Traveling during Vesak (Festival of Light) in May?
We will be in Sri Lanka for Vesak. What should we expect, and where is the best place to see the lanterns?
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5 Answers from travellers
It is the most beautiful time of the year! Every house, street, and tuk-tuk is decorated with colorful paper lanterns (Vesak Koodu) and fairy lights. Colombo and Kandy have massive, elaborate electronic "Thoranas" (pandals) depicting Buddhist stories.
Remember it is a strict Poya day, so absolutely no alcohol or meat will be sold for two days straight.
Look out for "Dansalas". Locals set up free food stalls on the side of the road giving away rice, noodles, ice cream, or coffee to anyone walking by. It is a beautiful display of charity. You can just walk up and join in!
Traffic in Colombo at night during Vesak is at a standstill. Everyone drives around slowly to look at the lights. Do not expect to get anywhere quickly after sunset.
Free food stalls and beautiful lanterns sounds wonderful. We can handle a few days without a beer.
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