What is the ‘Kumbal Perahera’?

The Kumbal Perahera comes as the first five nights of the public street processions, acting like an opening scene to the festival, with a modest yet steadily increasing number of performers. You will notice it right away.

Even if it is not as elaborate as the last nights, it still feels magnificent, full of traditional Kandyan dancing and drumming, along with decorated elephants that look almost ceremonial in the evening lights. Since it gathers fewer people than the festival’s climax, the Kumbal Perahera becomes a great choice for travellers who want a truly authentic atmosphere and a comfortable vantage point without dealing with that heavy congestion during the final days.