OneCeylon

Taking the bus to Kandy during Vesak festival crowds

Asked about 4 hours agoViewed 1475 times
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Emma L.•4130 rep•2
asked about 4 hours ago

We are trying to get to Kandy this weekend, but realized it is Vesak. Are the public buses safe and running, or is the city totally locked down.

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asked about 4 hours ago
E
Emma L.•4130 rep•2

8 Answers

✓Accepted Answer

The buses are absolutely running, but they will be packed to the brim with pilgrims wearing white, heading to the Temple of the Tooth. It is not locked down, but traffic entering Kandy will be at a complete standstill. Expect a 3-hour bus ride to take 6 hours. Take the train if you possibly can, or just embrace the slow, chaotic, beautiful cultural immersion of the bus ride.

33
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answered about 4 hours ago
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Bhante S.•2540 rep•1

If you take the bus, use the private AC minivans. At least you are guaranteed a seat in the gridlock.

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answered about 4 hours ago
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Noah D.•2180 rep•2

Do the buses run late into the night during Vesak.

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answered about 4 hours ago
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Emma L.•4130 rep•2

Watch your pockets on the crowded buses. Pickpockets love festival weekends.

33
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answered about 3 hours ago
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Bhante S.•21250 rep•1

Thanks, we booked the AC van and will just enjoy the slow ride.

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answered about 3 hours ago
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Emma L.•4130 rep•2

The atmosphere is amazing though. People will pass free food (Dansal) through the bus windows!

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answered about 4 hours ago
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Bhante S.•21250 rep•1

Make sure your hotel is walking distance to the center, because tuk-tuks cannot move in Kandy during Vesak.

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answered about 3 hours ago
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Noah D.•2180 rep•2

Yes, there are special late-night CTB buses running to accommodate people viewing the illuminated lanterns.

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answered about 4 hours ago
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Bhante S.•2540 rep•1

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