Vel Festival

Vel Festival is one of Sri Lanka's most prominent Hindu festivals and among the most famous festivals in Sri Lanka. With an interesting history that dates back to 1874, the Vel Festival is a celebration of triumph over evil by venerating the divine trident – or vel – of the Hindu war god Skanda (also known as Kartikeya and Murugan).

During the festival, devotees take to the streets for several days with parades featuring chariots, the smashing of coconuts, tinkling of bells, lighted joss-sticks and Kavadi dancers. The festival typically takes place during the month of July or August – with main celebrations centered in Colombo. Devotees in Colombo dress in bright colors and march along sea street to make their way to the temple in Bambalapitiya before returning. The festive mood resonates through the street air during the festival for several days and Hindus from all over the country join in festivities.

Where: Colombo

When: July or August