Travel Lanka August 2014 by Travel Lanka Guide

Celebrating 21 years

Contents

Kandy Esala Perahera

Costumes for Kandy Elephants

Where the Elephants Gather Minneriya National Park

Ceylon Tea Museum

Introduction

Useful Addresses

Tourist Information Featured Articles Touring Sri Lanka

Ancient Cities

Kandy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Citadel in the Hills

High Country

Beaches South/West/ North Coast

National Parks

Beaches â&#x20AC;&#x201C; East

Eco Adventure

Colombo Entertainment

9 29

Witness the gathering at Heritance Kandalama

Nallur Festival – August 1 – 27

Peacocks in Sri Lanka Jungles

Tourism News

Adventure Sports Ratnapura – City of gems

Jaffna Boutique Hotels Ayurveda Spa – Wellness centres Medical Services Shopping Gems & Jewellery Wine & Dine

64 65

65 67 68 70 73

Travel Agents Transport Bus Services Rail Services Museums Festivals Religious Information Foreign Missions in Sri Lanka Business & Investment Airlines Serving Sri Lanka Airline Representation Seaports Calender – 2014 Kilometre Chart Accomodation – Please refer to separate section at end of book

77 80 83 84 85 87 90 91 94 96 96 97 98 99 1

Dear Visitor.. August is the month of festive pageantry in Sri Lanka. This is when the Kandy Esala Perehara, among the world’s unique festivals of sight and sound, takes to the streets in the city of Kandy, in honour of the sacred Tooh Relic of the Buddha. You can also gain new insights to the Tea Industry, with the displays at the Ceylon Tea Museum, adding to the flavor a visit to the tea growing hill country. Religious festivity is seen in the North at the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, and good sightings of elephants and peacocks in the wild. Enjoy your holiday to the fullers and take back the best memories of Sri Lanka.

The Travellanka team

The Tourist Information Guide issued free by Sri Lanka Tourism at their information centers at the Airport, Colombo and Kandy Vol 21 - No. 1 – August 2014 Cover: Detail of an elephant caparison - showing the effort involved in the creation Photo: Birty Gunasekara Editor: Pathum Punchihewa Editorial Assistance: Dileema Ekanayake Manager Marketing: Lakshan Perera Managing Director: Charulatha Gamage Production: Piyaratne Hewabatage Associates Design Consultant: Vajirapani Hewabattage Published by: PACE PUBLISHERS, No 1630 /4, S.W. Perera Mawatha, Rajagiriya, Sri Lanka Tel: +94 11 2076468 Email: info@travellanka.lk pacepublishers@gmail.com Web: www.travellanka.lk Printing: Pace Printers, No 1630 /4, S.W. Perera Mawatha, Rajagiriya, Sri Lanka Notice to Advertisers: Amendments to listings and new advertising material for the September 2014 issue should reach the editor on or before 10th August 2014 © Copyright: Reproduction in whole or part of any material in this publication without the written permission of and due acknowledgement to the publisher is strictly prohibited. Registered with the Department of Posts of Sri Lanka under No. QD/ 127 / News / 2010 ISSN 1800 - 1149 FoLLoW uS oN

Sri Lanka ...We welcome you to our beautiful Island, Sri Lanka. The Island’s proud history of over 2500 years and the breathtaking diversity of scenery will capture your heart and soul like no other destination. May the time you spend in our Island be filled with exciting experiences – memories of which you will carry long after you leave our shores.

first recorded encounter with the traders and colonisers of the West, with the arrival of the Portuguese in 1505. What followed was a period of nearly five hundred years during which the island came under the control and influence of the Portuguese, Dutch and British. While the Portuguese and Dutch ruled over the maritime regions for a rough 150 years each, the British established complete control over the island with the fall of the Kandyan Kingdom in 1815. They too ruled for 150 years before the country regained independence in 1948. The impact of many cultures over the centuries, from South Indian to the Moorish and that of the western colonisers, have resulted in the country’s culture being enriched by a rich diversity, much of which is in evidence today. The island’s economy, has traditionally been based on agriculture, with rice as the main food crop. Spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg and pepper have been age old exports, as were gems and even peacocks and elephants. With western commercial influence, rice gave way to cash crops, until the British made tea the base of the economy. The new thrust in the economy is on export-led industry. Agriculture is now being revived. Non-traditional exports such as garments, seafood, foliage, cut flowers and tropical fish and value added agro-industries have in recent years contributed to the economic advance of Sri Lanka. The people of Sri Lanka are of diverse races and faiths. The majority are Sinhalese who are Buddhists, while among the minorities the Tamils, mainly Hindus are the largest, followed by the Moors who follow Islam, and a sharply declining number of Burghers, descended from the Portuguese and Dutch, who are Christians. There is also a considerable population of Christians among the Sinhalese and Tamils. Although well on the road to modernisation, the country and its people still cherish most of their traditional values and take pride in their rich culture. An aspect which continues to attract visitors from abroad, as much as the beauty and diversity of scenery, and the warmth and hospitality of the people.

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1 Introduction – Sri Lanka

hat may strike you most about Sri Lanka is its amazing diversity of scenery. It is possible to pass brilliant green paddy fields, sun-bronzed beaches, ruined cities, small lively villages, near desert regions, sanctuaries for wildlife in tropical jungles, and hill country tea plantations literally within hours of each other. Ancient Sanskrit literature refer to Sri Lanka as ‘Sinhaladvipa’ – Island of the Sinhalese. The people called by that name have inhabited this island from earliest historical times. Traditions recorded in the historical choronicles of Sri Lanka trace the origin of the Sinhalese to an exiled North Indian prince, Vijaya, and his retinue, who settled down in the island and established the Sinhalese kingdom in the 6th c. B.C. However, the earliest recorded civilization dates back to 380 BC, when Anuradhapura (205 km from Colombo) was established as the first Capital City. Following the advent of Buddhism in the 3rd Century BC, a civilzation rich in Indo-Aryan culture took root. It produced the great cities with their “dagabas” which compare, and even exceed in size, the pyramids of Egypt, palaces and pleasure gardens, rich art and architecture and the giganitc irrigation works, many of which are still in use today. With invasions from neighbouring South India, the base of power shifted to Polonnaruwa (101 km South East of Anuradhapura) and other cities such as Dambadeniya, Kurunegala, Kotte and Kandy. In the 16th Century the island had its

Profile Geography

Population

An island of approx. 65,610 sq. km. Sri Lanka lies in the Indian Ocean off the southern tip of the coast of India. It lies between 5° 55’ and 9° 55’ north of the equator and between the eastern longitudes 79° 42’and 81° 52’.

Nearly 19.3 million, 74.5% Sinhalese, 11.9% SL Tamils, 4.6% Ind. Tamils 8.3% Moors, 0.3% Malays, 0.2% Burghers and 0.2% Others. Literacy rate average 90.01% – one of the highest in Asia. (2001). Total population 2011-20.4m.

Climate

Religions Predominantly Buddhism but also Hinduism, Islam and Christianity.

Warm and fine year round. Average temperatures around 27° C in Colombo going down as the land rises to the hill country to as low as 10° C. The island has two wet seasons between May and July in the south-west and December/January in the north-east. Climatically Sri Lanka has no off-season. Bright sunny warm days are the rule and are common even during the wet season. Sea temperatures as a rule remain around 27° C.

Language Communication is rarely a problem because English is understood in all parts of the country. Place names and signboards are in the national languages and often in English. Official languages – Sinhala, Tamil and English. National Languages – Sinhala and Tamil

Time Sri Lanka’s Standard Time is 5 1/2 hours ahead of Greenwich.

Water Filtered water and mineral waters as well as bottled drinking water are available. The yellow king coconut is a popular thirst quencher, and of course,the most welcome drink is a hot cup of tea.

Useful Addresses Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake. Tel: 2252861/7 (General) – 2264444

Sri Lankan Airlines: Level 19-22, 25 East Tower, World Trade Centre, Echelon Square, Colombo 01. Tel: 019 7335555/5500 Flight Information – Tel: 1979

Sri Lanka Tourism: 80, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2437055, 2437059, 4237060

Dept. of Immigration & Emigration: AnandaRajakaruna Mw., Maradana, Colombo 10. Tel: 5329000

Sri Lanka Customs (Dept.): Custom’s House, Times of Ceylon Bldg., Colombo 01. Tel: 2470945 – 8 Airport Tel: 2252086

Tourist Information

Automobile Association of Ceylon: 40, Sir Macan Marker Mawatha, Galle Face, Colombo 03. Tel: 2421528-9

Accident Service: Regent Street, Colombo 08. Tel: 2691111 Police Emergency Service: Tel: 119

Police Emergency Colombo: Tel: 2433333

Fire and Ambulance:

Colombo General Hospital: Regent Street, Colombo 08, (24 hour Patient Treatment) Tel: 2691111

Colombo Hospital: Sri Jayawardenapura. Tel: 2778610/12

Colombo South Hospital: Kalubowila. Tel: 2763065

Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Authority:

Tourist Police:

25, Galle Face Terrace, Colombo 03. Tel: 2390653, 2390645-8, 2329295

Sri Lanka Tourist Board, No 80, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2421451

106, Dharmapala Mw, Colombo 07.

Tel: 2422222

Central Bus Stations: Olcott Mawatha, Pettah. Colombo 01. CTB Tel: 2329604-5 Bastian Mawatha, Pettah (Private Stand) Tel: 3150916, 5865904, 5852746 Sri Lanka Government Railway: Fort Railway Station Tel: 2421281, Inquiries: 2434215

Sri Lanka Red Cross Society: Tel: 2691095 Zoological Gardens: Dehiwala. Tel: 2712751-3 ICRC: 29, Layards Rd., Colombo 05.

Tel: 2503395, 2503346

Tourist Information Travel Information Centres are maintained by Sri Lanka Tourism in Colombo, Intl. Airport & Kandy to assist tourists on all aspects of their stay in the island. Sri Lanka Tourism Colombo

Tourist Police Division

Sri Lanka Tourism, Travel Information Centre, 80, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2437059, 2437060, 2426900,2437055 Email: info@srilanka.travel

A Tourist Police force is operated at the Sri Lanka Tourism premises to provide visitors, local and foreign to enjoy a hassle free holiday. Sri Lankans are also protected from negative practices such as use of children for commercial sex, drugs, and other undesirable activities. You may Contact the Tourist Police at Tel: 2421451 (Open day & night)

Touts

Sri Lanka Tourism Kandy Kandy City Centre, L2/3 Level 2 Kandy. Tel: 081-2222661 Email: infokandy@srilanka.travel

Beware of touts. Avoid them. Do not accept their offer to give more for your foreign currency or lead you to shops which give you special bargains; it will all be for the toutâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bargain only.

Currency

Sri Lanka Tourism, Travel Information Centre, Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tel: 2252411 Email: infobia@srilanka.com

Sri Lanka Currency

Sri Lanka Tourism Sigiriya Travel Information Centre, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Sigiriya Museum Sigiriya.

Sri Lanka has a decimal currency system. One Sri Lanka rupee is divided into 100 Sri Lanka cents. Currency notes are in the denominations of Rs.10/-, Rs.20/-, Rs.50/-, Rs.100/-, Rs.500/-, Rs.1,000/-, Rs.2,000/- and Rs.5,000/-. Denominations are clearly marked in figures on both sides of notes and stated in English in addition to Sinhala and Tamil. Coins commonly in use are the following denominations; 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents, 50 cents, One Rupee, Two Rupees, Five Rupees and Ten Rupees.

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3 Tourist Information

Sri Lanka Tourism Airport

Sri Lanka has a unified exchange rate for foreign currencies which floats in response to basic exchange market developments (rates available at Banks/Hotels)

Currency Rates

Important

Exchange Rates in Sri Lankan Rupees (as at 11.07.14)

Buying Selling Rate Rate

Australian Dollar

117.03 124.77

Canadian Dollar

114.85 125.10

Danish Kroner Euro

22.42

24.33

171.87 180.34

Hong Kong Dollar Japanese Yen New Zealand Dollar

17.14

1.23

1.31

105.20 117.44

Norwegian Kroner Singapore Dollar

15.73

19.92

21.60

101.04 106.86

South African Rand

10.78

12.50

Swedish Kroner

17.38

19.65

Swiss Franc

139.37 148.91

Pound Sterling

216.38 226.56

U.S. Dollar

127.50 131.75

Chinese Reumindi

19.38

21.44

These rates are subject to fluctuation each day. Traveller’s Cheques earn slightly more. Note: The rates apply to all bills paid in foreign currency at hotels, travel agents or shops authorized to accept foreign currency. Certain shops are licensed to transact business in foreign currency only.

Currency Regulations Visitors to Sri Lanka bringing in excess of US$10,000 should declare the amount to the Customs. All unspent monies, which were converted from foreign currencies declared on arrival can be re-converted to original currency. You are required to produce encashment receipts or payment bills.

Credit Cards Many hotels and shops accept reputed Credit Cards. No surcharge should be permitted for its use. Cash advances are possible against credit cards in certain banks.

Tourist Information

Retain some of your hotel and shopping receipts, specially for gems. These would make Customs clearance easy.

Banking Facilities Banking facilities have grown and widened tremendously to cope with the sophisticated needs of today’s businessman. Sri Lankan and foreign banks provide an expanding range of services to investors.

Banking Hours Banks keep increasingly flexible hours to suit customer convenience. All banks are open from 0900 hrs to 1300 hrs Monday to Friday. Some city banks close at 1500 hrs, while still others have night banking facilities too. Some Banks are open on Saturdays for a limited number of hours for transactions. Banks are closed on Sundays, all Public Holidays and the special bank holidays on June 30 and December 31.

Exchange Counters • BANK OF CEYLON – Head Office/Travel Dept, Tower Bldg, Colombo 01. Tel: 2439541. Open from 0900 to 1600 hrs. on weekdays for encashment & issue of Travellers Cheques. • BUREAU DE CHANGE – Bank of Ceylon, York Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 2422730. Open 365 days (8.30 am to 6.00 pm on Weekdays, 8.30 am to 4.00 pm on Weekends). • BANK OF CEYLON – Pay Office, Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake. Tel: 2252424. Open 24 hrs. on all days of the year for Issue & Encashment of Foreign Exchange. • BOC TRAVEL (Pvt) Ltd – 1st Floor, Bank of Ceylon, Super Grade Building, Baseline Rd, Colombo 08. Tel: 2688155. Open from 0830 to 1700 hrs. on weekdays & 0900 to 1300 hrs. on Saturdays for Airline ticketing. • COMMERCIAL BANK – Commercial Office 21, Bristol Street Colombo 01. (International division) Tel: 2445010/15 • HATTON NATIONAL BANK – HNB Towers, 479, T.B. Jayah Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel: 4764764, 2664664, 5564564, • NATIONS TRUST BANK – American Express Card Centre, 104, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 4414141, 4414100 City Office: 76, York Street, Colombo 01. (365 Day Banking) Tel: 4711402/7 • PEOPLE’S BANK – (Ocs), 59, D.R. Wijewardena Mw, Colombo 10. Tel: 2332745, 2332746, Fax: 2332753 On Monday to Friday 08.30 -1600 hrs. Saturday 0900 – 1400 hrs • SEYLAN BANK – Ceylinco Seylan Towers, 90, Galle Road, Colombo 03. (24 hour service) Tel: 2456789 • SAMPATH BANK LIMITED – Travel Shop, 110, Sir James Pieris Mawatha, Colombo 02. Monday to Friday 08.30 – 1500 hrs. Tel: 4730630, 2358358

Visa Rules

Customs Formalities

The new Electronic Travel Authorization System was introduced recently, to grant prior approval for Visa online for foreign nationals instead of the ‘on arrival visa’ system. Visa fee for SAARC nations will be US$10 and for other countries US$20 Tel: 5329000. Anyone could log on to www.eta.gov.lk to obtain your Visa. For details contact: the Department of Emigration and Immigration, Ananda Rajakaruna Mw., Maradana,Colombo 10. The Government of Sri Lanka will take action against visitors to the country who overstay their visas.

Visitors are required to re-export articles brought in as personal effects. Make sure that you take back cameras and photographic equipment and any transistor radios, recorders and sound equipment declared on arrivals. The Customs check is usually oral. However, random examinations of baggage is carried out.

Airport Entry Entry to the Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake, is restricted except for embarking passengers. Those who wish to meet incoming passengers may do so by purchasing a ticket.

Embarkation Tax Is currently Rs. 1500/- at Airport, included in the ticket. (subject to change)

Departure and Transit Lounge There are several shops in the Transit & Departure Lounge of the Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake which sell gems, ceramics, handicrafts, batiks, cut-flowers, books and picture postcards of Sri Lanka. Payment is accepted only in Foreign Currency.

Duty Free Shops

Arrival

•D eclare all your currency, valuable equipment, jewellery and gems. • If you have nothing to declare you can go through the GREEN CHANNEL. • Your Baggage should NOT contain goods in COMMERCIAL quantities and PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED GOODS. Some of them are: Dangerous Drugs, Weapons & Explosive Devices, and Gold. • You are required to take back all your personal effects at your departure. • You are entitled to: i. 1-1/2 litres of spirits, 2 bottles of wine. ii. A small quantity of perfume and travel souvenirs not exceeding US$250/- in value. • Professional Teams – Filming and Photographic equipment will be allowed on valid Carnet or a Bank Guarantee or on a refundable deposit of the duty payable on the items.

Departure

Permitted • You are entitled to take out what you have declared and brought into the Country and whatever you have purchased locally like gems, jewellery and Sri Lankan products out of the funds brought in and declared to CUSTOMS on your arrival. • 10 kilos of SRI LANKA TEA duty free. • Foreign Currency declared and brought into the country. Unused Sri Lanka currency should be reconverted to Foreign Currency at departure. Not Permited • All currencies in excess of your declared amounts on arrival. i. Any Gems and Jewellery or valuable equipment not declared on arrival or NOT PURCHASED in Sri Lanka out of Funds declared and brought into the Country. ii. Gold (Crude, Bullion or Coins) • Sri Lanka Currency in excess of Rs. 250/• Firearms, explosives and dangerous weapons. • Antiques, statues, treasures, old books, etc. • A nimals, birds and reptiles and their parts (dead or alive). • Tea, Rubber and Coconut Plants. • Dangerous drugs

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5 Tourist Information

The Duty Free Shop at the Transit & Departure Lounge of the Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake has an extensive range in well known brands of liquor, hi-fi equipment, wrist watches, cameras, films, perfumes, cosmetics, electrical appliances, cigarette lighters and souvenirs. Payment is accepted only in Foreign Currency. Passengers arriving in Sri Lanka could also buy their requirements of duty free liquor from the duty free counter which is situated after immigration checkpoints.

Baggage Concessions

Warning Do not carry dangerous Drugs. Drugs mean death by law & effect.

Exports Purchases made in Sri Lanka out of foreign currency brought in, can be exported duty free, up to certain limit.

Tea Ceylon tea is considered the best in the world. It is sold everywhere. The Ceylon Tea Promotion Bureau sells special high quality gift tea packs at their sales points at the Bandaranaike International Airpor t, Katunayake, at the Colombo Passenger Jetty and the office of the Bureau, 574, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Monday to Friday 0900 – 1700 hrs. Saturdays 0900 – 1300. Tel : 2553652. The Ceylon Tea Counter situated at the Lobby of the airport sell the best Ceylon Tea. Packetted tea is available at this counter. Note: Tea could be purchased for local currency, at the airport, only at the Tea Counter in the outer lobby. No local currency is accepted at the Tea Counter within the transit & Departure Lounge. Tea can be the best gift to buy from your last Sri Lanka rupees. If you intend to take more than 7kg you need to obtain a letter of permission from the Tea Bureau.

Antiques No antique could be exported. Also restricted is the export of rare books, palm leaf manuscripts, and rare anthropological material. For the export of rare books and palm leaf manuscripts and antiques (sometimes allowed on special application), permits are necessary from the Director of National Archives and the Archaeological Commissioner, respectively. Articles more than 50 years old are considered antiques.

Gems Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Exchange (SLGJE) is a Government Institution, which comes under the purview of the National Gem and Jewellery Authority of Sri Lanka (NGJA)

Tourist Information

It functions as a Service Centre to facilitate the export oriented gem and jewellery trade. The “SLGJE” houses 38 Shops which offer for sale a wide range of precious and semi precious gems as well as jewellery both handcrafted and machine made. There are 52 members of the Exchange out of which 32 are Life Members. Gem Testing laboratory which is a part of the “SLGJE” and operated by the “NGJA”, offers a free gem testing facility to foreigners. Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Exchange, Level 4 & 5, East Low Block, World Trade Centre, Echelon Square – Colombo 01.

