← Sri Lanka in JulyReligious Festival
Esala Poya
Commemorates Buddha's first sermon and the beginning of the Esala Perahera season.
What it is
Esala Poya marks the day Buddha delivered his first sermon (Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta) and also the conception of Prince Siddhartha. It kicks off the Esala Perahera season in Kandy. Temple observances are held throughout the country, and many Buddhists begin a period of retreat (vas season). This is the start of the most spectacular cultural season in Sri Lanka.
Tips for visitors
- No alcohol sales on Poya day
- If in Kandy, this marks the start of the perahera season
Planning a trip in July?
Weather, sea conditions and crowds change a lot through the year. Read our guide to Sri Lanka in July before you book.
Also in July
- Cultural EventKandy Esala PeraheraAsia's grandest Buddhist procession — 10 nights of elephants, dancers, and fire in Kandy.
- Cultural EventKataragama FestivalMulti-faith festival at Kataragama with fire walking and devotional acts.
- Cultural EventVel FestivalColombo's vibrant Hindu chariot procession through the city streets.
Planning around Esala Poya?
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