Deepavali (Diwali)
Festival of Lights — Hindu celebration of good over evil with oil lamps and fireworks.
What it is
Deepavali (Diwali) is the Hindu Festival of Lights, celebrating the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Sri Lankan Hindus light oil lamps, decorate homes with kolam, wear new clothes, and share sweets. Firecrackers and sparklers light up the evening. The best celebrations are in areas with large Tamil populations — Colombo's Pettah and Sea Street areas, Jaffna, and Trincomalee. Hindu kovils are beautifully decorated and hold special pujas throughout the day.
Tips for visitors
- Visit Sea Street in Colombo for the most vibrant celebration
- Try the traditional sweets — especially laddu, murukku, and athirasam
- Be prepared for firecrackers — they can be very loud
- Visit a kovil for the puja ceremonies
Planning a trip in October?
Weather, sea conditions and crowds change a lot through the year. Read our guide to Sri Lanka in October before you book.
Planning around Deepavali (Diwali)?
Tell us your dates and we'll build your itinerary around it — where to stay, how to get there and when to arrive.
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