KATARAGAMA
Kataragama is one of the most famous places of pilgrimage in Sri Lanka.
It is a holy city very important to Sinhalese people.
Since the 4th century AD, between the month of July and the month of August (named the month of Esala), during 10 days and 10 nights, festivities take place in Kataragama where thousands of pilgrims from all parts of Sri Lanka but also from India come to honor their Gods.
It is a wonderful opportunity to witness Hindu ceremonies and rituals and share a moment with the Sri Lankan people in one of their most anticipated celebrations of the year.
This festival is the second most famous after the Kandy festival.
The particularity of Kataragama is that it is a place where Hindu, Bouddhist, Muslims, Veddas and Christians are united to celebrate together their Gods.
Apart from the month of Esala, throughout the year, you can also discover the Sri Lankan habits and rituals where believers give offerings to their Gods during the daily Pooja ceremonies.
In addition to this spiritual journey, nature lovers will be pleased to see dozens of the beautiful Malabar pied hornbills which fly over the temples of Kataragama.