1 Answer from travellers
Vesak Full Moon Poya Day falls on Friday, May 1, 2026. This coincides with May Day. Because it is a major holiday, you can expect massive thoranas and lantern displays across Colombo, especially around Gangarama Temple and Beira Lake. The festivities usually extend into the following day, May 2. Be prepared for very heavy crowds and road closures in the city center during these evenings.
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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