Where can I see the biggest Vesak lanterns in Colombo this year?

Vesak falls on May 1, 2026. You will see the massive thoranas or pandals being constructed in areas like Pettah, Borella, and near the Gangarama Temple at least a week before. The lanterns are usually lit on the eve of the Poya day. The Beira Lake area is the most iconic spot where hundreds of floating lanterns create a sea of light. I recommend walking the Bauddhaloka Mawatha stretch for the best lantern competition displays.