Sri Lanka Celebrates Poson Festival – A cultural and religious festival not to be missed

Buddhists in Sri Lanka gathered to celebrate its second most important religious observance, Poson Day Festival. Poson or Poson Poya as its known locally, is of great historical and religious significance as it was on this day that Buddhism was introduced as a major religion to Sri Lanka in 247 BC. While Poson is celebrated around the island, the main festivities are held in Anuradhapura and Mihintale; cities renowned in Buddhist history in Sri Lanka. Hotels in the area, like the Jetwing Hotels are packed with tourists who come to watch the colourful Pandols and Paper Lanterns that are displayed. During Poson, pilgrims dressed in full white fill temples, offering prayers and flowers to Buddha. The Poson Poya Holiday takes place in June, with celebrations lasting from 1st to 7th June.