What are the main stages of the Perahera?

The festival keeps moving through four different phases: first, the Kap Situwima (blessing ritual), then the Kumbal Perahera (early processions), after that the Randoli Perahera (grand street parades), and finally the Diya Kepeema (water cutting ceremony).

This staged setup seems made to build inner momentum and also public spectacle, step by step. The Kumbal part stays smaller, and it wanders around the temple area, more like a local circuit. Then the Randoli stage makes a big jump; it widens the route, increases how many performers show up, and boosts the sheer count and brightness of the decorated elephants, all building toward the last, stunning night. After that, the whole thing ends at the river at dawn, for the Diya Kepeema.