Inspired by Emotion Vol : 04 June 2014
The Esala (Kandy) Perahera The “Perahera” simply means a procession in Singhalese language. However, in general the Perahera has a deeper meaning signifying a Buddhist procession, which is more of a festival in Sri Lanka and for the Buddhist devotees. Furthermore, Perahera has been more of a tradition from the times of Kings where richly decorated elephants joined the dancers, drummers, stilt walkers, whip-crackers and hundreds of other devotees. It soon became the symbol of our tradition. The Kandy “Esala” Perahera is by far the most prestigious Perahera today, drawing thousands of locals and tourists to this grandeur. Usually held in July or August coinciding with the Esala Poya. The Perahera consists of Kumbal Perahera for 5 nights followed by the Randholee Perahera for another 5 nights. The word, “Randholee” refers to palanquins on which the Queens of the ruling kings traditionally traveled. The excitement begins when the “Peramunurala” rides the first elephant followed by whip-dancers, Kandyan dancers, fire-dancers and various other cultural dancers making the Perahera a unique symbol of Sri Lanka.
authenticitiessrilanka.com
page 1
Where to Stay
Elephant Stables The Kandy House Clingendael Bungalow by Amaya Victoria Golf & Country Resort Theva Residency Earl’s Regency Randholee Resorts Earl’s Regent Amaya Hills Thilanka Hotel
Destination Featured - East Coast Passikudah / Trincomalee
On the East Coast of Sri Lanka, lie miles of beautiful and pristine sandy beaches. This area was once less visited by tourists due to the trouble times. However, the development efforts since 2009 offer a beautiful choice of resorts allowing tourists to plan a holiday where they could relax and also explore the unique culture and history. The Passikudah & Trincomalee coasts are the most popular and offer quality accommodation. Passikudah is popular among locals and tourists as it is known to have one of the longest stretches of shallow coastlines in the world. In some places the sea is very shallow, which will allow people to walk many meters into the sea. Trincomalee offers both a quality beach and culture and is complemented by good choice of resorts. The finest stretch of beach is known as Nilaveli where most of the hotels & resorts are situated. The visit to Fort Frederick and to the Koneshwaram Temple is of high significance to Hindus. The East Coast has a short monsoon season and tends to become more popular during July & August. You can also enjoy activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, luxury yachting, jet-skiing & many other watersport activities.
authenticitiessrilanka.com
page 2
Featured Partners Uga Bay - Passikudah The Uga Bay fuses a combination of tropical and Mediterranean architecture to create a stunning centerpiece in the beautiful bay of Passikudah. The semi-circular design ensures an ocean view from every one of the 46 spacious rooms, as well as from the luxuriously private Bay Suite and a Beach Villa. In fact, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the infinity pool as it blends into the sea from the entrance, or from the bar and restaurant atop the spiral stairs, from the conference facility, or even from the underground spa. But why merely gaze at the sea when you can answer its call? Passikudah Bay is ideal for all sorts of water sports and beach activities! Escape into Uga Bay!
Anilana Nilaveli - Trincomalee Located on the quietest part of one of the best beaches in the world, this stylishly designed resort is an intimate and luxurious escape for you to relax and enjoy some luxury, good food and the natural beauty of the surrounding environment. All of the rooms and suites are comfortably furnished and have breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Laze around one of the two swimming pools, enjoy thoughtful and attentive service, relax and rejuvenate in the Anilana Spa, take in wonderful views from the roof top bar or simply take some time to breathe and enjoy. Bask in the freedom of doing whatever you want, whenever‌ all in a tropical paradise. Their Chefs create tantalising dishes for you to taste, Bartenders prepare tropical drinks to cool, and the service team work hard to make sure those who prefer a quiet retreat or a lively holiday, all leave with a smile and fond memories of the hospitality offered by them.
How to Get There
authenticitiessrilanka.com
page 3
Road Travelling to Passikudah by road will take you approximately 6 hours, and approximately 6 hours to Trincomalee (without any stops) from Colombo. Though it could be timely, when travelling by road, an advantage you would have is, the ability to visit places with historical significance, as you will travel through the famous Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka. This option is ideal if you are an adventurous traveler and looking to experience the best of local culture.
Air There are a number of domestic airline services operating within the island. For the moment, there are no flights to Passikudah. But domestic flights do operate up to Trincomalee. If your destination is Passikudah, we suggest that you fly to Trincomalee, and from there have a transfer arranged by road. Flying time from Colombo to Trincomalee would be approximately 50 minutes, and if travelling to Passikudah, it would take 1 hour & 30 minutes from there by car / van.
You are sure to witness some breathtaking landscapes during your journey!
authenticitiessrilanka.com
page 4