July 31, 2025, Kandy — The much-anticipated second Kumbal Perahera of the 2025 Kandy Esala Festival will take place tonight, commencing at 7:01 p.m. from the historic Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This marks the continuation of the festival’s renowned five-day Kumbal Perahera procession, which began yesterday and will run through August 3.
The Kumbal Perahera is a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s cultural and religious calendar. It features a spectacular procession of traditional dancers, drummers, torchbearers, and elaborately decorated elephants, all paying homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha enshrined within the temple.
Tonight’s procession is expected to draw large crowds of both locals and international visitors. The streets of Kandy will come alive with vibrant colors, rhythmic traditional music, and the solemnity befitting this centuries-old event.
Authorities have advised attendees to arrive early due to anticipated high turnout and to make necessary arrangements for accommodation and transportation in advance.
The Kandy Esala Festival continues to be a powerful expression of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and spiritual traditions, culminating in the grand Diya Kapeema, or Water Cutting Ceremony, on August 9. The event remains a significant cultural highlight, showcasing the island’s deep-rooted customs and attracting devotees and tourists alike.
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