How Will Sri Pada Season Be Different This Year?

The annual Sri Pada season was declared open on 29 December, and will last until Vesak Poya Day in May. Despite the mountain’s popularity as a multi-religious site of pilgrimage, however, authorities will be enforcing strict health guidelines this year, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. From several rituals being foregone and social distancing measures in place, here’s how the season will be significantly different this year.