3 Answers from travellers
The Esala Perahera is a massive, ten day Buddhist festival held in Kandy every August to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic. It is widely considered the most spectacular cultural event in all of Asia.
Yes, it is absolutely the best time to see traditional dancing. Thousands of the countrys finest Kandyan dancers, drummers, and fire breathers perform energetically through the streets every single night.
The parades also feature dozens of beautifully adorned elephants covered in bright, illuminated garments. If you want to secure a good viewing seat, you must book tickets several months in advance.
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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