Have you ever dreamed of seeing a real-life royal parade filled with dancers, elephants, drummers, and fire shows ? If you’re planning to visit Sri Lanka in July or August 2025 , then you’re in luck!
Let me tell you all about Kandy Esala Perahera , one of the biggest, oldest, and most colorful festivals in Asia. This article will walk you through what Esala Perahera is , why 2025 is special , and how to enjoy the event like a local .
Most Magical Night Festival
Esala Perahera is a grand religious and cultural festival held in the beautiful hill city of Kandy , Sri Lanka. It honors the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha , which is kept at the Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) .
The word “Perahera” means procession in Sinhala, and that’s exactly what happens! For several nights, the streets of Kandy turn into a magical stage, with:
Traditional dancers in bright costumesDrummers and musicians Torch bearers and fire twirlers Decorated elephants Sacred relics carried with respect
It’s a blend of spirituality, culture, and spectacle that touches every heart, no matter your background.
PC : Sineth Amaranath
Esala Perahera 2025 Full Schedule (Official Dates & Times)
he festival includes two main processions:
Kumbal Perahera (first 5 nights) – more spiritual and calmRandoli Perahera (next 5 nights) – grander, more colorful and dramatic
Here’s the official schedule for this year:
🐘 Event 📅 Date 🕖 Time 1st Kumbal Perahera 30th July 2025 07:05 PM 2nd Kumbal Perahera 31st July 2025 07:01 PM 3rd Kumbal Perahera 01st August 2025 07:16 PM 4th Kumbal Perahera 02nd August 2025 06:54 PM 5th Kumbal Perahera 03rd August 2025 06:43 PM 1st Randoli Perahera 04th August 2025 06:47 PM 2nd Randoli Perahera 05th August 2025 07:16 PM 3rd Randoli Perahera 06th August 2025 07:06 PM 4th Randoli Perahera 07th August 2025 07:02 PM Final Randoli Perahera (Grand Night) 08th August 2025 06:51 PM Diya Kapeema (Water Cutting Ceremony) 09th August 2025 01:18 AM Dahawal Perahera (Day Procession) 09th August 2025 12:54 PM
Kandy Esala Perahara 2024 Kandy Esala Perahara 2024
📍 Best Places to Watch the Perahera
If you want the best view of the parades, here are some popular and reliable spots:
Location Why it’s Great Queens Hotel area Right by the Temple of the Tooth; great view and close to action Dalada Veediya (Temple Street) Main procession path; many seat options Yatinuwara Street Offers good space and view of dancers and elephants Lake View Park Slightly elevated; nice overview with the lake in the background Hotel balconies facing the route Comfortable, but book early and check view angle
Tip : Book your spot early, as early as April or May if you want a front-row seat during Randoli Perahera nights.
Perahera Seating Tickets – Prices & Advice
Standard seats : LKR 6,000–8,000 (US$18–25)Premium seats (front rows or hotel balconies) : LKR 10,000–15,000 (US$30–45)
Prices vary depending on location and how early you book. Always book through official tour operators or your hotel .
🚫 Beware of Ticket Scams!
Some people may try to sell seats at very high prices , sometimes double or triple the value . Be careful with:
People on the street offering “last-minute seats”
Overpriced social media sellers with no official contact details
How to Prepare for the Perahera
Here are a few things to keep in mind to enjoy the Perahera comfortably:
Arrive Early : Streets close by 5:30–6:00 PM. Be seated before then.Bring water & snacks : Processions last 2–4 hours.Carry a cushion or seat pad : Some seats are just plastic chairs.Use the restroom before arrival : Facilities are limited during the parade.Dress modestly : White or light-colored clothes are ideal.Take a poncho or umbrella : It might rain during monsoon season.Use a small flashlight : It gets dark after the procession ends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I visit the Temple of the Tooth during Perahera?
Yes, but only during non-procession times. It’s best to visit in the morning.
Q2: How long is the parade each night?
Each procession lasts around 2–4 hours , depending on the day and crowd.
Q3: Can I attend without buying a seat?
Yes! You can stand along the streets for free , but be ready to stand for a few hours, and space fills up fast.
