Preparations under way for Kandy perahera

By Z. M. Razik in Kandy

The historic hill capital is preparing for the Kandy Esala Perahera - one of Asia's most colourful pageants which begins with the ceremonial planting of 'Kap' at the four devales in Kandy in the first week of August.

Sri Dalada Maligawa, Natha, Paththini, Kataragama and Vishnu devale authorities are preparing comprehensive programs for the perahera.

Hotels and guest houses in Kandy are preparing to provide accommodation for a large number of foreigners who are expected to visit Kandy during the perahera season. Kandy police are finalising arrangements for the diversion of traffic entering the city from four points and to provide protection to visitors coming to Kandy.

The Kandy Municipal Council will provide adequate water, electricity and sanitary facilities to meet the demand during the season. The council has also made arrangements to lease the Kandy Queens Hotel corridor for visitors during the perahera season.

Travel and tour operators here are planning to conduct special tours to places of historic interest in and around Kandy.