Bak Full Moon Poya Day in Sri Lanka
Bak Full Moon Poya Day is one of Sri Lanka’s monthly full moon holidays. The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau says it commemorates the Buddha’s second visit to the island, when he made peace between two local chiefs.[1]
Meaning and origins
The story associated with Bak Poya is rooted in Sri Lankan Buddhist tradition. The Tourism Promotion Bureau describes the Buddha’s visit as an effort to end a conflict between two local chiefs who were uncle and nephew.[1]
The story gives this poya a distinct local meaning: it links the observance to a remembered episode set in Sri Lanka. It is a religious tradition.[1]
A public and bank holiday
Sri Lanka’s Holidays Act declares every Full Moon Poya Day a public holiday and a bank holiday. It also says public holidays are to be kept as holidays and banks are to close on bank holidays.[2]
For people employed in shops or offices covered by the Shop and Office Employees Act, the Department of Labour says a full moon poya day is a holiday. If it falls on an employee’s weekly holiday or weekly half-holiday, the law does not provide an additional day off in lieu.[3]
What to expect
The Tourism Promotion Bureau notes that poya days are associated with restrictions on the sale of alcoholic drinks, meat and fish, and that some shops and businesses close. The extent of closures can vary, so visitors should check with individual businesses before making plans.[1]
Banks close under the Holidays Act. Check current public transport schedules with the relevant operator before travelling.[2]
Frequently asked questions
Is Bak Full Moon Poya Day a public holiday?
Yes. Sri Lanka’s Holidays Act makes every full moon poya day a public and bank holiday.[2]
Do shop and office employees get the day off?
The Department of Labour says employees covered by the Shop and Office Employees Act receive a holiday on a full moon poya day. No additional day in lieu is due when it coincides with their weekly holiday.[3]
Are shops and restaurants open?
Some shops and businesses close, and the Tourism Promotion Bureau describes restrictions on selling alcoholic drinks, meat and fish. Check opening hours with each business.[1]
Are banks open?
No. The Holidays Act says banks close on bank holidays, and every full moon poya day is a bank holiday.[2]
Sources and references
Sources used for Bak Full Moon Poya Day in Sri Lanka:
- Sri Lankan Public Holidays 2025- Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau
- HOLIDAYS ACT- Ministry of Science and Technology, Sri Lanka
- Salary/wages/Leave- Department of Labour, Sri Lanka