Kandy perahera/ Esala perahera is one of unique symbols in Sri Lanka. It is a grand Buddhist festival of the month of August held in Sri Lanka with elegant costumes. Dalada perahara held yearly since the 3rd Century B.C. Center of it all is the ‘Dalada Maligawa’ which houses the relic of the sacred tooth of the Lord Buddha. During the Perahera, the sacred tooth relic is carried around the streets of Kandy city by nicely decorated elephants to honor it. They are adorned with lavish garments. The Esala perahera is cultured by various cultural dances like fire-dances, whip-dances, Kandian dances and etc. Diyawadana Nilame has the responsibility of organizing the perahera and it is held on dates selected by him.

Hours before the Maha Randoli Perahera, almost all the road sides, balconies, roof tops, upstairs windows and even roofs are jam-packed with spectators, both local and foreign. Kandy Perahera starting time is normally after the sunset, at around 6.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. in the evening. Queens Hotel, Dalada Veediya, Yatinuwara Veediya some of the best places for you to watch the Esala Perahera. This Kandy perahera festival is consist of a series of processions.

Beginning of the perahera

Kandy perahera begins with Kappa, in which a sanctified young Jackfruit tree is cut and planted in the premises of each of the four Devales. During the next five days, there are “Devala Peraheras” within the Devale premises.

Kumbal Perahera

After the Devala Peraharas, on the sixth night the Kumbal Perahera begins and continues on for five days. It is joined by the other four devale peraheras.

Randoli Perahera

After the 5 nights of Kumbal Peraheras, the Randoli Peraheras begin and continue for 5 nights. During the Maha Randoli Perahera, the sacred tooth relic is carried on a well-trained tusker elephant and both the elephant and casket in which the tooth is laid are splendidly decorated. Diyawadana Nilame also joins the pageant adding novel glamour to it.

Esala Perahera, only perahera in the world which is held for ten days.