Authorities expect between 1.5mn and 1.7mn devotees to visit Anuradhapura for the National Poson celebrations.

Religious events will be centred at Mihintale, the Anuradhapura Atamasthana and Thanthirimale Raja Maha Viharaya.

More than 3,500 police personnel have been deployed to provide security, while pilgrims have been urged to protect the environment and follow safety guidelines during the festival.