LOOPING THE LOOP AT DEMODARA
TOURING THROUGH DARKNESS
DEMODARA, ONE OF THE RAILWAY STATIONS ALONG THE COLOMBO-BADULLA LINE, IS QUITE SPECIAL FOR ITS REMARKABLE CONSTRUCTION
WHEN TRAVELLING BY TRAIN ALONG THE BADULLA RAILWAY TRACK IN SRI LANKA, ONE CAN EXPERIENCE THE THRILL OF HAVING THE TRAIN PASS THROUGH RAILWAY TUNNELS; 43 OF THEM ARE FOUND ALONG THE COLOMBOBADULLA LINE
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 EDITOR IN CHIEF Harsha Udayakantha Peiris CONSULTANT EDITOR Renuka Bandaranayake DEPUTY EDITOR Rathindra Kuruwita SUB EDITOR Rikaza Hassan CONTRIBUTORS FROM MAIDEN ISSUE Prof. Rohana P. Mahaliyanaarachchi Dept. of Agri Business Management of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka Dr. Iraj Ratnayake Dept. of Tourism Management of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka Dr. Ashoka Dangolla Senior Lecturer of University of Peradeniya Sri Lanka and Veterinary Specialist Anslem de Silva - The President of Amphibia and Reptile Research Organization of Sri Lanka (ARROS) Dr. Ruchira Somaweera – Senior Zoologist, BIOLOGIC Environmental Survey, Australia Vasantha Nugegoda – Zoologist and Animal Habitat Specialist Chamalka Kothalawala – Taxidermist, National Museums, Colombo Sri Lanka Chandima Jayaweera – The Most Outstanding Chauffeur Tourist Guide (Nature & Wildlife) SLTA 2012 Raju Vyas – Gujarat, India Sujitha Miranda – Veteran Journalist Indika karunadasa – Journalist Sri Lanka Tourism National Museums Colombo
12 ENGINEERING
21 HISTORIC
MANAGEMANT
Bharatha Gunathilake Chief Executive Officer Global Media Holdings (pvt) Ltd
MARKETING
Nilan Wijerathna Head of E- Marketing
GRAPHICS
Brainwave Advertising
MOST OF THE VISITORS ARE AWARE THAT THE CITY OF DIYATALAWA IS ONE OF A BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY DESTINATION. BUT THERE ARE MORE SIGNIFICANT VALUES IN THE DIYATALAWA HISTORY IN CONNECTION WITH THE ANGLO-BOER WAR, IN THE FIRST WORLD WAR AS WELL THE LATER ON ESTABLISHMENT OF RELIGIOUS AND EDUCATIONAL REFORMS UNDER COLONIAL ERA
28 SCENIC BOERS IN CAPTIVITY UVA’S CASCADING BEAUTIES
FOR THE SIGHT OF ALL SITES LIPTON SEAT IS A FAMOUS VIEW POINT, WHERE AT LEAST SEVEN DISTRICTS OF SRI LANKA CAN BE SEEN. THIS POINT IS SITUATED ABOUT 13KM AWAY FROM HAPUTALE TOWN, IN DAMBETHANNA ROAD.
UVA PROVINCE OF SRI LANKA IS A PARADISE BLESSED WITH THE BEAUTY OF MANY WATERFALLS IN THE SUBURBS. IT IS ALSO A WELL-KNOWN TOURIST ATTRACTION CREATED IN 1896.
36 ARCHAEOLOGY
PHOTOGRAPHY Aloka I de Silva Chandima Jayaweera Maheesha Mindula Warna Liyanawatte Sanju Samarasinghe Suranga Cooray K. Herath Achintha Dahanayake Shafik Ali Salahudeen
16 TREKING
PILIKUTTUWA RAJA MAHA VIHARAYA BUILT NEARLY 2400 YEARS AGO AS A MONASTIC MEDITATION CENTRE WITH 99 CAVES SPREAD OVER 200 ACRES THIS ANCIENT BUDDHIST TEMPLE IS A MAJESTIC HISTORIC MONUMENT IN THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL FINDINGS OF SRI LANKA.
31 NATURE SORAGUNE THE KATHARAGAMA DEVALAYA OF THE HILLSVIHARAYA THE DEVALAYA LIES JUST ABOVE THE ROAD LEVEL WHICH MAKES IT LOOK AS THOUGH LOCATED UPON A RAISED STAGE. THERE REMAINS A NUMBER OF INTERESTING HISTORIC MONUMENTS TO SEE AT THIS ANCIENT SHRINE
45 DISCUSSIONS ALTERNATIVE TOURISM AS AN EMERGING SUBSECTOR IN TOURISM
DISTRIBUTION AND LOGISTICS Global Media Holdings (pvt) Ltd PRINTING Commercial Printing & Packaging (pvt) Ltd Opinions expressed in Sri Lanka The Treasure Island are those of writers, and may not necessarily be the view of Global Media Holdings (pvt) Limited or its employees. Readership is advised to seek advice from specialists before acting on information published in the magazine.
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42 DEVOTED
ROHANA P. MAHALIYNAARACHCHI, PROFESSOR OF AGRI-BUSINESS MANAGEMENT OF SABARAGAMUWA UNIVERSITY OF SRI LANKA IN AN EXCLUSIVE E-INTERVIEW WITH SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND REVEALS THE IMPORTANCE OF THE RIGHT IMPLEMENTATION OF AN ALTERNATIVE TOURISM SEGMENT AS AN EMERGING SUB SECTOR TO SAFEGUARD THE SUSTAINABILITY OF THE INDUSTRY IN SRI LANKA.
CONTENTS
48 ARCHITECTURE ARE YOU GOING TO ADISHAM, THAT STONE MANSION IN THE HILLS
BUILT IN 1931, BY SIR THOMAS LISTER VILLIERS – AN ENGLISH PLANTER, ADISHAM IS A STATELY STONE MANSION BEAUTIFULLY SITUATED IN TRANQUIL SURROUNDINGS IN HAPUTALE IN THE CENTRAL HILLS. IT IS CERTAINLY A ‘MUST SEE’ FOR HOLIDAY MAKERS AND CHANCE VISITORS, A FIRSTHAND EXPERIENCE OF GETTING EXTREMELY FAR AWAY FROM THE MADDENING CROWDS OF THE CITY
52 MOUNTANIOUS CLUB BENTOTA – REVEL, ROMANCE, REFLECT, REJUVENATE CLUB BENTOTA SURFACES A COMPLETE ADVENTURE HOLIDAY PACKED WITH FUN FOR EVERYONE
56 DESTINE ENVIRONS
61 RETREATS
CONQUERING THE NAMUNUKULA CURVES
98 ACRES IN THE HILLS WHAT STRIKES YOU MOST WHEN YOU ENTER 98 ACRES RESORT AND SPA IS THE PASSION AND CONCERN FOR THE ENVIRONMENT THAT IS REFLECTED IN THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION AND THE STRUCTURAL CONCEPT.
64 ECLOGUE KADOLANA ECO THE RIVER’S EDGE PLEASURE
A TOTAL OF 1,210 PASSENGERS TO COLOMBO ON BOARD THE ‘DAWN PRINCESS’ HAD BOOKED FOR EXCURSIONS TO VARIOUS TOURIST DESTINATIONS SUCH AS KANDY, PINNAWELA, INGIRIYA AND DOWN SOUTH. ON RETURN THEY WOULD CONTINUE THEIR JOURNEY TO AUSTRALIA, WITH THE NEXT PORT BEING PORT KELANG IN MALAYSIA.
KADOLANA ECO VILLAGE LIES AT THE EDGE OF MADU RIVER IN ADA DOLA VILLAGE, BALAPITIYA, LOCATED BETWEEN AHUNGALLE AND HIKKADUWA, WITHIN AN HOUR’S DRIVE FROM COLOMBO VIA SOUTHERN EXPRESSWAY AND ONLY LESS THAN ONE KILOMETER DISTANCE TO THE BALAPITIYA BEACH
NAMUNUKULA IS SITUATED IN BADULLA, NEAR NAMUNUKULA TOWN. NAMUNUKULA MEANS NINE PEAKS, WITH ITS HIGHEST PEAK RISING 2,016 METRES ABOVE SEA LEVEL. WE HAD COME PREPARED TO CLIMB ALL NINE PEAKS, OR SO WE THOUGHT
70 EVENTS
• HSC BLUES CLINCHES THE CARLTON CUP 2013 • SLT HOLDS GRAND FINALS OF JANAGEE THARUWA WEE 2013
67 MARITIME LUXURY PASSENGER VESSEL DAWN PRINCESS CALLS COLOMBO
T
74 NEWS •SEYLAN BANK RELOCATES KEGALLE BRANCH TO NEW PREMISES. •CHITRAL JAYAWARNA RELEASES CHALLENGES BEFORE COUNTRY.’ •BANKING CONVENIENCE TO SRI LANKANS. •HNB REDEFINES CASHLESS ECONOMY WITH “MOMO” •SA’S PREMIER DEFENSE UNIVERSITY KDU HOLDS LEADERS’ TROPHY BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT 2013. • IND - EXPO CERTIFICATION LIMITED CROWNS ANNOUNCES CROWNED INSTITUTIONS FOR FOOD HYGIENE SCHEME
HE RAILWAY NETWORK IN SRI LANKA CONTAINS SOME OF THE MOST MAGNIFICENT SCENIC RAIL ROUTES IN THE WORLD. PARTICULARLY THE MAIN LINE WINDING THROUGH BOTH NATURAL BEAUTIES SUCH AS WATERFALLS, NATURAL FOREST MOUNTAINS, MISTY PEAKS AND PRECIPICES, AS WELL AS MAN MADE FESTOONS SUCH AS TEA ESTATES, PINE FORESTS AND ENGINEERING FEATS INCLUDING BRIDGES AND PEAK LEVEL STATION. THE PICTURE SHOWS AN INTERCITY EXPRESS NEARING THE DEMODARA STATION OVER THE NINE ARCHED RAIL BRIDGE. Pix by Sanju Samarasinghe
10 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
ENGINEERING
LOOPING THE LOOP AT
DEMODARA A
journey by train Upcountry is one of the most fascinating experiences to be found in Sri Lanka. The arrival of new trains from China, with German engines and Japanese computer panels as well as air conditioned compartments has made the journey more comfortable, offering the traveller the fullest comfort
12 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
Pix Sandali Subhagya
Text and pix by Harsha Udayakantha Peiris
w
hilst taking in the breathtaking scenery. Demodara, one of the railway stations along the Colombo-Badulla line, is quite special for its remarkable construction. Having begun operations in 1921, this station was an engineering feat in the history of railways in Sri Lanka. As a making the level difference by maintaining 1:44 which is maximum allowable gradient in Sri Lankan Railways. The new route reduced the stretch to a length of 3 miles. Wimalasurendra also went on to design the 09 arch railway bridge nearby. How the loop works is that a train travelling from Colombo passes through the Demodara station twice. First it enters the station and passes around the mountain range to enter the tunnel beneath the railway station to cross the station again. Today, Demodara railway station, situated in the Badulla district of the Uva Province in Sri Lanka at a distance of 172 miles (276.8 kilometres) from Colombo and a height of 2990 ft. (911.61 metres) above sea level, stands as a marvel of railway architecture. The length of the Demodara tunnel which runs beneath the railway station extends 1049 ft (320 metres).
