When do tickets for the Kandy Esala Perahera 2026 go on sale
1 Answer from travellers
The Kandy Esala Perahera usually takes place in August. Official seat bookings through the Sri Dalada Maligawa portal and major hotels like the Queens Hotel typically open around late May or early June. Balcony seats overlooking the main street sell out very quickly to tour operators, so I highly recommend contacting your hotel in Kandy now to be put on their priority waitlist.
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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