Nallur Festival
Jaffna's grand 25-day Hindu temple festival with spectacular chariot processions.
What it is
The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Festival in Jaffna is one of the most spectacular Hindu festivals in Sri Lanka. Over 25 days, elaborate rituals, chariot processions, and devotional acts take place at the iconic Nallur Kandaswamy temple. Devotees perform kavadi (carrying ornate structures), rolling on the ground, and walking on burning coals. The Ther Festival (chariot procession) is the grand finale, with a massive wooden chariot pulled through the streets by thousands of devotees. This is the best way to experience Sri Lankan Tamil Hindu culture at its most vibrant.
Tips for visitors
- Men must remove their shirts before entering the temple
- Women should wear conservative clothing
- The Ther (chariot) procession on the final day is unmissable
- Jaffna gets very crowded — book accommodation early
Planning a trip in August?
Weather, sea conditions and crowds change a lot through the year. Read our guide to Sri Lanka in August before you book.
Planning around Nallur Festival?
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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