Export Facilitation Activities: The National Gem & Jewellery, Authority (NGJA) has widened its’ scope by moving in to its’ new Head Office building and centralizing, following facilities needed for the Export activities on a common floor. • Export Division • Sri Lanka Insurance • Export Promotion Division Corporation (Ltd) • Gem Testing & • Post Office Certification laboratory • Air Forwarding Facilities. • Sri Lanka Customs (Gem Unit) For Further Details: Contact: Manager (Export Promotion) National Gem & Jewellery Authority, 25, Galle Face Terrace, Colombo 03. Tel: 2325364, 2329295

Protected Flora and Fauna in Sri Lanka Purchase and Export without Licence of any wild animal, bird or reptile dead or alive; also the export of parts of such animal – bird or reptile, such as skins, horns, scales and feathers is prohibited under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance. Occasional exports are, however, permitted exclusively for bona fide scientific purposes. It is prohibited to export over 450 plant species without special permits. All applications for special permission to export Fauna should be made to Director, Department of Wild Life Conservation, 811/A, Jayanthipura, Battaramulla and Flora should be made to the Director, Forest Depar tment, 82 Rajamalwat ta Road, Bat taramulla. Tel: 2866632

Permits For Photographing, Filming & Recording at Historical Sites Tourists who wish to visit and/or photograph the principal ancient monuments in Sri Lanka are required to obtain a ticket from the Central Cultural Fund. Remember that in Sri Lanka, Buddhism is a living religion and most ancient monuments are still venerated. Photography should not be done in a manner causing disrespect to the shrines, images or monuments. Posing of models in front of statues and paintings is prohibited.

There will be separate charges at each site. The cost of entry tickets to A nuradhapura, Polonnaru wa US$25 Sigiriya is US$30 per adult and half rate per child per site, (accepted in rupee value per adult and half rate per child.) Tickets are available at the office of the Central Cultural Fund, 212/1 Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2587912, 2500732/3, or Central Cultural Fund Project Offices at Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya and Kandy. These permits will not cover photography at Dalada Maligawa (the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic,) Kandy and the Aukana Temple. In Kandy Permits are obtainable daily at Temple entrance. Rs. 1,000 for European nationals and Rs. 500 for nationals from SAARC Countries. Only authorised guides attached to the Temple are permitted, within the Shrine. Aukana & Dambulla The Permit could be obtained at the temple premises. (Above rates depend on existing exchange rates and are subject to change.)

Temple Entry

What to wear Light cotton dresses of the drip-dry washand-wear variety and light-weight suits are the most comfortable year round attire. A wide-brimmed beach hat and sun-glasses are recommended. Slippers or sandals will be more comfortable than shoes. Medium

Bars Alcoholic drinks are freely available at public bars, restaurants, wine shops, stores & super markets. However sale of liquor is prohibited on Poya Days (Full Moon Days). Most hotel bars and restaurants also observe this rule.

Electricity 230 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 240 VOLTS 50 CYCLES A.C.

Holidays Sri Lanka has a five day week. In addition to Saturdays and Sundays and special Public Holidays, the full moon (Poya) day of each month is a public holiday. All places of entertainment (including cinemas) and bars are closed on Poya day. Hotels make special arrangements for customers to order their drinks the day before a Poya Holiday.

Television Sri Lanka has two state owned TV channels Rupavahini and the Independent Television Network (ITN). In addition to these, there are private channels â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MTV, Sirasa TV, TNL, ETV, ART TV, Siyatha, Swarnavahini, Derana, MAX TV, TV Lanka & Shakthi TV. 11 Stations cable and Satellite TV services available. CCTV ART TV carries CNN news bulletins. ETV, MTV carries Fox News and ART TV are exclusive English channels. English movies and documentaries are featured on other channels as well.

Radio In addition to the state run Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), several new private radio stations are on the air on FM bands. Over 15 radio channels in Sinhala, English and Tamil. Yes FM, E, TNL, Lite, SUN FM, Neth FM, Real Radio, City FM, offer latest contemporary music & programming. Gold FM and Classic offer vintage fare.

Newspapers English Dailies: Morning Leader, Ceylon Daily News, The Island, Daily Mirror, On Sundays: Sunday Observer, Sunday Island, Sunday Times, Sunday Leader, The Nation, Lakbima News, Ceylon Today.

Telegraph, Telephone & Telex International telegraph, telex and telephone services are available at the Central Telegraph Office, Duke Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 2326267. International Direct Dial (IDD) telephone services are readily available through your hotel, or from the roadside public pay-phones situated in all parts of Colombo and its suburbs, and in several provincial towns, too. Many Private Communication centers too provide these facilities.

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Tourist Information

All visitors to Buddhist and Hindu temples are expected to be unshod and have their heads uncovered. Buddhists do not object to visitors offering flowers at the feet of the Buddha. If you wish to make any donation or contribution put it into a till in the temple. You may not be allowed entry to the inner sanctum of Hindu temples. It is best to be decently clad when visiting any place of worship. Sun and beach wear is not the ideal for temples and shrines. Briefs, shorts, bare shoulders and backs may not be appreciated. You need not be stiff and overdressed. Just comfortable and decently covered.

weight slacks and pullovers will be necessary in the hill country where the temperature can go down to as low as 50oF (10oC).

Courier Services

Postal

•E MS L anka ( International ) D.R. Wijewardena Mw., Colombo 01, Tel: 2447844, 2328644 Ext. EMS. EMS (Domestic) Post Master General’s Office, Colombo 01. Tel: 2447844 •F edEx Express 300, Galle Road , Colombo 03. Tel: 4522222, • Aramex 360 Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 4978140 • D HL 130, Glennie St., Colombo 02. Tel: 4798600 •T NT International E x press 315, Vau x hall St., Colomb o 02. Tel: 2308444

For information on postal rates contact, the General Post Office, Bristol Street, Colombo 1. Tel: 2326203. Speed Post Sri Lanka (domestic courier service) Tel: 2447766, 2440907

Inland

Tourist Guide Lecturers

Colombo and most provincial towns are linked by direct dial telephone service. Each provincial exchange where direct dialling facilities are available has a Code number, which precedes the subscriber’s number. When dialling within the same exchange, do not dial the code.

Trained Registered Guide Lecturers carry Identity Cards issued by the Ceylon Tourist Board. They could be hired through the Travel Information Centre, Tel: 2437055,2437059/60 or Approved Travel Agents or President, National Tourist Guide Lecturers Association of Sri Lanka, 37/35, Temple Road, Colombo 10. Tel/Fax: 2681241

Mobile Phones There are five mobile telephone services operating in Sri Lanka. All of them – Etisalat, Mobitel, Airtel, Hutch and Dialog – serve Colombo and the suburbs, Kandy and has Island-wide coverage. A wide range of services and packages are offered by all. Information can be sort through the wide network of centres in Colombo and suburbs. The four services offer varying tariff and service packages, Etisalat: 072 2123123, 072 2454154 • Mobitel: 071 2755777 • Dialog: 0777 678678 • Hutch: 0785785785 • Airtel: 0755555555

www.travellanka.lk 8

Tourist Information

Philatelic Bureau The Sri Lanka Philatelic Bureau, Postal Headquarters, D.R. Wijewardena Mawatha, Colombo 10, has an exhibition and sales outlet for all Sri Lanka stamps first day covers, special issues, etc. of interest to the philatelist.

Stamp Year Books Four stamp year books covering the years 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 available for sale. A beautiful collector’s item. Contact: Tel: 4927248

Tipping Tipping is optional. It is left to the customer to tip if satisfied with service. Most hotels and restaurants include a service charge of 10% in any bill. In the event of your wishing to give a tip, about 10 per cent of the bill is generally considered a fair tip.

ADVERTISE WITH TRAVEL LANKA AND TAKE YOUR BRAND ACROSS THE GLOBE

COLOMBO No. 255 A, Duplication Road, Colombo 3 (Opposite Liberty Arcade)

www.lgb.lk

Kandy Esala Perahera Kaleidoscopic splashes of colour, the rhythmic throb of drums and long sharp notes from metal pipes and wooden flutes, jingle of bells and clang of tambourines, voices chanting ancient stanzas, blazing flames with the wafting smell of burning copra; all preceded by the crack of whips.

hat is the Kandy Esala Perahera, with dancers performing in slow, measured movement s and frenzied twirling. The head of the Sacred Temple of the Tooth - the Diyawadana Nilame of the Dalada Maligawa - and the “Nilames” or lay custodians of the four devales or shrines that participate in the procession walk with pride in their resplendent Kandyan costumes of bulging sleeves, yards of gold threaded cloth wrapped around waists which are made to look extra rotund, much jewellery, pointy embroidered shoes and highly decorative headgear. They are led with due respect by the many who serve in the Maligawa and the shrines dedicated to Hindu gods. Pride of place is stolen from the “Nilames” by the elephants that parade the streets, gloriously caparisoned and festooned with electric lights, and are the cynosure of all eyes. They come in all sizes from baby elephants being carefully watched and guided by their mahouts, to the older ones used to this annual parade, with the mightiest and most dignified being the Maligawa Tusker, who seems to truly know he is carrying the symbolic relics casket on his back. The night procession is lit up by baskets of flaming dried coconut held in sieve like metal holders on long poles, toted by men walking on either side. They not only illuminate the streets along which the Perahera parades, but also keep the elephants in check; the animals supposedly fearing fire. With the huge crowds congregating to watch this spectacle of colour

Kandy Esala Perahera

and sound, the elephants’ legs are chained and veterinarians with tranquilizer-bullets station themselves at strategic points.

History The Kandy Perahera, as it is popularly known, has its beginnings in the distant centuries, from the time of the Anuradhapura Kingdom, circa 3rd century AD. The procession, as it is conducted today, holds an unbroken record of parading the streets since receiving royal patronage from the Kandyan King – Kirthi Sri Rajasinghe (1747-1781 AD). The religious significance is that originally it afforded an opportunity to the common man to pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, which was in the possession of the king of the land, the palladium which legitimated kingship. At present the Sacred Tooth Relic is not paraded; a golden casket substitutes for it on the most majestic Maligawa Etha or Maligawa Tusker. Additionally, a Hindu element was introduced by the later kings of the Kandyan Kingdom who were of South Indian origin. Three Hindu devales (shrines) in close proximity to the Temple of the Tooth, have their own processions which join the Temple or Maligawa Perahera, in honour and appeal to the gods, thanking for blessings and asking them principally for rain and a diseasefree year. The procession of the shrine of the Goddess Patthini is all white. The final procession is of the Kataragama Kovil, which is very different from the others, not only in music and dance forms but in the dress of the parading kovil priest who is extremely striking in a long red shervani style coat and a gold bordered cloth worn baggy trouser-wise.

~ Pics - Courtesy: Sri Dalada Maligawa Media Bureau

Drumming and dancing, conch and flute playing, different from the arts of other regions of the Island, introduce the culture of the Kandyans in a spectacular manner. Different types of drums are played in the procession, beaten either with a cane stick curved at one end or by the drummer’s palm. Dancers range from Kandyan dancers in their distinct costumes and dance steps, to less elaborately dressed performers who carry sticks (lee keli) which they beat against their own and each others’ sticks in rhythm, moving around in different formations. The “pantheru” players carry circular brass tambourines which are thrown up and adroitly caught.

August in the Hill Capital

Kandy Perahera dates: Kumbal Perahera - Parading the streets closer to the DaladaMaligawa 01st - 05th August randoli Perahera - The Grand Perahera, parading a wider circle of the streets in Kandy town 06th - 10th August randoli Perahera - The Grandest Night 10 th August day Perahera - 11th August

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11 Kandy Esala Perahera

In July with its Esala Poya (full moon day of religious significance) Kandy turns into a seething mass of humanity which congregates by evening along the route of the procession which is changed day by day, by order of the Diyawadana Nilame. For the first five days, the Perahera is short and moves within the temple square. This is the Kumbal Perahera. Then on the sixth day many more elephants in grander decor and more dancers are included and move along an extended route. At the end of the line are six or seven palanquins carried by men, bearing sacred items of worship of the Patthini Devale. This longer and grander Perahera is the Randoli Perahera.

On the final night, the entire city of Kandy turns into a blaze of colour, throbbing sound, and seething crowds. On the final day the procession, admittedly rather tiredly, parades the streets at midday. The Perahera is not only a pulsating procession of drumming, dancing and parading, but also exotically resplendent with a veneer of mystique, which is discernible in its glamour. Ancient customs are strictly followed and the dancers and drummers give of their service free because they live on Maligawa-owned land. This symbiotic system is termed “rajakaariya” – duty to the crown. The annual event from July to August, draws visitors from all parts of the world, being unique as a cultural event centred on one of the most venerated of Buddhist sites, the Dalada Maligawa, where is enshrined a Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. Nanda P Wanasundera

Costumes for Kandy Elephants The world renowned Annual Pageant in Kandy, has a glamour and glitter of its own. Its special distinction is that , the sparkle exuded by this alluring display, possesses a sacred aura as well.

he deeply moving Kandy Perahera registers its massive impact on variegated throngs of fervent onlookers, especially through one compelling spectacle. It is, of course, the sight of the glamorously caparisoned sacred elephants, treading the pageant-path solemnly and with admirable dignity. These noble animals contribute substantially towards the total enchantment of this holy parade. When everything is said and done, the centre-stage of this spiritual display is unerringly occupied by the temple Elephants, that march along in a disciplined array. Though these caparisoned elephants command the focal attention of the spectators, very little attention is paid to those, who ensure the glitter of the pageant, by costuming the Temple Elephants in such captivating attire.

Costumes for Kandy Elephants

Meet costume attire expert K.C.THADHANI who has immersed himself - body and soul - in the exacting task of creating elephant caparisons, with a single minded commitment as a Life - Long mission. He is a living repository of the multi-layered lore relating to the checkered history of caparisoning the elephants of the Kandy Pageants. Caparisoning pageant elephants is the legacy he came to, from paternal heritage. In those early days, the costume of the pageant elephants had been improvised by stitching together two bed sheets. Seeing the ordeal the Perahera elephants were subjected to, his father created the first real elephant caparison and gifted it to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, as a donation from his family. Present Mr.Thadani took to this task, with total dedication and fervor. He created indigenous motifs and devised a system by which the annual supply of elephant costumes could be responsibly and aesthetically produced. He is inspired not only by a profound religious fervor, but also a deep seated affection for the elephants that bear the sacred caskets. He employs a

~ Pics – Sri Dalada Maligawa Media Bureau

team of persons to produce the costumes with elegance, mindful of the comfort of the sacred animals that wear them. For 68 long years he has been at this task. He has decided to remain in this land, throughout his life, in spite of the invitations from his father’s country. He is now looking forward to the day when his daughter –in-law will take charge and will continue the sacred family business of caparisoning the Temple Elephants. Mr. K.C.Thadani, is fully attuned to the ways of the Temple Elephants. Some elephants, when the holy pageant’s duties are over, place their foreheads on the steps of the Temple of the sacred Tooth Relic. He has witnessed some elephants, reflect on the end of the pageant with tear filled eyes. We were introduced to the dedicated artist by young Anura Ilangasinghe who is himself a fervent devotee of the Temple rituals. Kalakeerthi Dr.Edwin Ariyadasa Pics - Birty Gunesekara

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13 Costumes for Kandy Elephants

Meet costume attire expert K.C.THADHANI who has immersed himself - body and soul - in the exacting task of creating elephant caparisons, with a single minded commitment as a Life - Long mission.

Where the Elephants Gather Minneriya National Park

Minneriya Park lies in an elephant corridor which joins Kaudulla and Wasgomuwa parks. It is during the months of July to October, that the water in the Minneriya reservoir recedes and fresh grass begins to grow. A large number of elephants from the adjacent forest reserves often visit Minneriya to forage the soft tall fodder grass grown in the water edges surrounding the reservoir.

t was in August that we visited the park. That weekend. The park greeted us with a view of approximately ninety to hundred elephants, mainly she elephants herding young ones of all ages: a graceful scene, with the little ones playing about with raised trunks and tails demonstrating mock fights with each other. The smallest baby elephants were seen mingling and sucking milk from many mothers. It was fascinating to see the young elephants used their front feet and the trunks very efficiently and firmly to grasp bundles of grass harvested from the green pasture.

Where the Elephants Gather

The occasional trumpeting of a wild elephant grazing at the edge of the forests disturbed the environment. The storks, scared, took off from the marshy surface of the reservoir lining up in the multicolor sky, re-arranging themselves in patterns that make you marvel at the artistry of nature.Tourists, comfortably seated in luxury jeeps were quick to focus their long range cameras on the birds, were so involved in photographing , they ignored the advances of a few wild elephants towards the visitorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; jeeps. But not to fear, it was all under control by the park rangers.

The Park Located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, Minneriya is of both historical value and ecological value. The great King Mahasen built the Minneriya Lake/rainwater reservoir around which now

~ Pic - Saranga Deva De Alwis

Making their way from the Wasgamuwa National Park, located close by, the elephants meet during the dry season, to graze on the fields and bath in the lake at Minneriya National Park.

The Elephant Gathering Making their way from the Wasgamuwa National Park, located close by, the elephants meet during the dry season, to graze on the fields and bath in the lake at Minneriya National Park. A happening since ancient times, it is an annual event that is of interest to both local and international tourists.

Other animals You are bound to come across a few of these animals: the Sloth bear, Deer, Mongoose, Tortoises, Purple-faced leaf monkeys and many species of birds.

Getting There Located approximately 182 km from Colombo, the best way to travel is through an organized tour agency. Travelling up the Habarana Pollonnaruwa road, you could also travel by hired car. The entrance to the park lies in Ambagaswewa. As for stay overs, it is best that you stay over in a hotel in Pollonnaruwa, Habarana or Sigiriya. Nihal B Mawella

Mahoora Tented Safari Camps â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Minneriya Contact: ravi - +94 77248 7651 Web: www.mahoora.lk

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15 Where the Elephants Gather

lies the national park which protects the biodiversity within the area. The lake provides water to many irrigation projects, which is the lifestyle of many in the Pollonnaruwa region.

Therefore its conservation, the protection of the park and the region is of utmost importance on a national and international level. A unique seasonal occurrence, this is a must see for any elephant lover from any corner of the world.

Ceylon Tea Museum As you enjoy the taste of a cup of Ceylon Tea, it can make you think of the history behind the rich flavor of what is undoubtedly the world’s best tea.

t is a long and well flavored story beginning in 1867, when James Taylor, a Britisher from Scotland, cleared 19 acres of forest in Galaha in the Kandy District, to plant the seedlings of what was the first tea plantation in Ceylon, as Sri Lanka was then known to the world. It was the Loolecoondera Estate, the nursery of the Ceylon Tea Industry. From this modest beginning, it was a great struggle and achievement for the Tea Industry to develop on this island, having replaced coffee that was destroyed by a bug, bringing to the world the best flavor and aroma of tea, enjoyed the world over today. The mist-clad mountains in Sri Lanka’s hill country, where the best tea grows, and hills in the lower regions that have their own distinct flavors of the every refreshing drink, carry a history of courage and daring, invention and experimenting, labor and human skill that resulted in one of Sri Lanka’s key industries. From the fingers of tea pluckers, filling baskets picking two-leaves-and- a-bud of the aromatic leaf at a time, the challenging work in the tea factory, to the blending of teas to produce the best of flavors and then to the biggest tea auctions in the world! From all this comes the finest brand names in the word of tea today. The history of this flavor rich industry has largely been lost in its constant surge forward, until the Ceylon Tea Museum was established, recording for the future what is left of those pioneering days, and respect the ingenuity, perseverance, courage and commitment of those who built the world’s greatest tea industry.

Ceylon Tea Museum

Located at Hantane, 3 km from Kandy, the Ceylon Tea Museum, is today a must stop on the way to discover the history and beauty in Sri Lanka. It displays the history of tea with artefacts of the old tea factories, the inventiveness that turned out unique machinery, from a hand-operated tea roller over 100 years old; a Hot-Bulb Engine of the same age and The “Venetian Drier” the first tea dryer ever made dating back to 1880. It is a fascinating turning of the leaves back to discover the growth of an industry - the pride of a nation and livelihood of millions; where you can share the adventure of the industry’s pioneers, with exhibits from the past, the diaries of Planters and Visiting Agents who guided the industry, keeping to the highest standards, and also the field implements used for the day-to-day work on the fields, from the baskets of the tea pickers to pruning knives of workers, and the oldest known packet of Ceylon Tea, 56 years old and still in its original packing. There is a library giving more insights to the tea industry in Sri Lanka, with volumes on tea plantation areas, special writing on the culture of tea, and comments of those inspired by their visits to tea plantations and factories in the past. Many photographs illustrate well the evolution of the industry, as well as the beauty of the tea fields, and the work on them. It is a compelling Photoshop of a most colorful industry that has captivated the eyes of discerning

said this of the tea industry: “the tea fields of Ceylon are as true a monument to courage as is the lion at Waterloo.” The Ceylon Tea Museum will not only take you to the past. It will also give you a good enjoyment of tea drinking, when you enjoy a “cuppa” at the restaurant that specializes in the best flavors of tea, poured steaming hot and served in Sri Lankan crockery of fine design, with a beautiful view of the Hunnasgiriya Mountains and the Kandy town, too. The grounds surrounding the Museum are attractive, and appropriately, landscaped with different varieties of tea, that make up the spread of flavors in Ceylon Tea. The Ceylon Tea Museum gives you the chance to take the real flavor back with you. It has several Tea Sales Outlets giving you an exciting choice of the flavors of Ceylon Tea and the diverse packaging that it comes in today, with the best of brand names; coming down from the time that Lipton made its name synonymous with this fascinating brew of good flavor. The Ceylon Tea Museum is of easy access, readily motorable, or with good access from an enjoyable ride by train, amidst the scenery all around. Enjoy the flavor of an excellent tourist stop offered by the Sri Lanka Tea Board, and its associates that have joined to bring this new experience to travel in Sri Lanka.

