Quick answer: Deepavali 2026 in Sri Lanka is a public holiday around 7–8 November 2026 (many Tamil families keep the pre-dawn oil bath on 7 November). Deepavali is a public holiday in Sri Lanka, celebrated above all by the island’s Tamil Hindu community with lamps, new clothes and temple worship. Perform Lakshmi Puja in the pradosh (dusk) window after local sunset — confirm the exact muhurat for Colombo with a local panchang.

Deepavali is a public holiday in Sri Lanka, celebrated above all by the island’s Tamil Hindu community with lamps, new clothes and temple worship.

How Sri Lanka celebrates Diwali 2026

Families light lamps, wear new clothes, prepare sweets and visit temples for Deepavali, following the Tamil tradition of the festival. Many observe the pre-dawn oil bath on the morning of Naraka Chaturdashi, while the gazetted holiday marks the festival day.

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Diwali 2026 city by city in Sri Lanka

Colombo

City temples and homes light up for Deepavali, and markets in Pettah and Wellawatte are busy with festive shopping.

Jaffna & the North

The Tamil heartland celebrates Deepavali with temple worship and family gatherings.

Hill country & the East

Tamil communities in Kandy, Trincomalee and Batticaloa mark the festival at home and at their temples.

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Temples and community associations announce their exact 2026 Diwali programme dates a few weeks ahead — check locally for venues and times.

Diwali 2026 dates

Date

Observance

Friday, 6 November

Dhanteras

Saturday, 7 November

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Naraka Chaturdashi / Choti Diwali

Sunday, 8 November

Diwali · Lakshmi Puja

Monday, 9 November

Govardhan Puja / Annakut

Tuesday, 10 November

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Bhai Dooj

Lakshmi Puja follows local sunset, so use a panchang set to your city or check today's panchangam.

Frequently asked questions

When is Deepavali 2026 in Sri Lanka?

Deepavali is a public holiday around 7–8 November 2026; many Tamil families observe the pre-dawn oil bath on the morning of 7 November. Confirm the gazetted date locally.

Diwali 2026 around the world

More country and city guides, each with local Lakshmi Puja muhurat and events: