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Sri Lanka is gearing up for the Vesak festival, which falls on the full moon of May.

People from all across the country and many tourists take part in the festivities which include street performances and free markets.

The day is almost unique globally as it is supposed to be a day of deep reflection for Buddhists and those taking part are required to cease worldly pursuits.

This does not mean that there is nothing on offer for visitors however, with many Sri Lankan's taking to the streets outside temples.

Here, there will be performances by theatre groups, processions and stories read from sacred texts by monks.

Vesak festival is a three-way celebration, with Buddhists marking the anniversary of the Lord Buddha's birth, his attaining of enlightenment and his passing into Nirvana.

Sri Lanka becomes awash with colour for the occasion, which is often referred to as the Buddhist Festival of Light.

Vesak festival takes place on 1 May.

Fancy going to this event? Use Opodo's travel search engine to find flights and hotels for your stay.

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