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17 Ceylon Tea Museum

photographers, and amateur viewers of this cloud-kissed landscape of an industry of flavor. Not surprisingly, the Ceylon Tea Museum also houses the original James Taylor Tea Museum, with exhibits from the work of the man who began this industry. In 1872 Taylor having attended building a larger tea factory in Loolecoondera, and after it started manufacturing of packeted tea, recorded that: “I have a machine of my own invention being made in Kandy for rolling tea which I think will be successful”. The Ceylon Tea Museum takes you through the spirit of such inventiveness, which saw the evolution of the tea industry from the seedlings and nursery at Loolecoondera to what it is today. This “Monument of Courage” as the Museum describes itself, correctly shows the spirit that moved the industry from its earliest times. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the writer most noted for the Sherlock Holmes series

Witness the gathering at

Heritance Kandalama S

ri Lanka is home to 5,000 Asian elephants who remain scattered in the North Central, Southern and Sabaragamuwa province of the island. Every year during Sri Lanka’s dry season, herds of elephants, from nearby forests start to congregate around the great Minneriya tank as the drought takes full effect between July to October. This extravegant spectacle has been termed “ The Gathering”and has been voted the 6th greatest animal spectacle in the world by “Lonely Planet”. Heritance Kandalama offers a five star stay experience and its close proximity to Minneriya makes it an ideal choice for the nature enthusiast to bear witness to this extravagant gathering. Safari excursions can be organized from the hotel to the Minneriya National Park with guided expertise from our naturalists. The Hotel is set in serene jungles that offer a plethora of flora, fauna and exotic species that are endemic to Sri Lanka. Choose from a selection of other excursions designed specifically for the nature enthusiast with the expertise of our capable naturalists who will also accompany guests on their excursions. Return from a day of exploration and take a dip in Heritance Kandalama’s signature infinity pool or enjoy a sumptuous meal cooked with a variety of local ingredients, that is sure to leave your taste buds tantalized. The opportunities for adventure at Heritance Kandalama is endless. Call 2308408 for more information and reservations.

Heritance Kandalama

Recipe

Unripened Mango Drink

ango is not a fruit found in only a few parts of the world; although mango is native to South and Southeast Asia, it has been distributed far and wide to become one of the most cultivated fruits in the tropics. The ripened mango is enjoyed by tourists in Sri Lanka for its unique sweetness. They are juicy, aromatic and fibrous. And even unripe mangoes are a common savory with a distinguishing sour taste and many enjoy eating them with salt and pepper. The unripe mango also provides a pleasing drink. IngredIents: One unripe but well yellowed mango, Two glasses of water, Sugar (as much as you want), Pinch of salt, Pinch of black pepper, 4 or 5 Ice cubes. Method: Wash the mango and peel it. The mango you chose should be unripe, but not green. Otherwise, it will have an acrid taste. Now cut the mango into tiny pieces and use the blender to grind it well with two glasses of water. Now extract the rich unripe mango juice and add sugar, salt and black pepper. Taste the juice and add more sugar, salt or pepper to taste. Now mix it well, garnish as you may deem and serve. recipe: Courtesy of Chef Sujith of Cinnammon Grand Colombo Pic: Rasika Surasena

Unripened Mango Drink

Festival splendor in the North

Nallur Festival – August 1 – 27 The lunar month of Esala – July/August – is the main period of religious festivity in Sri Lanka. These festivals are associated with both the Buddhist and Hindu traditions in the country, and date back to ancient times. The festivity takes place throughout the country, with many “Peraheras” or colourful processions and other captivating rituals that depict the culture of the country and its people.

and many acts of self-mortification, held in honor of the God of War, Skanda or Murugan. Tourists are advised to make prior reservations of accommodation, as there could be a constant stream of pilgrims from all across Sri Lanka flooding to Jaffna during the month of religious fervor and festivity. Jaffna is a relatively small town, and though there are many new hotels, guest houses and other accommodation units opened in recent years, the interest in the Nallur festival could make the search for the best locations harder. The Internet will be helpful to make early bookings at the best locations. The people of Jaffna are hospitable and friendly, but there could be some problems of communication due to language, with Tamil being most widely spoken there. However, all hotels and guest houses have staff that is most helpful in guiding and assisting the visitor. Tourists are most welcome at this, as in other Sri Lankan festivals, photography is allowed, giving you good mementos of the visit. As in any other religious event, visitors are requested not to disturb the rituals taking place. The Nallur festival brings out an important aspect of Sri Lankan cultural diversity, with the visitor being exposed to all the colour and ceremony of the festivals in the traditions of the Hindu community of the island.

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Nallur Festival

affna peninsula has hundreds of shrines or kovils dedicated to Hindu deities – both gods and goddesses. Among these, the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil or Nallur Murugan Kovil, more commonly referred known as the Nallur Temple, is one of the most important Hindu shrines in the North of Sri Lanka. The Nallur Temple is both a religious and socially important institution for the Sri Lankan Tamil Hindus, who largely populate the North of the country. One of the impor tant tourist attractions in the North of Sri Lanka, as it represents the rich culture of Jaffna or Yalpanam, the annual Nallur Festival inspires devotees, from many parts of the island and abroad and also attracts tourists because of the vivid, colorful and the extravagant event it is. The Nallur Festival stands among the longest festivals of Sri Lanka, spread over twenty five days of traditional and vibrant chariot processions, with drumming, dancing

Peacocks in Sri Lanka Jungles The Peacock or Indian Peafowl, zoologically known as Pavo cristatus, lives in abundance in shrub jungles in Sri Lanka. It is often associated with Sri Lankan legends and believed as the vehicle of god Skanda Kumara, popularly known as God Kataragama, for whom a famous shrine is dedicated in southern Sri Lanka.

hile a well grown peacock with extra long feathers at its back is about 250cm in length, and males without such long feathers and hens are about 117cm. Especially the males, with their spectacular glossy colour combination â&#x20AC;&#x201C; with almost all the colours - and their shape are a treat to the eye of the viewer, and could be one of the most beautiful creations of mother nature. Unlike the Jungle Fowl, they do not have a crest on their heads; instead they are adorned with a cluster of little feathers which resembles a crown. Hens are not as attractive as their males in colour, composition and shape. It is observed that their mating period is from May to December. During this period Peacocks take a lot of effort to win the attraction of their female

Peacocks in Sri Lanka Jungles

counterparts. At dawn and dusk, in areas where there are peacocks available, one could watch the dance like movements of peacocks who are trying to win over peahens. It is a very spectacular scene, when a peacock with his long feathers extended like a fan, encircles the hen in a movement similar to a dance; then the hen too gets closer to express her interest. After the end of the mating season, these scenes of dances could not be seen until next year. Another interesting feature is that with the end of mating season, males lose their beautiful long feathers that adorn their backs. Peacocks could be seen in almost all the national wild life parks in Sri Lanka, namely Wilpattu, Yala, Kumana, Minneriya, Uda Walawe, and Wasgomuwa. Words & Pic: T. T. G. D. Thelikada Thuduwa

News in Brief CINNAMON GrAND LAUNCHES NEW rESTAUrANT - ‘NOODLES’

and the famous Laksa Lemak among its diverse range. As for the main noodle dishes, the choice is vast and delicious. From the exotic Amai Udon (udon noodles wok fried with seafood, garnished with tamarind sauce), Gong Baoji Ding Mian (Kung Pao chicken with egg noodles), to MienXàoCua (Vietnamese sautéed glass noodles with crab meat and egg), an array of dishes are all on offer. And the fun doesn’t stop there. The dessert menu is a combination of delightful desserts from Vietnam. Featured are some Chef Tran Ba Giang’s favourites, which include SinhToXoàiKemDua (chilled mango purée with a scoop of coconut ice-cream), Sago TráiCâyThapCam (mixed fruit and sago cooked in a bath of coconut milk) and Molten Dark Chocolate Lava Cake alongside a delicious variety for the sweet-tooth. “We are all excited to present the ultimate noodle experience to our patrons,” Cinnamon Grand Food and Beverages Manager Travis Casater said, adding that “we are constantly striving to enhance our dining offerings and are confident that ‘Noodles’ will add to the diversity of Colombo’s culinary map.” ‘noodles’ will be open for dinner daily at the Courtyard restaurant space from 6.30 p.m. to 11.30 p.m. For reservations please call 011-2497361/62.

SUNDAy JAzz JAM It’s an evening of cool, funky jaaaaaazzz, with a laid back vibe to bring the weekend to a close! On the first Sunday of each month “Jazz Unlimited” presents a Jam session for musicians to ‘ stretch out ‘ with no inhibitions from 0230PM to 0730PM at the CR & FC club premises at Longdon place, in an open air

environment. Local and expat musicians perform arranged sets as well as impromptu . Tickets are priced at Rs 300/= to the public with food and drink available at affordable rates. It’s a place to hang out. Visit www.jazzunlimited.lk for updates.

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innamon Grand Colombo launched its latest dining experience ‘Noodles’ on July 4; offering guests an opportunity to relish the flavours of Asia in exotic noodle-based broths and dishes. The 50-seater restaurant provides the ultimate feast for discerning noodle lovers, with a menu that features over 70 dishes made from ten noodle specialties such as Ramen, Udon and Soba. Inspired by the intriguing cuisines of Vietnam, China, Thailand, Japan and Malaysia, the nightly feast is prepared by expert Vietnamese Chef Tran Ba Giang. Noodles Chef de Cuisine, Tran Ba Giang, brings to table 12 years of experience in exquisite Vietnamese dishes in international hotel chains. In keeping with true Vietnamese cuisine styles, Chef Ba Giang balances the five elements: spice, sour, bitterness, salt and sweet, with his expert touch. Five types of nutrients also go to his cooking – powder, liquid, mineral elements, protein and fat – serving he food with not only taste and sustenance, but also colour. The menu features soups such as Chirichikinramen No Sapu (Ramen noodles, chicken, mushroom, tofu and spring onion, cooked in chicken stock; topped with a fried egg), BúnRiêuCuab (Vietnamese crab rice noodle soup), Ebi To Yasai No YakiBifun (rice noodles with prawns, green beans and spinach cooked in spicy coconut and lemongrass broth)

Shopping Checklist Kelly Felder – 117, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07 Tel: +94 117227000 Email: info@kellyfelder.com Facebook: “KellyfelderColombo”

Tea Board 574, Galle Rd, Colombo 03. Tel: +94 11 2553652

Nolimit www.nolimit.lk facebook/nolimitfashion Tel: +94 11 2737441

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Tourism News “Sri Lanka Shines in Shanghai” B2B Travel & Trade Forum creates a huge opportunity for Sri Lanka

nder the joint mega promotional campaign “Sri Lanka Shines in Shanghai” from July 01st to 6th July 2014 in Shanghai –China , Sri Lanka Tourism implemented a tourism and trade promotional business forum specifically schemed to attract Chinese travel and trade partners was held on 4th July 2014 in Shangri-La Hotel, Pudong. The event was graced by the presence of Hon. Basil Rajapaksa ,Minister of Economic Development who was the chief guest at the event along with Madam. Shang Yu Ying, Chairperson Municipal Commission for Commerce of Shanghai, China. Other distinguish guests who have participated for the inaugural ceremony of B2B Travel & Trade Business Forum included Hon. Shan Wijeyalal, Chief Minister, Southern Province, Sri Lanka, Hon. Dao Shu Ming, Chairman, China Friendship Association with Foreign Countries , H E Mr Ranjith Uyangoda , the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to China, Mrs. Hasanthy Dissanayake. Consul General of Sri Lanka in Shanghai, Mr. Yang Jing Song, Chairman of Tourism Administration, Mr. Nasser Ahamed, Provincial Minister (Tourism), Eastern Province, Sri Lanka, Mr. Shen Shan Zhou, Deputy Director of Shanghai Tourism Administration and Mr. Chen Ping, Deputy Director of International Dept, Municipal Commission of Commerce, Shanghai, Mr. Anura Siriwardhane, Secretary, Ministry of Industry & Commerce, Sri Lanka, Mr. Bhashwara Gunarathna, Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism, Dr. D S Jayaweera, Director General, Sri Lanka Tourism, Mr. Nishantha Wickramasinghe, Chairman, Sri Lankan

Tourism News

Airlines, Mr Rumy Jauffer , Managing Director of Sri Lanka Tourism promotion Bureau, Mr. Mervin Fernandopulle, Board Member, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau. The event commenced with a traditional Oil lamping ceremony and a vibrant Sri Lankan welcome dance. The welcome speech of the event was delivered by H. E. Mr. Ranjith Uyangoda, the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to China. In his speech he has highlighted the long standing China –Sri Lanka bilateral ties and the strong diplomatic relations between the two countries. He also added that Sri Lanka is recognised as one of the leading emerging economies in Asia and is glad to strengthen its business ties with the world’s second largest economy, China. He invited all travel and trade participants to utilize the business and travel forum to link up with Sri Lankan representatives and generate more opportunities for both countries.

Madam Shang Yu Ying, Chairperson of Shanghai Municipal Commission for Commerce, speaking at the business forum added that they are glad to establish travel and trade relationship between China and Sri Lanka and avenues to grow investment relationships with Sri Lankan travel and trade partners. She added that the B2B travel and trade forum will definitely create a strong platform for strengthening travel and trade relationships of the two countries. She also assured fullest cooperation from the Shanghai Municipal Commission for Commerce, to develop the Sri Lanka –China travel trade relationships. The keynote speech of the event was delivered by Hon. Basil Rajapaksa, Minister of Economic Development of Sri Lanka. In his speech he emphasised that the Sri Lanka –China relationship dates back to time immemorial, especially the visits of Faxian Buddhist Monk and Admiral Zheng He to Sri Lanka are the landmarks of developing the relationship between the two countries according to historical records. He added that Sri Lanka is full of hospitable and friendly people who are the main attraction of the country. During the first seven months of year 2014 Sri Lanka tourism has attracted more than the total number of Chinese travellers attracted during the whole last year, which is definitely an encouraging sign for the industry. From the tourism and trade perspective we see China as a huge potential market with particular interest in Shanghai as the commercial and financial capital. The Hon. Minister invited all

travel agents to promote Sri Lanka among Chinese people and trade partners to seek for investment opportunities in Sri Lanka. More than 170 tour operators and 161 trade representatives of China participated for the B2B Travel & Trade Business Forum held on 4th July at in Pudong, Shangri-La Hotel in Shanghai. They had productive discussions with their leading Sri Lankan counterparts. Thus, the event has created a platform to strengthen the existing businesses and to create new business opportunities for both counties. over 80 enterprise representatives from Sri Lanka one-on-one communicated with Chinese enterprise representatives. They had in-depth exchange of views with each other on black tea, gems, textiles, batik clothes and handicrafts to seek cooperation opportunities. Expressing their views to the media many tour operators who participated for the event said that they are thankful to the Ministry of Economic Development and Sri Lanka Tourism for organising an event of this magnitude for the travel and trade industry of Sri Lanka. During the sessions with Chinese tour operators and trade partners they were able to further develop the opportunities they can exploit in the Chinese market. The Chinese tour operators and trade partners mentioned that they are very pleased as this event has given them the opportunities to create new business opportunities with prospective Sri Lankan counterparts.

“Sri Lanka Shines in Shanghai” Shopping Mall Activation attracts heavy crowd”

square. Moreover, handicrafts featured with Sri Lanka ethnic characteristics have dazzled a large number of urban visitors, who were impressed by superb artistry of these products while travel enthusiasts were more concerned about the local cultural performances and natural beauty in Sri Lanka and actively took part in games at site. During the three day period thousands of people visited the shopping mall activation site and experienced the taste of Sri Lanka through Sri Lanka Shines in Shanghai promotional campaign. Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau in collaboration with Sri Lanka Inbound Tour operators Association and Sri Lankan Airlines offered special tour packages and complimentary air tickets to the winners at the shopping mall competitions. The lucky winners were

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Tourism News

ri Lanka Tourism implemented a shopping mall activation campaign from 04th -06th July 2014 in Shanghai –China under “Sri Lanka Shines in Shanghai” promotional campaign. Held at the Century Plaza on Nanjing Road, the three-day campaign themed “Sri Lanka Shines in Shanghai” has attracted a large number of travel enthusiasts and urban public to this event. The entrance to the Nanjing Lu Century Square was designed with a life size replica of the ancient Yapahuwa Entrance and the event arena was decorated with elephants and wildlife replicas which were the main attraction for drawing the crowds to the shopping Mall event held in Nanjing Lu square. With world-renowned Sri Lankan jewellery, textiles, seafood, black tea and other special commodities presented, for the crowds gathered at the century

selected during the games and competitions held on various topics on Sri Lanka to offer promotional tour packages to Sri Lanka. The Shopping Mall activation was able to gather heavy crowds to the Nanjing Lu Square each day and high level of enthusiasm and participation was seen from the public to experience Sri Lanka. All travel stalls and trade stalls offered information about the destination through promotional material and demonstrations etc. Sri Lanka Tourism, under the guidance of the Minister of Economic Development, has identified Korea as an emerging market for Sri Lanka with high

potential for growth. Sri Lanka Tourism is all prepared to roll out a mega outdoor promotional campaign in Korea within the next month with the aim of increasing destination awareness among Korean travellers. Within the first quarter of year 2014 Korean market arrivals recorded a 16.7% increase compared to the same period last year. Korean Air started operating direct flights to Sri Lanka from 2013 onwards securing easy passage for Korean Travellers to Sri Lanka. With all these promotions in place Sri Lanka Tourism hopes to reach the goal of 2.5 million visitors by the year 2016.

SriLankan to join oneworld carriers at Terminal-3, London Heathrow Airport

riLankan Airlines, the newest member of the oneworld alliance, in view of providing convenient and hasslefree travel to passengers across the alliance will be operating from London Heathrow Airport’s Terminal-3, which is to become home to many oneworld carriers by 2016. On July 16, the national carrier will join the oneworld members, American Airlines, US Airways, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Quantas and Royal Jordanian that are currently operating from the Terminal. Accordingly, UL 503 of July 16 will be the first SriLankan flight to arrive at Terminal-3. This will boost the transit passenger experience, with many partner airlines located within close proximity and the minimum connecting time will be cut on average by 20 minutes. With the relocation plans in place, it is estimated that two thirds of the passengers using Terminal 3 will be oneworld passengers. SriLankan Check-in area will be located at the Zone ‘C’ and the

Tourism News

terminal will be equipped with a state-of-the-art, fully automated baggage system that will reduce mishandling. Terminal-3’s, Zone B-G will have a check-in façade that creates more space and allows natural light in the location and a broader range of shopping and restaurant facilities for the passengers to choose from. Tristar counter at Terminal-3 will be facilitating premium passengers with a Limo service.

Touring Sri Lanka Sri Lanka is a paradise for sightseeing, you name it, we have it! And in close proximity too! Within a tiny area of 65,610 sq.km. is a package of varied interests. You may travel from Colombo on the West Coast, to the salubrious hill country through breathtaking scenery in 3 to 5 hours. From the lake country with magnificent ruined cities to starkly arid Jaffna and the enchanting East Coast with blue seas and wide beaches, each turn unfolding a different visual tapestry.

Day Tours Colombo City

Ratnapura

City by the sea. Interesting blend of the old & new. Good shopping, even designer labels, handloom and cotton clothing & linen, handmade leather handbags and shoes, gems & jewellery. You may visit Kelaniya Temple (beautiful mural paintings), Colombo National Museum or drive on to Mt. Lavinia, best beach close to Colombo.

The “City of Gems” Gem mining, gem workshops (gem cutting, polishing, jewellery making), Enchanting drive through rubber plantations and typical Sri Lankan villages. Ceylon blue Sapphires considered the world’s best, and a variety of precious and semi precious gems, including deep red Rubies to Tourmalines of forest green, rich purple amethyst and golden Topaz.

POINT PEDRO JAFFNA

Kandy Picturesquely located, no doubt the most beautiful city in the Island. Regarded as Sri Lanka’s cultural centre. You may witness the unique Kandyan Dancing, visit the Dalada Maligawa, golden roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of The Buddha, the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and shop for gems, jewellery and traditional handicrafts. Visit Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage en route.

Galle

Chavacachcheri Elephant Pass

THALAI MANNAR

Kokilai

MANNAR Madu Road Sanctury Madawachchi ANURADHAPURA

TRINCOMALEE

POLLONNARUWA Wilpattu

Puttalam

Habarana Wasgamuwa

Sigiriya

Chilaw

BATTICALOA

Dambulla

NEGOMBO

Kurunegala

KANDY

Lahugala

COLOMBO Mt. Lavinia Kalutara Beruwala Bentota Hikkaduwa

Mahiyangana Arugambay

Nuwara Elliya

RATNAPURA

Udawalawe

YALA

Katharagama Tissamaharama GALLE Bundala Unawatunna Hambantota MATARA Tangalle

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Touring Sri Lanka

Drive along the beautiful Southern coastline to Galle, Dutch fortified city, 17 c. fortress still burstling with life, shop for exquisite handmade lace, en route many beach hotels for a break at Kalutara, Beruwala, Bentota (popular for water sports) Hikkaduwa (famous for corals & tropical fish) Ambalangoda (Masks & Batiks.)