The 'Kottamba' tree near the railway station where people gather to see the train enters the tunnel benearth
A train that passed the station enters the tunnel beneath to cross the station for the second time
Demodara Railway Station SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 13
Engineer D.J.Wimalasurendra Antique furniture and operating gears at the SM's office
The railway map depicting the line from Colombo to Badulla. Encircled is the Demodara station and the rail line at the station
AN ENGINEER’S PROFILE D.J. Wimalasurendra was born in 1874 in Galle, the eldest son of master craftsman Mudaliyar Don Juan Wimalasurendra. He received his education at Ananda College, Colombo and joined the Ceylon Technical College in 1893, while working as an apprentice at the Government Factory. He graduated in Civil Engineering from the Ceylon Technical College and gained Associate Membership of the Institution of Civil Engineers (AMICE). In 1912, Wimalasurendra attended Faraday House in Stevenage, England specialising in electrical engineering and gain the Faraday House Diploma in seven months as well as gaining associate membership at the Institution of Electrical Engineers in Britain. In 1896 he joined the Public Works Department as a field overseer and within four years he was promoted to an inspector. Having become a junior assistant engineer by 1900, he worked on building the concentration camp in Diyatalawa for Boer prisoners captured in the Second Boer War and in 1901 he conducted a survey on mineral deposits in the Kelani Valley.
The sketch at the station depicts the exact way a train meets the station twice on a single journey
The bricked construction at the station to depict the year of commencement of operations at Demodara
In 1926 he was appointed the Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD). Soon after, he began the separation of the electrical section of the PWD. Under his direction the government took over the Colombo Electric Scheme (established in 1918) to supply power to Colombo city and the tramways run by Bousteads Brothers Ltd. He became the deputy director of the newly formed Department of Government Electrical Undertakings (DGEU) in 1927 and established the first thermal power station 1929 - Stanley Power House. He retired early from public service in 1929. Engineer D.J. Wimalasurendra passed away on August 10 1953 at the age of 79 years.
14 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
TREKING
TOURING THROUGH
DARKNESS Text and pix by Indaka Karunadasa
W
hen travelling by train along the Badulla railway track in Sri Lanka, one can experience the thrill of having the train pass through railway tunnels; 43 of them are found along the Colombo-Badulla line. Twenty-one of these railway tunnels belong to the Badulla district in the Uva Province. In fact, in the line between the Ohiya and Idalgashinna stations are to be found the highest number of railway tunnels between any two stations, in the world - 14 tunnels spanning a distance of 7 km. All of these railway tunnels are historical monuments in Sri Lanka and as such are categorized as technical archaeology. The tunnels are all over a 100 years old. These tunnels differ from each other in a number of aspects including length and height, as well as appearance. The tunnels were constructed without the help of modern machinery. Gunpowder was used to blast out the hole, after which the hollow was lined by square blocks of rocks and cement used to curve out the walls of the tunnels. The tunnels are also given a tunnel number which along with distances (in miles) from the Colombo Fort railway station to both the beginning and end of the tunnel are displayed upon a board at the tunnel entrances. Tunnels 22 to 43 belong to the Badulla district in the Uva Province, located between the Ohiya and Badulla railway stations.
16 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
Tunnels 22-43 Ohiya to Idalgashinna Tunnel Number
Length (metres)
Tunnel Number
Length (metres)
22
124.39
29
181.9
23
40.24
30
80.48
24
80.48
31
60.36
25
20.12
32
80.48
26
60.36
33
60.36
27
100.6
34
120.73
28
181.9
35
80.48
Idalgashinna to Haputale Tunnel Number
Length (metres)
36
60.36
Haputale to Diyatalawa Tunnel Number
Length (metres)
37
100.36
Diyatalawa to Bandarawela Tunnel Number
Length (metres)
38
20.12
Bandarawela to Ella Tunnel Number
Length (metres)
39
74.84
Tunnel Number
Length (metres)
40
120
41
103.60
Ella to Demodara
Demodara to Haliella Tunnel Number
Length (metres)
42
126.70
Tunnel Number
Length (metres)
43
60.36
Haliella to Badulla
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 17
TUNNEL 22
All of these railway tunnels are historical monuments in Sri Lanka and as such are categorized as technical archaeology. The tunnels are all over a 100 years old.
TUNNEL 26
TUNNEL 24
TUNNEL 28
TUNNEL 23
18 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
TUNNEL 29
TUNNEL 30
TUNNEL 31
TUNNEL 32
TUNNEL 36
TUNNEL 34
TUNNEL 37 TUNNEL 39
TUNNEL 38
TUNNEL 42
TUNNEL 40
TUNNEL 25
TUNNEL 43 SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 19
HISTORIC
Text by Bharatha Gunathilake
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 21
D
iyatalawa, the city of troops, seems to be an ideal location for holiday planners. The ground is high above sea level, there is always a breeze stirring, and the atmosphere, generally, is unlike that of the tiring city. However, whilst most of its visitors are aware of its many attractions, very few are aware of its historical significance. Under British rule, the British regime invited British citizens to commence new ventures in colonial Ceylon, resulting in an influx of British citizens to the Hill Country. Educationalists were invited to implement reforms to local education whilst religious sects were invited to influence the locals to change their religious ideology. As a result, many British people settled down in Ceylon.
Diyatalawa camp
Reverend Samuel Langdon and his wife, two Wesleyan (Methodist) missionaries, settled down in Diyatalawa and constructed a building complex consisting of an orphanage, Mission House, chapel and a hospital. Reverend Samuel Langdon later began Kandy High School. He was also the first principal of Richmond College, Galle. Soon, the planters too came and acquired the barren lands in close vicinity, mainly in Haputale and Bandarawela. Diyatalawa was called ‘Happy Valley’ and many British citizens settled down in this picturesque land.
Arrival of the Boers to the DYT railway station
The Boer Wars were two wars fought during 1880–1881 and 1899–1902 by the British Empire against the Dutch settlers of two independent Boer republics - the Orange Free State and the Transvaal Republic. The latter war resulted in a massive defeat to the Boers. The British regime selected Happy Valley (Diyatalawa) to settle captured prisoners and evacuated the Wesleyan missionary people. The first batch of prisoners arrived in Ceylon on August 9 1900 and subsequently others followed until some 5,000 prisoners had landed. Originally the camp was designed for 2,500 prisoners. In the end however 5,089 war prisoners were settled in Diyatalawa. One thousand guards, labourers and other personnel were employed at the camp. Mt. Lavinia was where the convalescent camp was located while dissidents and
Hut @ Diyatalawa
22 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
irreconcilables were housed at Ragama. A camp for prisoners on parole was also opened at Urugasmanhandiya in September 1901. Hambantota was also a parole camp. The Diyatalawa prisoners of war (POW) camp was constructed under the directives of the Kurunegala district engineer. The term ‘Boer’ is derived from the Afrikaans word for farmer and was used to describe the people in southern Africa who traced their ancestry to Dutch, German and French Huguenot settlers who arrived in the Cape of Good Hope after 1662.
Brick laying by the prisoners
Camp site
In search of the history of Boers in Diyatalawa I found a valuable note published in 1903. The author was an American sailor. He, together with four native colleagues, made a special appeal to Sir William West Ridgeway, the then Governor of Ceylon, to visit the POW camp in Diyatalawa. Permission was duly awarded and a note from the Governor gained them ready admittance in to the enclosure together with two lieutenants. According to the American sailor’s observations, the Boers were provided with food and comfortable shelter. They were housed in large huts constructed of wood. In each hut there were about forty prisoners. They were ranged along the wall on either side and over each was a shelf on which the prisoner kept his books and belongings. Under the bed was his clothes chest, and the tin plate and knife and fork with which he ate at the table. The Boer prisoners comfortably lived in the confined camp, enjoying the outdoors, like life in a sanatorium. The administrators however had taken every measure to prevent escape. The entire camp was surrounded by a ten foot high wire fence and several feet away from this was erected another barrier, exactly the same. Between the two was a perfect network of barbed wire. The ground within the first fence was covered with insulated wire and every time a prisoner approached the barrier an alarm went off. Guard huts were also stationed in frequent intervals around the camp.
General Olivier a captured high militory official
The camp resembled a busy town. The structures were also arranged so as to form streets, and these were named after famous places of their SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 23
motherland, Transvaal. Ladysmith Street, Majuba Hill and Spion Kop are some places they named in their own. There were a few grocery shops within the camp premises and there was a high demand for canned food items. The prisoners paid a high price for items such as canned fish, meat and baked beans. Supplies to the prisoners were sent daily by train. Some of the prisoners began small businesses and the authorities allowed them to do so. One Boer artiste ran a business of making picture postcards and writing papers. He sold small ivory elephants, shell work and Sinhalese jewellery and other prisoners purchased them to send to their wives, sisters, sweethearts back in Transvaal. (The family members back home however were starved in concentration camps and the majority of the women and children died.) One prisoner even constructed a clay oven to bake a kind of Dutch cake and there was considerable demand for his products. He sold the oven for one penny per unit. Please note that some of the Boer prisoners arrived in Ceylon with a considerable sum of money in their possession. The prisoners were also given permission to send the money they earned to their families in South Africa.
currency used excusivey in DYT
A newspaper written by the prisoners
SIR REDVERS BULLER'S WELCOME IN ENGLAND
A GROUP OF BOER WAR PRISONERS AT DIYATALAWA
There was a small library for the prisoners and daily newspapers were provided. They engaged in sports too with Quoits being their favourite game. Boxing was yet another popular sport. There were many famous men among the prisoners. Highly educated prisoners like doctors, engineers, army officers and intellectuals were also to be found in the captive population. An imprisoned Boer engineer once encountered engineer D.J. Wimalasurendra and suggested constructing a hydro power station in Kehelgamu Oya. The then young engineer was working in Diyatalawa at that time for Ceylon Electrical Undertakings, which generated electricity for the area. General Joubart and General Oliver were two high ranking Boer military officials who were also imprisoned. They however were provided separate camping facilities and treated with great respect by the other prisoners. They were frequently allowed out on short-term parole. When the generals 24 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
burning of boer camp in Transvaal
Photograph of Boer women and children in a British concentration camp during the Boer war
walked down Ladysmith Street, hats were raised in salute. The son and a nephew of ex-president Kruger as well as a brother of ex-president Steyn were also imprisoned at the POW camp in Diyatalawa.
