Best streets to see massive Vesak pandols in Colombo
7 Answers from travellers
The most famous and elaborate Pandols are usually erected in Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Thotalanga, and Peliyagoda. The ones near the Gangaramaya Temple (Navam Mawatha) are also spectacular. You must go after 7 PM when they are fully lit up. Be prepared for massive crowds blocking the streets.
The stories depicted on the Pandols are from the 550 Jataka tales. Ask a local to explain the story being told!
Thotalanga is legendary for having the biggest one, but the traffic to get there is a nightmare.
Walk instead of taking a tuk-tuk. The roads are essentially pedestrianized by the sheer volume of people.
Scam Watch: colombo
Driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated flat rate. Common on arrival at airport or railway stations when tourists are tired and disoriented.
Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.
Women with babies approach asking you to buy milk powder at a nearby shop (not cash). The shop is run by accomplices and charges 5-10x normal price.
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