The Sri Pada pilgrim season 2023/2024 will commence tomorrow, on Unduwap full moon Poya day.
Ven. Bengamuwe Dhammadinna Thera, Chief Incumbent of Sripadasthana, announced that sacred relics and statues, along with regalia, will be taken in three processions from Galpottawala Sri Pada Rajamaha Vihara in Pelmadulla. The processions will traverse routes through Ratnapura, Palabathgala, Erathna, Awissawella, Hatton, Balangoda, and Bogawanthalwa.
The three processions are set to reach Sri Pada's upper compound on the following day (26), marking the commencement of the pilgrim season after traditional rituals.
The Hatton–Dikoya Urban Council and local residents have adorned the procession route with pandals and banners. Hatton Division SP Nipuna Dehigama stated that police posts at strategic locations, including Gangulathenna Ratu Ambalama and Seethagangula, will ensure pilgrim safety and address any issues, such as possession of prohibited items.
Sri Padasthanadipathi Ven. Dhammadinna Thera urged pilgrims to respect the sanctity of Sri Padasthana and preserve the sensitive environmental zone during their pilgrimage.
