Kathragama Esala Festival 2016- The Haro Hara Festival

Also known as the festival of “Haro Hara”, Katharagama Esala Festival is usually held in the month of July or August. This year the festival is scheduled to be held on 19th of July. Attended by pilgrims of all faith, this annual festival is held as a means of celebrating the God Skanda. Many devotees attending the festival find accommodation at a well known hotel or resort in the region. Sri Lanka resorts such as the Kithala Resort of Theme Resorts & Spas located in the vicinity of Kataragama is a popular choice amongst these visitors.

Many devotees who attend the festival bear witness to the Fire Walking ceremony which seems nearly impossible and those who lack faith dare not try walking on fire. The perahera or the procession includes colourfully dressed dancers, drummers as well as the gentle giants who are seen pacing according to the rhythm of the musical instruments.