BOER PRISONERS COOKING AT THE DIYATALAWA
In 1902, the Boers were in dire straits. Afrikaner (Boer) women and children died of disease and malnutrition. Their spouses were held in captivity overseas in remote countries like Ceylon. At last the Boer forces surrendered on Saturday May 31 1902, with 54 of the 60 delegates from the Transvaal and Orange Free State voting to accept the terms of the peace treaty. This was known as the ‘Treaty of Vereeniging’, and under its provisions, the two republics were absorbed into the British Empire, with the promise of selfgovernment in the future. This promise was fulfilled with the creation of the Union of South Africa in 1910. By this time 133 Boers had died in Diyatalawa having succumbed to the epidemic of enteric fever. According to the provisions of the Treaty, the remaining POWs in Diyatalawa sailed back home. The famous author R.L. Brohier, later on studied the occupancy of Boer prisoners in Diyatalawa. According to him, the departure of Boers left Diyatalawa a ghost town. Unoccupied huts - a striking picture of desolation and abandonment - gave this impression. Within a few years time however Diyatalawa once again came into the limelight. The imperial army troops were established there and Diyatalawa become the largest military city in the South Asian region. Diyatalawa materialised from the empty shell it was left in after the departure of the Boers. Diyatalawa owes its modernity to the presence of the Army, Naval and Survey camps within its borders. Foreign goods, garden produce, beer, Scotch whisky and tobacco replaced the markets for quaint curiae, bone and wooden trinkets merchandised by the Boer craftsmen. Tapering fires and pine sand giant gums hid the original bareness.
DIYATALAWA CAMP
After Sri Lanka gained its independence in 1948, all military facilities were taken over by the Sri Lanka Army and Navy. In 1952 the Royal Ceylon Air Force also established itself in Diyatalawa.
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 25
NATURE
For that sight of all sites Text by Sujitha Miranda
T
he natural beauty of tropical forests, beaches and remarkable landscapes has made Sri Lanka a world famous tourist destination. Let me take you on a ride…
We begin our journey at Colombo but the first stop isn’t a coastal area as u may well have supposed. We’re going to the Hill Country. And I would like to take you to one of the most beautiful hill country cities as our first stop - Haputale, one of the most cold as well as scenic cities in Sri Lanka. As we travel on the main Colombo-Badulla road, we steadily leave the warm climes of Colombo. The coolness of Belihuloya indicates to us that we have reached the Hill Country. As the road is good, we reach Haputale in about four hours. There are many popular visitor spots such as Adisham Bungalow, Bambarakanda and Diyaluma Falls, but we are not going to any of those. We are going to the well known but infrequently visited Lipton Seat. Lipton Seat is a famous viewpoint, where at least seven districts can be seen. It is situated about 13km away from Haputale 28 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
Another View
town on the Dambethanna Road. The Dambethanna tea factory, which is open to tourists, is one of the largest in Sri Lanka, producing the wide range of high quality teas. The road to Lipton Seat is narrow but in good condition and can be found just passing the factory. It is quite easy to find, with prominent markers. The 1.3km long road can be easily traversed on foot, though a car or a small van can be driven in it. Visitors are required to purchase a ticket (Rs50 for locals) and there is a small shop selling tea, snacks and even meals. Lipton Seat has a lovely history. When the great tea planter Sir Thomas J. Lipton was surveying this region looking for land to begin his tea plantation, he found a point that afforded him a 3600 view, ranging as far and wide to include 7 districts. The Dambethanna tea garden was owned by Sir Lipton from 1890 to 1930. He loved the place and it brought him immense pleasure to entertain his guests to picnics as well as to contemplate upon nature's bounty and his future prospects at the summit of his plantation – Lipton’s Seat. Located in Haputale, 193 km from Colombo, in the Badulla district, Lipton Seat is 4695 ft above sea level. It has a rich biodiversity and affords a very beautiful view of the Southern Plains. It is most definitely an amazing experience for any lover of nature; however clouds can really hinder the view.
View from Lipton Seat
The view point SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 29
" LIPTON SEAT IS A FAMOUS VIEWPOINT, WHERE AT LEAST SEVEN DISTRICTS CAN BE SEEN.
"
The Lake Entrance
Forest Nature Trail Name Board Visitors can find accommodations ranging from small holiday bungalows such as Thotalagala Bungalow, Blackwood Bungalow and Viharagala bungalow to hotels such as the Melheim and Olympus Plaza. On our journey to Lipton’s Seat we will also be passing by a number of other tea estates, including Thotalagala, Pitaratmalei and Bandara-eliya, making the mountains look as though a green carpet has been unfolded upon them. In fact, there is a lake to be found by Thotalagala, though it has not been well maintained over the years. By the lake is to be found the Pitaratmalei cloud forest nature trail in which can be found 10 species of endemic amphibians, 71 species of birds and 31 species of butterflies.
The Road Leads to Lipton Seat
30 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
NATURE
UVA’S
cascading beauties Text by Sujitha Miranda
U
va Province is a well known tourist paradise. It was created in 1896 and consists of two districts - Badulla and Monaragala. Badulla is the provincial capital. Its major tourist attractions include Dunhinda Falls, Diyaluma Falls, Rawana Falls, Muthiyangana Temple, Dowa Temple, Sorabora Wewa (Lake), Bogoda Bridge and Nine-arch Bridge. This paradise is blessed with the beauty of many waterfalls such as Bambarakanda, Diyaluma, Dunhinda, Rawana Falls, Peessa Falls and Bomburu Falls. SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 31
BAMBARAKANDA FALLS Bambarakanda is the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka at a height of 263m (863ft). It is also ranked as the 299th highest waterfall in the world. It is situated in Kalupahana in Haldumulla on the Colombo-Badulla main road within a pine forest. The waterfall is created by Kuda Oya, a branch of Walawe River, from the Udaveriya Haputale mountain. Bambarakanda is not a wide waterfall. The beauty of this waterfall is visible from November to February. There are a few accommodation facilities available close to Bambarakanda Falls. The Bambarakanda Holiday Resort which is located overlooking the waterfall is the only holiday resort close to the falls. Good hotels and residencies are available at Belihul Oya which is also close to Bambarakanda.
DIYALUMA FALLS Diyaluma falls is the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, measuring a height of 220m and making it the 361st highest waterfall in the world. It flows 24km away from Beragala along the main Wellawaya-Beragala road. The waterfall is formed by Punagala Oya, a tributary of Kuda Oya which in turn, is a tributary of Kirindi Oya. The waterfall creates an unforgettable picture in the mind as it falls down the cliff to its dark rocks throughout the year. A natural pool can be found at the top of the waterfall.
DUNHINDA FALLS Dunhinda (translating to smoky water) is the most spectacular creation of Badulu Oya. It is one of the most famous waterfalls in Sri Lanka. It is 64m (210ft) high and flows 5km away from Badulla along the main Badulla–Mahiyangana road. It is visible throughout the year, but during the period of November-April it is at its most stunning. At the end of the trail that leads you to the waterfall is a good observation spot. There are also many a snack stands on the way. It is however dangerous to bathe in this waterfall as its pool is very deep and contains many rocks below the water.
32 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
RAVANA FALLS More popularly known as Ravana Ella, it is a popular tourist attraction in Sri Lanka. Situated in the Badulla district, it is one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The point of origin of the Ravana Falls is the Ravana wild sanctuary which is located 2km away from the local railway station. The waterfall measures a height of about 25m (82ft). During the wet season, the cascade of water looks like an areca flower with withering petals. In the dry season however the water reduces a great deal. This waterfall is also associated with the romantic legend of Rama and Sita as told in the Indian epic Ramayana.
BOMBURU FALLS Also known as Perawella Falls, it is situated 15km away from Welimada in the village of Perawella via Ambagasdowa. Its height is 57.07m (164ft) and falls down into a large pool. This is the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka and consists of several small waterfalls grouped together. Water from Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya pours into Uma Oya from which the waterfall is created. It is situated on the border between Nuwara Eliya and Badulla districts, in the Sita Eliya Kandapola Forest Reserve.
PEESSA FALLS Peessa Falls is located in the colony of Peessagama which is 12.8km away from Lunugala along the main Badulla– Batticaloa road. Behind the waterfall can be found a huge cave accessible to anyone. However not many tourists know of its existence. It is said that King Dutugemunu stayed here on his way to Kataragama whilst another legend has it that monks from the Himalayas came here to meditate. It is mainly Kumbukkan Oya that forms Peessa Falls. It measures approximately 91.4m (300ft) high. The 5km Peessa Canal helps irrigate vegetable cultivation in the surrounding villages. SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 33
Ind-Expo Certification Limited Ind-Expo Certification Limited is a not for profit certification & training organization established by the Ceylon National Chamber of Industries (CNCI) and the National Chamber of Exporters (NCE) of Sri Lanka as it’s partners. It is ably supported by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) under the project – “Strengthening the International Certification Capacity in Sri Lanka” (Integrated Industrial Development Support Program Phase 11) with the auspices of the Ministry of Industrial Development. Ind-Expo Certification Limited has been incorporated under the Companies Act No. 7 of 2007. We are also the only registered training center for CIEH (Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, United Kingdom) to deliver internationally recognized training programs. Ind-Expo is accredited for HACCP, ISO 22000 and ISO 9001 by the Sri Lanka Accreditation Board which will be affiliated to the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) and is internationally recognized. We could ensure value addition to the management systems of our customers through a competent, well trained, experienced and committed team of auditors, technical experts and resource personnel. “Crowns for Food Hygiene Scheme” has been launched by IndExpo Certification Limited as the implementing partner to encourrage the continual improvement of food hygiene standards in the food handling establishments in Sri Lanka. This scheme has been developed based on the international best practices which is being practiced in many countries and has been developed by a team of experts in the relevant field to increase the levels of food hygiene and to the appeal of good performing businesses to both the local population and tourists alike.
