09/07/2026
The Kataragama foot pilgrimage, known as the “Pada Yatra, “is a centuries-old spiritual journey.
Devotees walk hundreds of kilometers from the far north in Jaffna to the sacred town of Kataragama in the southeast. They brave the hot sun and wild jungles to seek blessings and fulfill personal vows.The walk lasts for several weeks and ends in time for the annual Esala Festival. Thousands of pilgrims from many faiths take part, including Hindus, Buddhists, and indigenous Veddas. They walk barefoot, carrying simple bags, and rely on the kindness of villagers along the way…
This is one of the strong spiritual cultures coming from ancient history in Sri Lanka🙏🏼
They chant ‘Haro Hara’ during the walk doing this powerful call to the devine :
May God protect us”🦋✨