle witnessed by thousands who line the streets and watch in awe during the three-hour long procession. The shimmering gold casket being carried by the most majestic elephant, the Maligawa Tusker. The first five nights of the public perahera are known as the “kumbal”, while the final and most spectacular five nights are the “ randoli” perahera.
Vel Festival – some of Colombo’s main streets take on a festival atmosphere when the main Hindu festival takes place and the ornately decorated Vel Chariot makes its annual trip carrying the weapons of god Skanda from one temple to another.
Nallur Festival Jaffna
NIKINI POYA full moon day is on 10th August