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Ind-Expo Certification Limited CNCI Chamber Secretariat Apt No 20, 1st Floor Galle Face Court 2 Colombo – 03 Tel: 011 23 36 654/011 24 23 452 Fax: 011 24 23 453 E-mail: info@indexpo.lk Web : www.indexpo.lk
ARCHAEOLOGY
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uilt nearly2400 years ago during the regime of King DevanampiyatissaPillikuttuwaRajamahaViharayawas a monastic meditation complex with 99 caves spread over 200 acres. Its’ majestic history of Sri Lankan Buddhist tradition is evitable at every step including its structure and flora around it.
PILLIKUTTUWA
RAJAMAHA VIHARAYA Text and pix by courtesy of Sri Lanka Tourism | www.srilanka.travel
Situated along the Colombo-Kandy road just a short turn off Miriswatte junction, the cave complex was initially built to house the mediating arhants in a serene environment .The temple had been repeatedly renovated since its establishment with King Walagambaadjoining more facilities to the complex nearly 1100 years back. The Brahmin inscription on the top of the rock stand witness to the donation of Pilikuttuwa to the Buddhist monkhood adding that the temple was donated to the Sanga of all direction and of all periods. In the lowest levels of the temple is the ancient stone pond, Bodhi tree, Viharalena or the cave that houses the shrine and the chaithyalena or the cave with the stupa. Archeologists believe that these cave were initially constructed with the distinct drip ledge to house the meditating monks and were later convertedinto ashrine room and a house for stupa with the decrease of number of meditating monks at the temple. The image house is unique for its use of two drawings of Portuguese soldiers to guard the doorway in the place of Doratupala statues as in the early periods, suggesting the shifting of powers and the era of renovation. The ceiling of the rock cave is decorated with the typical Kandyanart decorations of elaborate lotus flowers while the reclining and sitting statues are of Polonnaruwa period. One the next level is the Devala Lena or the cave of gods, monks abode, dining hall and the bathing well all built into or built inside caves. An ancient wooden bridge across a small stream between two caves is another quaint sight in Pilikuttuwa. Having its origins in the Dutch period, the wooden arch, the wooden pillars, the wooden trellis, the wood plank flooring and the tiled roof amidst the looming rocks reminds of a Dutch among Sri Lankans, strange and 36 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
foreign. The subterranean waterway that runs under its planked floor can only be heard rushing off to join the Pilikuththuwawewa. Providing backdrop to the PilikuttuwaRajamahaViharaya is the Pilikuttuwa rainforest reserve with its lush layers of flora and rich biodiversity. The prized members are the 500 year old Pilikuttuwa Yoda Puswella or a giant pus creeper found in the temple vicinity and the large number of bird species breaking the serenity of the temple.
BROCHURE VERSION Built nearly2400 years ago during the regime of King DevanampiyatissaPillikuttuwaRajamahaViharayawas a monastic meditation complex with 99 caves spread over 200 acres. Situated along the Colombo-Kandy road just a short turn off Miriswatte junction, the cave complex was initially built to house the mediating arhants in a serene environment. The temple had been repeatedly renovated since its establishment with King Walagamba adjoining more facilities to the complex nearly 1100 years back. The Brahmin SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 37
inscription on the top of the rock stand witness to the donation of Pilikuttuwa to the Buddhist monkhood adding that the temple was donated to the Sanga of all direction and of all periods. In the lowest levels of the temple is the ancient stone pond, Bodhi tree, Viharalena or the cave that houses the shrine and the chaithyalena or the cave with the stupa. One the next level is the Devala Lena or the cave of gods, monks abode, dining hall and the bathing well all built into or built inside caves. An ancient wooden bridge across a small stream between two caves is another quaint sight in Pilikuttuwa. Providing backdrop to the PilikuttuwaRajamahaViharaya is the Pilikuttuwa rainforest reserve with its lush layers of flora and rich biodiversity. The prized members are the 500 year old Pilikuttuwa Yoda Puswella or a giant pus creeper found in the temple vicinity and the large number of bird species breaking the serenity of the temple. 38 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
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SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 41
DEVOTED
SORAGUNE
THE KATHARAGAMA DEVALAYA OF THE HILLS Text by Sujitha Miranda
Bodhiya
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oragune Devalaya, the ancient Katharagama Devalaya of the Soragune temple, is situated 5km away from Haldumulla city. It was built by King Yapa during the era of King Valagamba. The devalaya lies just above road level which makes it look as though located upon a raised stage. The ancient rock boundary Danduwam Gala (Punishment Rock) and Ath Gala (where the elephants belonging to the devalaya had been tied) are still found in the devalaya premises. There are many noteworthy features at Soragune Devalaya. The devalaya is surrounded by two rivers (Oya) which are the main water sources for all the surrounding villages. Maaligawa, Muluthange, Paththiniamma devalaya, Budu Madura, Patthiruppuwa and Singhasanaya are situated within one
Patthiruppuwa & Sinhasanaya boundary. Ancient ruins, such as stone scriptures, old stone and wooden pillars, slabs and buildings with drawings can still be found at this site.
HISTORY It is said that King Yapa made a promise to God to build a devalaya during his reign, but that he had forgotten about it for a long time. As a punishment, he lost his voice after suffering from a sore throat and was not cured for many years. One day he realised his blunder in a dream and travelled to the Hill Country, searching for a suitable place to build this devalaya. When he arrived at the site where the Soragune Devalaya would be built, he found that he was cured and that he could speak again. It is said that the area was called
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Chaithya
THE SHRINE ROOM
It is here that the perahera traditions are completed and the pieces of jewellery returned to the devalaya.
VOLUNTEER SERVICES The Kapu Mahaththaya, Lekam Mahaththaya (Secretary), Mohottala and the traditional drummers are not salaried workers. They devote themselves to the service to their Devalaya. The Secretary stated that if this devalaya was well maintained and developed, it would become another Katharagama Devalaya as it is situated in the central part of the island and has many traditions and religious miracles associated with it. Our special thanks go to the Basnayaka Nilame (BN) of Soragune Devalaya, Mr.Janaka ‘soragune’ (swara-guna) as it had the power to cure.
Paththini Devalaya
ANNUAL PERAHERA The annual perahera of Soragune Devalaya followed by the Diya Keapeema ceremony is a well known one. The customs practiced with regard to the Diya Keapeema are unique to this devalaya and brings in a lot of visitors. At the beginning of the perahara, pieces of jewellery are taken out of the devalaya and kept in a place called Pattiruppuwa which is situated out of the devalaya boundary. It is from there that they are taken to the perahara, after which they are brought back, to another place called Singhasanaya which is situated next to Pattiruppuwa. SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 43
Entrance to the Maligawa
Ath Gala
Kalupahana for his fullest corporation on this documentary coverage and the arrangements made to collect information. H.M. Punchimahathmaya served as the Basanayaka Nilame before the induction of his son H.M. Pathmasena who functioned as the Basnayaka Nilame at Soragune Devalaya for a record 33 years. The present Basnayaka Nilame Janaka Raveendra Kalupahana, son of H.M. Pathmasena, was appointed in 2011. The whole generation, as Basnayaka Nilame, served to secure people to be involved in Rajakari (volunteer services) and the villagers in the area.
SACRED CITY Approximately 18,000 acres of land, all around the devalaya, belongs to the Devalaya Trustee. The whole extent of land contains a diverse ecosystem with immense diversity of flora and fauna. It is a natural habitat of elephants. Nowadays however planters have used the land for their cultivations such as rubber, cinnamon, pepper, mango, pineapple, guava, etc. This village has been declared as a sacred city (pooja nagaraya) by the Department of Archaeology.
NEARBY DESTINATIONS The tourists who visit this devalaya have the opportunity to visit other additional tourist spots such as waterfalls like Bambarakanda and Diyaluma, destinations like Adisham Bungalow and Lipton Seat, and archaeological sites. Haldumulla, which is the closest town to the devalaya is of archaeological significance and contains a Prehistoric burial ground. Some archaeologists also discovered a human dwelling in 2011, which they believe is the oldest of its kind identified on the island so far. The site is situated 850m above sea level, where the foundations of four houses, fireplaces, coal, iron, rock tools and pieces of clay pots and beads which date back 3,750 years have been found. Tourists can also experience the cold climate with some comfortable accommodation at the many hotels and holiday bungalows such as Olympus Plaza, Viharagala Estate Bungalow, Mount Field Cottages, Baregala Bungalow and also a 400 acre Golf Link with a 400 roomd hotel which is scheduled to be constructed in the coming years.
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Danduwam Gala ( Punishing Place)
H.M.Heenmahaththaya
H.M.Pathnmasena
The present Basnayaka Nilame Janaka Raveendra Kalupahana
DISCUSSIONS
Pix by Harsha Udayakantha Peiris SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 45
lum orming at Ne t Troupe perf Ar in er ge ow an Fl ch d g Little Re effective ex Theatre - an China Nanjin sa ak ap aj R inda Pokuna Mah sector MICE tourism
Q. How do you analyse the importance of the tourism industry in context of the socio-economic factors of Sri Lanka?
Today tourism is one of the most important economic sub sectors in the development of a country. In the world, one out of 12.4 jobs is from the tourism sector (WTTC and WTFC, 2000). The fastest growing area in the world in tourism is South East Asia and Pacific with a growth rate of 14.5%. After the ending of the 30 year long civil war in Sri Lanka in 2009, the tourism sector has grown significantly, especially in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. It is proven that after May 2009, the month civil war ended, tourist arrivals have increased rapidly. The total number of tourist arrivals in 2009 was 447,890. It increased by nearly 210,000 in 2010 to 654, 476. In 2011 it was 853,975. The number of tourists expected by the tourist board of Sri Lanka in 2016 is 2 million. It shows the importance of tourism for the development of a country’s economy as a whole. Q. What are the factors that negatively affect the increasing engagement of the masses, either directly or indirectly, in the industry? What can be done to remedy these?
