Police have announced a special security and traffic plan for the 2026 Kandy Esala Perahera, deploying more than 7,900 personnel across the festival period.
The operation will involve 6,200 police officers, 564 Special Task Force personnel, 1,200 tri-forces personnel and 29 Civil Security Department officers. The Police Kennels Division, which handles tracker dogs, will also be deployed.
The pageant will be held under state patronage from August 18 to August 28. The Kumbal Perahera runs from August 18 to August 22, followed by the Randoli Perahera from August 23 to August 27. The final Randoli Perahera and the traditional water-cutting ceremony take place on August 28.
Roadblocks and parking
Security duties will include roadblocks covering 14 entry points into Kandy, along with inspections of vehicles and individuals and arrangements to guide visitors. Police said the deployment will run around the clock for the duration of the pageant.
Thirteen parking areas have been designated for those attending — six for light vehicles and seven for heavy vehicles.
Alternative routes
Police have advised motorists to bypass the Kandy city centre during the festival:
- Traffic from Katugastota towards Colombo or Nuwara Eliya should use the Katugastota Bridge and proceed along Polgolla Road towards Peradeniya.
- Traffic from Colombo heading to Kurunegala, Matale or Mahiyanganaya should use the Peradeniya–Polgolla Road towards Kurunegala or Matale, or travel via Madawala towards Mahiyanganaya.
- Traffic from Kandy towards Mahiyanganaya and Badulla should use Mahaiyawa Junction, Dharmashoka Mawatha and Thennekumbura.
Police asked the public and motorists to respect national cultural traditions, keep the area clean and cooperate with officers on security and traffic duties.
The announcement follows the Kap planting ceremony that traditionally marks the start of preparations for the pageant. The Central Province Governor has separately said this year’s procession must comply with the Animal Welfare Act in its use of elephants.
