Sinhala & Tamil New Year 2026: what travellers should know today

The island’s biggest festival (Apr 13 to 14), a solar new year shared by Sinhalese and Tamils. Hearth-lighting, milk-rice (kiribath), sweets (kavum, kokis). The island’s biggest festival (Apr 13 to 14), a solar new year shared by Sinhalese and Tamils. Hearth-lighting, milk-rice (kiribath), sweets (kavum, kokis), traditional games and the auspicious-times (nekath) rituals.

travelguides.lk · updated 14 Apr 2026 Sourced editorial

What is happening

The island’s biggest festival (Apr 13 to 14), a solar new year shared by Sinhalese and Tamils. Hearth-lighting, milk-rice (kiribath), sweets (kavum, kokis), traditional games and the auspicious-times (nekath) rituals.

Focus of observances: Islandwide.

What it means for your day

Near-total shutdown for several days: shops, transport and attractions close and cities empty as people travel home. The neutral “nonagathe” period pauses everything. Sort out food, cash and transport in advance and book early.

Public offices and banks close on public holidays, while restaurants and most tourist services carry on as usual.

Frequently asked

Is Sinhala & Tamil New Year a public holiday in Sri Lanka?

Yes, banks, government offices and many businesses close. Tourist services, hotels and restaurants generally keep running.

Can tourists watch the observances?

Yes, respectfully. Dress modestly, follow local direction at temples, and enjoy one of the most atmospheric sides of Sri Lankan culture.

Will transport run today?

Yes, trains and buses run, often busier than usual around family travel. Book intercity seats early.

Places in this guide

Jaffna

1.5 km Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil

40.8 km Delft Island (Neduntheevu)

134.7 km Wilpattu National Park

155 km Mihintale

155.8 km Anuradhapura Sacred City

161.3 km Kalpitiya

164.9 km Nilaveli Beach

Sources

Sri Lanka Tourism, festivals and events ↗

We compile and link to public sources; details change, so verify time-sensitive specifics before you travel.