Mullativu

VAVUNIA

2 Days, 1 Night Tours Tour No: 1 – Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya Tour No: 2 – Kandy, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya Tour No: 3 – Gem City, Udawalawe National Park, Sinharaja Forest TourTour No: 1 Day 1: Morning leave for Kandy. Visit elephant orphanage at Pinnawela and a tea factory en route. Visit the golden roofed Dalada Maligawa, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of The Buddha, shop for handicrafts, gems & jewellery. Many interesting old temples closeby. Witness a Kandyan Dance Performance by night. Overnight Kandy. Day 2: Early morning, proceed to Nuwara Eliya through Ramboda Pass - Beautiful scenery, 6187 ft. above sea level - tea carpetted hills, Ramboda waterfall (329 ft), Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Back to Colombo through Ginigathhena. May stop for lunch at Kitulgala, location of the famous film Bridge on the River Kwai. Now, getting famous for whitewater rafting in the Kelani river with encounters of grade 2 & 3 rapids.

Tour No: 2 Day 1: Early Morning leave for Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital, monuments date back to 3rd c. BC-8th c.AD. Anuradhapura was an example par excellence of a hydraulic civilization. The construction of reservoirs, canals and irrigation channels during this period exhibited an amazing knowledge of trigonometry and the design of reservoirs a thorough grasp of hydraulic principles Proceed to Habarana. Overnight Habarana. Day 2: Morning drive through picturesque Kandy visiting the 5th Century Sigiriya Rock Fortress enroute. Proceed to Colombo.

Tour No: 3 Day 1: Early Morning leave for Ratnapura (Gem City) see gem mines and a museum Proceed to Udawalawe National Park famous for elephants, visiting the Sinharaja Rain Forest en route. Overnight Uda Walawe. Day 2: In Uda Walawe. Enjoy wild life and return to Colombo via the South Coast.

POINT PEDRO JAFFNA

Chavacachcheri Elephant Pass

THALAI MANNAR

Mullativu

VAVUNIA

Kokilai

MANNAR Madu Road Sanctury Madawachchi

ANURADHAPURA

TRINCOMALEE

POLLONNARUWA Wilpattu

Puttalam

Habarana Wasgamuwa

Sigiriya

Chilaw

NEGOMBO

Kurunegala

KANDY

Mt. Lavinia Kalutara Beruwala Bentota Hikkaduwa

GALLE

Touring Sri Lanka

Mahiyangana Lahugala

COLOMBO

BATTICALOA

Dambulla

Arugambay

Nuwara Elliya

RATNAPURA

Udawalawe

YALA

Katharagama Tissamaharama Bundala Unawatunna Hambantota MATARA Tangalle

3 Days 2 Nights Tour Tour No: 1 – South Coast, Wild Life, Gem City Tour No: 2 – Kandy, Ancient Cities Tour No: 3 – Hill Country, Kandy, Ancient Cities Tour No: 1 Day 1: Morning leave for Galle – the Dutch fortified city, 17th c. fortress bursting with life. Quaint shops. Purchase exquisite handmade lace. Visit Hikkaduwa beach resort enroute. Overnight Galle. Day 2: Morning leave for Tissamaharama gateway to Yala National Park. Afternoon tour of the Park. Overnight Tissamaharama/Yala. Day 3: Morning leave for Ratnapura through cross country. Visit Gem mines and Gem Museums. Evening return to Colombo.

Early morning leave for Polonnaruwa visiting the 5th c. Sigiriya Rock Fortress enroute. Late evening tour of the medieval Capital. Overnight Polonnaruwa. Day 3: Early morning leave for Anuradhapura (3rd c.BC-8th c.AD) Tour of the ancient city. After lunch leave for Colombo.

Tour No: 3 Day 1: Morning leave for Nuwara Eliya via Kitulgala. Beautiful tea carpetted hillcountry scenery. Sightseeing in Nuwara Eliya mist covered and built by nostalgic British planters. Also visit Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Overnight Nuwara Eliya. Day 2: Morning leave for Kandy, the picturesque hill capital visiting a tea estate and factory enroute. Sightseeing and shopping. Evening visit the Dalada Maligawa the golden-roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of The Buddha which brings sanctity to Kandy. Overnight Kandy. Day 3: Morning leave for 5 c. Sigiriya Rock Fortress. After lunch return to Colombo via Kurunegala.

Tour No: 2 Day 1: Morning leave for Kandy hill cradled highland capital visitng the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens enroute. Evening visit the Dalada Maligawa, the golden roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of The Buddha. Shopping & sightseeing. Many interesting temples nearby. Overnight Kandy. Day 2:

POINT PEDRO JAFFNA

Chavacachcheri Elephant Pass

THALAI MANNAR

Mullativu

VAVUNIA

Kokilai

MANNAR Madu Road Sanctury Madawachchi ANURADHAPURA

TRINCOMALEE

POLLONNARUWA Wilpattu

Puttalam

Habarana Wasgamuwa

Sigiriya

Chilaw

BATTICALOA

Dambulla

Kurunegala

KANDY

Lahugala

COLOMBO Mt. Lavinia Kalutara Beruwala Bentota Hikkaduwa

GALLE

Mahiyangana Arugambay

Nuwara Elliya

RATNAPURA

Udawalawe

YALA

Katharagama Tissamaharama Bundala Unawatunna Hambantota MATARA Tangalle

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Touring Sri Lanka

NEGOMBO

5 Days 4 Nights Tour No: 1 – South Coast, Wild Life, Hill Country, Kandy Tour No: 2 – Gem City, Wild Life, Hill Country, Kandy/ Dambulla, Sigiriya Tour No: 3 – Ancient Cities, Kandy, Hill Country Tour No: 1 Day 1: Morning - leave for Bentota. On the beach, at leisure. Overnight Bentota. Day 2: Morning - leave for Tissamaharama via Galle. 17 c. Dutch fortified city. Lunch en route. Afternoon visit the Yala National Park. Overnight Tissamaharama. Day 3: Morning - leave for Nuwara Eliya, superb high country scenery. Lunch at Nuwara Eliya. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight Nuwara Eliya. Day 4: Morning - sightseeing in Nuwara Eliya. Proceed to Kandy, the picturesque hill capital. Overnight Kandy. Day 5: Morning - visit the Dalada Maligawa, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of The Buddha. Shopping and sightseeing in Kandy. Afternoon - return to Colombo visiting the Elephant Orphanage at Pinnawala.

Tour No: 2 Day 1: Morning - leave for Ratnapura “City of Gems” Visit a Gem Pit and a Gem Museum enroute. Proceed to Udawalawe National Park famous for elephants. Overnight Udawalawe. Day 2: Morning - leave for Nuwara Eliya, tea carpetted hills and cloud mountains. Lunch en route. Sightseeing in Nuwara Eliya including the Hakgala Botanic Gardens. Overnight Nuwara Eliya. Day 3: Morning - leave for Kandy, hill cradled citadel. Shopping and sightseeing. Evening visit the Dalada Maligawa, Temple of the the Sacred Tooth Relic of The Buddha. Overnight Kandy. Day 4: Morning - leave for Habarana, visiting the 5th c. Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temple en route. Lunch at Sigiriya.

Touring Sri Lanka

Proceed to Habarana. Overnight Habarana. Day 5: Morning at leisure. Afternoon return to Colombo.

Tour No: 3 Day 1: Morning - leave for Anuradhapura 3rd c.BC - 8th c. AD. visiting Negombo. Lunch at Anuradhapura. Afternoon sightseeing. Overnight Anuradhapura. Day 2: Morning - leave for Polonnaruwa-Medieval Capital visiting Mihintale (Cradle of Buddhism). Late afternoon tour of the city. Overnight Polonnaruwa. Day 3: Morning - leave for Sigiriya, visit 5 c. Rock Fortress. Afternoon - proceed to Kandy, visiting Dambulla Cave Temple enroute. Overnight Kandy. Day 4: Morning - visit Dalada Maligawa, the golden roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of The Buddha. Sightseeing and shopping in Kandy. Afternoon - leave for Nuwara Eliya. Day 5: Morning - sightseeing in Nuwara Eliya mist clad enchanting hill resort planned by homesick English tea planters, A visit to a tea estate and Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Afternoon - leave for Colombo via Ginigathhena.

POINT PEDRO JAFFNA

Chavacachcheri Elephant Pass

THALAI MANNAR

Mullativu

VAVUNIA

Kokilai

MANNAR Madu Road Sanctury Madawachchi

ANURADHAPURA

TRINCOMALEE

POLLONNARUWA Wilpattu

Puttalam

Habarana Wasgamuwa

Sigiriya

Chilaw

BATTICALOA

Dambulla

NEGOMBO

Kurunegala

KANDY

Lahugala

COLOMBO Mt. Lavinia Kalutara Beruwala Bentota Hikkaduwa

GALLE

Mahiyangana Arugambay

Nuwara Elliya

RATNAPURA

Udawalawe

YALA

Katharagama Tissamaharama Bundala Unawatunna Hambantota MATARA Tangalle

7 Days 6 Nights Tour No: 1 – Ancient Cities, Kandy, Hill Country, Wild Life, South Coast Tour No: 2 – Hill Country, Kandy, Ancient Cities, East Coast Tour No: 3 – Ancient Cities, Kandy, Arugambay, Udawalawe, Gem City Tour No: 1 Day 1: Morning - leave for Anuradhapura (3rd c.BC - 8th c. AD) via Puttalam. Lunch at Anuradhapura. Afternoon - sightseeing of the Ancient City. If time permits visit Mihintale (Cradle of Buddhism) Overnight Anuradhapura. Day 2: Early morning - leave for Wilpattu National Park with Picnic Lunch. Afternoon - proceed to Habarana. Overnight Habarana. Day 3: Morning - proceed to Kandy visiting the 5 c. Sigiriya Rock Fortress en route. Sightseeing in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural centre and the most beautiful city. Evening visit the Dalada Maligawa, the golden roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of The Buddha. Overnight Kandy. Day 4: Morning leave for Nuwara Eliya, heart of the tea country. Visit a tea estate en route.

Afternoon-sightseeing including the Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Overnight Nuwara Eliya. Day 5: Morning leave for Tissamaharama via Koslanda. Afternoon visit Yala National Park. Overnight at Tissamaharama. Day 6: Morning leave for Galle the 17 c. Dutch fortified city, Sightseeing in Galle. Afternoon proceed to Hikkaduwa. At leisure on the beach. Overnight Hikkaduwa. Day 7: Morning leave for Colombo. Afternoon shopping and sightseing in Colombo.

Tour No: 2 Day 1: Morning leave for Nuwara Eliya heart of the tea country. Misty mountains and emerald tea gardens. Lunch at Kitulgala. Overnight Nuwara Eliya. Day 2: Morning sightseeing in Nuwara Eliya including Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Proceed to Kandy visiting a tea estate & factory enroute. Overnight Kandy. Day 3: Morning enjoy Sri Lanka’s most beautiful city. Visit the Dalada Maligawa, the golden roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of The Buddha. Proceed to Habarana visiting (if time permits) Dambulla Cave Temple en route. Overnight Habarana/ Giritale. Day 4: Morning visit 5 c. Sigiriya Rock Fortress and proceed to Polonnaruwa. Late afternoon tour of the Medieval Capital. Overnight Polonnaruwa.

POINT PEDRO JAFFNA

Chavacachcheri Elephant Pass

THALAI MANNAR

Mullativu

VAVUNIA

Kokilai

MANNAR Madu Road Sanctury Madawachchi

ANURADHAPURA

TRINCOMALEE

POLLONNARUWA Wilpattu

Puttalam

Habarana Wasgamuwa

Sigiriya

Chilaw

BATTICALOA

Dambulla

Kurunegala

KANDY

Lahugala

COLOMBO Mt. Lavinia Kalutara Beruwala Bentota Hikkaduwa

GALLE

Mahiyangana Arugambay

Nuwara Elliya

RATNAPURA

Udawalawe

YALA

Katharagama Tissamaharama Bundala Unawatunna Hambantota MATARA Tangalle

The Comprehensive Monthly Guide to Travellers in Sri Lanka

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Touring Sri Lanka

NEGOMBO

Day 5: Morning proceed to Trincomalee. At Leisure on the beach. Overnight Trincomalee/ Nilaveli. Day 6: Morning sightseeing in Trincomalee. Proceed to Colombo. Ovenight Colombo. Day 7: In Colombo. Shopping and sightseeing in Colombo.

Tour No: 3 Day 1: Morning - leave for Anuradhapura (3rd c.BC - 8th c AD) via Puttalam. Afternoon - sightseeing of the Ancient City. If time permits visit Mihintale(Cradle of Buddhism) Overnight Anuradhapura. Day 2: Early morning-leave for Wilpattu National Park with Picnic Lunch. Afternoon proceed to Habarana. Overnight Habarana. Day 3:

Morning - proceed to Kandy visiting the 5 c. Sigiriya Rock Fortress en route. Evening visit the Dalada Maligawa the golden roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. Overnight Kandy. Day 4: Morning leave for Arugambay [East Coast] via Mahiyangana, Maha Oya, Siyabalanduwa. Overnight Arugambay. Day 5: Arugambay - at leisure. Enjoy the sun surf and sand. Best between April - Nov. Arugambay is rated 3rd among the best 20 surfing destination in the world. Overnight at Arugambay. Day 6: Morning proceed to Udawalawe National Park via Monaragala, Wellawaya. Overnight at Udawalawe. Day 7: Afternoon proceed to Colombo visiting Ratnapura (Gem City) en route

10 Day Tour Wild Life, Nature and Adventure Tour Day 1: Morning leave for Kitulgala lush green destination with wonderful scope for white water rafting in the Kelani river with encounters of grade 2 & 3 rapids. Day 2: In Kitulgala sightseeing and trekking. Day 3: Leave for Kandy via Nawalapitiya through picturesque scenery. Day 4, 5, 6: In Kandy. Exploring the beautiful Knuckles Range Heritage & Wilderness area will simply take your breath away! The Hantana range of mountains is also a possibilit y and Wasgamuwa National Park where wild elephants could be easily sighted. May also visit the Dalada Maligawa the golden roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha and witness traditionall drumming during â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Poojaâ&#x20AC;?morning, afternoon and evening. Day 7: Proceed to Habarana visiting the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (5thc A,D,) enroute, Day 8: Visit Polonnaruwa, the Medieval city with grand stone sculpture and shows the influence of the South Indian Hindu culture on the Sinhala Buddhist art and architecture At leisure at Habarana. Lovely jungle

Touring Sri Lanka

surroundings. Day 9: Early morning Leave for Colombo visiting Yapahuwa enroute. Day 10: At leisure in Colombo.

POINT PEDRO JAFFNA

Chavacachcheri Elephant Pass

THALAI MANNAR

Mullativu

VAVUNIA

Kokilai

MANNAR Madu Road Sanctury Madawachchi

ANURADHAPURA

Kalpitiya

TRINCOMALEE

POLLONNARUWA Wilpattu

Puttalam

Sigiriya

Chilaw

Habarana Wasgamuwa

BATTICALOA

Dambulla

NEGOMBO

Kurunegala Kitulgala

COLOMBO Mt. Lavinia Kalutara Beruwala Bentota Hikkaduwa

GALLE

KANDY

Mahiyangana Lahugala

Arugambay

Nuwara Elliya

RATNAPURA Udawalawe

YALA

Katharagama Tissamaharama Bundala Unawatunna Hambantota MATARA Tangalle

12 Day Tour Kandy-Ancient CitiesTrincomalee-Jaffna Day 1: Morning leave for Kandy visiting a tea estate & elephant orphanage at Pinnawela. Evening visit Dalada Maligawa the golden roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of The Buddha. Overnight in Kandy. Day2: Morning visit many interesting temples- Lankatilleke, Gadaladeniya, Embekke closeby and handicrafts, gem & jewellery shops. Overnight in Kandy. Day 3: Morning leave for Anuradhapura, first capital of Sri Lanka dating back to 3rd c B.C.8thc.A.D. Visit ruins. The ‘Rajarata’ King’s country dotted with magnificent stupas and picturesque lakes which has irresistible charm to the visitor. Overnight Anuradhapura. Day 4:Early morning leave for Wilpattu National Park famous for leopard. Unique in its topography having several inland ‘villus’ (lakes) that attracts thousands of water birds. Bear and herds of deer and sambhur are common.Overnight at Anuradhapura. Day 5:Morning leave for PolonnaruwaMedieval capital. Beautiful evocative ruins in stone. The Gal Vihare sculptures are the glory of Polonnaruwa and the peak of its artistic achievement. Overnight Polonnaruwa.

Day 6: Morning leave for Trincomalee famed for its natural harbour. Picnic lunch. Overnight Trincomalee/Nilaveli. Day 7: In Trincomalee at leisure. On the beach & sightseeing. Many interesting sights such as the Koneswaram Kovil, Kanniyai hot springs, and a deep blue sea! All water sports are available here including fishing, scuba diving, sea angling and exciting whale watching. Day 8: In Trinco. Day 9: Early morning leave for Jaffna - the magnetic north. Starkly beautiful. Delft Island famous for its wild ponies, Buddhist historical site ‘Kandarodei” spread amidst palmyrah trees, Nallur Kandaswamy temple, Jaffna’s premier place of worship Nagadipa, popular Buddhist shrine and of course the Casuarina beach named after the casuarina trees along the coral strewn shore. The sea is very shallow and you must wade out some distance to swim. In Jaffna market you can buy the famous Jaffna mangoes, see a wide variety of mats, baskets, hats, and other items woven from Palmyrah leaves. Day 10: In Jaffna Day 11: Proceed to Colombo. Day 12: In Colombo.

POINT PEDRO JAFFNA

Chavacachcheri Elephant Pass

THalai Mannar

Mullativu

VAVUNIA

Kokilai

MANNAR Madu Road Sanctury Madawachchi

ANURADHAPURA

TRINCOMALEE

POLLONNARUWA Wilpattu

Puttalam

Habarana Wasgamuwa

Sigiriya

Chilaw

BATTICALOA

Dambulla

Kurunegala

KANDY

Lahugala

COLOMBO Mt. Lavinia Kalutara Beruwala Bentota Hikkaduwa

GALLE

Mahiyangana Arugambay

Nuwara Elliya

RATNAPURA

Udawalawe

YALA

Katharagama Tissamaharama Bundala Unawatunna Hambantota MATARA Tangalle

The Comprehensive Monthly Guide to Travellers in Sri Lanka

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Touring Sri Lanka

NEGOMBO

14 Day Tour Kalpitiya-Ancient CitiesKandy-Nuwara EliyaYala-Beach Stay Day 1: Morning - leave for Kalpitiya connected with history & legend now famous for whale and dolphin watching. Emerging beach resort, the land skirted by the sea on one side and lagoon on the other. Fourteen unspoiled islands basking in the sun, rimmed by blue waters of the Indian ocean Overnight at Kalpitiya Day 2: Visit Talawila church and explore fishing villages etc., Day 3: Morning - leave for Anuradhapura Ancient city 3rd c. B.C.-8thc A.D. Tour of the ruins of splendid ancient shrines and buildings. Anuradhapura was an example par excellence of a Hydraulic Civilization, According to the ancient Sinhala chronical Mahavamsa was a model of planning with precincts set aside for huntsmen, scavengers, heretics, as well as for foreigners. Overnight at Anuradhapura. Day 4: Morning leave for Habarana. After lunch visit Sigiriya Rock fortress 5thc A.D. a royal citadel for over 18 years. The complex of buildings part royal palace, part fortified town and water gardens on par with the best of the ancient world. Overnight at Habarana. Day 5: Leave for Kandy, the most visited and beautiful city of

Sri Lanka with a beautiful lake as the centre-piece. Sightseeing including the Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, one of the best in Asia and the golden roofed Dalada Maligawa, Temple of the Sacred tooth Relic of the Buddha in time to witness ‘pooja’ and Kandyan drumming. Overnight in Kandy. Day 6: In Kandy. Many interesting temples, lovely walks and plenty of souvenir shops, Kandy being the repository of our arts & crafts. Day 7: Morning leave for Nuwara Eliya,a town built by nostalgic British planters. Beautiful scenery 6187 ft. above sea level tea carpeted hills and high country vegetation mist covered hills and cascading waterfalls. Hakgala gardens famous for its rose collection and fernery. Day 8:Leave for Horton Plains nature reserve. Beautiful walk upto the ‘world’s end’ through the purple mist. Overnight at Horton Plains. Day 9: Morning proceed to Yala National Park. Premier national park famous for elephants among other animals and birds. Overnight at Tissamaharama. Day 10: At Tissamaharama/Hambantota. Day 11, 12, 13: Beach stay on the south coast. Day 14: Return to Colombo.

