Beyond its natural treasures, the island of Ceylon is characterised by its host of cultural events. Lying at the crossroads between West and East, Sri Lanka is home to many civilisations, which fuel the diversity of its traditions. The population is divided into several religious beliefs with different customs which co-exist. Sri Lankan people are very religious and often travel across the country to worship, celebrate and showcase their faith. An ideal opportunity for the lucky traveller to share a solemn moment and to immerse themselves deep into the local traditions. 

Esala Perahera: Buddha's tooth festival

Pronounced "A-suh-luh peh-ruh-ha-ruh", it is one of Sri Lanka's most grandiose events. This is a Buddhist festival in the form of a gigantic parade with dancers, fire-eaters and monumental decorations. All punctuated by the presence of an exceptional guest of honour... the elephant, dressed in its most beautiful clothes!

For more than a week, the religious star Kandy is transformed into a giant show. This event was celebrated with great pomp and ceremony by the entire population, and especially by the Sinhalese who still consider the city to be the capital of Sri Lanka. The festival can be likened to a local Rio carnival, simply not to be missed! To attend the festivities, it is advised to book your place in advance through local agencies. The programme ends with the traditional diva-kepeema, the parade of the elephant with the Buddha's tooth. 

• When: between July and August 
• Where: Kandy
• The must-sees: traditional musical instruments, dancers and elephants 

Vesak Poya: the Sri Lankan Festival of Light 

Vesak Poya owes its fame to the full moon, the day on which people celebrate this important date. Every year, families prepare sumptuous decorations made up of lanterns of varying sizes and colours, which they then place in their homes, shops and on the streets. Through all of these customs, the Sri Lankans worship their divine Buddha and commemorate the highlights of his life: birth, enlightenment and nirvana. Over the course of a week, the cities sparkle and the whole island is in the spotlight.

• When: in spring on the day of the full moon 
• Where: mainly in Colombo and Kandy
• Highlights: coloured lanterns (kudu) 

Ramadan Festival, an ode to joy 

Although representing only 7% of the population, Muslim events are celebrated with great enthusiasm. The traditional period of Ramadan is of immense importance to the Muslim people and ends with Eid, which celebrates the breaking of the fast. In the month leading up to this festival, devout Sri Lankans rise before sunrise to have their first snack, called Suhur, which usually consists of rice and curry. A moment of sharing and happiness that ends with a hearty feast of traditional dishes prepared by the women of the household, followed by an evening brimming in festivity. 

• When: Muslim calendar
• Where: throughout the country
• Festival highlights: traditional dishes and the atmosphere on Eid evening

New Year in Sri Lanka, a multicultural tradition

It is one of the most eagerly awaited events each year bringing together Sinhalese Buddhists and Tamil Hindus, who go on a pilgrimage to wish each other a prosperous year. During this period, the island beats to the rhythm of this new year, in slow motion. The streets resound with the clatter of firecrackers announcing the new year, while Sri Lankan women get down to cooking the traditional festive dish of kiribath, a dish made with coconut-flavoured rice and served in a diamond shape. Amazing events such as car races and street performances are organised, keeping travellers busy if they are lucky enough to visit during the season. 

• When: April 
• Where: All over the country but especially in Nuwara Eliya
• Not to bemissed: street entertainment