The official schedule for the annual Kandy Esala Perahera at the historic Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) has been announced. Diyawadana Nilame Pradeep Nilanga Dela today officially unveiled the dates during a special meeting held at the Sri Dalada Maligawa premises.
According to the announced schedule, the 2026 Kandy Esala Perahera will take place as follows:
Kap Situweema (Planting of the Sacred Kapa): August 13 at 6:17 a.m., at the auspicious time.
Devale Internal Processions: August 13–17, held over five days within the four main devales dedicated to Natha, Vishnu, Pattini, and Kataragama.
Kumbal Perahera: August 18–22, with the traditional street processions taking place each evening.
First Randoli Perahera: August 23.
Final Grand Randoli Perahera: August 27.
Diya Kepeema (Water-Cutting Ceremony) and Day Perahera: August 28.
The Kandy Esala Perahera is one of Sri Lanka's most significant religious and cultural festivals, drawing thousands of local and international devotees and visitors each year to witness its vibrant pageantry, traditional dancers, drummers, and richly adorned elephants.
