The historic Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya recently launched the Tourist Enclosure for the 100th Kelaniya Duruthu Maha Perahera, opening 400 reserved seats to international visitors. 

The grand procession takes place on Thursday, 21 January 2027 at 7.30 p.m. The launch was held at the temple before travel agents, tour operators, hoteliers and the media. 

The centenary Perahera is held under the guidance and blessings of the Chief Incumbent of the Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya, Agga Maha Panditha, Mahopadhyaya, Professor Emeritus, Most Venerable Kollupitiye Mahinda Sangharakkhitha Nayaka Thero, together with Venerable Professor Deniyaye Pannaloka Buddharakkhitha Thero. 

Kelaniya is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, venerated as the place the Buddha visited on his third visit to the island. 

The second era of the Duruthu Maha Perahera began in 1927 through the efforts of the philanthropist Don Walter Wijewardene, son of Helena Wijewardene. The 2027 procession completes the Century of the Second Era, 1927 to 2027. 

The sacred relic casket is carried by Kandula, the temple's tusker, and is followed by the three devala processions of Vishnu, Kataragama and Vibhishana. Caparisoned elephants, traditional dancers, drummers, fire performers and whip crackers accompany the relics through the night. 

The Tourist Enclosure gives overseas guests a reserved seat with an uninterrupted, front-facing view of the procession. Each ticket includes live commentary on the procession, complimentary Ceylon tea, coffee and bottled water, dedicated parking and a priority entrance. The seating is also placed for clear photography and filming. 

The organisers expect 400 visitors from Germany, the United Kingdom, France, India and other markets. Sri Lankan guests are also welcome to book. Seats can be booked at www.kelaniyaperahara.com. Travel agents, tour operators and hotels can arrange group bookings directly with the organising committee.