Are you planning your travels for 2025 and looking for a unique travel experience that combines culture, history and an incredible display of tradition? Then look no further! The Kandy Perahera Festival in Sri Lanka should be at the top of your list.

Regarded as one of the oldest and most vibrant Buddhist festivals in the world, we at MAHO on Earth had the privilege of witnessing this grand spectacle in 2024 for the first time. It was such a magical experience out of 1001 nights that we will be there in 2025 and beyond.

Kandy Esala Perahera is a magical event that remains somewhat under the radar for many international travelers. This Buddhist festival has deep roots, dating back to 300 AD.

Discover everything you need to know about Kandy Perahera: the highlights, what to anticipate, and reasons to include this stunning display of culture, dance, and spirituality in your Sri Lanka travel plans. Keep reading for top tips on how to fully immerse yourself in the Kandy Perahera experience!

What is Kandy Perahera?

The Kandy Perahera, or Kandy Esala Perahera, is an ancient religious and cultural procession held annually in July or August, depending on the full moon. In 2025, the festival is scheduled to run from July 30 to August 9, 2025. This vibrant event pays tribute to the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, which is housed in the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), and is considered the nation’s most treasured possession.

Kandy Perahera is a remarkable blend of two processions—the Esala and the Dalada. Initially, the Esala Perahera was a ceremonial plea to the gods for rain, while the Dalada Perahera honors one of the world’s few sacred Buddhist relics, a tooth of Lord Buddha. Over the course of ten days, attendees can enjoy nightly parades featuring traditional dancers, drummers, and stunningly decorated elephants, along with performers in intricate costumes.

The processions culminate on the last night in a mystical finale from 1001 Nights. As a result, The Grand Randoli Procession on the final night is an absolute highlight that you won’t want to miss. Even though it is the busiest time of the festival, it is SO worth it, trust us!

Kandy-Perahera-Festival

The Highlights of Kandy Perahera

While the Kandy Perahera lasts 10 days with processions getting bigger each day, the absolute highlight is the so-called Grand Randoli Procession on the final night, when the streets turn into a dazzling spectacle.

The grand procession lasts over 5 hours featuring over hundred (a total of 114 in 2024) elephants dressed in elaborate costumes, hundreds of elegant Kandyan Dancers, whip crackers, fire dancers, the mystical sounds of traditional Sri Lankan music, drummers, and more. A breathtaking sight you’ll cherish forever!

The elephants are simply the star of the processions, each one beautifully decorated in costumes made of colorful silk and adorned with fairy lights. They march alongside musicians, fire jugglers, and torchbearers carrying gold and jewels. The Maligawa Tusker, the largest elephant, proudly carries the golden casket that holds the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Picture the rhythmic sound of drum beats resonating through the air, streets alive with the mesmerizing performances of Kandyan dancers, the flickering flames of countless torches, vibrant colors filling your vision, and the majestic elephants. Together, they weave a mystical, spiritual atmosphere that makes you feel like you’ve entered a scene straight out of a fairy tale.

This tradition showcases the unique fusion of Buddhist and Hindu cultures in Sri Lanka, turning the festival into a culturally rich experience that transports you to a deeper level of appreciation of the hypnotizing events unfolding before you. We vouch for it!

Why visit Kandy Perahera?

If you are not yet convinced, here are the reasons why you should attend this epic event at least once in your life!

  • Cultural Experience: Participating in the Kandy Perahera provides a unique insight into the heart of Sri Lankan culture. This vibrant festival showcases the island’s deep-rooted history, spiritual significance, and artistic flair, making it an essential event to witness.
  • Unforgettable Adventure: The Kandy Perahera is truly one of a kind, renowned for its impressive scale and splendor. As one of Asia’s most remarkable religious celebrations, it offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience something extraordinary. At MAHO on Earth, we cherish festivals and have attended remarkable events worldwide, from the Reindeer Herders’ Festival in Arctic Siberia to Mexico’s Day of the Dead and local festivities in Papua New Guinea. Yet, Kandy Esala Perahara stands out as one of the most unforgettable experiences to have in a lifetime.
  • Picturesque Kandy: Beyond the festivities, Kandy is a stunning city embraced by verdant hills and tea estates. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it presents numerous chances for exploration, from the tranquil Kandy Lake to the hiking trails in the Knuckles Mountain Range. In fact, Sri Lanka as a whole is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered for an exceptional holiday.
Kandy Esala Perahera

Tips for attending Kandy Perahera 2025

  1. Plan ahead and book early: The Kandy Perahera is a major attraction, as such accommodation in Kandy sells out quickly during the festival, and needless to say prices skyrocket. Secure your stay and viewing tickets well in advance to ensure the best experience. If you’re planning to watch the Perahera without a ticket, aim to reach your chosen spot latest by the 2pm.
  2. Choose your viewing spot wisely: While it’s free to attend and observe the festival along the procession route if you don’t mind waiting long hours on the pavement shoulder to shoulder with friendly locals, we would opt for the paid seating options anytime. We experienced both options, and paid seats offer a better view and comfort, especially for the grand finale. Be careful to get the front row seats though, as in most cases other rows mean you are inside a shop, hence further away from the happenings. Golden rule here: don’t skimp on the wrong things. The final night of the festival, known as the Randoli Perahera, is the most elaborate and sought-after, so make sure to reserve early. On our tours, we make sure to reserve the best spots for a comfortable and clear view.
  3. Dress respectfully: As it’s a religious event, it’s important to dress modestly. Light, breathable clothing is recommended due to the warm weather, but ensure shoulders and knees are covered. Also be prepared for rain showers.
  4. Stay safe and sound: With large crowds and warm weather, it’s vital to bring water and snacks, especially if you have to wait a long time. Remember to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Is Kandy crowded during the Perahera?

