Nikini Full Moon Poya Day This Month – A Holy Day for Buddhists in Sri Lanka

A day with much meaning for Buddhists in Sri Lanka, Nikini Full Moon Poya falls on 22nd August 2021. This is the second full moon day in the “Vas” season, a period of around four months when Buddhist monks refrain from outdoor activities and instead, spend time in meditation and spiritual pursuits. Also commemorated is the first Buddhist Council (called Dhamma Sangayana) which took place around 400 BCE; at this council, in Rajgir, India, the Buddhist scriptures or “Tipitaka” based on Lord Buddha’s teachings were agreed upon and recited.

On Nikini Poya, which is a public holiday, devotees will visit Buddhist temples and make offerings, while it’s forbidden to sell meat or alcohol. Though most businesses will be closed, you can still enjoy holidays to Sri Lanka during this time at government-certified ‘Safe & Secure’ hotels such as Sri Sharavi Beach Villas & Spa. At such coastal accommodation options in Mirissa, event venues, beach villas, spa rituals and diverse dining are all on offer.