POINT PEDRO JAFFNA

Chavacachcheri Elephant Pass

THALAI MANNAR

Mullativu

VAVUNIA

Kokilai

MANNAR Madu Road Sanctury Madawachchi

ANURADHAPURA

Kalpitiya

TRINCOMALEE

POLLONNARUWA Wilpattu

Puttalam

Habarana Wasgamuwa

Sigiriya

Chilaw

Dambulla

NEGOMBO

Kurunegala

KANDY

Mt. Lavinia Kalutara Beruwala Bentota Hikkaduwa

GALLE

Touring Sri Lanka

Mahiyangana Lahugala

COLOMBO

BATTICALOA

Arugambay

Nuwara Elliya

RATNAPURA

Udawalawe

YALA

Katharagama Tissamaharama Bundala Unawatunna Hambantota MATARA Tangalle

Colombo Sri Lanka’s commercial capital is an interesting blend of the varying influences, it has seen for more than 600 years. Its importance as a trading port increased after the arrival of the Portuguese to the Island in the early 16th Century.

olombo continued to grow under the Dutch and British, and today shows the marked influence of all those cultures from the Islamic mosques, the Catholic, Dutch Reformed and Anglican churches. The Dutch Colonial style of architecture is very much in evidence, as are the special quarters for separate trades in the Colombo Fort and Pettah area.

Pettah

Fort

In recent years the shopping areas in Colombo have stretched southwards along Galle Road and R.A.de Mel Mawatha (Duplication Road) down through Kollupitiya, Bambalapitiya, Wellawatte and Havelock Town to Dehiwela and Mt. Lavinia. See page 60

While the Fort gets its name from the former military garrison which was located here under the Dutch and British, it is still the location of Janadhipathi Mandiraya, the President’s House. On its fringe is the beautiful sandstone building which houses the Presidential Secretariat and the Government Secretariat, formally the Parliament, almost a replica of Whitehall in England.

Clock tower cum lighthouse

Galle Face Galle Face Green, the mile long promenade which borders the Fort on the South, is the largest open air stretch in the city affording a beautiful view of the sunset. Around it are the Main City Hotels from Galle Face Hotel, The Taj Samudra, Colombo Hilton, The Cinnamon Grand, Galadari and The Kingsbury.

Shops

Eating Out Colombo is replete with a grand array of restaurants offering tantalizing gastronomic delights. Japanese salmon sashimi, crab rice or tampura, Sri Lankan jumbo prawns and lobster, Indian tandoori chicken and chicken tikka, Italian ravioli or spaghetti bolognaise, Mexican tapas... you can have your pick! Most restaurants have artful edgy decor and are situated in charming surroundings giving you the right ambience to enjoy your meal. See page 65

Old Dutch Hospital – Shopping & Dining Complex It is worth your while to stroll over to the newly restored and opened Old Dutch Hospital, which is Colombo’s oldest building and now a shopping and dining ‘precinct’. A restored and charming 400 year old building. Upon entering it, you forget you are in the very heart of Colombo. The World Trade Centre twin-towers are visible only when you look up and because the walls are so thick, there’s no sound of traffic in the courtyards or in any of the eating or shopping areas. Well-known names from Colombo’s retail, entertainment and catering sectors have set up shop. Among is a restaurant catering to Crab lovers, serving delicious Sri Lankan seafood and international cuisine. A pub, Clothing stores, Spas, tea shops and curio shops take space of this Dutch building.

Places of interest Gangaramaya Simamalakaya – The Gangaramaya Temple complex and Bikkhu Training Centre is spread around the

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It is a very rare sight indeed – a lighthouse in the middle of the city centre! A landmark in the Colombo Fort is the lighthouse with clock tower, a legacy of the British colonisers. For nearly 100 years it performed the dual task of being a beacon to ships in the Indian Ocean whilst keeping time. Designed by Lady Ward, wife of Governor Sir Henry Ward, it was built in 1857 but installed in 1915 after being stored in a warehouse for 42 years due to lack of funds to install it. In 1950 a second lighthouse was constructed by the sea.

The Pettah, which was earlier on the outer fringe of the Fort, is still the busiest shopping bazaar in the city. Its many criss-crossing roads mark out sections which specialises in various trades from textiles and sarees, spices and condiments, goldsmiths and jewellers, wholesale dealers in rice, sugar, lentils and chillies.

Beira lake and also across the main road. It’s imposing buildings with Buddhist artifacts from all over the world is a ‘must see’ site in the tourist itinerary. Bauddhaloka Buddha Image (Avukana) – Facing the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall stands a beautifully executed statue of the Buddha in the standing posture at 36 feet. It is the largest Buddha statue in the city of Colombo. In addition to the above other places to visit in a typical tour of Colombo would include all, or some of these locations. The Wolvendhal Church (built by Dutch in 1757) St. Anthony’s Church and St. Lucia’s Cathedral, New Kathiresan Kovil (largest Hindu Kovil in the city). National Museum – Built in 1877, is a treasure trove of articles depicting Sri Lanka’s historical and cultural past and present including regalia of the last king. Town Hall – (built with architectural similarity to many state capital buildings in America) Independence Memorial Hall – (in the style of medieval Kandyan audience hall) BMICH (1971) – Octagonal shaped conference hall with modern facilities – main hall could accommodate 1500 persons. Viharamahadevi Park – For lush greenery, fountains and flowering trees to relax under. Nelum Pokuna Theatre – A fully equipped sate of the art performance centre, for large scale theatrical productions. It includes the main auditorium and an open air amphitheatre. Reservation: Hotline+94 11 2 669 024 General Line +94 11 2 669 433

Art Galleries National Art Gallery

106, Nelum Pokuna Mawatha, Colombo 07. Open 9.00am – 5.00pm (except Poya day) Permanent Gallery as well as exhibitions of modern artists. Tel: 2693965

BareFoot Gallery – 704, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel : 2 589305.

Sapumal Foundation – 32/4 Barnes Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 2695731

Colombo

The Hemple Galleries

30/3 Barnes Place, Colombo 07. Gale Face Court Apartments. Tel: 777907321 Open only on Exhibition

Saskia Fernando Gallery 61, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 0117429010

Paradise Road Gallery

2, Alfred House Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 112582162

J.D.A. Perera Art Gallery Horton Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 2693933

Lionel Wendt Art Centre Guildford Crescent, Colombo 07. Tel: 2695794

Contact the Galleries directly if you need to make a visit on a poya day or on a public holiday as thay may be closed.

An open-air Art Gallery In the heart of Colombo, at Green Path with the green foliage of the Vihara Maha Devi Park as a back-drop you may view an array of exhibits of local artists of exceptional talent. Most of the artists are from the University of Aesthetic Studies. All artists show their excellence in portraiture, figure drawing and scenes drawn from life to arrest the attention of the visitors. The display is on only on Saturdays & Sundays.

The Craft Village The Craft Village in Battaramulla, is a goods market for buyers and sellers to meet and purchase traditional handicrafts. The speciality of this location is that each little hut is dedicated to a different craft. The craftman has all the raw material around him and is seen engaged in his product. This helps the consumer to purchase the product and see how the products are being made. The craftsman takes time to explain and show off their talents while at work. Batik creation, Handloom, Bobbin Lace, Rattan Creations and Palmyrah products are item on display. A traditional sweet stall is also open to get your taste buds indulging while you visit the Village.

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara In the immediate suburbs of the city are two very important visitor attractions. One is the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, (a very important Buddhist temple in the North East of the city, and one of the three places in Sri Lanka where Lord Buddha visited, has very fascinating wall and ceiling paintings by famous artist Solius Mendis. Its site dates to the very early days of the Sinhalese Buddhist civilization in Sri Lanka.

Zoological Gardens South of the city, at Dehiwela is the National Zoological Gardens, which is one of the largest zoological gardens in South East Asia, which has a very large collection of animals, birds and reptile species from the world over.

Every evening the elephants at the Zoo give a very entertaining performance of light-footed dancing and many other endearing tricks.

Diyawanna Water Park The Diyawanna Oya with its lush green landscapes is an ideal spot to hang out and relax. The wonderful breeze across the waters will keep you seated on the banks for hours. With ample walking and jogging area it also caters to the hungry, with food court and sitting decks at your convenience.

For accommodation refer the hotel listing section

The Culture Line The following places have an interesting range of programmes of cultural interest, specially in theatre and exhibitions.

Alliance Française de Kandy 642, Peradeniya Rd,

Alliance Française de Kotte in Colombo

Galle Road, Colombo 03 Tel : 011 2 498100

Coniston Place (off Torington Avenue),Colombo 07 Tel: 01125898 14 / 01179063 Web: www.alliancefrkotte.lk / www.alliancefrancaise.lk

Kandy. Tel : 0812224432

American Center

British Council 49, Alfred House Gardens, Colombo 03. Tel: 2581171-2, 4521500, Kandy Branch 178, D.S. Senanayake Veediya, Kandy. Tel: 081 2222410, 2234284, www.britishcouncil.lk

German Cultural Centre GOETHE – INSTITUTE, Gregory’s Road, Colombo 07. Tel: 2694562

Indian Cultural Centre 16/2, Gregory’s Road, Colombo 07. Tel: 2684698

Russian Cultural Centre No. 10, Independence Avenue, Colombo 07. Tel: 2685429, 2685440

Sasakawa Memorial Hall, No 4, 22nd Lane, Colombo 03.

Golf Clubs Sri Lanka has three golf courses, each located in three different areas, climatically and geographically of fering varing playing conditions.

Royal Colombo Golf Club

Nuwara Eliya Golf Club

Lies in the heart of the hilly tea country which offers a salubrious climate and breathtaking scenery. The temperature is between 14

Victoria Golf Club

The more recently opened 18-hole Victoria Golf Club situated at Rajawella, Kandy is completely different from the other two courses. Bounded by the massive Victoria Dam on two sides and surrounded by spectacular scenery it offers an unforgettable golfing experience. Tel: 081- 2376372, 081-2376376 The clubs are well stocked with golfing equipment which you may hire or buy. It may be interesting to know that the Sri Lankan Amateur Championship is the second oldest amateur tournament in the history of the game.

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Colombo

The over 100 year old 18 hole Royal Colombo Golf Club is situated within 20 minutes drive from the city centre. Stretching over 6000 yards, with well placed sand traps and water hazards golfing is a pleasure at this course surrounded by green foliage and flowering trees. A well-appointed club house built in the colonial style, open and airy is ideal for relaxing after a game. The food is excellent. Tel: 2691401, 2695431

degrees C and 20 degrees C during warmer months. It drops to 7 degrees C during December January. The course looks so challenging that a golfer usually succumbs to its allure and prefer golfing to sightseeing! The club house reflects the old world charm of the buildings built by nostalgic British planters in the colonial era. Complete with a fire place beside the bar, it gives an aura of complete peace and relaxation. This club is also over 100 years old. Tel: 052-2222835

Eagles Golf Link, Chinabay

This senic golf link is located near the Trincomalee harbour. This 18- hole, Golf Course offers a 7km challenge. Club House includes pro shop, accommodation and changing room.

Eagles Golf Link, Chinabay, Trincomalee. C/O Sri Lanka Air Force Headquarters P.O. Box 594, Colombo 02. Tel : +94 77 2229091, +94 77 2229281, +94 77 2229478 Email: eaglesgolf@ airforce.lk

Casino Bellagio Casino

430, R.A. De Mel Mw., Colombo 03. Tel: 2575271

MGM Casino

772, Galle Rd., Colombo 04.

Marina Colombo

30, Marine Drive, Colombo 03. Hotline: +94 114 922 733 Email: info@marinacolombo. com Web: www. marinacolombo.com

Bally's Casino 34, D.R. Wijewardhana Mw., Colombo 10. Tel: 2331150/2, 5234448 Web: www.ballys.com

Tel: 2502268, Fax: 2591711

Night Clubs The Magarita Blue

Blue Leopard

Club Fuga

Galadari Hotel. Colombo 01. Tel: 2544544

Grand Oriental Hotel 2, York Street,, Colombo 01 Tel: 232 0391

418 First Floor,Galle Road, Colombo 03 Tel:077 292 9334

Club Amuseum

Ice Lounge

Taj Samudra Hotel, Galle Face Centre Rd., Colombo 03. Tel: 0714071033

31, Horton Place, Colombo 07 Tel: 0777 74580 0

Kama Colombo

21, De Vos Avenue, Colombo 04 Tel : 258 0063

The Library Cinnamon Lake Side, Colombo 02. Tel: 2491000

B 52 Grand Oriental Hotel, 2, York Street, Colombo 01. Tel : 2320320

Kudos Night Club & Karaoke Pub, 206, Havelock Road, Colombo 05. Tel: 2580000, 5544428

Sapphire Club 20/3, Abdul Gaffor Mw., Colombo 03. Tel: 071 4124197, 2301590 Silk 41 1/2 Maitland Crescent, Colombo 07. Tel: 2682122

Colombo

Huejay Court, 32B, Sir Mohamed Macan Markar Mawatha, Colombo 03. Tel: 2339118

Inn On The Green Galle Face Hotel, 2, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2541010

Sopranos 29C, Maitland Crescent, Colombo 07. Tel: 2676752

Clancyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 29, Maitland Crescent, Colombo 07 Tel: 268 2945

Lush Lounge

Rythem & Blues 19/1, Daisy Villa Avenue, Colombo 03 Tel: 536 3859

Pier 3-Boat Karaoke Pub & Night Club 38 F, D.R. Wijewardena Mw., Colombo 10. Tel: 2390739

Travel Lanka recommended

Sites and activities Through this guide you will be tempted to take up one other activity into your already planed itinerary. Within relatively short distances you can experience Cultural sites, sun kissed Beaches, Cool Mountains and Adventure activities to suit your style. The Country is rich in its Food and Beverage bringing you the best of Sri Lankan and that amazing array of Seafood. Its going to be a holiday to remember...

Galle Face green

The lawn facing the sea, south of Fort is Galle Face Green, Originally cleared by the Dutch to give the cannons of Fort a clear line of fire. Today its a popular rendezvous spot for the city dwellers and holiday makers.

The Museum

Established in 1877 by Sir William Henry Gregory the Governor of Ceylon at that time. The Museum Holds three main sections namely Natural Science, Culture and Library. Natural section consists of four main sub sections as Entomology, Zoology, Botany and Geology.

The Museum

The Throne and the Crown of the Kandyan Monarch Sri Vikrama Rajasinghe, who was The last king of Sri Lanka. This is one of the highlights of the visit to the Museum.

Stilt fishing

One of the most iconic scenes your bound to see in Tangalle Beach is Stilt Fishing. An old tradition in the Island, stilt fishing is practiced by fisherman who settle for a smaller catch.

Mirissa Beach

With a wide sandy foreshore Mirissa Beach is the ideal location for that tranquil and relaxing holiday

Galle

Drive along the old Dutch Building in Galle now converted in to a museum displays traditional masks, lase making process and other items used in that period.

Beaches – South, West, North Coast Sun worshippers, prepare to stretch out, curl your toes in the fine white sand, and get a glorious tan on sundrenched. palm-caressed beaches that adorn over a 1000 miles of the coast of Sri Lanka.

The sea is fine for bathing and surfing, and there are wide expanses of beach. The hotels often have barbecues and dancing on the beach. Seafood is the forte, and scrumptious luncheon buffets are a weekly feature. Firelight and throbbing drumbeats herald performances of traditional Low Country dancing. Short tours are often arranged from resorts to typical villages in the interior and points of interest, such as Hikaduwa (Underwater coral formations & Marine National Park, Galle (old Dutch Fort), Ambalangoda (Mask making) Bentota (moonstone mine) and several Buddhist temples with interesting temple murals of the Buddhist revivalist period.

Katunayake – 31 km Location of the main International Airport – Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake is a very popular transit stop for visitors proceeding to Colombo or taking an early flight back. Several modern hotels have sprung-up offording excellent facilities to the discerning travelers.

Negombo – 35 km A characteristic fishing town north of Colombo, it is a mere 6 km from the International Airport. Set amid lush groves of coconut palms, it breathes the spirit of the sea. Negombo is a gourmet’s paradise with sea food in plenty. Old-world fishing craft like the outrigger canoe and the catamaran bring seer, skipjack, herring and mullet, promfret and amber-jack while lobster and prawns caught in the lagoon. Apart from beaches and sea-food Negombo has a unique charm of its own with narrow streets, small boutiques and Catholic Churches dotting the landscape.

Kalpitiya – N/West Coast 160 Km Kalpitiya in the N/West Coast is a stretch of land skirted by sea on one side and lagoon on the other and fast developing as a beach resort. Fourteen unspoiled islands basking in the sun, rimmed by the blue waters of the Indian Ocean and wide sandy beaches waiting to be discovered. Presently the attraction is the Dolphin & Whale population which could be watched without sailing out to the deep seas. The region in and around Kalpitiya can be called the birth place of our civilization. According to the Mahavamsa, the Great Chronicle and legend Prince Vijaya landed

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41 Beaches South, West, North Coast

ri Lanka is a paradise of unlimited sun, sea, sand and surf all year round. The coast often twists and curves into little nooks, bays and coves, ideal romantic hideaways. The Indian ocean clear, blue and peacock bright, at a warm 27° C. kisses the beaches. The South West Coast is at its best for sea adventures between November – April and the East Coast the rest of the year. You’ll find beach resorts with excellent facilities along the beaches that wind sinuously all the way down from Negombo to Hambantota. Diving and Snorkelling in these waters takes you into an entirely different and equally delightful world, scattered with fantastic coral formations and colourful tropical fish. You may also come across interesting sunken wrecks at certain points along the coast. Sea adventures could be easily arranged through your hotel or local travel agents. Don’t look out for sharks, they’re unheard of in this part of the ocean. But whales and dolphin watching tours could be arranged through your hotel or travel agent. Hold your breath! You may also have the exciting opportunity of watching sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs on our beaches (special spots) which could be arranged through your hotel or travel agent. Fishermen along the coast still go out to sea in craft that have changed little in design through the centuries, and their long, weathered catamarans drawn up along the beach add to the picturesque beauty of the coast. You could even help the groups of fishermen drawing in the nets, and earn a fish for your labour.

on its shores, married a daughter of a tribal chieftain of the Yakkha community and became king. The country was called Thambapanni (red earth) due to the red earth found in the region.

Mount Lavinia – 12 Km S/West Coast Just 12 km south of Colombo, Mount Lavinia is an immediate city suburb and the beach is one of the better known even in colonial times.

Bentota – 64 km Bentota Resort Complex in a romantic rendezvous of river and sea with several hotels, railway station, post office, shopping arcade, cafeteria and an open-air theatre showing folk and mask dancing – with clusters of palms overlooking everything. Interesting boat trips to the hamlets bordering the river and the Meethiyagoda Moonstone mines nearby. Most hotels have facilities for water sports.

Ambalangoda – 83 km Home of the low country masked dancing (devil dancing) and mask making. An interesting mask museum and a delightful beach for sea bathing.

Hikkaduwa – 99 Km Hikkaduwa is the place for underwater delights. Site of the famed coral gardens, hire a glass-bottomed boat or goggles and flippers and explore the fantasies under your feet at Marine National Park. Other attractions in Hikkaduwa: Seenigama Viharaya, Gangarama Viharaya, Moonstone Mines in Mitiyagoda, Hikkaduwa Lake.

Galle – 116 Km Galle is the most important southern town with an old-world charm. Believed to be “Tarshish” of the Bible, its natural harbour was a famous fort in days gone by. Famous for its Dutch fort, lace-making, embony carving and gem polishing.

Unawatuna – 124 Km Close to Galle, is a beach resort popular with tourists as well as local travellers. It provides

the beach facility Galle lacks. Hotels, guest houses and restaurants line the beach road amid lush green vegetation. A fine reef for snorkelling. Placid deep blue sea, frequented by turtles who come here to lay their eggs by night.

Koggala / Habaraduwa Famous for its lake which was used during the second World War as a base for Catalina flying boats. It is also a favourite haunt of migrant birds in winter. A leisurely out-rigger boat ride will take you to small islands which dot the lake. Stilt-fisherman are a familiar sight here. You may also visit the Martin Wickremasinghe Museum of Folk Art and Culture. The Purwarama Temple at Kataluwa shows a full range of styles of the Southern School of Murals dating as far back as the early 1800s.

Weligama – 140 Km 27 km, from Galle with its picturesque bay, and an off shore islet where a French Count built his dream house, Weligama is where you will see the famous stilt fishermen.

Mirissa – 140 Km This is known to be the beach to just lay back. Unlike Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa, Mirissa is yet to be developed in many areas. The beach is ideal for snorkelling and whale watching trips are arranged during season. It offers the visitor that peaceful time which you rarely get in a beach location. There are decent places to eat and suitable accommodation.

Matara – 161 km Built on the banks of the Nilwala Ganga (river), it is an ancient settlement. The Dutch Star Fort (17-18c.) still in good repair, the Weherahena Temple built underground with a colossal Buddha statue and the Polhena Beach are its main attractions. Matara, is protected by a coral reef forming a lagoon between beach and reef with the famed Coral Gardens just beyond the reef. The Lagoon is safe for bathing throughout the year, and is a veritable marine wonderland. The sea off Mirissa harbour in Matara is among the best places for whale watching.

Dondra 165 Km The southernmost tip of the island. A colourful festival is held during Aug/Sept in honour of God Vishnu featuring elephants, low country and Kandyan dancing. Octagonal in shape Sri Lanka’s tallest lighthouse (50 m) dating to the late 19th c. is found here.

Dickwella A burgeoning town on the south coast flourishing on the thriving fishing industry and the development activities of the rich hinterland. Just 8km from Dickwella at Mawella along the coast you come across a blow-hole (Humming Spout) perhaps the second largest of the six blow-holes in the world. You could see

Beaches South, West, North Coast

the water gushing about 18 metres over the rocks. If you are adventurous you may join a fisherman and venture closer to the spot by sea – an exhilarating experience indeed.

