A pandal is fabricated structure, either temporary or permanent, in a religious ceremonies including weddings. It is derived from Tamil (பந்தல் pandhal)
In Hinduism, it is a temporary structure set up to venerate the god Ganesha during Ganesh Chaturthi or the goddess Durga during Durga Puja, known as puja pandal.
In Sri Lanka, Vesak thorang pandals are set up during the Vesak festival, with illuminated panels illustrated with episodes from the life of the Gautama Buddha. Pandals are also set up during Gammaduwa (village rebirth) festivals, honouring the goddess Pattini.
Pandal (mandat in Burmese) also refers to platforms from which people splash water during the Thingyan Buddhist festival.
A pandal can also be a ceremonial gate, built to welcome visitors.