A magical week filled with dazzling lights, color, and culture awaits you. Vesak Poya is one of Sri Lanka's most notable festivals, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of Lord Buddha.
As you stroll down the city, homes and streets are lit with stunning lanterns, colorful bulbs, and oil lamps that are absolutely stunning. The massive pandols in almost every town illustrate beautiful Jataka tales, in addition to some exciting mime and theatre performances near temples to look forward to. You can also find a bunch food stalls, or Dansal, where people hand out free ice cream, drinks, biscuits and other yummy foods to passers-by.
The first full moon of the ancient lunar month Vesak, which normally occurs in May or early June, kicks off this week-long festival. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that would leave you dazed.