Tangalle – 196 km Most picturesquely located, Tangalle’s four mile wide bay is a paradise for swimmers and divers. Most of the hotels hug the bay. A 211 metre rock similar to Sigiriya, Mulkirigala is 21 km from Tangalle. Instead

of a palace in ruin there is a dagoba on top of this rock. The beach at Rekawa village just 10 Km away is an important sea turtle nesting site. Excursion to Kalametiya bird sanctuary.

Hambantota – 238 km The large well-sheltered fishing port is the centre of Sri Lanka’s salt industry, Dry and arid, the blue palm fringed beaches give way to scrub covered savanah only the distant hills of Kataragama breaking the monotony. Incidentally a fast growing township with a new harbour.

For accommodation refer the hotel listing section

Shopping – Galle Historical Mansion Galle Museum, Art Gallery & Arcade. 31, 39 Leyn Baan St., Dutch Fort, Galle. Dealers in Gems & Jewellery, Antiques & Antique Jewellery (Approved by the Sri Lanka Tourist Board & the National Gem & Jewellery Authority) Tel: 94-91 2234114 Fax: 091 4 380127 (Open from 9.00am-6.00pm closed on Friday from 12noon-2.00pm)

Laksana (dealers in Gems & Jewellery) 30, Hospital St.,Fort, Galle (Approved by the the National Gem & Jewellery Authority) Tel: 0914381700,4381800 Mob: 0777-900170 Fax: 94-914381700 Email: 1aksanagem@hotmail. com (Open from 9.00am-6.00pm closed on Friday from 12noon-2.00pm)

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Beach – East Coast If Sri Lanka is Serendipity, beach lovers will find lots of it on the east coast. The coastline here is uneven with many bays and sheltered coves. The East Coast has to offer some of the best beaches in Sri Lanka, unspoilt and pristine, extending from Arugam Bay in the South to the Nilaveli beach in the East.

he port town of Trinomalee, Nilaveli, Kalkudah, Pasekudah and Arugam bay are its more famous tourist centres. The east coast is ideal for beach addicts from April to November when the sea is at its best. Although scarred by close to three decades of conflict, the East has not lost its allure to its die-hard fans, and its crystal clear waters, wide white sandy beaches and stunning coral reefs make the East a haven for diving enthusiasts and sun worshippers. On some beaches you can walk a mile into the sea. With the dawn of peace the East coast is reaping the benefits as it has blossomed into a much sought after beach destination. Historically, dating back to the 3rd c. B.C. the region was within the domain of the Ruhuna Kingdom and the area abounds in ruins of temples and ancient caves with rock inscription.

Trincomalee 257 km Is famed for its natural harbour. Described by Admiral Lord Nelson as the finest harbour in the world when he visited aboard HMS Seashore in 1770. It is ranked as the world’s 5th largest natural harbours. During the Second World War the harbour became the base for the combined East Asian Fleet of the Allied Powers. It is the ideal beach resort. All water sports are available here including fishing and sea angling. Whales watching is a speciality. Located at the mouth of Sri Lanka’s longest river Mahaweli Ganga, Trinco’s most famous landmark is Fort Federick, a century and a half of British fortifications can be found here. The cliff known as Swami Rock on the tip of Fort Federick’s promontory is associated with a tragic romantic tale woven around a Dutch maiden who is believed

Beach – East Coast

to have jumped to her death from this spot seeing her fickle lover sailing away. The Thirukoneswaram Kovil which stands on the top most pinnacle of the Swamy Rock is a highly venerated Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. About 11 km from west of Trinco are the Kanniyai Hot-Springs, sacred to Hindus who believe them to be a creation of God Vishnu. The Dagoba enshrining the hair relics of the Buddha – Tiriyai dating back to 8th C. AD is a short distance from Trinco’s coast 15 km from Trincomalee off the Trincomalee-Horowpothana road lies the ancient Velgam Vehera temple dating back to 2 AD.

Nilaveli Described by some as the finest beach on the East Coast this 15 kilometre stretch of beach extends from Uppuveli which is 5 km from Trincomalee to Nilaveli which is 15 km away. With crystal clear blue water and white beaches, Nilaveli beach is a very popular destination amongst sun worshippers. Close to Nilavali is Red Rock Beach – an estuary perch and pinkish colour boulders.

Pigeon Island A short boat – ride off the beach and you may visit Pigeon Island which lies 2 km off the coast of Nilaveli, great for diving, snorkelling and sea bathing (boat services available). You may also visit the recently re-opened Marine Park which was closed for nearly two decades. Visitors could enjoy the rare corals and marine animals and of course during the tour observe endemic and migrant bird species. The National Park extends over 450 hectares and the wildlife authorities are planning to increase the facilities to visitors in the near future.

Batticaloa – 314 km Batticaloa is the market centre of the southeast coast, locally known as Batti. is famous for its ‘singing’ fish and the picturesque lagoon. Batti is often skipped by visitors to venture forth towards the beautiful beaches of Kalkudah and Pasekudah.

Kalkudah 32 km from Batticaloa, Kalkudah bay facing east, boasts of clear, calm reef protected sea ideal for bathing.

Pasekudah Bay Close by, has a fine bay with clear waters, which opens to the north. An offshore reef shelters a sandy beach and keeps the water, calm and clear. This place is a windsurfers and water skiers delight. Fast developing in to a fine beach resort.

Arugambay Is the Southernmost beach resort of the eastern coast. It is a very popular surfing centre ranked 3rd among the best 20 beaches of the world by the British Surfers Association. It is situated in close proximity to Lahugala National Park – famous for elephants, Pottuvil Lagoon – a bird watchers paradise and Kumana Bird Sanctuary. A road from here also leads down the coast to Panama and Okanda, gateway to Yala East National Park making it also a wild life bluff’s delight! Many guest houses and a few hotels have sprung up around the fishing village. Sri Lankan cuisine and seafood are a speciality. Some of them rent out cycles should you need to do your own tour around the place. The surf shops too have outnumbered the guest houses. They offer surf board rental and some even undertake repairs. Tours to surfing spots can also be arranged by the locals. Arugambay has once again turned into the surfing hotspot that it was and features many international surfing competitions annually. This is probably the only place where beginners and professionals can take up this sport with different wave spots being named for their rips. Pottuvil point, Whiskey point, light house point being good for beginners. Crocodile

Rock, Peanut Farm and Elephant Rock for the intermediate or advanced surfer and Panama and Okanda should you want those fantastic comments Please note the East Coast is predominantly hot and dry with an average temperature of 30°C and relative humidity of 70%. Chances of sunburn are high with prolonged exposure so carry plenty of sun-block and guard against sunstroke by using a sun hat. Note: As this is a socially conservative area, its best to be dresses in a t-shirt and shorts for women when off the beach and preferable to wear t-shirt when on the beach. Tourist Police post is located in the beach.

Ampara Known as a hub of the eastern province at present this prosperous district host a national park and sanctuaries. Rich in culture Ampara was known to be a kingdom of pious and valiant. The land is prosperous in its paddy cultivation reaching as far as the eye can see. Ampara beach is a favourite among visitors and surfers. The once famous Magul Maha Viharaya and the Buddangala Monestry are places of heritage and history. The Jayanthi Wewa bordering the Gal Oya Natioanl Park boasts of an irrigation that stood over centuries.

Pottuvil Pottuvil is a town in the Ampara District located along the Eastern coast of the Island, With Lagoons and waterways this is an ideal spot for bird watching and photography. Its close proximity to Arugam Bay makes it a stop over to passers by. It is also close by to other hermitages and sanctuaries in the eastern bay.

Monaragala A refreshingly cooler place, this land is known as the peacock rock nestled and surrounded by mountains. Monaragala is famous for its rubber plantations too. A massive Stupa lies in the clearings of Yudaganawa. Although only the ruins toward the base remains, it once stood as an amazing monument of its time. Monaragala is a hub point to other interesting places such as Ella, Buttala, Kataragama and Ampara.

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Beach – East Coast

For accommodation refer the hotel listing section

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Ancient Cities – Anuradhapura & Polonnaruwa Documented history of Sri Lanka dates back to 3rd c. B.C. when the island was among the most advanced and developed nations of the pre-modern world and the seat of an important historical civilisation in Asia. The ruined cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya extending from 3rd c. B.C. to 12c. A.D. record a grandeur unsurpassed.

he gentle sway of Buddhism introduced in 247 c. B.C. which, transformed the Indo-Aryan Sinhalese has produced magnificent feats of architecture and construction. In the massive dagobas, the ornate pleasure gardens and palaces and the exquisite sculpture which abounds, particularly at Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. Sri Lanka’s ancient cities are also the centres of the irrigation works of the past. Massive reservoirs built to collect rain water, river diversions, giant aqueducts and miles long irrigation channels are proof of a civilization highly developed in the science of irrigation, hydraulics and water management. Most of these ancient irrigation works such as the Tissa Wewa, Basawakkulama and Nuwara Wewa at Anuradhapura, the massive Parakrama Samudhra or Sea of Parakrama, Giritale and Minneriya in the Polonnaruwa region, the Kalawewa and Balaluwewa still provide water to irrigate the rice fields of the dry zone in Sri Lanka.

exhibited an amazing knowledge of trigonometry and the design of reservoirs a thorough grasp of hydraulic principles. The ornamental scale of the large reservoirs is compelling evidence of a thriving economy and a state structure which had resources from an agricultural surplus and profits from trade to invest in these projects as well as on religious and public buildings designed on a lavish scale. The unique feature of Buddhist Sri Lanka is the Stupa (Dagoba), which enshrined relics of the Buddha and were objects of veneration. It is generally a solid, hemispherical dome, which expresses the serenity and simplicity the quintessence of Buddhism. The ‘Rajarata’ – the King’s country is dotted with these stupas and the picturesque lakes which has an irresistible charm for the visitor. There are many important stupas at Anuradhapura.

Anuradhapura – 206 km

This stupa is the first to be built in ancient Sri Lanka by King Devanampiyathissa since the introduction to Buddhism in 3rd Century BC.

Sri Lanka’s first capital, founded in the 5 c. B.C., according to the ancient Sinhala chronicle Mahavamsa, was a model of planning with precincts set aside for huntsmen, scavengers, heretics as well as for foreigners. There were separate cemeteries for high and low castes, hostels and hospitals. Anuradhapura was an example par excellence of a Hydraulic Civilization. The construction of reservoirs, canals and irrigation channels during this period

Ancient Cities

Abayagiri and Jethavana Stupas The Abayagiri Stupa (meaning mountain of valour) built by the warrior King Valagam Bahu in the 1c. B.C. and Jethavana Stupa built by King Mahasen in the 3c. A.D. were taller than the third pyramid of Giza and were the wonders of the world at the time, with the Jethavana probably being the largest stupa in the whole Buddhist world.

Thuparama Stupaya

Lovamahapaya King Devanampiyatisse built the first chapter house a century later King Dullagamini built what can be seen at present. King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 AD) raised again it’s 1600 stone pillars and restored the building with a copper roof.

The Ancient Bridge of stone This stone bridge runs across the Malwathu Oya (river). The stone slabs and pillars of their bridge are found for a distance of closed by on the bank of this river. The stones slabs and pillars are laid

at a same distance. The stones are laid as beams on rows of each pillar.

Mirisavatiya stupa This stupa can be seen in front of the Tissavava Rest House. This stupa was built by King Dutugemunu (161-137 B.C) which was his first construction of stupa. This was reconstructed and restoration by the Department of Archeology in 1993.

Lankaramaya Stupa This stupa is originally built by king Walagamba in the first century B.C. in the Abhayagiri Monasty complex. This Dagaba has being reconstructed.

Dakkina Stupa This large brick mound structure which remains incomplete as a stupa, was until recently called the tomb of King Elara. It was identified in the excavation in 1946 as the dhakkina stupa by the vetaran archeologist Dr. Senarath Paranavitana. This site was the place where the King Duttagamini was cremated. The original Dagaba was a small one.

Isurumuniya (Meghagiri Vihara) The Meghagiri Vihara which is called the Isurumuni vihara was the first repository of the Tooth Relic. This was belonged to the Abayagiri Vihara in the 4th Century A.D.

Vessagiriya (Issara Samanarama) This site presently known as vessagiri was called the Issara Samanarama in the ancient time. There are many rock caves alone served as shelter for Buddhist Monks in the first and second centuries.

The site is the Arama monastery that belonged to later half of the Anuradhapura Kingdom. The original name was not known. It is presently called as Toluvila after the name of the village.

Abayagiri Museum There is a Abhayagiri Museum constructed by the Central Cultural Fund. Close to the Abhayagiri Stupa there are many artifacts

The Ruwanveliseya Dagoba Built by King Dutugemunu in 2c. B.C. is by far the most beautiful its white dome shinning like a pearl in the dry, arid landscape. The Thuparama Dagoba is the most ancient of Sri Lanka’s dagobas and was built by King Devanampiyatissa to enshrine the Buddha’s collar bone. It’s present ‘bell’ shape dates to reconstruction in the 1840’s.

The Samadhi Buddha This 4c. A.D. statue of the Buddha in meditation pose is acknowledged world wide as a masterpiece of sculpture. The Brazen Palace (Lovamahapaya) – a roof of copper bestowed the name given to this building which burned down only 15 years after its construction in the 3c.B.C. The 1,600 pillars, in 40 rows, that now mark the site are ascribed to King Parakramabahu (12c.). The original building of nine graded storeys is said to have been 100 cubits square at ground level and 100 cubits high.

Kuttam Pokuna These twin ponds are among the handsomest works of the Anuradhapura period. The Mirisavetiya Dagoba, was built on the spot where King Dutugemunu buried his spear containing a relic of the Buddha, after celebrating his victory in battle on the shores of the Tissa Wawe.

Sri Maha Bodhi The sacred Bodhi Tree (Ficus Religiosa) the world’s oldest authenticated tree is the most venerated of shrines in Anuradhapura. Grown from a branch of the very Bodhi Tree in Buddhagaya, India, beneath which the Buddha found Enlightenment, brought to Sri Lanka in the 3rd c.B.C. by Theri Sangamitta, sister of Arahat Mahinda. Throughout the centuries the Sri Maha Bodhi has been venerated by Buddhists in Sri Lanka and all over the world. Today it is looked upon as a national treasure by botanists, specially appointed by the government. The gold gilded ‘Ran Veta’ (fence) is a recent offering made through public contributions. Many scholars regard the ‘Moonstones’, a semi circular slab of stone richly decorated in low relief and placed at the foot of a stairway leading to the major shrine as the finest product of the Sinhalese artiste.

Anuradhapura Folk Museum This museum is situated within the sacred city near Archaeological Museum. It houses a collection of objects reflecting rural life in the North Central Province. (Closed on Thursdys & Fridays)

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Toluvila Monastery

and ruins in the museum. This Abhayagiri site museum is named after Fashein of china who come to Sri Lanka 5th centuary A.D and stayed at Abhayagiri Monastery.

Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum The first of five new museums planned for the Cultural Triangle, the Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, between the Brazen Palace and the Ruwanweli Seya, contains a range of exhibits discovered on the site along with explanator y displays. Among these is a model of the Thuparama Vatadage and a relic chamber from Mihintale. Also Stone, Timber, Metal, Terracotta findings, Coins, Puppets, Drawings, Beads and miscellaneous items.

Mihintale The ‘Cradle of Buddhism’, 11 Km east of Anuradhapura. Its history dates back to 247c. B.C. when King Devanampiyatissa met Arhath Mahinda the great Buddhist missionary who preached the Buddhist doctrine to the king. Mihintale, ‘the mountain of Mahinda’ was identified as a great monastic city. The rock is dotted with shrines and rock dwellings. Today it is venerated daily, especially on Poson full moon poya day commemorating this historic event. A majestic flight of 1840 granite steps, 5 metres wide lead you to the summit, with its splendid views of the surrounding countryside. An atmosphere of serenity and peace lingers heightened by the chants of the devotees and the stark, rocky surroundings. The king having embraced Buddhism declared the forest where he met the Sage, a sanctuary, the first historically documented sanctuary in the world.

Aukana Buddha Situated 51 km to the southeast of Anuradhapura, is the most magnificent undamaged Buddha image in the island. 13m. high it stands beneath a canopy now, built for protection. However the statue as it stood amidst the jungle surroundings had been a stunning sight. Incidentally, the Wilpattu National Park could be visited either on your way to Anuradhapura or from Anuradhapura as a half day of full day tour.

Ancient Cities

Polonnaruwa – 216 km The island’s medieval capital (11c. & 12 c) rose to fame after the decline of Anuradhapura. The city in its day was fortified with three concentric walls, beautified with parks and gardens and sanctified by many shrines. Polonnaruwa shows the interesting blend of the influence of the South Indian Hindu culture on the Sinhala Buddhist art and architecture in the scattered shrines and monuments still venerated daily by devotees. The Siva Devales are interesting transposition of the Hindu style of decor. Other interesting ruins are, the King’s Council Chamber the floral stone pillars of Nissanka Lata Mandapaya, the Royal Citadel, Kumara Pokuna (baths), the Thuparama with its original vaulted roof, the exquisite circular Vatadage relic house, lavished with moonstones, guardstones, and sculptured railings, Kiri Vehera, the best preserved of Sri Lanka’s un-restored dagobas.

Gal Vihare These sculptures are the glory of Polonnaruwa and the peak of its artistic achievement. The colossal statues of the Buddha are cut in a row from a horizontal escarpment of streaked granite. The consummate skill with which the expressions of peace, serenity and strength have been carved out of solid rock is simply breathtaking. Undoubtedly this is the place visitors linger most, while sightseeing to absorb the wonder and peace and serenity in the atmosphere. Demala Maha Seya a shrine of noval design, Thivanka Image House, has some of the best examples of Buddhist frescoes of the 11th century and the Lankatilleke Viharaya, shows a unique style of brickwork architecture. The Alahana Pirivena, a medieval centre of learning for monks, where restoration work is being done by the Central Cultural Fund.

Parakrama Samudraya One of the largest man made inland lakes in the world. Called the ‘Sea of Parakarama’ owing to the waves that play on its surface due to its immense size. Built by Parakramabahu ‘the Great’ in the 12th c. A.D. It is a unique irrigation complex which waters the city as well as the surrounding plains and in use even today. The embankment rises to an average height of 12m. and stretches over its entire length of 13.7 km.

The statue of Parakramabahu This statue is one of the finest pieces of sculpture of Sri Lanka. This is a large statue cut in high relief with in a niche carved out of a rock. Balder facing the south. It is eleven feet and six inches in height. The royal palace of the King Parakkramabahu the great. This royal palace (now ruined) constructed by the King Parakkramabahu. He also erected around the palace and dwelling area a second inner row of walls and built there a royal palace, seven stones high furnished with many chambers. This charming royal palace was given the name Vaijayantha Prasada.

Pothgul Viharaya

Lanka Thilaka Image House of Polonnaruwa.

This Monastery is built by King Parakramabahu the great 1 to cistern to the Jathaka stories of Buddha as Sri Lankan name of this monument suggests this was the monastic library.

This image house is built by King Prakkramabahu. A huge standing Buddha statue with height of forty one feet. At present only its torso is visible.

Nissanka Latha Mandapa This monument is a unique structure with an unusual pillar type simulating a lotus stalk with flower as the capital. King Nissanka Malla listened to religious texts being chanted in this pavilion.

Temple of the tooth relic of King Vijayabahu After liberating the country from Chola rule brought back to the Polonnaruwa capital the sacred tooth relic, and the alms bowl relic of the Buddha in order to legitimize his rule the temple was built.

Kiri Vehera Built in the same style as that of the Lankathilaka Vihara. It was formally known as Rupavathi Thupa. This is the most preserved Stupa at Polonnaruwa.

Thiwanka Pilimage – the image house of the Buddha statue. This image house is built by I King Parakkramabahu. There is a standing Buddha in this image house and all the walls carved with paintings. A clear difference stands among these paintings with regard to style composition and also chronology.

Polonnaruwa Visitor Information Centre and Museum

Thuparamaya

Built with the help of the Dutch government, this centre, on the banks of the lake, uses designer displays, detailed descriptive texts and a five-minute video presentation to complement its collection of archaeological finds.

This is the image house that best preserved with a valued roof at Polonnaruwa.

Sigiriya – 169 km

Vatadage – Polonnaruwa

This rock fortress was built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century A.D. and was a royal citadel for more than 18 years. It is a complex of buildings, part royal palace, part fortified town, and water gardens on par with the best in the ancient world, constitute a magnificent and unique architectural feat of the ancient Sinhalese. In a sheltered pocket approached by a spiral stairway are the famous Sigiriya frescoes, the earliest surviving pictorial art of Sri Lanka and of the same period as the Ajantha frescoes of India. The summit of the rock with an area of nearly one hc. was the site of the palace. It is regarded as the 8th wonder of the ancient world.

This building is called a circular relic house. The middle of this shrine has a small stupa with four Buddha statues at four cardinal points. It has a roof supported by the circles of stone columns inside the shrine room.

Pabolu Vehera This is one of the three great stupas in Polonnaruwa. The dagaba (stupa) is now known as the pabalu vehera meaning coral or beads dagaba.

Manik Vehera

Rankot Vehera The goldern-pinnacled Stupa was is built by the king Nissanka Malla that mentioned in one of his inscriptions.

