The annual Sri Pada Pilgrimage season will commence today.
The casket of relics and the statue of God Sumana Saman were taken from the Galpottawala Sri Pada Rajamaha Vihara to the Sri Pada Maluwa to commence the season. The pilgrimage season runs from today to next year’s Vesak Poya Festival.
Meanwhile, special health guidelines have been issued in relation to the Sri Pada Pilgrimage season considering the prevailing COVID-19 situation in the country.
Accordingly, a gazette notification has been issued by the Ratnapura District Secretary Malani Lokupothagama.
According to the guidelines, pilgrims must be in possession of the vaccination card confirming their vaccination status or a photocopy of the card. Meanwhile, no temporary shelters or guest houses will be allowed to function during the season.
A number of special sites and locations have been declared for pilgrims to use as temporary lodging.
No new shops can also operate without prior approval from authorities.
Meanwhile, begging has also been prohibited in the vicinity of the Sri Pada Maluwa and other designated areas.
Devotees will also not be allowed to remain at the Sri Pada Maluwa and they must descend after completing the rituals.
Meanwhile, pilgrims at all times must wear a facemask and follow social distancing guidelines owing to the prevailing coronavirus situation in the country.
