Driving a Tuk Tuk to Kandy Esala Perahera and road closures
2 Answers from travellers
Do not attempt to drive into the Kandy city center during the Perahera days. The entire lake road and Dalada Maligawa area are heavily barricaded by police starting at 3 PM. Park your tuk-tuk at your guesthouse in the hills (like Hanthana or Ampitiya) and walk down, or take a local bus. The traffic gridlock is unimaginable.
Even if you find parking, getting out after the parade ends at midnight takes hours. Walking is the only sane option.
Scam Watch: kandy
TukTuk or tour drivers take you to "gem museums" or "government-certified" gem shops. They receive huge commissions (up to 40%) on anything you buy. Prices are inflated 3-10x the actual value.
Men approach tourists near Temple of the Tooth offering to be guides. After the tour, they demand large "donations" or guide fees (5000-10000 LKR).
You must be logged in to post an answer.
Log In to AnswerRelated questions
- Driving a Tuk Tuk to Kandy Esala Perahera and road closures2 answers
- Kandy Lake tuk tuk drivers claiming the road is blocked to overcharge2 answers
- Embekka Gadaladeniya Lankatilaka the three temple craft loop west of Kandy4 answers
- How much do Kandy Perahera tickets cost for foreigners.3 answers
- When are the dates for the Kandy Esala Perahera in 2026?1 answer
- A small village perahera procession not the big Kandy one can I see a local temple procession and how2 answers
Join a Crew
Kandy Perahera Live Tonight
Perahera Seats, Hotels & Roads
Dalada & Perahera Culture