May 31, Colombo (LNW): The annual pilgrimage season at Sri Pada officially came to an end at midnight on 30 May, marking the conclusion of several months of religious observances that drew thousands of devotees from across the country.
Chief Custodian of the Sri Pada Rajamaha Viharaya, Venerable Bengamuwe Dhammadinna Thero, announced that the closing ceremonies were conducted in keeping with long-standing traditions, coinciding with this year’s Vesak celebrations.
A series of religious rites was held at the sacred summit before the ceremonial transfer of revered religious items. Following the completion of the observances, the Sacred Relic Casket, the statue representing the deity Saman, and other sacred insignia were carried in a solemn procession descending from the mountain via four designated routes.
The procession travelling along the Ratnapura pathway completed its journey in the early hours of 31 May, arriving at the Sri Pada Rajamaha Viharaya in Galpoththawela, Pelmadulla, where devotees gathered to witness the occasion.
Venerable Dhammadinna Thero stated that the sacred relics and ceremonial objects will be housed at the temple throughout the off-season. They are expected to remain there until preparations begin for the next pilgrimage season, when they will once again be returned to Sri Pada in accordance with established religious customs.