Gangaramaya Navam Maha Perahera - 2018

Nawam Maha Perahera is celebrated in the full moon day of the month of February. The highlight of this festival is the colourful elephant pageant when the streets of Colombo transform under the weight of 100 decorated elephants. The Gangaramaya Temple, located at Hunupitiya by picturesque Beira Lake. The Navam Perahera which is also known as 'Kolamba Perahera' is conducted annually during the month of Navam at the Hunupitiya Gangaramaya Viharaya and perahera arrangements are made by the Gangaramaya temple. The Gangaramaya Temple is located within the city of Colombo, and is one of the most famous temples of Sri Lanka.It was created over 120 years ago, over the swamps of Beira Lake, as a place learning and worship. With one of the best collections of Buddhist artefacts and texts around the world, Gangaramaya is now viewed as an institution of international reckoning.

The Navam Full Moon Poya Day in February, holds special special significance to Buddhists. And since 1979, the Gangarama Temple has held colorful and ebullient festivals known as a ‘Pereheras’ to commemorate this day.

The festival is used to showcase many talents in traditional Kandyan arts. In addition the perahera induces harmony amongst the communities as people, regardless of race or religion, flock to see the festivities.

The Perehera takes place for two days. The main portion of the festival is the parade of the Sacred Relic Casket on the elaborately adorned main tusker (elephant) of the parade.

Mask Dancers, Kandyan Dancers, Drummers, Sword Dancers, Stilt Walkers and many other artisans form the Gangarama Nawam Perahera parades. The events take place at night lit by flaming torches.They are also accompanied by hundreds of monks, Buddhist flag bearers, and traditionally adorned elephants with their mahouts.The Gangaramaya Nawam Maha Perehera should not be missed as one of the best and most colorful festivals of Sri Lanka.

Previous Captured here are highlights from the Gangarama Perahera
Gangaramaya Navam Maha Perahera - 2018 -    • Gangaramaya Navam Maha Perahera - 2018  
Gangaramaya Navam Maha Perahera - 2019 -    • Annual Gangarama Navam Maha Perahera - 2019