The state-of-the-art museum funded by Japan through JICA will unfold the beauty, legend and architectural marvels of Sigiriya before your eyes. Sigiriya Museum is an archaeological museum, visitor information centre, and research facility in one. Managed by the Central Cultural Fund (CCF), the museum showcases the results of nearly three decades of archaeological research at Sigiriya and surrounding area.

Dambulla – 148 km Like Sigiriya, Dambulla is a vast isolated rock mass and it was here King Valagam Bahu took refuge in the 1c.B.C. He later turned the caves into a rock temple. Its rock ceiling is one large sweep of colourful paintings which depict Buddhist mythology

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This has a Stupa, an image house, and a bodhi shrine. The Stupa of the Manic Vehera is a rare design built on a high walled terrace with a small lotus shaped Stupa in the centre.

Sigiriya Museum

and tales of the Buddha’s previous births. Some of them are over 2000 years old. Within the cave temple is the collection of the largest number of Buddha statues in one place. There is also a recumbent Buddha carved out of the living rock, some 14m long.

Dambulla Museum (Paintings) The museum exhibits ancient paintings including Rock Art dating to the pre-historic era up to 20th Century A.D. It is located close to Dambulla Rajamahaviharaya, which has the largest collection of wall paintings in Sri Lanka within a cave temple. It is one of the largest cave temple complex in South East Asia.

Nalanda Gedige 19 Km. south of Dambulla, it is the earliest all stone building 8c. found in Sri Lanka. Believed to be a Mahayanist shrine owing to rare tantric carvings of sensuous nature. However it is an amalgamation of Hindu and Buddhist architecture.

Kurunegala – 93 km An interesting transit stop on the route to the Ancient Cities and the East Coast, surrounded by looming rocky outcrops, capital of Sinhala kings during 13th and 14th C. Interesting de-tours to Yapahuwa, the capital of King Bhuvenakabahu1. (1272-1284). The Mayan like steep stairway of the ruins of the Temple of the Tooth is the most striking feature of this site. The Padeniya Buddhist Temple (25 km) medieval temple, Arankale 6th c. forest hermitage (24 km) and Panduwasnuwara (Parakramapura) capital of Parakramabahu 1 (12th c) The remains of the big palace complex is the main attraction. Ridigama a cave temple nearly 2000 years old (18 Km) from Kurunegala.

For accommodation refer the hotel listing section

Kandy “Some aspects of the art and architecture of Kandy still survive in the living form, illuminating for us in a way that literary descriptions and ruined monuments cannot do, the style and character of Sri Lankan civilisation. Seen from the hills above the lake this architectural complex gives us a brilliant miniature image of what the dead capitals of Anuradhapura, Sigiriya and Kotte must once have been...” - Senake Bandaranayake

estled amidst verdant hills, interspersed by the Mahaweli Ganga (river) and the beautiful Kandy lake as a centre piece, Kandy is certainly the most picturesque city in the island and most visited. The last seat of the Sinhalese kings, who ceded power to the British in 1815 after many a battle with the western colonial forces, still retains much of its old world charm and traditions, crafts and the typical Sri Lankan way of life.

Kandy

Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Tooth What brings sanctity to Kandy is the Dalada Maligawa which houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. The golden roofed temple is visited by locals and tourists bearing flowers and incense daily throughout the day and night. Here visitors can observe poojas (offerings) the ancient traditions of drumming and sacred chanting in honour of the Tooth Relic, being performed several times each day.

Kandy Esela Perahera

Lankatilleke and Gadaladeniya temples

Kandy is also the venue of the Esela Perahera, easily the most colourful pageant of Asia, held in July/August each year, for ten days in honour of the Tooth Relic. As the pageantry of the Esela Perehera unfolds through ten nights each year, the city takes on the air of a torch-lit dreamland, complete with a hundred or more colourfully caparisoned elephants, drummers and dancers and chieftains in the rare colourful trappings of the old kingdom. A stunning spectacle of piety and grandeur!

These temples are unique examples of the Buddhist construction in brick and stone during the Kandyan period (14th C).

Kandy Lake and Museum After the Temple of the Tooth, the most famous landmark of Kandy is its lake, in the centre of the city. The old building at its edge near the Temple of the Tooth was the Queen’s Bath. On the other side of the Temple of the Tooth, housed in part of the former royal palace, is the Kandy Museum which houses excellent exhibits from the Kandyan period of Sri Lanka’s history.

The International Buddhist Museum

Embekke The shrine to a Hindu deity at Embekke is the best extant example of the wood carvings of the Kandyan period. Another temple well known for its frescoes is the one at Ranawana.

Kandyan Craftsmen The Kandyan areas are where the crafts of the Sinhalese have been best kept alive. From the art of mat weaving at Dumbara, to the silver craftsmen of Nattaranpotha and wood carvers of Embekke, the Kandyan craftsmen produce most exquisite items which makes up the most sought after souvenirs of Sri Lanka.

Naththaranpotha The Craft Village situated 7 km from Kandy will be an exciting detour as you will see the traditional craftsmen of Kandy and their families living and working in this pretty village.

Udawattekelle Sanctuary Located in the suburbs of Kandy boasts of some 160 acres of tropical rainforest, a haven for flowering plants, birds, butterflies and monkeys. Very picturesque surrounded by wooded hills.

Peradeniya Botanic Gardens

The International Buddhist Museum housed in a landmark building, built by the British over the former palace of King Wimalaharmasuriya will soon become the cynosure of attraction to visitors to Kandy. Established in the premises of Dalada Maligawa it provides the opportunity to study Buddhism worldwide. Contributions from 17 Buddhist countries made this grand lotus journey into Buddhist culture possible.

Malwatte & Asgiriya Temples

Degaldoruwa The rock temple at Degaldoruwa, has beautiful Buddhist frescoes of the mid 18th Century.

Aluvihare 26 km from Kandy in the Matale district along the drive to the ancient cities via Kandy, rich verdant vegetation and a number of spice gardens to visit. It is an ancient rock temple of great significance in the history of Buddhism. The Buddhist cannon and its commentaries, which were till then handed down orally, were committed to writing for the first time at Aluvuhare temple in 2c. B.C.

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The city is the monastic centre of Buddhism with the two biggest monasteries – the Malwatte and Asgiriya temples located here. Around the city and environs are other Buddhist temples of unique character each different from the other.

Nearby Kandy, the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens is easily one of the best of its kind in the world. The many beautiful avenues will lead one to sections which provide a burst of tropical colour. The great lawns highlight huge tropical trees, while you will be surprised at the variety of bamboo that can be found in one place. The best known attraction of the Garden is the Orchid House, which has more than 300 varieties of exquisite orchids from the rare indigenous Foxtail and Vesak orchids, to many natural and hybrid species which have made this one of the best known orchid centres of the world. The Spice Garden gives you a first hand introduction to the trees, plants and creepers that produce the special spices of Sri Lanka. The Herbarium grows many of the plants used for the traditional Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.

Elephants – a welcome sight!

Ceylon Tea Museum – Hantane, Kandy

Your progress through the winding streets of Kandy could often be obstructed by a tame elephant, carrying its load of palm leaves for its daily lunch, or an elephant stopping at a wayside tea kiosk for a bunch of bananas. The Elephant Bath, at the Mahaweli River at Gatambe where the many domesticated elephants of Kandy come for their daily bath, a must to keep the elephant happy. (One word of caution though. If you wish to have your photograph taken on an elephant’s back at this place, make sure to agree on the price first, and better still, have your local guide with you. The elephants are friendly enough, but the mahouts [or elephant handlers] are much more calculating) or an elephant stopping at a wayside tea kiosk for a bunch of bananas.

It is a project jointly operated by Sri Lanka Tea Board and Tea Industry Stakeholders to exhibit over 100 years old machinery, documents, pictures and items of historical value to the Sri Lankan tea industry. One of best of its kind in the world. A panoramic view of the surrounding hills from the fourth floor. May taste a free cup of tea. Tickets: Rs.500/ adults & Rs.200/- students. Ceylon Tea Museum, Uduwela Road, Hantane, Kandy. Tel: +94 813803204 Open: Tuesday – Saturday from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm Sunday – 8.30 am to 3.30 pm (Closed on Mondays & week Poyadays) web: www.ceylonteamuseum.com

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Shopping Isini Gems & Jewellers (Pvt) Ltd

Gem & Mineral Museum

No: 41, Rajapihilla Mawatha, Kandy.

911, Peradeniya Rd., Kandy. Tel: 081-2389899 Email: gem_mineral@sltnet.lk Established by Mr. P. Kadigamuwa. Gemmologist, Professional Collector (Formerly of State Gem Corporation) Precious Stones, Minerals, Rocks, Rare Gem, Specimens, Gems and Jewellery.

Tel: 081-2203066 Fax: 081-4473110 Email: isinigems@sltnet.lk Web: www.isinigems.com

Restaurants Aloy Restaurant

No 806. Peradeniya Rd, Kandy. Tel: 81 2 387 547, 81 2 387 856 Email: aloyrestaurant@ sltnet.lk

Kandy

White House Restaurant Dalada Vidiya, Town Centre

Lyon Café

7 Peradeniya Rd W Kandy Tel: 081 222 3073 Open Hours: 08:00am -11pm daily

RUWANWELISEYA

Built by King Dutugemunu in 2c. B.C. is by far the most beautiful its white dome shinning like a pearl in the dry, arid landscape.

The Sitting buddha of Polonnaruwa

Sitting Buddha, one of the three colossal figures carved in the “Northern Monastery” founded by one of the great king, Parakramabahu I and is the most celebrated site at Polonnaruwa. The other two figures are the standing Buddha and the reclining Buddha.

The sacred Bodhi

The sacred Bodhi Tree (Ficus Religiosa) the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest authenticated tree is the most venerated of shrines in Anuradhapura. Grown from a branch of the very Bodhi Tree in Buddhagaya, India, beneath which the Buddha found Enlightenment.

Sigiriya rock fortress

This was built by King Kasyapa in the 5c A.D. and was a royal citadel for more than 18 years. The famous Sigiriya frescoes, the earliest surviving pictorial art of Sri Lanka.

Kandy Esela Perahera

The most colourful pageant of Asia held in July - August each year. Torch bearers, drummers, and Kandyan dancers along with the costumed elephants make this a very elaborate event.

The Pinnawela elephant orphanage

The orphanage was established to feed, nurse and house young elephants found abandoned, diseased or wounded. Here Elephants are seen taking their mid morning bath.

Hill Country

Taking a more scenic route, the best way to travel to the Hills viewing the tea plantations and waterfalls as you pass Kandy, Badulla and Nuwaraeliya.

Tea Pluckers of nuwara eliya

Behind every cup of tea is the labour of these women. Plucking the tender leaves and filling the baskets process goes on...

High Country Situated in the South-central part of the island, the central highlands comprising the Peak Wilderness Protected Area (Maha Eliya) National Park and the Knuckles (Dumbara Metiyawatha) Conservation Forest have been declared a Natural World Heritage Site. These montane forests, where the land area rises 2,500 metres above sea level, are home to an extraordinary range of fauna and flora, including several endangered species such as the Horton Plains slender Loris and the Sri Lankan Leopard. The region considered a super biodiversity hotspot.

esmerizing the locals as well as our visitors from foreign lands, the high country, rises from 3000 ft. to over 8000 ft. and will surround you with velvety green freshness year round. The approach, whether by road or rail, is through narrow passes, deep ravines, gushing streams and waterfalls. The vegetation change from tropical profusion to gentle sprawling rubber plantations, fragrant spice gardens, to cool emerald hills, carpeted with the world famous ‘Ceylon Tea.’

Tea Gardens First introduced here by the British, who managed to penetrate the island’s hill country in the 1800s, tea bushes cover rolling hills like soft moss, interspersed with eucalyptus, albesia and other trees. Tea-pluckers work on the slopes, butterfly-like in their colourful sarees. You would think they make the air afresh everyday, to continuously delight the senses with its spring-like freshness. Wisps of milk-white clouds soften the dark outline of the high rocky crags, and roll down in gentle waves of mist, at dawn. There are a number of hill stations dotting the hill country landscape, each different in character.

It’s a land of peace, and silence. The nostalgia of the empire builders is reflected in NuwaraEliya. The town is decorated with buildings ranging in style from Georgian to Queen Anne. Parks, trout streams, an 18 hole golf course complete with gorse, the post office with the clockspire, the Anglican Church with a lych-gate, and the Hill Club, with its hunting prints, stuffed fish and polished oak.

The island’s highest peak, is a short trek away, and the breathtaking view is worth the climb. Less than 2 km from Nuwara Eliya on the main Badulla highway is Sita Amman Kovil, believed to be the spot where Sita was kept in hiding by Ravana of the Indian epic Ramayana.

Hakgala Botanic Gardens The gardens are smaller and less exotic than the Gardens at Peradeniya but an elevation of 1,707 metres the species of flora is quite different. The sheer rock of Hakgala (Jaw rock) also linked to the Rama-Ravana legend rises 1,500 feet straight from the gardens adds much character to the surroundings. The rose gardens and the fernery are greatly admired.

Galways Land National Park Galways Land situated close 1 1/2 km from Nuwara Eliya town. The park is a haunt of barking deer, small mammals and has natural forest coverage, plantations and numerous fern varieties. It is an ideal place to enjoy tranquillity amidst nature.

Horton Plains National Park – 163 km Clad in mist, located on a high windswept saddle at almost 2,134 metres the Horton Plains are an expanse of misty grassland, rare and beautiful plants and ice cold streams. HORTON PLAINS NATIONAL PARK is undoubtedly one of the world’s best nature reserves and eco tourism venues in Sri Lanka. It lies within the Central Hills, declared a UNESCO World (Natural) Site in 2010. In general, the forests are seen on the hilltops or upper slopes the grasslands in the valleys and lower slopes, eventually giving way to wetland habitats. Spanning approximately 10,000 hectares the park is also home to a wide variety of flora (57 species, 29 endemic to Sri Lanka) and 24 species of mammal such as elk, deer, giant squirrel, wild boar, wild hare, porcupine and leopard. For bird enthusiasts, there 87 species (14 of which are endemic), including many migratory birds. The Plains also feature many interesting attractions such as ‘Bakers Falls’, ‘Chimney Pool’ and the famous ‘World’s End’ (a 3700 ft sheer drop that offers fabulous views of the tea

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estates below and all the way out to the distant southern coastline). An exhilarating, beautiful excursion from Nuwara Eliya (27 km) it forms the eastern extremity of the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary. Contact No.: 052 3539042.

Bandarawela – 197 Km A health resort having a salubrious climate which attracts its visitors. Typical up-country town, profusion of flowering trees, distant hills and market gardens. Buildings reminiscent of the colonial past. Lovely walks. Just 6 km from town on the Badulla highway is the Dowe Cave Temple near an old wooden bridge. Overlooking the temple are the enchanting plateaus that adorn the temple complex very similar to the Dambulla cave temple complex.

Kitulgala – 85 Km It is the best site in Sri Lanka for white water rafting. The scenery is spectacular, forest covered hills, deep gorges plunging down to the Kelani river. You may arrange your rafting tour from the hotel or from Colombo through a travel agent or adventure tour operator.

Thalawakele – 164 km The Sri Lanka Tea Research Institute’s Headquarters are situated here at St. Coombs Estate, tea buffs make a note, plenty of information to be gathered. A cool climate and pretty as the other hill stations although different in elevation and topography. It is close to Devon falls (86 metres) and St. Clair falls (73 metres). the former straight and narrow while the later broader, a double cascade.

Haputale – 193 Km A busy little town often covered in mist gives it a romantic expectancy. Points to see is the grand colonial mansion of Adhisham, the walk up to Lipton seat (named after the famous tea magnate), Dambatenne tea estate and Diyaluma Falls 220 metres high, the second highest water fall in Sri Lanka.

Ella – 197 km Firmly entwined with the love triangle, of Sita, Rama and Ravana of the Indian epic Ramayana. Ella is strewn with reminders of Sita’s imprisment in Sri Lanka. Every rock, stream or water fall is named after Sita or Ravana. Framed by the towering Ella Rock and the spectacle of the wondrous Ella Gap, Ella surpasses all other places in sheer, spectacular scenic beauty in Sri Lanka.

Sita Amman Kovil Less than 2 km from Nuwara Eliya on the main Badulla highway is Sita Amman Kovil, believed to be the spot where Sita was kept in hiding by Ravana of the Indian epic Ramayana. The picturesque hill country is deeply woven with Ramayana as Sita is believed to have been taken from one hiding place to another in this beautiful location. In this island one may identify nearly fifty places marking each important event in this great epic. Capturing the Ramayana Trail is pure bliss for the devotees both spiritually and visually.

Bambarakanda Waterfall Bambarakanda Ella, the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka (865 feet); this is at its peak capacity during September and October.

Diyaluma Waterfall Diyaluma means watery light. To reach the breathtaking beauty of Dunhinda falls (210 feet) you will have to travel about 5 Km from Badulla along the Mahiyangana road, and walk for another 2 Km (trekking) away from the main road.

For accommodation refer the hotel listing section

High Country

National Parks According to wild life experts both local and foreign, Sri Lanka is ‘Best for Big Game Safaris outside Africa. Though difficult to imagine, this tiny island being the next to the gigantic African continent, when the likelihood and cost of seeing and photographing four or five charismatic animals (elephant, leopard, sloth bear, sperm whale and blue whale) in a two week safari, Sri Lanka is the best destination.

urther more travelling into the jungles with camps deep within the National Parks is an undiscovered treasure in Sri Lanka on the world wildlife map. Unlike many of the parks in India and Africa, Sri Lanka’s are not commercial; the character of yesteryear remains intact thanks to the deferred start into the tourism arena. Sri Lanka has an amazing variety of fauna and flora, with some of the world’s highest densities of leopards and elephants. A visit to the Sri Lankan jungles is to enter a whole new world where nature has largely stayed still. Moreover, compared with Africa and India in a Sri Lankan wild life tour of two weeks you have the best potential of seeing and photographing five charismatic mammals at a lower cost. Described as “one of Asia’s top wildlife destinations”, there are several National Parks, of these the best known is the Ruhunu (Yala) National Park in the deep south of the Island. The other parks are Gal Oya, Udawalawe, Wasgomuwa, Minneriya, Wilpattu and Horton Plains. The topography and vegetation change from park to park, even the fauna and flora. Most common in these parks are elephants and birdlife.

Safari Camping

Bird Watching Sri Lanka’s abundant bird-life makes the island a true Ornithologist’s paradise. Of the 427 recorded species, 250 are resident and 33 are endemic to the country. With such a variety of environments ranging from wet to dry zone, forest to jungle, and hill country to low lands, there’s no end to the fascinating locations in which to spot many of these beautiful birds. Most of the endemic birds (such as the Sri Lankan grackle) are restricted to the wet zone, while birds such as the Sri Lanka whistling thrush and the yellow-eared bulbul reside in the hill country. Others, like the brilliantly plumaged jungle fowl, the striking red-faced malkoha and the shy brown-capped babbler can be found in forests and sanctuaries throughout the island. Among the best areas for sighting these birds are the Sinharaja Rainforest and Adam’s Peak Wilderness sanctuary. The large lakes (irrigation reservoirs) in the dry zone attract numerous varieties of duck, while larger aquatic birds such as stork, heron, egret, spoonbill, pelican, and ibis can easily be seen in the wetlands, especially at Weerawila, Kalametiya and Bundala National Park (which is also famed for its large flocks of migrant flamingoes). Around mid-August the first migratory species arrive in Sri Lanka. Large flocks of sandpipers, stints, plovers, terns and harriers fly over from Northern India, Siberia, Scandinavia and Western Europe and settle along the lagoons and salterns of the eastern, north-western and south-eastern coasts. In the forested areas of Sri Lanka, birds like migratory tree warblers, thrushes and cuckoos can be seen.

Yala National Park – 350km Is famous for its elephant population, seen in small and large herds,. Spotted deer, Sambhur, Barking deer, Monkey, Wild Baffalo, Wild Boer, Sloth Bear, and innumerable varieties of birds, endemic and migratory. Peacock is the most famous of the birds at Yala. The mating dance of the male with its colourful

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A new development in safaris is luxury-tented camps taking you overnight into the heart of the National Parks. The uniqueness of such camps is the complete ‘away from it all feeling’; with amazing water front sites, cool breezes & animal sightings. Although small, Sri Lanka has many wild life locations suitable for camping and safari. Sri Lanka’s game reserves are full of surprises for you! You may select an “experience of a life time” from an assortment of tours;

from a one day Safari to multi-day Camping Safari Tours. There is a wide range of related options connected to camping such as observing or studying Fauna or Flora in various types of forests, Bird Watching or Butterfly watching... or even observing and interacting with the indigenous People (Veddha’s) of Sri Lanka. (refer Eco-Team advert.)

plumes fully spread is a photographer’s delight. Tel: 047-3489297

Situlpahuwa

Lying within the ancient kingdom of Ruhuna there are also a large number of archaeological sites. Notably Sithulpahuwa, a rocky site believed to have been a monastery which housed more than 10,000 people. According to over 60 inscriptions found at the site it is one of the greatest monasteries of the 2 c. B.C. found in Sri Lanka.