The full-package-holiday approach of mass tourism today is one of the negative factors affecting the economic survival of local small scale entrepreneurs as it entails tourists staying at a mainstream facility throughout their stay. Thus, specific tourism development
ing at Nelum oupe perform Tr t Ar ent er ow Fl ctive developm g Little Red eatre- an effe Th China Nanjin sa ak ap aj inda R Pokuna Mah MICE change via in cultural ex
approaches, distinct from mass tourism development, must be followed for developing alternative tourism. Most of these alternative tourism approaches are closely related with rural economies and thereby rural development. The main reason is that the tourist destination of alternative tourism approaches is rural areas. Alternative tourism approaches are namely nature tourism, eco tourism, heritage tourism, agro tourism, farm tourism, religious tourism, etc. Thus alternative tourism creates a new economic opportunity in rural areas. This situation leads to a positive relationship between socioeconomic development and tourism in rural areas. Further, this economic relationship creates new tourism sub sectors in rural areas. Q. What are the boundaries that affect the expansion of this sector of tourism in the country?
industry. Alternative tourism works to bring tourism back to its original spirit of exchange and solidarity among peoples. This is a niche market. The evolution of the tourism industry has been anxious, and to a large scale been dictated by the fluctuations in the socioeconomic and political landscapes of the world. Mass consumerism and mass tourism has been slowly giving way to personalised service offerings. The tourism industry has witnessed radical changes in travel preferences as well as customer expectations. Niche tourism, as it is recognised now, has been embraced by both travel operators and travellers alike, and is gradually being accepted as part of mainstream tourism. Q. The advancement of e-technology has opened new avenues for the development of many booming sectors around the world. Can we apply the existing components for the sustainability of the industry here?
Whilst certain types of tourism such as MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) tourism, war tourism, slum tourism, sports tourism, etc. are related to urban and suburban areas, alternative tourism activities are not limited to rural areas alone. Therefore the benefits of alternative tourism filter down to both rural and urban communities. In fact, alternative tourism emerged from the developing countries as a reaction to the negative effects of mass tourism heaped on them.
Certainly, yes. Digital and e-marketing tools and methodologies provide a perfect foil for this emerging and productive segment. Cultural tours, wine tours, tea tours, coffee tours, forest tours – are just some of the flavours of niche tourism. A sustained online marketing campaign is capable of creating unprecedented visibility for these travel treasure troves. Ecotourism, hot spring tours, adventure and heritage site travel, rainforest and backwater travel, and agro tourism are just some of the niche tourism concepts which are considered as alternative tourism.
Alternative tourism, as a counter trend, seeks to right these abuses by challenging the profit structure and commercial premise of the tourism
Further, alternative tourism is applied to tourism which does not damage the environment, is ecologically sound, and avoids the negative impacts of
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many large scale tourism developments undertaken in areas which have not previously been developed. Alternative tourism is thought to consist of smaller scale developments, or attractions for tourists which are set in rural communities and organised by them. These are seen as having fewer negative effects - social or cultural and a better chance of being acceptable to the local people than mass tourism. There is the question of who benefits. Certain kinds of tourism are called alternative because they are not exploitative of the local people, because the benefits flow to the local residents, or in general, to poorer communities. In contrary, conventional tourism demands large scale organisation and resources not usually available locally, or even in the host country. Q. What thoughts do you have for the authorities responsible to implement these in the proper manner, ensuring the wellbeing of the masses and socioeconomic development in the long run?
My professional definition for alternative tourism is every kind of tourism, other than mass tourism, which respects and conserves the socio-cultural values of communities and helps to improve their economic standards. Therefore, sex tourism and gambling tourism are of course, not included in alternative tourism. The reason is, both types of tourism do not carry good values to the community nor the environment. believe that both mass tourism and alternative tourism are needed for development of tourism in Sri Lanka. However, there is a big potential to develop alternative types of tourism in the country and it helps to filter the economic benefits of tourism down to the economically handicapped communities as well. There are many types of alternative tourism such as cultural tourism, ecotourism, community based tourism, culinary tourism, heritage tourism, medical tourism, wildlife tourism, nature tourism, wellness tourism, geo-tourism, slum tourism, religious tourism, pro-poor tourism, disaster tourism, sports tourism, doom tourism, MICE tourism, city tourism, and agro-tourism. The demand for alternative forms of tourism is on the increase. With increasing demand for alternative forms of tourism, tourism developments will be dedicated to providing alternative travel experiences. More than three decades of experience suggests that true alternative tourism is one that is not subject to the profit motives of big business interests. Alternative tourism also works for an empowered community that can and will reject development impositions on their lives. Only then can we really talk of having gone back to tourism's original spirit - that of exchange and solidarity among peoples. A PROF.ROHAN RACHCHI AA N YA LI A P.MAH
ARCHITECTURE
ARE YOU GOING TO ADISHAM,THAT
STONE MANSION IN THE HILLS? Text and pix by Harsha Udayakantha Peiris
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uilt in 1931, by Sir Thomas Lister Villiers – an English planter, Adisham is a stately stone mansion beautifully situated in tranquil surroundings in Haputale in the central hills. It is certainly a ‘must see’ for holiday makers and chance visitors, a firsthand experience of getting extremely far away from the maddening crowds of the city.
This sturdy rock fortress like homely building, situated at a boundary of the Thangamale Sanctuary, surrounded by undulating hills as far as the eye can see, contain many items that normal visitors are unfamiliar with, which accounts for the large number of guests who seek admission whenever the gates are open. Carefully cultivated and maintained flower gardens, Burma teak shingles that cover the roof and antique furniture are a few of the attractions that Adisham offers to the visitors. A number of butterflies that include the Tree Nymph, Common Bush Brown, White Four Ring, Crimson Rose, Dark Grass Blue, Blue Mormon, Ceylon Blue Glassy, Blue Glassy Tiger, Common Lepord, Palmfly and Red Admiral can also be spotted in the surroundings and the sanctuary.
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The Adisham mansion, today, is a peaceful monastery
The statue of St.Benedict in the compound
Antique furniture and the library inside
antique furniture and a part of the library inside
An old radio and brass ware kept inside a glaa cabinet SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 49
Pix by Chandima Dissanayake A vivid variety of flowers in the garden flower beds
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A distant view of tea estates in Haputale from the Adisham premisses
The Monastery The mansion was purchased by the Sylvestro-Benedictine monks in 1961 to serve as their novitiate, where those who seek to enter the monastic life are trained. The motto of St. Benedict, highlighted in his rule for monks, is what the community seeks to follow at Adisham: Ora et Labora. The monks subsist on funds earned by the sale of jam products and other produce from their farm, which also goes towards maintaining the monastery building. Maintenance of the monastery garden which retains its old English charm, with well preserved lawns, beautiful flower beds, evergreens and majestic trees is also a costly affair and is managed by funds collected at the gate; this is not a mere commercial venture.
Visitors to the monastery Visitors are welcome to visit the monastery from 9am to 4pm only during weekends (Saturdays and Sundays), Poya days and public holidays (except for Good Friday and Christmas day). Today however what is accessible to visitors is only a limited area with visitors having to be content with a documentary playing on a screen inside the old living area that gives the guest an idea of the interior of the building and the great personality who built it. Sir Thomas Lister Villiers
The boiler room that supplied water to the whole building
The living area today. The photgraph of Sir Thomas Lister Villiers above. Here, vistors to the mansion are shown a lengthy video of the history of the building SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 51
MOUNTANIOUS
Conquering the
Namunukula
curves
Text by Rathindra Kuruwita | Pix by Maheesha Mindula
It’s been about half-an-hour since the climb began. I remember, the four of us, Kavinda, Ranga and yours truly, meeting Kavinda’s friend at his shop at the foot of the mountain at 6.30am, who then introduced us to the guide. Namunukula is situated in Badulla, near Namunukula town. Namunukula means nine peaks, with its highest peak rising 2,016 metres above sea level. We had come prepared to climb all nine peaks, or so we thought. We are now cutting through the tea plantations, with the guide leading and the rest of us struggling to keep up with him, directly up the mountain, rather than around it, as the road would take you. Every now and then, we beg the guide to stop and let us rest. The man is taking us up through the stairway of stones that make up the gutter taking rainwater down the mountain. When we do stop to rest, we look at the valley below, the light blueness above and in the middle, the dark green and grey mountains of the Uva Province that stretch and disappear into the horizon. Slumped on a rock and frantic for breath, we cannot comprehend what we see; it’s just a meaningless picture.
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As soon as the panting stops though and the heartbeat is regular, a sense of defeat begins to settle in, and with every stop like this, we lose half of our remaining courage. With every lessening of the incline, we hope that there would be no more sloping ground, then circle the mountain a bit – on flat ground – and start cutting straight up again. Some of us even said aloud, “it’s just the first bit, and then there’ll be flatness…” and ask the guide how much there is more to climb – he would say 7/8 of the whole mountain – to reassure ourselves. It now seems ridiculous that, we could hope to find ourselves on top of a mountain without any climbing to do, but at that moment, logic was miserably out of place. Every step that feels like it could break the body, brings an increasing sense of helplessness. Perhaps this is how one feels under extreme physical exertion. Soon the incline becomes so steep and the ground so slippery, we have to use our hands as well as our feet to climb.
SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 53
Suddenly, we pull up on to a flat road with a kovil at the end. This is one of several kovils scattered around the mountains. We are now in a vast and windy open space and suddenly, we feel so powerful and like men again – we even take off our shirts to embrace the strangely refreshing winds. We have climbed up to the upper edge of the tea plantation. From here on, we shall climb through the jungle, a much easier task than the rocky stairway. The kovil facing us is the first of many holy places we shall encounter. Our guide soon starts praying and performing rituals facing the statue of the Hindu deity. We too take off our slippers and try to participate as best as we can. Everything had become beautiful again. Our guide is a man called ‘Pakira’ by the locals, but his real name is Sumanasiri. He tells us that the mountain is home to supernatural forces and that those who disrespect them by eating meat or consuming alcohol while climbing, will be severely punished. “Something happens, you slip to your death, break your neck or
foot, there is always consequences awaiting,” says Sumanasiri; we nod. He had come prepared to perform rites at each holy place, and plans on using a coconut we had brought at his request for this purpose at some point of the journey. According to Kavinda’s friend, ‘Pakira’ has two faults: his superstitious nature and fear of buffaloes. The superstitions, he said, we could handle, but in case a buffalo showed up, he said, we would very much likely be abandoned by Pakira to our own devices. After the brief halt at the kovil, we now enter slightly wild terrain again. Climbing now is more bearable; from time to time, we climb up, slide down large rocks to flatter ground, so we may circle places that can’t be climbed. After a long climb, we come to another, bigger, kovil and Sumanasiri starts performing the rites. We have, up until now, been climbing a land of dry wild plants and thorns, between the dense jungle capping the peak and the tea plantation. It is after we reach the third holy place that we enter the real jungle. Sumanasiri uses a large knife we borrowed from Kavinda’s friend, to cut a
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path through the jungle. The third holy place is an irregular shaped rock. There are still remains of camphor sticks and coconuts offered before by others. Sumanasiri begins his rites. This time he mixes a pale brown powder with water held in a piece of coconut shell left of previous offerings, smears the paste on the knife and our foreheads, mutters something while circling the knife over the holy rock, then turns around on his heels twice and raises the coconut we brought – now with a burning piece of Naphthalene inserted – and smashes it at the foot of the rock. We soon arrive at the first peak. The mountain is a curve, so, on top of the first peak, we can see the fourth, fifth and much of the third peak – completely covered by dark green treetops. Looking from here, the fifth peak, the highest point and where we intend having our lunch, seems a discouraging eternity away. Sumanasiri tells us that there’s a secret garden of fruits to be found on our way to the second or third peak. ‘Secret’ because he had once walked into it mistakenly
and nobody else has. ‘Fruit garden’ because it has many fruits not usually found. We soon come to the third peak and sure enough, on the way when Sumanasiri wandered off course, he and Kavinda did find the secret fruit garden. Sumanasiri met us back at the peak with a green orange and a branch he had taken from there as a souvenir. After the fourth peak, we could feel the pain resettling in our bones and slowly kill all the joy. At the point of absolute despair and the emptying of four of five water bottles we brought, we come to ‘suduwella’ as Sumanasiri says – an area of white sand. Soon, the tree density diminishes and the familiar bareness of the near-peak terrain emerges. Quite unexpectedly, at about 1:30 p.m., we walk onto the fifth mountain peak, the highest place, the place we shall have our lunch, and more importantly, sleep a little. After having our lunch – a vegetarian meal, as Sumanasiri would have it – we take a quick look around the plateau. The grass here is prickly, there’s a well dug by people containing stale, pasty, greenish rainwater. But no beautiful scenery, the jungle rings the plateau and blots the view. We wash our faces with the water from a mud hole – the only water to be found besides the well – and immediately fall asleep. At about 3:30 p.m., we are awoken by the sun burning on our faces. We pack-up and hurry down the peak, our way down is through the rest of the peaks. Climbing down the fifth and up the sixth, we stand awhile and watch the mist swallow the fifth peak. There is evidence of burned down fires and encampments at each peak, places where people have stopped for tea and watched the mountain they overcame, disappear first in the mist, re-emerge and then, lose its contours and become one with the night.
all the way, one takes a step, stumbles on some giant root of a tree and falls through the branches and leaves and undergrowth that, in a speedy whirl, come hit the face. After regaining one’s feet, one realises that, one has made tremendous progress downwards. We cut sticks for ourselves, to help us trip and fall more carefully, and strike our own feet with them many times. We lose ourselves quite a few times on the way and then, somehow, find ourselves, only a tree branch apart. We continue and keep praying that we may not find a buffalo, a branch apart, the next time. At about 6pm we have battled the last row of trees and we emerge into the open. Below, beyond about 500 metres of tea plantation, we can see the beaten tar road. We started climbing at about 7am and after six hours of painful climbing till the fifth peak, we have spent another three hours falling through wild shrubs, bushes, branches… We are through with Namunukula. We are just thankful that it didn’t rain the whole day, that we encountered but only one leech between the toes, and met not a single buffalo. Nothing much can be remembered of how we staggered down through the last bit of tea plantation and found ourselves in the car. Later, it was ascertained that Sumanasiri's ‘secret fruit garden’ was owned by a family who lived up at the peak.
The journey down was the best part of the climb. There are giant trees towering above, and beneath them, the undergrowth rises up to five feet off the ground. Sumanasiri is taking us through a barely traceable path, with the undergrowth covering it at some places and leaving us facing a wall of green. The climb down happens in irregular bursts; no one can really walk
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DESTINE ENVIRONS
C YPNOTI H IVINE D A . S W E
VI WHERE N O I T A N DESTI TS SEA, E E M R RIVE OFFERS D N A L S THE I E THAT C N A I B AN AM E AND IS SEREN ING. M UNASSU
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TOTA N E B B U L WN AS O N K Y L FORMER NSON, THAT BI CLUB RO A COMPLETE ES AY IS D SURFAC I L O H URE ADVENT ITH FUN FOR W PACKED NE EVERYO
Club Bentota Revel. Romance. Reflect. Rejuvenate. Pix by Shafik Ali Salahudeen
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Mr.Thomas-Schmidt Germany
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lub Bentota formerly known as Club Robinson, that surfaces a complete adventure holiday is packed with fun for everyone: providing exciting water sports, an extensive ayurvedic spa and so much more on a secluded, breathtaking beach front. The property is 100% owned and a subsidiary of the MLHG(Mount Lavinia Hotel Group). This premier family style resort is located in a 15 acre palm fringed peninsula referred to as Paradise Island in Bentota. "Very appropriately known as "anything is possible, everything is included", Club Bentota has all the best elements for a customer's holiday experience, a mix of value for money, location and especially good feedback from our customers.
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A picturesque peninsula. Lush foliage. A vacation in paradise. Yes; that’s exactly what’s in store for you. From the moment you arrive, the Paradise Island rekindles a spirit of tranquility and relaxation with its secluded spaces, lingering sea breezes and and hypnotic views. A divine destination where river meets sea, the island offers an ambiance that is serene and unassuming. Built in 1982 by a South African Architect, John Drake, The Paradise Island within its premises consists of approximately 80,000 square metres of palm fringed garden and tropical foliage with a natural jungle facing the river and lagoon in a unique setting. The island is rich with various water sports such as jet-skiing, wind surfing, speed boating, and banana boating to transform your holiday to an ultimate energy packed beach experience that defies monotony. The guest is sure to discover the wonders of Sri Lankan beaches during the hassle free stay in Club Bentota, that spells an adventure packed family holiday. The hotel has 146 spacious rooms that includes Superior Bungalows, Delux Rooms and Suites. The Seafood Cove in Bentota, buffet restaurant, terrace bar, a conference hall, an extensive Ayurvedic spa and health centre with a number of authentic treatments and a book shop are also available. A guest can choose from the allinclusive or full-board packages to book a vacation to Club Bentota, where the sun, sand and adventure awaits you.
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8 9acres
RETREATS
IN THE HILLS
Text by Rathindra Kuruwita | Pix by Sanju samarasinghe
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hat strikes you most as you enter 98 Acres Resort and Spa is the passion and concern for the environment that is reflected in the design and construction and the structural concept. The Resort shifts cabanas often associated with the beach to the Central Hills. It may sound surreal if you haven’t been here or seen pictures, but it actually works quite well. Keeping with the eco-friendly concept, most of the materials used in the construction have been recycled. 'Illuk' straw, used liberally in the interior and thatched roofs make sure the interior remains cool, and gives the hotel an authentic Sri Lankan feel. Most of the decks, walls and furniture are made from old railway sleepers, taken after they have been removed from the rail track. The remaining furniture has been made by local experts using local and widely available trees which keeps up the eco-friendly theme, so does the golf buggies which takes you to and fro inside the hotel compound. The hotel staff was quick to inform us that buggies operate on battery power, resulting in zero emissions and minimal sound pollution.
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Opened less than two years ago, the Resort comprises of exquisite 12 rooms (six deluxe and six standards) in six chalets. The chalets are spaced apart from each other, assuring your privacy and making it ideal for those who love peace, quite and comfort. The view from each chalet is breathtaking; you open the windows and you get a full view of the surrounding misty mountains. Each deluxe room has its own private living area and one can see the Ella Gap and the Small Adam's Peak. Floors and all interior furniture are made of railway sleepers. The Standard rooms are bright and spacious. All rooms come with 14 hour room service (7am–9pm) a king sized bed, Wi-Fi access, a flat screen TV with cable TV access, electronic safe, hairdryer and multiple adaptors, telephone with an IDD connection, private bar with a carefully chosen selection of local and internationally branded drinks and hot and cold water. An elegantly designed pool overlooks a deck made of cut stones. An ideal place if you like your swimming pools to come with views. The resort owns a helipad and you can land just 5 minutes away from the Resort and transport would be arranged to the hotel, using golf buggies of course. Bar 98 & Café 98, just above the hill with the panoramic view of the Ella Gap,
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are ideal places for your meals and that all important after dinner drink. Just relax and let the excellent chefs and barmen take care of your gastronomical needs. "Guests at 98 Acres Resort are more than welcome to stroll around the plantation and a visit to the Resort owned tea factory would also be gladly arranged for tea lovers who wish to learn more about their favourite drink," a member of the hotel staff told Treasure Island. “The central location of 98 Acres Resort makes it an ideal spot for travellers to plan their excursions to the many attractions around the area. The Resort will arrange excursions with a guide for guests to explore the waterfalls (Dunhinda, Diyaluma and Ravana) within the area and are even equipped to arrange helicopter tours to Badulla, Udawalawe, Yala, Adisham in Haputale or even to the East coast, on request' he added. Ella is known for being beautiful and romantic, two adjectives that also applies to 98 Acres. The food at Café 98 is mouthwatering and the internet is super fast, which is always a good sign. (Our special thanks to Mr Inthikab Alam Group General Manager Leisure 98 Acres Resort, Ella)
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ECLOGUE
Text by Harsha Udayakantha Peiris | Pix by Shafik Ali Salahudeen
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adolana Eco Village lies at the edge of Madu River in Ada Dola village, Balapitiya, located between Ahungalle and Hikkaduwa, within an hour’s drive from Colombo via Southern expressway and only less than one kilometer distance to the Balapitiya Beach. This makes Kadolana the perfect base from which to discover the Galle Fort, Sandy Beaches, Fishing Villages, Traditional Mask Carvings, Cinnamon plantations, Cinnamon processing and experience the famous Madu River boat Safari. It is a unique boutique hotel of just 8 private dwellings in a wooded area facing Madu River. This is ofcourse an eco friendly dream hideaway for all of the comfort you could wish for in absolute privacy surrounded by the simple woods of nature. The perfect serenity of Kadolana Eco Village promisses to create a world of homely warmth for the guest. Waking up in the dawns to the sounds of myriad different bird calls in the soft luxury of your bed, a splendid view of lush jungle vegetation and Madu River is a refreshing experience that will awaken your mind. At Kadolana Eco Village the guest can observe the surrounding vegetation and absorb its tranquility, all the while remaining cocooned within the comfort of you private villa. At Kadolana one can unwind and find a sense of peace. Perhaps you will end up doing nothing, but considering the fanatic pace of today’s world, doing nothing at all is possibly the greatest gift. Committed to conducting business in harmony with nature Kadolana uses Solar power to generate hot water and partial lighting. A small 64 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
vegetable garden provides fresh produce grown organically to supply the kitchen. Additional supplies are bought from the village ensuring the community benefits from the Kadolana. This beautifully landscaped Eco friendly hotel which consists of separate luxury villas and eco friendly cottages with an infinity pool overlooking the Madu River also offers to enjoy real traditional Sri Lankan Food as well as Western Cuisine with fresh sea food from fishing nets in the open air restaurant.. Enjoy boat Safari on Madu River, fishing, fish theraphy, river bathing & excursions to Galle Fort, Hikkaduwa Beach, Fishing Villages, Traditional Mask Carving workshops and Turtle Hatcheries are major among many an activity available for the guest at the hotel.
