Sri Lanka is a home to four religions Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam & Christianity. This means lots of festivals, celebrations and holidays, all around the year. Most of the festivals celebrate the spirituality and divinity which can be enjoyed by one and all. Although travelling to this tear drop shaped island requires you to only apply for eta visa Sri Lanka online, it is wise to apply it in advance before making reservations for hotels and flights.
So if the pristine beaches and natural habitat of wildlife wasn't interesting enough, you can find one more reason to travel to this country. Here is a list of festivals for which you will definitely want to travel to this country.
1. VESAK POYA– A popular Buddhist festival which means 'the festival of lights' celebrated in March on the full moon, which is considered to be the first full moon of the New Year according to Buddhist moon calendar. It is believed that Lord Buddha was born on this day, gain enlightenment and after many years passed away.
The festival is celebrated all over the country. People hang white paper lanterns outside their homes and offices that are lit up at night. People distribute food and drinks to the passersby and gather in the temples to offer prayers.
2. ESALA POYA PERAHERA– Another Poya celebration, Esala Poya Perahera is celebrated in Kandy. This day celebrates the arrival of the Buddha Tooth relic in the infamous Temple of the tooth. In Sinhalese, Perahera means the procession. A week long processions takes place in Kandy during the festival. The musicians, dancers, elephants, rituals and much more, takes place until the last day which witnesses the grand celebrations. Best way to make sure that you get a seat is to book your eta visa Sri Lanka online in advance.
3. MAHA SHIVARATRI– A much celebrated Hindu festival; this day celebrates the Hindu deity Lord Shiva. The festivities begin in June in every Hindu temple around the island. Devotees take a holy bath at dawn and observe fast all day. Temples like Sri Kaileshwar temple in Colombo, holds dance performances as part of the celebrations. So if you want to experience the colorful Hindu festivals head to this island.
4. TAMIL NEW YEAR & SINHALA– The Tamil new year and Sinhala marks the beginning of the Lunar year. It takes place in April and the celebrations are usually colorful. A festival which is celebrated by the entire population, the island becomes colorful during this festival.
5. CHRISTMAS– The 25th December is celebrated all across the country even though the Christians constitute only 20% of the total population. Every mall, store, bakery, business is colorfully decorated with lights, garlands and trees. The popular Christmas cake is the highlight of this festival. Do not forget to try it.
Celebrate this 25th December in Colombo by easily booking eta visa Sri Lanka online by visiting sri-lankaeta now!
Martin Wynn
