30,000+ Devotees Embark on Foot Pilgrimage to Kataragama Through National Parks

COLOMBO (News 1st); In preparation for the annual Esala Perahera festival at the sacred Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya, the entrance to Kumana National Park will be opened today to accommodate pilgrims arriving on foot from the Northern and Eastern provinces.

This centuries-old tradition, revered by Hindu devotees, involves a spiritual foot pilgrimage through Yala and Kumana National Parks to reach Kataragama. 

Over 30,000 pilgrims are expected to participate in this year’s journey.

The pilgrimage route spans approximately 35 days, beginning in Jaffna and passing through key locations such as Wattappalai, Trincomalee, Verugal, Sittandy, Batticaloa, Mandur, Thirukkovil, and Okanda before reaching Kataragama.

Wildlife officers will conduct a headcount of pilgrims entering the park from the moment the gate opens until it is closed again, ensuring safety and proper management of the sacred journey.

The Esala Perahera festival at the Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya is scheduled to commence on June 26, 2025.