Astrologically, the Aluth Avurudda (New Year) symbolizes the transition of the Sun from Pisces to Aries. According to the New Year almanac 2016, the auspicious times for New Year are as follows.

Sighting the new moon
The auspicious times to sight the new moon falls on Friday, 8th April and on Sunday 8th May.

Bathing for old year
The tradition is to be observed this year on Wednesday, 13th April after applying Nanu mixed with Kohomba leaf extracts.

Dawning of the New Year
The new year dawns at 7.48.p.m. on Wednesday 13th April. Astrologically, the new year (Aluth Avurudda in Sinhalese) symbolises the transition of the Sun from Pisces to Aries.

Punya Kalaya
The Punya Kalaya (Nonagathaya) for religious observances is from From 1.24 p.m. on Wednesday (13th) to 2.12 a.m. on Thursday (14th April)

In the initial part of the Nonagathaya before the dawn of the New Year, it is common practice to refrain from all work during this time. People refrain from lighting hearths and drawing water during this period and engage in religious activities until the dawn of the New year.

Lighting of the hearth
The auspicious time to light the hearth for boiling milk and cooking milk rice (kiribath) is at 8.06 p.m. on Wednesday April 13th.

The hearth should be set facing South. Light green attire is recommended.

New Year meal & Ganu Denu
The first meal for the New Year should be taken at 8.54 p.m. on April 13 facing South.

This traditionally includes starting work and engaging in the first transaction for the New Year.

Anointing oil
The auspicious time for anointing oil is 10.41 a.m. on 16th Saturday. Blue attire is recommended for this ceremony.

Departing for work
The auspicious time to depart for work falls on Monday 18th April at 6.27 a.m. facing Eastwards. White attire is recommended.