An Unforgettable Avurudu at Amaya Resorts and Spas

The Sinhala and Tamil New Year was celebrated in true Amaya spirit this April, as guests at Amaya Resorts & Spas came together across the properties of Amaya Lake, Amaya Beach, and Amaya Hills to immerse themselves in the joy, culture and traditions of Avurudu. From the 12th to the 16th of April, the festivities culminated in a grand celebration on the 14th of April, where each property was transformed into a vibrant hub of heritage, hospitality and community.

The celebrations kicked off at dawn on the 14th, as guests and staff gathered across all resorts to take part in the traditional boiling of milk at 4:04 a.m. This symbolic act of unity marked the inception of new beginnings, prosperity and shared joy.

Throughout the day, the resorts hosted an array of traditional Avurudu games that brought together guests from all corners of the globe. With activities ranging from Kana Mutti and Sack Races to the exhilarating Kaba Adeema and Lime & Spoon races, there was never a dull moment. The Kotta Pora battles, always a highlight, had both participants and spectators in stitches as the competitive spirit took hold. Local food stalls, including the beloved Toddy Hut, Yara Tea station, and Saruwath counters, served up delicious Sri Lankan specialities like Fried Fish, Corn and Manioc. Guests also got involved in hands-on cooking at live counters, learning how to make classic Avurudu sweets such as Kavum and Kokis. A special Avurudu Kumari and Kumaraya pageant took place at each location, where guests were treated to a fun and lighthearted tribute to Sri Lankan charm, celebrating the elegance and grace of the season.

Cultural performances added further colour to the celebrations, with vibrant dance displays and rhythmic drumbeats creating an electric atmosphere at each property. Traditional attire adorned both guests and performers alike, infusing the day with a sense of unity and cultural pride. The evening brought a beautiful close to the festivities, whether it was with a cultural dance performance under the stars at Amaya Beach, Pasikudah and Amaya Lake, Dambulla or a relaxing sip of Toddy in the cool mountain breeze at Amaya Hills, Kandy.

From lakeside to mountaintop to seashore, the Avurudu celebrations at Amaya Resorts & Spas were a stunning collective expression of Sri Lanka’s timeless traditions, brought to life with warmth, hospitality and community. It was a true reflection of the Amaya philosophy, where every guest is made to feel like part of a larger family, united in the spirit of celebration and shared experience.