The path has been opened to participate in the annual Kataragama Esala festival which begins on 19th June and ends on  July 3rd, Basnayake Nilame of Kataragama Maha Devalaya, Dhisan Gunsseekara told the media.
In previous years these Hindu foot pilgrims could not participate in this festival because of the economic crisis in the country. About 50000 foot pilgrims are expected at the festival this year According to Basnayake Nilame.
The foot pilgrims enter the Yala jungle and spend about 100 KM to reach Kataragama sacred city walking about 25 km a day and spending the night under the trees braving the hot sun, rain and wild beasts including wild elephants.
Inside the jungle they will be provided with drinking water, firsalmsgivinggiving also, by the Wild  Department, Army and the police.
Security for them is provided by these institutions and they advise the pilgrims to use the roads recommended by the authorities, walk in teams, spend the night in teams and not go for bathing alone because of the crocodiles.