Poson Festival in Sri Lanka – An important Buddhist holiday

This is an important religious festival for the Buddhist devotees in Sri Lanka as it signifies the introduction of Buddhism on the island. Centuries ago, a monk by the name of Arhat Mahinda came to the island from India. At Mihinthale rock in Anuradhapura, the monk taught the king of Sri Lanka at the time the ways of Buddhism.

From there on out the king spread Buddhism across the country. The locals celebrate this day by going to the temple in the evenings, lighting lamps, observing sil and decorating their homes with colourful lanterns of all shapes and sizes. On the streets you will find stalls that offer passers-by free food, these are called dansal. If you wish to travel to Sri Lanka during this period and need to know more, visit sites like Truly Sri Lanka.