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Unduvap Full Moon Poya

Commune with spirituality this Unduvap Full Moon Poya - a day of illumination, enlightenment and peace in the Buddhist calendar!

Thursday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEDecember Full Moon (≈ Unduvap Poya)

OBSERVED INSri Lanka

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYBuddhist

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Embrace a journey of spirituality and serenity this Unduvap Full Moon Poya, which falls on December 7! This significant day marks the end of the rainy season in Sri Lanka and commemorates the arrival of Sangamitta Theri in Sri Lanka carrying the Bo Sapling. Historically, this day holds great importance in Buddhism and is celebrated with much fervor across the nation, with people observing Sil and engaging in meritorious deeds. This day magic of undiluted tranquility, the enlightening full moon, and the peaceful surroundings make it a day of true spiritual rejuvenation in the Buddhist calendar. So let's prepare ourselves to unwind, reflect, and soak in the radiant blessings of the Unduvap Full Moon Poya!

TIMELINE

Unduvap Full Moon Poya Timeline

Arrival of Mahinda

Prince Mahinda, son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka, arrives in Sri Lanka, marking the beginning of Buddhism in the country.

Sangamitta's Journey

Sangamitta Theri, sister of Mahinda, voyages to Sri Lanka, carrying the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree's sapling, a tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

First Official Poya Day

The British rulers make the Full Moon Poya day an official public and bank holiday.

Inclusion in Constitution

The importance of Poya is recognized in Sri Lanka's new constitution, articulating the freedom to have Poya as a day of observance.

Unduvap Full Moon Poya

The Unduvap Full Moon Poya annually commemorates Sangamitta Theri's arrival and the end of the rainy season in Sri Lanka, it is marked as a day of serenity, spirituality, and enlightenment.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Unduvap Full Moon Poya

Partake in a communal meal

Organize or participate in a communal meal, called a "Dana". It is an important part of Poya day observance, which invites people to come together and break bread in togetherness.

ENGAGE

Engage in meditation

Plan a quiet time for reflection and meditation. This could be done alone or as part of a group, to appreciate the peace and serenity that the full moon brings.

CREATE

Create mindfulness arts and crafts

Engage in some mindful arts and crafts linked to the Buddhist culture and day's importance. This could be through drawing, painting, or creating symbolic ornaments, acting as a creative outlet and means of celebration.

VISIT

Visit a temple

Pay a visit to a local Buddhist temple to join in the prayers and offer alms or flowers. The temples are beautifully lit during Poya days, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and sanctity.

INVITE

Invite for a storytelling session

Organize a storytelling session about the significance of Unduvap Full Moon Poya, discussing the history and traditions that surround it. This can help to expand understanding and appreciation for the day among all participants.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Unduvap Full Moon Poya

Preserves tradition and culture

Unduvap Full Moon Poya is a day to remember and celebrate the rich history and traditions associated with Buddhism. From storytelling sessions about the significance of this day to visiting temples and participating in the rituals and customs associated with it, this day allows people to engage with and preserve their cultural heritage.

A day for spiritual connection

Unduvap Full Moon Poya is a day that allows individuals to connect with their spiritual side, to reflect upon themselves, and to deepen their understanding of Buddhism. It provides an opportunity to seek inner peace and tranquility, away from the hustle-bustle of daily life.

Promotes community bonding

This day encourages community gathering and promotes unity, be it through sharing a communal meal or engaging in group meditation sessions. Such actions foster relationships, creating a sense of belonging among individuals within the community.