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MARITIME
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s to the " belong ne of s s e c n ri ,o nP e of USA he "Daw ruise Lin es in cruising C s s e c n Pri nam - known Por ts the best ed at Sri Lanka . This ll a 0 c 2 rld er 13 in the wo n 26th Septemb olombo o in C Authority rks the first call ncess" a P m wn ri vessel . The "Da rs and 821 rs a e y 0 after 1 assenge 1,839 p olombo. carried oard to C b n o lombo w cre ers to Co g n e s s a p f 1,210 ss’ had A total o e ‘Dawn prince us tourist th rio on board excursions to va innawela, r y fo d d Kan , P booke such as . On return s n o ti a n desti South to nd down journey Ingiriya a continue their eing Por t b ld t u r o they wo e next p r excursions , with th Australia alaysia. The tou ons in Sri M ati Kelang in us tourist destin n Roots lo rio y a e v C e y b th to ndled a h tors. re ra e e p Lanka w pointed tour o ap Ltd., the names in sail t-known s e b t set e th ruises firs ing to One of C s s e c n Pri cruis cruising, h a single ship n to it w has grow e in 1965 the line n , li y a e d is o T ru Mexico. e third largest c ovative n th ned for in become d, renow oard options, rl o w e in th onb array of eptional ships, an ironment of exc d leader nv ize and an e ervice. A recogn s offers s s r c e n m g, Pri e custo e cruisin on passengers id w d rl o milli in w escape to ately 1.3 approxim e oppor tunity to e globe, r th d th each yea tinations aroun essels. v s e d rn e p d mo the to eet of 16 fl a rd a abo ulted to as catap its w s e is of Cru Princess 1977 when one st in a ca in s a m o w , rd s sta rinces P c ifi c a ships, P
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e world. around th bbean, s n o ti a n ari ti and des s include the C e, Mexico, n p o ro ti nd, Destina nama Canal, Eu w Zeala e a P N , / a li a tr s Alaska h Au merica, aii, Tahiti/Frenc / South A da aw a H n , a c C ifi , c a a South P Asia, India, Afric es. is ia, Polynes nd and world cru ance their h la n g e n n f rs ca New E assenge h a wide array o p s s e c it w Prin e e th c e, and xperien cruise e ursions worldwid gs enable c ri x e e r off n h in-por t ruise tou their cruise wit c ’s y n a e in b comp m ers to co passeng tour. d ppointed a full lan re the a a ., td L ) lines in (Ceylon Malship Princess Cruise ssels in r v fo eir e agents handle th el, namely the to , a k n t vess Sri La heir nex heduled to call T . o b m Colo heir " is sc 2013. T Princess "Ocean n 10th October lls a c r o s fou Colombo r 2013 / 14 ha d end fo an schedule ecember 2013 as D lon) Ltd., n y e e e (C ip h betw ls A a S ises U 014. M March 2 for Princess Cru ipals have c n ts ri n e p their the ag ed that n a long s o a o le b p m lo o C were . to d calls 10 years schedule after a lapse of sis maiden term ba e ship’s th t a s pali De ing view Express mbo Por t, Mr.U of SLPA lo s) o n call to C ctor (Operatio ee e ir ging to s D ra Zoysa encou s s a a r w to it c t a se stated th pments in the essels lo rv e e v g e n d e s e th re pas o m years of d w n ithin fe more a w o b m olo calling C
0 years tion of 3 . “ This a ic d ra e try ful success nflict in the coun d faith n o c a t y s it ri il o ib terr f cred o n ig nities s u r is a clea rnational comm ce of te len kept by in a and the preva try,” he k un n o a c L e ri in th on S le peace b a in ta s su e vessel said. call of th n e id a ge of f the m In view o cess", an exchan as also w n l ri e P s e ves "Dawn board th pali De Zoysa n o s e u Mr.U plaq between LPA and arranged perations) of S Phillip (O r pt. a - Directo of the vessel C r – Chief te s ra a a Pere the M th n a y a J r. Mr.Upul William M ogistics) SLPA, ng (L (Marketi r Manage Chief Manager ior n e S – hi – Jayatissa .A.K.Kaluarachc d the r.K an & BD), M ecurity) SLPA, (S n) Ltd., r e lo y g e a n Ma lship (C rincess a M m o agents fr ted agents for P ding lu in the appo in Sri Lanka inc shim , s a e H n li in e a , uss Cruis an - Mr.H r.Macky Hashim m ir a h C M – , the n r e to e c Mohid g Dire Managin nager – Shahid Mr.Ajith a M r l e nag – Genera neral Ma aizer Hashim e G t n ta Assis – Mr.F nager – Director neral Ma ent at e G Perera, l a n pres Additio and the Perera were also n a h o Mr.M sion. the occa
a De Zoys Mr.Upali tha n n e a e y a tw J e r. ged b am M n li il a rr W a p o li n il s als rketi g & t.Ph essel wa f the vessel Cap ger (Ma Malship v a n e a th M f rd oa hie ro om e Maste ues on b tissa – C d the agents fr e n e of plaq ) of SLPA and th A, Mr.Upul Jaya th a g n , g a A h in P c d L x E ons ty) S SLP inclu (Operati anager – ogistics) r (Securi es in Sri Lanka e M (L g l r a e ra n g e a a n Director n n M e li a r G e , M io f n is im e ie Ch ash s Cru i–S er Hashim Perera – .K.Kaluarachch r Princes tor – Mr.Macky H ector – Mr.Faiz sion. fo ts n e ir g c a a K.A erera, D pointed t the occ ging Dire BD), Mr. ., the ap Hashim , Mana ager – Mr.Ajith P also present a td L ) n lo y n re we (Ce l Ma ssain t Genera an Perera n - Mr.Hu Chairma ideen, Assistan nager – Mr.Moh oh Ma Shahid M itional General d d A e and th
SA, ONE A U F O E NK LIN CRUISE LLED AT SRI LA T S S E C N RI CA IRS TO THE P IN THE WORLD L MARKS THE F 9 S G N O L ,83 SE BE ING NCESS" MES IN CRUIS 2013. THIS VES SS" CARRIED 1 I R P N W A THE "DA EST - KNOWN N TH SEPTEMBER "DAWN PRINCE 6 B 2 RS. THE O COLOMBO OF THE THORIT Y ON A E Y 0 1 T U R PORTS A OLOMBO AFTE EW ON BOARD R C CALL IN ERS AND 821 C G PASSEN SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 69
EVENTS
Pix by Suranga Coora y
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SC Blues, finally clinched the Carlton Cup 2013 defeating Colombo Basketball Club in a thrilling final at Henry Pedris Basketball complex on Saturday 28th September 2013. Predictions of a tight tussle between these two titans were proven correct, as the match was decided in overtime and Blues came on top defeating Colombo BC 64 points to 61 and were crowned as Carlton Cup Champions 2013. Colombo BC were facing defeat as time was running out but with six seconds
remaining in the game, Colombo BC playmaker Praneeth Udumalagala nailed a pressure three pointer which took the game into overtime.
In the Carlton Cup ‘B’ division final, Colombo ‘B’ defeated Negombo Knights Basketball Club 68 points to 63 in a game which also went to extra time.
It was a victory that ended years of frustration for the Blues, who were beaten by the same opposition in past three years Carlton Cup Finals.
Dimitri Grebe top scored for Colombo ‘B’ with 19 points and Chalinda Fernando was the best shooter for Knights with 16 points.
“It’s very emotional as we’ve been chasing this for years, we never gave up and our hard work paid off” said the jubilant HSC Blues captain Nilanga Wickramarathna.
Royal College and Lyceum International School, Nugegoda won the Under 14 Boys and Under 14 Girls basketball Championship respectively.
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SLT HOLDS GRAND FINALS OF JANAGEE THARUWA WEE 2013
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he Grand Finals of the ‘Janagee Tharuwa Wee’ competition organized by the Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT) was held recently with the initiative of its Group CEO Lalith De Silva at the ‘Kamatha’ premises of the BMICH in Colombo. The completion was an annual event organized by SLT with the objective of promoting and preserving traditional and authentic Sri Lankan folk songs and poetry via SLT mega Line and SLT City Link phones. More than 10,000 calls had been received for the ‘Janagee Tharuwa Wee’ competition launch by SLt during the past Sinhala and Tamil New Year season at which the best performers were selected under open and school categories for the Grand finals. Dinendra Jayaweera Bandara, Yohan ranasinghe and Kushlani Iresha Wickramasinghe received first, second and third places respectively in the open category whilst Amanda Narankotuwa, W.M.Kavindu Deemantha, W.G.R.Hansanee won the first, second and third places respectively from the school category. SLT further expects to launch several similar events and programmes via 1298 IVR service in the future.
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NEWS
CHITRAL JAYAWARNA RELEASES ‘CHALLENGES BEFORE COUNTRY
Chitral Jayawarna handing over the first copy of the ‘Challenges Before Country’ to the Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa. Dr.Willi Gamage – Secretary of the Ministry of Botanical Gardens and Recreation, Prof.Premakumara de Silva- Deputy VC of the University of Colombo, Prof.Ranjith Bandara – Senior Lecturer of the Department of Economics of the University of Colombo.
Minister Basil Rajapaksa being honoured for his public service rendered through ‘Divi Neguma’ livelihood programme. Also in the picture are Chitral Jayawarna the author of ‘Challenges Before Country’ and Prof.Ranjith Bandara – Senior Lecturer of the Department of Economics of the University of Colombo.
