1. Kandy Esala Perahera (July/August)

Kandy Esala Perahera, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous and grand cultural festivals, is the centerpiece event at the Dalada Maligawa. This event, which takes place annually, draws thousands of locals and tourists from around the world to witness an extraordinary display of cultural and religious significance.

• What to Expect: The Kandy Esala Perahera is a mesmerizing procession that features elaborate costumes, traditional dances, fire displays, drumming, and decorated elephants. The highlight of the parade is the Sacred Tooth Relic, which is carried through the streets in a specially designed golden casket, accompanied by thousands of devotees.

• Spiritual Significance: The Esala Perahera is held to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, and it’s believed to bring blessings and prosperity to the country. The festival lasts for ten days and culminates with the water-cutting ceremony, a symbolic ritual to invoke blessings for the well-being of the nation.

• Date: Typically held in July or August, the exact dates vary depending on the Buddhist lunar calendar.

2. Full Moon (Poya) Day Ceremonies

In addition to the grand Esala Perahera, Poya days (full moon days) are of great significance at the Dalada Maligawa, with regular ceremonies held to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic. These ceremonies take place every month on the full moon, and each Poya day is linked to an important event in the life of Lord Buddha.

• Special Poya Celebrations in 2025: Visitors can witness the monthly Poya ceremonies where monks perform special prayers, rituals, and offerings to honor Lord Buddha. The ceremonies are marked by solemn and spiritual chanting, and the temple becomes a center of meditation and reflection during these sacred times.

• Religious Activities: On Poya days, the temple is especially crowded with both locals and tourists participating in prayers and paying homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic. It is a time for deep spiritual reflection, and many devotees also use these days for observing sil (Buddhist precepts) and performing acts of charity.

• Dates: Poya days occur monthly, with each Poya holding its own specific significance. In 2025, some important Poya days include Vesak Poya (celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha), Poson Poya, and Esala Poya

• • What to Expect: The festival is marked by decorations, cultural performances, devotional singing, and special prayers. Vesak lanterns (known as Vesak Kudus) light up the streets of Kandy, creating a mesmerizing and peaceful atmosphere. Devotees often gather at the Dalada Maligawa for special rituals and to make offerings.

  • Spiritual Activities: During Vesak, visitors can engage in meditation and prayers at the temple. This time is also significant for acts of charity and social welfare activities, as Sri Lankans celebrate Vesak by helping the less fortunate.

  • Dates: Vesak is usually celebrated during April or May, depending on the lunar calendar.

    Vesak Festival (April/May)

    The Vesak Festival, one of the most important religious observances in Sri Lanka, is celebrated to commemorate the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha. Dalada Maligawa is one of the focal points of the Vesak celebrationsin Kandy.

    4. The Annual Kandy Perahera (Kandyan Dance Performances)

  While the Kandy Esala Perahera is the most famous procession, there are also traditional Kandyan dance performances and cultural exhibitions hosted at the Dalada Maligawa throughout the year.

  • What to Expect: These performances feature Kandyan dancers dressed in vibrant, traditional costumes, as well as drummers and other performers showcasing the unique rhythm and dance forms of Sri Lanka. The Kandyan dances are deeply spiritual and reflect the cultural richness of Sri Lanka’s royal history.

  • Special Highlights: Visitors can also attend cultural exhibitions at the temple complex, where local artisans and performers display their talents. This is a great opportunity to learn about the traditions of the Kandyan Kingdomand the art forms that have been passed down through generations.