Nawam Maha Perahera 2026

About This Event

The Nawam Maha Perahera 2026 is a grand religious and cultural procession jointly organized by the Prime Minister's Office and Gangaramaya Temple, celebrating Sri Lanka's Buddhist heritage, cultural diversity, and national unity. This spectacular two-day event (January 31-February 1, 2026) will parade through the streets around the historic Gangaramaya Temple and Beira Lake area. Organized under the patronage of Ven. (Dr.) Kirinde Assaji, Chief Incumbent of Gangaramaya Temple and Sanghanayaka of the Western Province, with coordination by Prime Minister's Secretary Mr. G. Pradeep Saputhanthri and Western Province Governor Mr. Haniffa Yusuf. The 2026 edition will be held on a larger and more spiritually uplifting scale, featuring traditional dancers, drummers, flag bearers, and beautifully decorated elephants. International cultural troupes from Thailand, India, and other countries will participate, adding a global multicultural dimension. The perahera supports Sri Lanka's tourism promotion drive, positioning Colombo as a vibrant cultural destination and complementing the Gangaramaya Temple City Concept – an initiative transforming the temple surroundings into a center of culture, education, and tourism around Beira Lake. Security and logistics are coordinated with Tri-Forces, Sri Lanka Police, Colombo Municipal Council, and various government/private organizations. The event aims to strengthen Sri Lanka's image as a global center for spiritual and cultural tourism while offering visitors an unforgettable experience of Sri Lanka's living traditions and colourful cultural expressions.