Vesak Festival in Sri Lanka: Enlightened Festivities and Experiencing the Joy of Celebrations

Lanterns are common item in Vesak Festival in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and one of the most significant events in its calendar is the Vesak Festival. This festival celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and passing away of the Buddha, and it is observed with great fervor throughout the country. For travelers looking to immerse themselves in Sri Lankan culture, Vesak is an event not to be missed.

The Vesak Festival usually takes place in May, and it is a public holiday in Sri Lanka. The festival is marked by vibrant decorations, including illuminated lanterns, colorful flags, and intricate pandals (temporary structures) that depict scenes from the life of the Buddha. These decorations are set up in towns and cities throughout the country, creating a festive and joyous atmosphere.

One of the most important rituals of the Vesak Festival is the lighting of oil lamps. This symbolizes the light of the Buddha’s teachings, which illuminate the path to enlightenment. Devotees visit temples and offer flowers and incense, while others take part in processions, chanting, and meditation.

Another highlight of the Vesak Festival is the giving of alms to the needy. This practice, known as “dana,” is an important part of Buddhist culture, and during the festival, many people offer food, clothing, and other necessities to those in need. This act of generosity is believed to bring merit and blessings to the giver.

For travelers, the Vesak Festival offers a unique opportunity to experience Sri Lankan culture and customs. Visitors can join in the festivities, marvel at the colorful decorations, and witness the generosity of the Sri Lankan people. It’s also an opportunity to learn about Buddhism and its teachings, which are a fundamental part of Sri Lankan culture.

However, it’s important for travelers to be respectful and mindful during the Vesak Festival. This is a religious observance, and visitors should dress modestly, avoid drinking alcohol, and refrain from behavior that may be deemed disrespectful.

In conclusion, the Vesak Festival is a vibrant and important event in Sri Lanka’s cultural calendar. For travelers looking to experience the country’s rich heritage and immerse themselves in its customs and traditions, Vesak is an event not to be missed. With its colorful decorations, meaningful rituals, and atmosphere of generosity and kindness, the Vesak Festival is a truly unique experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left Sri Lanka.

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(Cover Photo Credit: Ishu Creations)

Kandy Procession in Sri Lanka

Kandy Procession

Kandy Procession is one of the best-celebrated events in Sri Lanka. The event takes place in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Kandy, by default, is one of the most beautiful cities in Sri Lanka and also one of the top-notch spots for tourists. Most of the tourists who visit Sri Lanka make sure Kandy is on their itinerary. There is so much natural beauty in Kandy, and this procession adds more beauty and value. This tiny island is always full of celebrations and festivities. We love a good break from our monotonous work life. Therefore, come and see this majestic event in Kandy!

full of color and entertainment.

The entire event is full of lights, decorations, music, and dancing. The Kandy Procession, being a cultural and religious event, gets a lot of importance from its devotees and countrymen. This procession comprises a lot of dancing and whip cracking and is a sight to see as one set of dancers is followed by the next. They are full of color, entertainment, and cheer. Traditional dances are a must in the procession because Sri Lankans generally have a set of traditional dancers and traditional drummers for every auspicious occasion. The Kandy Procession lasts for more than two weeks as it has many sub-processions that take place.

The order of the pageant in the Kandy procession

The entire event of the Kandy procession goes on for weeks, starting from planting a jackfruit tree, wishing blessings upon the country, to a ‘water cutting’ ceremony in the longest river in Sri Lanka, Mahaweli. The whole process is full of dancing, music, drumming, whipping, swaying of flags, and carrying of the sacred casket by the anointed tusker, who is decorated in beautiful attire. The reason behind it is to pay respect to the relic of Buddha and is one of the most devotional celebrations of the culture. The whole two weeks are crowded with devotees, spectators, and tourists. 

Come, it is a wonderful sight to behold!

This pageant is a world-famous event that takes place once a year, and people from all around the world come to see its beauty. A lot of preparation and dedication go towards the procession. For those of you who love seeing different cultures and experiencing diversity, the Kandy Procession will give you a thrill and surpass your expectations.

There are many kinds of tourists: those who love nature; those who love adventure; those who love food; those who love the ocean; and those that enjoy culture. Sri Lanka is a place for every kind of tourist because we have them all! A lot of travelers who come in the months of July and August make sure to participate in the event because it is such a wondrous occasion. If you visit Sri Lanka during these months, make sure to head to Kandy to see the most celebrated event in the city. The Kandy procession is a must-see when you come to Sri Lanka. You will see them in their best costumes, dancing to their best tunes, and whipping their way through, cheerfully yet devotedly. You will be given an experience to cherish all your life.

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Read more;

Temple of the Tooth Relic

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(Kandy Esala Perahera Image Source: PRABHATH WIMALASIRI from Twitter)

Kitesurfing in Sri Lanka

Kitesurfing in Sri Lanka

Situated in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is considered one of the most visited tourist places in the world for its many characteristics. Here we talk about Sri Lanka’s best kitesurfing spots. Kitesurfing is for anyone who is daring. If you are adrenaline obsessed, kitesurfing is for you to get your hype in control. Sri Lanka is one of the best kitesurfing destinations in the world and there are specific places where kitesurfing is taught, guided, and shown. Amongst the many adventurous sports in Sri Lanka, I believe kitesurfing tops the chart. It is a sport that really gives you an adrenaline rush while giving you a calming sensation from the breeze at the same time.

There are many places in Sri Lanka where this activity is conducted. Our guides will take you to one of these locations when and if you need to participate in this activity. Our guides are thorough with local knowledge, about weather and about the sport as well. If you require language specific guides, it can be arranged upon special request.

Kitesurf? Let’s see what it is

This activity in layman’s language is, tying you to a huge kite and being pulled on a surfboard with the help of the wind. This is the simplest explanation of this activity which sounds quite cool and exciting. But this aquatic sport requires training. Generally in Sri Lanka, there are short trainings provided to amateurs who would like to participate. If you are an expert, welcome to Sri Lanka! But nothing to worry, with our excellent trainers and instructors, usually everyone successfully surfs like a pro!

Where to go…

Best kitesurfing spots in the country

Kalpitiya is said to be the most famous and visited place for kitesurfing in Sri Lanka. There are a number of kitesurfing schools and spots in Kalpitiya. It is best if you book it in advance and make sure your sessions are booked. May to September is the ideal season for this activity. The basic idea is the weather needs to be a bit windy. Some go in October if it is windy. It is required to be able to swim because it involves being on a surfboard in the sea. A short training period of about fifteen hours is required. Mannar is another famous spot for kitesurfing. This city also has many kitesurfing areas with instructors.

There are shops where you can get one and repairing stores are available too. All kite lessons follow International Kiteboarding Methodology. It is equally loved and participated by both locals and foreigners.

For a good hype!

It is indeed an exhilarating sport where your nerves are put to test. It is an international aquatic sport and to be one of the top-notch places in the world to practice it is a privilege. Therefore, do not hesitate, we have gotten the best of the bests and they will instruct you with international standards to fly over a surfboard by the wind. Come down to Sri Lanka if you eagerly wait to experience in kitesurfing.

 

Read more about our tours;

Day Tour at Anuradhapura Ancient City

Day Tour at Polonnaruwa Ancient City

 

( Image Source & Credit goes to: Lusie Travels Sri Lanka Facebook Page)