Lankathilaka Esala Perahara - Randoli Perahara -ලංකාතිලක විහාරයේ ඇසළ පෙරහැර - රන්දෝලි පෙරහැර

Lankathilaka Raja Maha Viharaya Annual Esala Perahera – Randoli The Lankathilaka Raja Maha Viharaya Annual Esala Perahera is a beautiful religious and cultural procession held in honour of the sacred traditions of one of Sri Lanka’s most historically significant Buddhist temples. Located in the picturesque surroundings of Udunuwara, near Kandy, Lankatilaka Raja Maha Vihara is renowned for its magnificent architecture, ancient paintings, sculptures and deep connection with Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage. The Randoli Perahera, which is one of the most anticipated stages of the annual Esala celebrations, brings together Buddhist devotees, traditional dancers, drummers, musicians and other cultural performers. The procession creates a remarkable atmosphere of devotion and celebration as it moves through the surrounding area of the temple. The term “Randoli” is traditionally associated with a grand ceremonial procession. In Sri Lankan Buddhist culture, Randoli processions are conducted with great dignity and pageantry, combining religious devotion with centuries-old artistic traditions. At Lankathilaka Raja Maha Viharaya, the Randoli provides devotees with an opportunity to participate in a colourful celebration while paying homage to the Buddha and the sacred heritage of the temple. One of the most attractive features of the procession is the variety of traditional Kandyan dances. Performers dressed in elaborate costumes demonstrate the skill and discipline passed down through generations. The rhythmic movements of the dancers, together with the powerful sounds of traditional drums, create an unforgettable cultural experience. Different forms of traditional dancing and ceremonial performances add colour and movement to the procession. The Geta Beraya, Dawula and Thammattama drums provide much of the distinctive sound of the Perahera. The rhythmic drumming accompanies the dancers and helps establish the ceremonial character of the procession. The combination of drums, dancing, costumes and religious observances demonstrates the richness of Sri Lanka’s traditional performing arts. The procession also reflects the important role of the temple and its surrounding community. Devotees, temple officials, artists and local residents contribute in different ways to maintain this annual tradition. For many people, participating in or witnessing the Randoli Perahera is not simply a cultural event; it is an expression of faith, respect and connection with an important part of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage. The ancient Lankathilaka temple, with its impressive location and distinctive architecture, provides a magnificent setting for the Esala celebrations. During the Perahera season, the temple premises and surrounding roads take on a special atmosphere as devotees gather to observe the ceremonies and enjoy the traditional performances. The Lankathilaka Raja Maha Viharaya Esala Randoli Perahera therefore represents a meaningful combination of Buddhist devotion, history, architecture, traditional dance, drumming and community participation. It is a living cultural tradition that allows present generations to experience and appreciate customs that have been preserved for centuries. For visitors and devotees, witnessing the Randoli Perahera is an opportunity to experience the spiritual atmosphere of Lankathilaka Raja Maha Viharaya while observing the beauty of Sri Lanka’s traditional cultural heritage. The procession stands as a reminder of the enduring relationship between Buddhism and the artistic traditions of the island. Follow us on :   / sanjeewacharikasatahan   Facebook Page :   / charikasatahan   #LankathilakaRajaMahaViharaya #EsalaPerahara #Randoli