Sri Dalada Perahera - A Grand Annual Festival in Sri Lanka
Sri Dalada Perahera is a grand cultural festival held in Kandy, Sri Lanka, annually to commemorate the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. It is considered one of the most prestigious and colorful events in the country, attracting thousands of local and international tourists every year. The Perahara is organized by the Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and is celebrated over ten days, featuring traditional dancers, drummers, decorated elephants, and religious rituals.
Location and Route of the Perahara
The Perahara takes place in Kandy, a cultural city situated in the central province of Sri Lanka. The parade starts from Sri Dalada Maligawa, where the sacred tooth relic is enshrined, and then proceeds along the streets of Kandy. The parade route is about five kilometers long and passes through many main streets of the city.
Below map shows you the Perahera route for the year 2022 & it is to be persistence for Each & every year with ignorable slight changes.
Best place to watch Dalada perahara
Once you book a hotel in Kandy It is better if you could make it inside of the circle as you can see the Perahera very comfortably, some time by your rooms, but I don't say to limit to the inside circle destinations as it is booked long time back to the event. If you book a hotel outside of the circle try to manage your watch point also at the outside of the circle. Because once the Perahara passes your location you can reach to your hotel without waiting to the entire event completes. Once you feel the sufficient of watching the event you can calmly move to your hotel without any struggle.
Transportation to the Event Location
To reach the event location from Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, you can use several modes of transportation such as trains, buses, and private taxis. The train journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the train type, while the bus journey takes approximately 3-4 hours. Private taxis offer more convenience and flexibility, and the travel time could range from 2-3 hours.
Advise is to discuss & agree the charge for the full journey before you start with them. Approximately for a three wheeler taxi it will be cost 10000/=LKR one way. Better to use Uber or Pickme services as they are well organized & accountable for your money.
Entrance Fee
The entrance to the Perahara is free of charge, and everyone is welcome to join and witness the grand festival.
If you prefer to pay & watch the perahara it will be a really comfortable experience & the charges may vary depending on the type of seating and the location you select. Organizers charges different entrance fees for different seating arrangements. The tickets for the seating closer to the procession route are usually priced higher than the tickets for the seating areas located further away from the procession route.The cost of entrance fees for Sri Dalada Perahera can range from around 1,000 Sri Lankan Rupees to several thousand Sri Lankan Rupees such as 35000/- LKR, depending on the type of seating and location of the seat. The official website of Sri Dalada Maligawa or the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority can provide you with the latest information on entrance fees. For your reference please check through the below link or contact nakals support team by our hotlines or contact numbers.
https://www.kandyperaherabookings.com/index.php#kandy-perahera-schedule-2023
Appropriate Behavior
As the Perahera is a religious and cultural event, it is important to behave in good manners and respect the traditions and cultures of Sri Lanka. Visitors should dress appropriately, and avoid any action that could damage the event or its cultures. It is also important to follow the instructions of the organizers and authorities and maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
Importance of the Event
Sri Dalada Perahera has a significant historical and cultural value in Sri Lanka, as it dates back to the 4th century AD. The festival celebrates the sacred tooth relic, which is believed to be a significant relic of Lord Buddha. It is also considered a symbol of power and sovereignty, as Sri Lankan kings carried the tooth relic during their reign. The Perahara is conducted annually to honor the sacred tooth relic and preserve Sri Lankan traditions and cultures.
Safety Precautions
To ensure the safety of visitors, the organizers and authorities implement strict security measures during the Perahera. Visitors should avoid carrying valuables and keep an eye on their belongings. It is also important to stay away from crowded areas and follow the instructions of the authorities.
Here are some regular safety precautions to be followed:
- Always follow the instructions given by the event organizers and security personnel. They are there to ensure the safety of everyone, and it is essential to follow their instructions.
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings at all times. The event attracts a large crowd, and pick pocketing and theft can occur.
- Avoid standing too close to the procession route or the elephants. It is essential to maintain a safe distance to avoid any accidents or injuries.
- Do not make any sudden movements or loud noises that may frighten the elephants in the event. It is important to respect them and their space during the event.
- Stay hydrated and carry a sufficient amount of water with you. The event can be quite hot and humid, and it is important to stay hydrated to avoid heat stroke or dehydration.
- A kind of light snack makes you more comfortable.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing that is appropriate for the weather conditions. The event can involve a lot of walking and comfortable shoes can prevent blisters or other foot injuries.
- If you have any medical conditions or allergies, carry your medication with you and inform your companions or security personnel about it.
- In case of an emergency, locate the nearest first aid station or contact the event organizers or security personnel for assistance.
By following these regular safety precautions, you can enjoy the Sri Dalada Perahera safely and make it a memorable experience. Remember, the safety of everyone is a collective responsibility, and it is essential to cooperate and support each other during the event.
Other Tourist Destinations
Kandy is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka, offering many attractions for visitors. Some of the must-visit places around Kandy include the Temple of the Tooth, the Kandy Lake, the Royal Botanical Gardens, and the Peradeniya University. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the Knuckles Mountain Range and explore the traditional villages around Kandy.
Other Events in the Location
Apart from the Sri Dalada Perahera, Kandy hosts several other cultural and religious events throughout the year. Some of the prominent events include the Kandy Esala Perahara, the Kandy Festival, and the Kandy World Heritage Festival. These events showcase the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka and provide a unique experience for visitors.
Culture of the Location
Kandy, the location of Sri Dalada Perahera, is a historic and cultural city in Sri Lanka. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, and it is the center of traditional arts and crafts in the country.
The city is situated in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and is surrounded by picturesque mountains, lush green forests, and tea plantations. The city has a tropical climate and experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.
The people of Kandy are known for their hospitality and are famous for their culinary traditions. The city is home to many restaurants and street food stalls that offer a wide range of local and international cuisine. Visitors to the city can enjoy traditional Sri Lankan food, such as rice and curry, string hoppers, and hoppers, among others.
The city is also known for its traditional arts and crafts, such as Kandyan dance, drumming, and weaving. The Kandyan dance is a traditional dance form that originated in Kandy and is performed during Sri Dalada Perahera. The dance is characterized by intricate footwork, colorful costumes, and expressive gestures.
Overall, Kandy is a city rich in cultural heritage and traditions. Visitors to the city can experience the warmth and hospitality of the people, sample the local cuisine, and witness the traditional arts and crafts that have been passed down through generations.
