The Sri Lanka Police have implemented a special security and traffic plan for the fourth Kumbal Perahera of the historic Kandy Esala Perahera, scheduled to be held on August 21.
The 2026 Kandy Esala Perahera commenced on August 18 and will continue until August 28.
The fourth Kumbal Perahera will commence from the Sri Dalada Maligawa at 6.40 p.m. on August 21, proceeding along Dalada Veediya, Kotugodella Veediya and Raja Veediya before returning to the Sri Dalada Maligawa. The total route is approximately 1 kilometre and 270 metres.
Special traffic arrangements will be in operation in Kandy during the Perahera, with alternative routes provided for motorists.
Heavy vehicles travelling from Katugastota towards Kandy can use the route from Mahaiyawa Junction along Tilak Ratnayake Mawatha and through Police Junction towards Kandy.
Light vehicles arriving from Katugastota can travel via D.S. Senanayake Veediya, Cross Street and Yatinuwara Veediya, turn left near the Meeramakkam Mosque and proceed along Tilak Ratnayake Mawatha.
Vehicles arriving from Thannekubura and Ampitiya can travel along Sangharaja Mawatha to Wales Park Junction and proceed via Ehelepola Kumarihamy Mawatha towards Bogambara and the Kandy Railway Station area.
Vehicles travelling between Colombo and Kandy can use William Gopallawa Mawatha and the Old Peradeniya Road in both directions.
The police will also implement special measures including roadblocks, security duties, vehicle and person checks, guidance for tourists and designated vehicle parking arrangements during the Perahera.
The public and motorists are requested to cooperate with the police and follow the designated traffic arrangements during the Perahera period.
