Annual Paada Yaathraa [June 26 2016]

One of Sri Lanka's oldest traditions is the Paada Yaathraa foot pilgrimage from Jaffna to Kataragama along the East Coast through Kumana and Yala jungles which take place annually in the months of June-July.

Devotees take a two-months trek to reach the jungle shrine of Kataragama from Nallure Kovil in Jaffna.The pilgrims depend on the hospitality of villagers, accepting alms, alking

barefoot and sleeping in temples or under the open sky on their way to attend the Kataragama Esala festival.

The Paada Yaathraa plays a major role in propagating and perpetuating Kataragama's spiritual traditions throughout Sri Lanka and South India.

This year's Paada Yaathraa devotees now passing Pottuvil will reach Okanda Devala next week.Over 10,000 pilgrims will walk the final leg through Yala National Park which will open to the devotees from tomorrow (June 27).