Image for Kandy Esala Perahera

Kandy Esala Perahera

The Kandy Esala Perahera is a historic and vibrant annual Buddhist festival held in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It features a grand procession with traditional dancers, acrobats, drummers, and elaborately decorated elephants. The highlight is the ceremonial procession honoring the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, believed to be housed in the Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth). Held over several nights in July or August, the festival celebrates religious devotion, cultural heritage, and community spirit. The Perahera is a visually stunning event, blending spiritual significance with Sri Lanka’s rich artistic traditions.