Summer spectacular in the Sri Lankan city of Kandy

Every summer, depending on the phase of the moon, a replica of Buddha’s Tooth Relic is taken in a procession around the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka, accompanied by dancers, drummers, elephants, flag bearers, whip crackers and fire twirlers.

This year is no exception with the Esala Perahera set to run between the 19th and 29th of August 2007. Each evening there will be a series of increasingly lengthy and spectacular parades with over 100 costumed elephants. The last day, Esala Poya, is full moon and the culmination of celebrations. Stay at Kandy’s best address – The Kandy House, to make sure you catch this spectacle.

A 10 day holiday departing on the 18 August to Sri Lanka, including five nights at the Kandy House to coincide with the festival, and four nights relaxing on the coast at Galle, costs from £2025 per person.

Sri Lanka is literally buzzing with Perahera celebrations during this time; however Kandy’s is generally considered the most magnificent. Pilgrims from all over the island flock to the city to mark the event. Visitors can enjoy the pageantry of the festival and learn more about the significance of this major event in the Buddhist calendar.

Located just outside the city, The Kandy House offers nine suites, all taking their names from Kandyan butterflies. Massage and yoga are available to guests to unwind after enjoying the hustle and bustle of the city. The stunning infinity pool is landscaped into the hill below the house, part of the estate’s six acres of lush gardens.

Stays at The Kandy House during the festival range between £122 to £165 per night for bed and breakfast.

Alternatively a tailor made holiday can be booked through Bales Worldwide costing from £2025 which includes international flights from Heathrow all internal transfers within Sri Lanka, five nights at the Kandy House and four nights at the Galle Fort hotel in Galle. Visit Bales Worldwide online at Balesworldwide.com.

For further information and booking enquiries for The Kandy House, visit Thekandyhouse.com.