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hallenges Before Country’ – (Rata Hamuwe Aethi Abhiyoga) the economic review compiled in Sinhalese by Chitral Jayawarna was launched recently at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute with the initiative of the Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa. The launching ceremony was organized by Sri Lanka Foundation Institute jointly with ‘Sarasavi Mithuro’ Organization of the University of Colombo and Freedom Youth Professionals Organization. The first copy of the book was handed over to the Minister Basil Rajapaksa at the ceremony. “A collection of political and economic discussions, criticisms and reviews written to the newspapers for nearly three years by me have been included in this book for the reference of general readership, the students of schools and universities as well as others who are interested in gaining collective acknowledgments over the subject”, Jayawarna said. At the ceremony, Minister Basil Rajapaksa was honoured for his public service rendered through ‘Divi Neguma’ livelihood programme. Dr.Willi Gamage – Secretary of the Ministry of Botanical Gardens and Recreation, Prof.Premakumara de Silva- Deputy VC of the University of Colombo, Prof.Ranjith Bandara – Senior Lecturer of the Department of Economics of the University of Colombo and Prof. Kamal Waleboda were also present at the occasion.
SEYLAN BANK RELOCATES KEGALLE BRANCH TO NEW PREMISES
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eylan Bank recently relocated its Kegalle Branch to more spacious and easily accessible premises at No. 112, Colombo Road, Kegalle with a view of offering its valued customers and the people of Kegalle an unparalleled service. Equipped with modern facilities and the latest technology, this new Branch offers its customers a banking experience ‘Beyond Just Banking’. It was declared open by General Manager / Chief Executive Officer of Seylan Bank Kapila Ariyaratne in the presence of the Senior Management, valued customers and other distinguished guests.
The main town in the Sabaragamuwa District, Kegalle has an agro-based economy with rubber, tea, coconut and paddy. It is a rapidly developing city with its people engaged in various businesses. Seylan Bank was the first private bank to commence business in Kegalle in 1990. Caption for PHOTO - General Manager / Chief Executive Officer of Seylan Bank PLC Kapila Ariyaratne cutting the ribbon at the opening of the new branch premises. Also in the picture are Deputy General Manager – Zone III Chitral De Silva and Deputy General Manager – Branch Credit K. D. W. Rohana. 74 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
BANKING CONVENIENCE TO SRI LANKAN’S People’s Bank enables banking at your fingertips Relaunch with new Developments
payments and Fund Transfers within the People’s Bank network and transfers to other banks for a nominal fee, all other facilities provided in mobile and online banking require no additional charge. We have also enabled the service of activating their SMS alerts to get updates on all transactions made, keeping abreast of all local and NRFC/RFC accounts, fund transfers.” People’s Bank Online Banking enables banking convenience that is both quick and easy through access to the website www.ebank.peoplesbank. lk Customers are able to monitor and make transactions using their online service. The two factor security system allows customers to make all online transactions with peace of mind.
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eople’s Bank which has Sri Lanka’s largest branch network further enhances its customer convenience by enabling both mobile and internet banking to its customer base of over 13 million. The services enable the bank’s customers to have access on the go to all of the bank facilities without the hassle of having to travel to a bank branch. The improved phone and online banking services include utility payments, fund transfers, cheque transaction details and cheque book ordering to name a few . With no registration or annual fee, People’s Bank customers can now enjoy both security and efficiency in carrying out transactions from wherever they are.
Mr Deepal Abeysekara Head 0f Marketing and Public Affairs , People’s Bank added, “The launch of both our mobile and online banking systems in 2011 and 2010 respectively was done with the objective of giving our customer base the most convenient banking solutions. We have enabled online banking for both our corporate customers and individuals to provide every facility to all Sri Lankans regardless of location and time.” Mrs. Renuka Jayasinghe, Deputy General Manager (Retail Banking), People’s Bank speaking about the banking convenience said, “We are constantly striving to create convenient and secure bank solutions for our customers and that is why we continuously update our online and mobile banking systems. These systems allow our customers to carry out all banking transactions across the island at any time.”
Commenting on the facilities available Mr. N. Vasantha Kumar, Chief Executive Officer/General Manager, People’s Bank said, “People’s Bank Mobile Banking allows our customers to access a range of everyday banking transactions from the convenience of their mobile, be it a smart or nonsmart phone, by just dialling #488# on a Dialog or Mobitel connection. Other services we make accessible through mobile banking include checking the last five transactions, exchange rates and requesting for pawning settlements.” He further added, “Facilities available in both our mobile and online banking service comprise of all utility bill SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 75
HNB REDEFINES CASHLESS ECONOMY WITH “MOMO”
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Commerce is experiencing a massive transformation to support consumers who are shopping on a variety of channels and devices. Riding this wave the retailers are now seriously considering mobile POS (Point of Sale) solutions to address challenges and opportunities that comes in different size and scale. With the wide expanding mobile phone coverage and increased bandwidth even small time retailers will reap the benefit of a moderate POS solution, known as MoMo recently launched by the Hatton National Bank PLC. Following are the excerpts of an interview with HNB’s Head of Card Business & Electronic Delivery, Mangala Wickramasinghe on how it will transform traditional checkout, payment acceptance, and merchant supply chain by enabling improved interaction between merchants and customers. Question: What is this revolutionary device you have introduced to Sri Lanka? Answer: It is known as the HNB MOMO - More Business More Money. One of the latest innovations; a technology driven banking product offered by Hatton National Bank. We are the first bank in the country to enter the secure mobile POS market with the launch of HNB MOMO, allowing merchants to accept debit and credit cards with a small device connected to a Mobile Phone. Q – How does the HNB MOMO work? A – The MOMO application supports any smart phone that runs Android, iOS and Java platforms. This is a very lightweight application, which can be installed into the own phone of the merchant. Having installed the respective software into the vendor’s mobile phone a small device, which we identify as the HNB MOMO is connected to the audio jack of the phone in order to perform the transaction. From there onwards, it is a simple credit card transaction. We trust HNB MOMO is the most convenient & cost effective way to
accept a credit or debit card.
sent as an SMS.
Q – Deviating from the regular POS terminals what made you to pioneer mobile POS?
Q – Are you worried about the competitors closely following you?
A – We are the market leader in the card acquiring business in Sri Lanka. Our market share exceeds 40%. We were recognized internationally for the contribution made to the acquiring business and for the initiatives to build trust & security in the payment industry in the region. We believe that it is our responsibility to introduce such technology to the region and especially to the Sri Lankan community. On the other hand, Sri Lanka has over 10 million debit cards and the community was craving for a solution where they can pay for small scale daily needs by using existing payment card, which is already in the wallet. Q - What market would you use to pitch this product? A – From the merchant’s point of view, small retailers were not able to afford a POS machine due to low business volumes and smaller ticket sizes. HNB MOMO is absolutely the right solution for all these challenges. So, HNB MOMO can be used by any business including micro level businesses such as three wheelers, boutique shops up to any large scale business such as home delivery, supermarket chains, clothing stores, luxury cab services etc. Also it will come very handy for professionals such as lawyers, doctors etc. In the days to come you will see even coconut sellers and even the fish mongers carrying a HNB MOMO. We also have custom made solutions for high-end merchants such as exclusive restaurants, fast-food outlets, clothing stores, drive-through food places etc. Q – Since you are using a mobile phone how secure is my plastic card and the transaction related information? A – HNB MOMO is equipped with EMV technology for chip based card acceptance, most probably the 1st in the Asia Pacific Region. Furthermore, this product is with multiple layers of security. Card details being encrypted at the hardware level and another encryption is done at the application level. Each merchant with a HNB MOMO device will be given a user ID and a password. Adding more to it, the particular HNB MOMO will only be registered to a specific phone. Q - How does the merchant give a receipt for the card holder? A - We are walking into a paperless eco-friendly era. For each HNB MOMO transaction, the card holder will get a digital receipt confirming the payment
76 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013
A - Copying technology has become very easy today & we don’t expect it to be very different in this case. We don’t have plans to differentiate ourselves only through technology, though HNB is currently been talked-about as an up-coming leader in tech-banking. Currently we are able to maintain the market-leader position in acquiring business (traditional POS business) through sheer service quality & we will combine our technology with superior service quality to sustain our position in the Mobile POS category. Further, HNB being the market leader of this business, we will offer the best rates for merchants for transactions. I don’t think competitors would be able to offer such low rates and sustain in the longerrun, especially in the context that we don’t have to share revenue since the complete service is offered solely by HNB. Also, with the large branch network, HNB will be the easiest accessible point to withdraw funds and conduct daily banking needs for many merchants all over the island. With our electronic delivery channels, merchants can use the same mobile to conduct all other banking services as well. On the other hand, our M-POS application can be integrated with the existing applications of the merchants on request. This would eliminate the reconciliation efforts and streamline the operations making life much easy for many merchants. We have a very clear strategy and a roadmap to develop future business. Q - How can a merchant obtain a HNB MOMO? A - We have a dedicated hotline for such inquiries. Interested parties can contact us on 011 2 642444 or by sending an email to cardacq@hnb.lk to apply and request for further details.
SA'S PREMIER DEFENCE UNIVERSITY KDU HOLDS LEADERS' TROPHY BASKET BALL TOURNAMENT 2013
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The Best Offensive Player in the Men’s category was awarded to Namgay Phunysho Rabgay of the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University
he 2nd annual “Leaders Trophy” – Basketball tournament, organized by General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, was held from 18th to 20th September 2013 at the Indoor Basketball Facility of General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University , Rathmalana. Participants were University of Moratuwa, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, University of Kelaniya, University of Sabaragamuwa, Eastern University, Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology ,Australian College of Business and Technology, American National College and Royal Institute.
The champions in the Men’s final, The University of Sabaragamuwa.
The tournament was powered by the belief that a competition of this nature bore the potential of enriching the lives of many university basketball players by giving them the opportunity to showcase their game on a national stage. Finals in the Men’s category was held between the University of Moratuwa and the Eastern University where the winners of the match and the 2nd Runners Up was the University of Moratuwa Team, and the Finals between the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University and the University of Sabaragamuwa with the University of Sabaragamuwa emerging champions and the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University coming in as the Runners Up. Finals in the Women’s category was held between the Sri Lanka Institute of Information and Technology and the Eastern University where the winners of the match and the 2nd Runners Up was the Sri Lanka Institute of Information and Technology Team, and the Finals between the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University and the Royal Institute with the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University emerging champions for the second consecutive time and the Royal Institute coming in as the Runners Up.
General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University coming in as the Runners Up in Men’s Final.
General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University emerging champions for the second consecutive time in Women’s Final. SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2013 • SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND • 77
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