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The Navam Perahera is arguably the most spectacular cultural parade in Colombo, organized annually by the famous Gangaramaya Temple. It features hundreds of incredibly skilled traditional dancers, fire breathers, and whip crackers.
While the Kandy Esala Perahera is historically older and larger, the Colombo festival is remarkably vibrant and much easier to access if you are staying in the capital. Dozens of beautifully adorned elephants march directly around Beira Lake.
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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