Kandy becomes incredibly busy during the Perahera, particularly in the final days, which hold the most importance. Visitors from all corners of Sri Lanka come to the city to experience this magnificent event. The streets are lined with spectators, making it tough to secure a good viewing position unless you get there early. And by early we mean like 11 am-ish, which brings us to the next question.

Will visiting the Temple of the Tooth and surrounding areas be overwhelmingly crowded?

Absolutely, the Temple of the Tooth Relic will be quite packed during the Perahera, particularly during the start and end of the nightly procession. If you’re eager to explore the temple, it’s a good idea to go early in the morning when it’s less crowded. On our tours, we opt to visit the temple at the very last day before closure, so that the all ceremonies will be over and the Tooth Relic will be back in the temple.

Other nearby attractions like Kandy Lake, the Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue, and the Royal Palace will also experience a surge in visitors during the festival, so it’s wise to plan your visit accordingly. Be ready for heavy foot traffic, limited parking options, and possible road closures due to the procession. Joining our flagship tour will take away all the stress, as our local team is dedicated to providing a seamless experience by utilizing their up-to-date knowledge of road and crowd conditions.

Do you need tickets to experience the Perahera?

Yes and No. You can enjoy the procession for free from the roadside, but be prepared to arrive early to secure a good spot, as crowds gather well in advance. The processions start around 7pm and the grand procession lasts about 5 hours. In 2024, the entrance to the town was closed by 3 pm due to the overwhelming number of crowds.

If you want a more comfortable experience with a guaranteed view, you can buy tickets for reserved seating. These seats are typically arranged in temporary grandstands along the main route of the procession. You can book tickets online or through local hotels and travel agents in Kandy. Ticket prices vary based on seat location, with those nearer to the Temple of the Tooth being pricier.

After trying both options, we highly recommend choosing the reserved seats. Although they are pricier, they offer the best viewing experience.

Is Kandy Esala Perahera an ethical event?

We at MAHO on Earth are advocates of ethical animal encounters and not only avoid animal cruelty wherever we can, but also educate others to raise awareness for the conservation of wildlife. On the other hand, we do respect diverse cultures and believe in the importance of preserving centuries-old cultural traditions.

We questioned the ethical aspects of this festival and found out that the elephant keepers hold a license that has been in the family for several generations. Obtaining a new license to own an elephant is difficult and comes with obligations to prove that the owner is able to ensure the elephant’s welfare. While it may be heartbreaking to see elephants in costumes and chains, this is an ancient religious tradition that has been preserved for generations, not a staging for tourists.

Elephants played a significant role in religious practices, often being donated to temples, and it was during this period that the Esala Perahera festival in Kandy was initiated. Some of the elephants involved reside at the Sri Dalada Maligawa Temple, while others travel from various parts of Sri Lanka, whether from different temples or their everyday jobs on tea plantations and in forestry. For an elephant owner, having their elephant participate is a significant honor.

Ultimately, it is a trade-off between preserving traditions and protecting animals. We understand that this topic is emotive and complicated, and it is up to each individual whether or not to attend such a traditional event. Whatever your informed decision regarding the Kandy Perahera Elephants, make sure to avoid the so-called elephant orphanages (the most famous one being Pinnawala) and turtle hatcheries in Sri Lanka that are only concerned about quick money. We will list the ethical organizations you can support, but if in doubt, feel free to contact us.

Extend your Kandy Perahera Sri Lankan adventure with MAHO on Earth Flagship Tour

For a truly immersive experience, consider joining a guided tour with us. Our carefully curated itineraries allow you to fully enjoy the Kandy Perahera festival while exploring other stunning parts of Sri Lanka. Whether it’s hiking in the Knuckles Mountain Range, visiting tea plantations, or diving into the crystal-clear waters along the east coast, our small-group tours are designed to offer an immersive and personalized experience, exploring both the iconic landmarks and hidden gems of Sri Lanka. Check out the highlights from our group trip in 2024 here.

A Final Word

The Kandy Perahera Festival is more than just a parade; it’s a profound cultural experience that showcases the heart and soul of Sri Lanka. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply someone looking to witness one of the world’s most spectacular events, Kandy Perahera is a must-see.

Book your trip today with MAHO to be part of this extraordinary journey led by the most passionate and professional team on the ground.

Ready to explore Sri Lanka and witness the magic of Kandy Perahera? Contact us to learn more about our exclusive packages and itineraries designed to make your trip unforgettable.