Full moon AND the big Perahera - is Kandy dry that night?
27 Aug is the grand Randoli and also a Poya day?? Does that mean no alcohol anywhere in Kandy that night? Are shops shut? We are not trying to be disrespectful, just want to know if the beer-after-parade plan is dead.
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4 Answers from travellers
Poya is a public holiday. Temples packed, white clothes, no alcohol sales by law - bottle shops, bars, restaurant drinks. Hotel minibar is a grey area, do not count on a public bar. 27 Aug is also the most sacred Perahera night. Dress modestly on the route, shoulders and knees. 26 Aug is a separate holiday (Milad-un-Nabi).
We wanted a Lion after a previous poya and every place smiled and said no. Buy snacks and water in the afternoon. ATMs and big supermarkets can be weird hours. Get cash on the 25th.
Banks and gov offices shut. Tourist sites and most restaurants still feed you. Meat and alcohol are the surprises.
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).
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