The Kandy Perahera is a fusion of culture, history, tradition and an overall extravaganza of all things truly Sri Lankan and is one of the most anticipated events in the calendar of most travelers to Sri Lanka. Of the many Sri Lanka Perahera experiences that you may want to look out for, the Kandy Esala Perahera is an absolute must and should most definitely be on your bucket list this time of the year! Accessing the Kandy Perahera is so much easier this time around and an experience of a lifetime is “literally” just a few clicks away!
Photo Credits : Tien Nung Ching
This procession is widely believed to be one of Asia’s most colourful and lavish pageants and is held annually in the month of July or August. This year, the Perahera was held from the 25th of July to the 4th of August 2020 and was live-streamed online! You can now watch this iconic perahera from the comfort of your own home via this link; https://www.youtube.com/c/sridaladamaligawakandy/videos
If you’re wondering what the hype is all about, here’s what it’s all about! The Kandy Perahera is one of the oldest and grandest of all festivals celebrated in Sri Lanka with a history that dates back to the 3rd Century AD. Feast your eyes to troops of dancers, well-trained jugglers, avid musicians, magical fire-breathers, and lavishly decorated elephants who took on the beautiful and ancient streets of Kandy in honour of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha and the four ‘guardian’ Gods Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama and Goddess Pattini.
Photo Credit : @amila_alahakoon
The Kandy Perahera is a portrayal of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, marked traditions and extravagant culture. The Kandy Perahera is most definitely a fusion of history and culture. The sound of the drummers and whip crackers are perfectly harmonized with the movements of the cultural dancers to give you a heavenly sensation. It is said that their colourful outfits, and their dance movements all add up to some deep meaning. For an example the elephants represent rainy clouds while whip crackers represent thunder.
A sight not to miss are the extravagantly and lavishly dressed dancers and gymnasts from all around the country. Their grandiose and skillful moves, breathtaking flexibility, radiant and glowing colours are sure to mesmerize you. So do look out for these specialties while you’re watching the Kandy Perahera online.
Photo Credits : @whitezgraphy
We’re certain that watching the perahera online would most definitely arouse your curiosity to witness it in person and be amazed by the vibrance and energy at the perahera. So, make sure you plan your next trip to Sri Lanka accordingly and stay with us at Cinnamon Citadel Kandy which is a picturesque, plush and comfortable location situated in the heart of the hill city of Sri Lanka. The Temple of the Tooth is not too far from the Citadel hotel and also just a quick drive away from the route of the procession; comfort, luxury and ease of access to the Perahera, all in one!
Author: Shenella Fonseka
