August 23, Colombo (LNW): The historic Kandy Esala Perahera will enter one of its most anticipated stages today (23), with the first Randoli Perahera due to begin at 6.44 p.m. at an auspicious time.
The evening procession is expected to draw large crowds to the streets of Kandy as the annual pageant continues its traditional celebrations. The Randoli processions are among the most spectacular events of the festival, featuring richly decorated elephants, traditional dancers, drummers and other cultural performers.
The procession will leave the Sri Dalada Maligawa premises and travel along Dalada Veediya, Temple Street, Deva Veediya and Colombo Street. It will then proceed through Kotugodella Veediya, Cross Street and D. S. Senanayake Veediya before making its way along Raja Veediya and returning to the Maligawa.
With thousands of spectators expected to gather along the route, traffic restrictions have been introduced in and around Kandy for the duration of the procession.
Police have also designated alternative routes for motorists to help minimise congestion and maintain the smooth movement of vehicles while the Perahera is under way.
Motorists and residents in the city have been advised to plan their journeys in advance and allow additional time for travel, particularly during the evening hours when the procession is expected to attract the largest crowds.