Kumana National Park Is a well-known bird sanctuary where a multitude of birds breed and roost. One of the most significant features of the park is the ‘Kumana Villu’ – a 200 hectare natural swamp lake. It is at this mangrove swamp that many water birds nest in May and June. Regular sightings include pelicans, painted storks, spoonbills, white ibis, herons, egrets and little cormorants. The very rare blacknecked stork has also been spotted at the swamp. Besides the prolific birdlife, Kumana is also home to some of the mammals found in the larger YALA (West) park. For bird watching enthusiasts, this park is an ‘absolute must’. Tel: 063-3635867

Minneriya National Park Circling the beautiful Minneriya Tank (3c A.D.), the green surroundings are strikingly different to the arid landscape. Being part of the elephant corridor which joins up with Kaudulla and Wasgomuwa you are sure to sight elephants. During the months of August/September one of the most awesome wildlife spectacles ‘The Gathering’, ranked sixth in the Lonely Planet’s ten greatest wildlife spectacles take place. Over 300 elephants converge to enjoy the tank with the receding water level to play and make merry. A variety of bird life could be spotted including some endemic to Sri Lanka. Tel: 027-3279243

Kaudulla National Park National park on the island of Sri Lanka located 197 kilometres away from the largest city, Colombo. It was designated a national park on April 1, 2002 becoming the 15th

National Parks

such area on the island. In the 2004–2005 season more than 10,000 people visited the National Park, generating an income of Rs.100,000 from entrance fees. Along with Minneriya and Girithale BirdLife International have identified Kaudulla as an Important Bird Area.Historically Kaudulla was one of the 16 irrigation tanks built by King Mahasen. Following a period of abandonment it was reconstructed in 1959. It now attracts and supports a variety of plant and animal life, including large mammals, fish and reptiles.

Wasgomuwa National Park Situated in the North Central Province closer to the ancient cities especially Polonnaruwa, at Wasgomuwa wild elephants could be easily sighted. It is also rich in other large mammals. Tel: 066-3669046

Maduru Oya Wild Life Reserve Maduru Oya lies close to Sigiriya. Established to protect the catchment areas of the main reservoirs under the Mahaveli schema and to provide a safe haven for the already depleting mammals. This area is being recognized as the most valuable conservation for elephants and endemic birds of Sri Lanka. Wild animals that roam the park comprises elephants, bears, leopards, sambhur, water buffalo, purple monkey, variety of deer, reptiles etc. Aquatic birds thrive... sea eagle, great cormorant, little cormorant, painted stork, Sri Lankan jungle fowl, tailorbird, white ramped shama, black hooded oriole, red faced malkoha etc. Tel: 027-3279207

Gal Oya National Park Lies in the southeast of Sri Lanka beyond the island’s central hills. Established in 1954 to protect the main catchment area the vast Senanayake Samudra, it is the only park which allows visitors to enjoy its beauty and wild life by Boat safari as well as by Jeep. Covering an expanse of approximately 26,000 hectares, Gal Oya National Park is home to 32 species of mammals including herds of Asian elephants, leopards, water buffalo, sambhur, deer and the elusive sloth bear. Apart from Elephant Lovers, the boat safari has many surprises awaiting the Bird Lovers too. The “Kurulu Dupatha” or the “Bird Island“ and some of these islands are teeming with birds. Best time to visit Gal Oya National Park is from March to July. During this period, on a boat safaris you behold the spectacle of herds of wild elephants swimming from island to island within the great reservoir. Tel: 063-2242002

Lahugala Kitulana National Park One of the smallest national parks in Sri Lanka. Despite its land area, the park is an important habitat for Sri Lankan Elephant and endemic birds of Sri Lanka. The national park contains the reservoirs of Lahugala, Kitulana and Sengamuwa and they are ultimately empties to Heda Oya river. Originally it was designated as a wildlife sanctuary on July 1 of 1966. Then the protected area

was upgraded to a national park on October 31 of 1980. Lahugala Kitulana is situated 318 km east of Colombo.

Udawalawe National Park Is next in popularity to Yala., and elephants could easily be observed even in midday. In addition 39 species of mammals and 183 species of birds have been recorded. Tel: 047-3475892

Elephant Transit Home (Eth Athuru Sevana) at Udawalawe National Park A Centre for Rehabilitation and Reintegration of orphaned wild elephants has been established at Udawalawe National Park by the Department of Wildlife Conservation. Increase of the country’s population, large scale irrigation and agricultural projects have fragmented the former habitat of elephants resulting elephant mortalit y and decrease of population. Despite the mitigation measures to control human elephant conflic t considerable numbers of elephant calves were recovered as orphans. The DWLC pioneered a research project in 1995 at Udawalawe to rehabilitate and supplement wild elephant orphans back to wild. Visitors could enjoy the antics of these babies from a viewing platform at the Centre. The DWLC calls for public support to minimize the expense from the public by joining the foster-parent scheme and Help wild elephant orphans program. Those interested may contact: Department of Wild Life Conservation Tel: 2888585 or 047 2232147

Was declared in 1995, with the intention of protecting the catchment area of the Lunugamvehera reservoir and wildlife of the area. The national park is an important habitat for water birds and elephants. The catchment area is vital to maintain the water levels of the five tanks in the down stream of Kirindi Oya and wetland characteristics of Bundala National Park. This national park also serves as a corridor for elephants

Bundala Bird Sanctuary In the deep south on the way to Yala is Sri Lanka’s first recognized Ramsar Site (i.e. a wetland of international importance). Popular with both local and migratory birds. Around 167 species have been sighted. The park is the last refuge of the Greater Flamingo in this part of the Island, up to 2000 of these birds have been recorded during Nov/Dec. The lagoons also constitute one of the most popular wintering areas of migratory shorebirds in the country, accommodating up to 20000 shorebirds at anytime including the Black Necked Stork. Tel: 047-3489070

Wilpattu National Park Close to Anuradhapura is unique in its topography having several inland ‘villus’ (lakes) that attract thousands of water birds. It is the domain of the elusive leopard. Bear and herds of deer and sambhur are common. The vegetation is lush and wide changes of vegetation can be experienced in different sections of the park. Tel: 025-3855691

Entrance Fees – National Parks The entrance fee is US$15 per Adult & US$8 per Child at Yala, Wilpattu, Udawalewe, Minneriya & Horton Plains. Other parks US$10 per Adult & US$5 per Child. A team fee of US$8 is also payable A four wheel drive is recommended. Private Jeeps are available at the entrance at rates varying from Rs. 4,000 – Rs. 5,500 (rates subject to change). You are not permitted to alight from your vehicle within the park except at specially marked locations. You must always be accompanied by a tracker provided by the park authorities. Please refrain from disturbing the peace of the wild with the use of radios, cassette and CD players or loud music of your own. And, as in any other place, but more so in the wild, do not leave any litter behind. Entrance fees subject to a 15% VAT.

Park Bungalows Visitors to National Parks could find accommodation in Park Bungalows maintained by the Department of Wild Life Conservation. All bungalows have basic amenities; water on tap, refrigerators, toilet, cutlery, crockery and pressure lamps. Services of Bungalow Keeper and Assistant provided. Linen and Dry rations have to be taken by visitors. The caretakers are experts in preparing a quick, tasty meal. Yala has 7 bungalows, Udawalawe 4 bungalows, Wilpattu 4 bungalows. Gal Oya 1 bungalow, Wasgomuwa 3 bungalows and Horton Plains 2 bungalows. • Reservations – Adults US$15 (Children upto 6 yrs free)

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National Parks

Lunugamvehera National Park

to migrate between Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park. The national park is situated 261 km southwest from Colombo. After being closed because of the Sri Lankan civil war, the national park is now open to the general public.

per person per day. US$35 service charge per day. Vehicle charges Rs. 125-400. depending on type of vehicle. All rates mentioned are subject to a 15% VAT. (rates subject to change). • Accommodation is also available at camp sites within the parks. • Bookings only through the Department of Wild Life Conservation, J aya n t hip u ra , Bo d hiraja M w. Battaramulle. Bungalow Reservations: Tel: 2888585 All tourists who visit the National Parks are required to pay a Park Fee and Vehicle Fee. This applies to those who rent park bungalows as well. Entry to Ruhunu National Park – Yala, is restricted to 30 vehicles at any given time. Use of four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended. • Casual Visitors Could avail themselves of conducted tours leaving Yala Park Office. For further details, contact: Department of Wild Life Conservation, J aya n t h i p u ra , Bo d h i raja M w. Battaramulle. Bungalow Reservations: Tel: 2888585

Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage The Department of National Zoological Garden has set up an orphanage for baby elephants at Pinnawela which is about 13 km from Kegalle Town, on the Kegalle – Rambukkana Road. The orphanage was established to feed, nurse and house young elephants found abandoned by their mothers. Often the young ones fall into pits and ravines in their quest for water during drought period. Other inmates at the orphanage are those displaced from their natural environs by development projects or those found diseased or wounded. Tel: 035 2265284

Kataragama – 283 km A sylvan shrine, 21 km inland from Tissa is a shrine dedicated to God skanda, the Hindu God of war known locally as ‘Kataragama Deiyo’, is one of the most important pilgrim sites in Sri Lanka. The annual festival is held in July/August when a large number of Buddhists, Hindus and even Muslims converge to take part in the festivities. They cleans themselves in the holy waters of the Menik Ganga (river) and offer flowers, incense and fruits to the shrine. During the festival acts of self mortification is common. ‘Kavadi’ dancing (dance of the peacock, the vehicle of god Skanda) and walking on red hot embers barefoot are performed by devotees much to the awe of the onlookers. Kataragama however has visitors daily and has an exotic atmosphere laced with religious fervour with rows of little boutiques selling sweet smelling jasmin, lotus, incense, fruit and also bead chains, to tempt the young.

Tissamaharama – 264 km “gateway to Yala” A historic city, the ancient capital of Ruhuna Province, dates back to the 3rd c.B.C., rose to fame during the reign of Kavan Tissa father of the heroic King Dutugemunu 2nd c.B.C. builder of many Buddhist shrines including the impressive Ruwanveliseya in Anuradhapura. Located on the banks of the picturesque Tissa Wewa – an artificial lake a favourite picnic spot for travellers heading towards Kataragama and the Yala National Park. They stop to take a dip in the lake, cook, have a meal and then proceed, refreshed. Yala is about 20 Km from Tissa and many local tour operators offer full day or half day tours to the park. A cluster of dagabas and the much venerated Maha Stupa adds character and the lake, serenity and peace. Overall it is a pleasant city to spend some time.

Kirinda Just 11 km Southeast of Tissa is the beautiful beach at Kirinda. Connected with the fascinating legend/history of a princess set afloat in a gilded boat on the Kelani river to appease the gods. Her perilous drifting voyage brought her to Kirinda, to be met by King Kavan Tissa who fell in love and married her. Viharamahadevi was the mother of King Dutugemunu the warrior prince who became a pious ruler and reigned in Anuradhapura. A white dagoba on the rocky cliff commemorate her coming ashore at this spot.

For accommodation refer the hotel listing section

National Parks

Yala national park

Yala west is known to be the best place to view these stunning cats. With just over 60 leopards remaining in the densest forests.

Mannar

The birds of Vankale. Thousands of Flamingoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s feeding on the waters.

Whale watching in trinco

A popular adventure sport among visitors during the season as many as hundreds of whales can be spotted.

Elephants at Minneriya National park

Coined as â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Gatheringâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, herds of over hundred elephants can be seen by the Minneriya water tank during the dry season.

11 Beaches - East Coast

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Eco Tourism Sri Lanka blessed with an abundance of flora and fauna has a long tradition of conservation. This goes back to its ancient Buddhist tradition which teaches respect and compassion to all living things. The world’s first wild life sanctuary was set up by Royal edict in the 3rd c. B.C. in Mihintale (where the Buddhist doctrine was first preached) and is still a sanctuary.

nderstanding the importance of conservation ecological integrity, large wilderness tracts were set aside by successive rulers as reserves for rain catchment and pest control purposes. Today, the sanctuaries, national parks, and reserves where law protects flora and fauna comprise 14% of the Island’s total land area of 65,610sq, Km. Within this land area there are more than 70 sanctuaries, National parks & a number of wetlands and mountain ranges. Therefore the bio-diversity in Sri Lanka is regarded to be greater per sq. metre of surface area than any other country in the Asian Region. When Sri Lanka’s ecosystem is compared with other Asian countries, Sri Lanka has many tropical rain forests, montane, lowland and virgin forests and wetlands. There are also many ecosystems with mangroves, sand dunes, beaches and coral reefs. Numbering over 220, Sri Lanka for its size has perhaps the largest number of waterfalls of any country in the world. Sri Lanka is a global bio-diversity hot spot. About half of its species are endemic, including all fresh water crabs, 90% amphibians, 25-75% reptiles and vertebrates, around 50% fresh water fishes, 26% flowering plants, 145 mammals and as many as non migrant birds.

Species richness is extreme and there are known to be over 3,368 species of flowering plants, 314 ferns, 575 mosses, 190 liverworts, 896 algae, 1920 fungi, 400 orchids, 242 butterflies, 117 dragonflies, and damselflies, 139 mosquitoes, 525 carabis beetles, 266 land snails, 78 fresh water fishes, 250 amphibians, 92 snakes, 35 fresh water crabs, 21 geckos, 21 shinks, 322 nonmigrant birds. The island also provides critical habitat for internationally mobile species, including 5 species of endangered marine turtles, about 100 species of waterfowl, and many other migratory birds.

Sinharaja Rain Forest A world heritage site (Nature) Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and the biggest rain forest is situated close to Ratnapura and is between the villages of Rakwana, Deniyaya and Matugama. A variety of indigenous plants and animals, flowing rivers and silent streamlets cover up nearly 9800 hectares. Out of a total of 830 indigenous flowering plants in the Island Sinharaja has nearly 500 plants and out of 21 native bird species in the country 17 species have made Sinharaja their home. There is no end to what may be discovered during a rainforest exploration in Sri lanka. The awe-inspiring experience cannot be described in any words, you have to experience it!

Kanneliya Forest Reserve Situated 35 km Northeast of Galle it covers total of about 5305.9ha and core unit of the Kanneliya forest reserve is about 5108.2ha. Several waterways, waterfalls, rivers and small waterways There are high proportion of endemism among the 234 identified woody tree species, with 141 being endemic to Sri Lanka. The trail to Kabbale Mountain and Anagimale Falls is the longest and the most adventurous walk you can do in Kanneliya

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Reserve. Beware of leaches. Reservations of dormitory accommodation through the Dept. of Wild Life/Dept. of Forestry

Hiyare Reservoir Rain Forest One of the most beautiful stretches of rainforest in Sri Lanka is the rainforest bordering the Hiyare Reservoir, about 18 km (approximately half an hour drive) This stretch of rainforest is scenically situated around the Hiyare Reservoir. Visitors have superb and easy access to rainforests Over thirty species of freshwater fish have been recorded by the Wildlife Conservation Society in the rainforest streams of which several are endemic.

Namaluyana South Asia’s largest Rose Pink Quartz mountain range. Steeped in history and legend it is situated about 160 km North of Colombo in the picturesque hamlet of Ulpathgama Galk iri yagama in the Anuradhapura district. According to folklore pink quartz from this unique mountain was used to build India’s Taj Mahal. The large number of Na trees (Iron Wood) in the vicinity (from which it has derived the name) confirms that it had been a park from ancient times with a wealth of biodiversity.

IFS-Popham Arboretum, Dambulla Established in 1963 by Sam Popham, a officer in the Royal Navy and later a tea planter, his method of planting was so special that it came to be known as the Popham Method. The land and the plains of the north east and south east were covered with semi evergreen forests. However due to clearing the land for chena cultivation (shifting cultivation), the area turned to scrub jungle. Mr. Popham selected a land cleared it of scrub jungle and released seedlings of the earlier evergreen forest. At present the Arboretum is a haven for 70 species of evergreen and deciduous trees. You will see some of the finest trees of Sri Lanka’s dry zone finest including the world’s only true many species of mammals, birds. Butterflies, reptiles, and amphibians to flourish in the arboretum.

Eco Tourism

Arankele Sixth century remains of the Arankele forest monastery and caves lie at a distance of 24 km to the north of Kurunegala. It was inhabited by the Tapovana or forest-dwelling sect of austere Buddhist hermits, and the remains of these ruins include a large tantaghara (hot water-bath), long concrete meditating walkway through a wooded area, and a complete hospital. Arankale has become an archaeological site, a biological hotspot and a garden of medicinal plants subject to the changing character of nature. The sight takes you 800 years back, when Arhath Maliyadeva, the last Arhath of Sri Lanka, spent his time meditating at Arankale. Its green sylvan surroundings will relax and refresh you completely.

Adams Peak One of the major Eco Tourism destinations sorted by travellers. Standing 2242 meters above sea level it is the epitome of climbs. With most climbers opting to begin the climb at night in order to view the sun rise, this unique moment is cherished for years to come.

Knuckels mountain range With an area spanning 155 sq km the trail passes lush greenery, splashing waterfalls and small villages along the trek. Some locations at this altitude offers breathtaking views of this wide landscape. A treat for photography enthusiast.

Turtle Watching Five of the eight species of remaining sea turtles today, regularly visit the sandy beaches of Sri Lanka to nest. In Sri Lanka all sea turtles and their products are fully protected under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance. Sea Turtles frequent the western coastline and areas famous for turtle watching, are beaches around Induruwa and Kosgoda. Induruwa has a Turtle Research Project and Kosgoda has a Turtle Center, Conservation Project, Hatchery and a Research Centre as well.

Caving This fascinating activity is relatively new to Sri Lanka, but with an impressive range of caves located throughout the country, it’s an unusual experience not to be missed! Caving (known to the experts as ‘speleology’) involves the exploration, surveying, mapping and photographing of caves. Batatotalena Cave at Sudagala is an incredible site where the skeletal remains of prehistoric man have been found and, Wavulpone Cave (aka ‘Cave of Bats’) is renowned for its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites and the hundreds of thousands of bats that live there! With some of these caves dating back approximately 500 million years, this is an adventure into the prehistoric! (refer Eco-Team advert.)

Whale & Dolphin Watching

resort. Whale and Dolphin watching is also possible during June to September off the eastern shores such as Trincomalee.

Sri Lanka is becoming a major spot for watching Whales and Dolphins. Dondra Point of down south in Sri Lanka is the main port of Whale Watching in Sri Lanka during December to April. Out of these months December, January and April are the peak months of sightings. During these months there is 95% chances of spotting Sperm Whales and great chances of spotting Blue Whales as their migration path is just off Dondra Point. Also there are good chances of spotting Spinner Dolphins also off Dondra. Ample of accommodation options are available as Dondra point can be reach easily from Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Weligama, Mirissa and Tangalle which are popular beach locations in Sri Lanka. Kalpitiya is the best places if you are interested in seeing Dolphins. During November to March is the best season to go Dolphin Watching off Kalpitiya. Kalpitiya is within an ambitious tourism development plan and in the near future will develop into a fully fledged tourist

Agro Tours Agriculture has always been deeply related with the social, cultural and economic aspects of Sri Lankan history and what better place to indulge in this pleasurable pursuit than in our little island. Sri Lanka’s complex paddy cultivation system developed over 2500 years, huge ancient irrigation tanks, tea and rubber plantations, dairy farming taking place mostly in hill country and in some lowland areas are just some examples of its diverse agricultural developments. Looking at the currently available agro tourism options in Sri Lanka, some of the major attractions are the government run Agriculture Technology Parks, Privately owned farms such as Windsor Park – CIC Seed production Farm in Hingurakgoda and agro tourism tours offered by Tour Operators. Local Community based agro tourism and Individual Operations are also practiced in a small scale. Agricultural experience ranges from milking cattle on a dairy farm, trying your hand in plucking tea leaves using the ‘bag on the head’ method, rubber tapping under expert guidance or working in any picturesque paddy fields of Sri Lanka. Any experienced travel agent will be able to arrange a Agro Tour for you.

For accommodation refer the hotel listing section

Adventure Sports

White Water Rafting

an ideal base from which many white water rafting trips take place. (refer Eco-Team advert.)

This activity is great fun for first-timers and experts alike, with a wide range and grading of rapids on some of the island’s more turbulent waters such as the Kelani River. Kitulgala in the hill country, southwest of Kandy provides

Hiking/Trekking For the keen hiker Sri Lanka’s mist covered mountain country offers fabulous opportunities. The mysterious Horton Plains national park offers some excellent hikes in an unusual environment

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61 Adventure Sports

The Sun, Sand and the Mountains offer the adventure seekers the best thrills one can find. Sri Lanka has been abreast in introducing the latest Adventures keeping to all safely requirements. The adventure junkie needs only to decide on the venue of choice. These sports vary per location so holidaying in a small tropical Island gives you that advantage of experiencing the adrenalin rush,. You can ride the rapids in the morning and take up a surfing lesson in the evening. Go Paramotoring and dive into the ocean a few hours later. The Adventures are limitless…

characterized by forest patches, grasslands and some high altitude vegetation. When climbing the picturesque Adamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Peak (Sri Pada) you begin your ascent at night in order to arrive at the top to witness the magical sunrise with the peak casting its mystic shadow on the cloud mountains below. The attractive area of Ella is renowned for its many walks including the Little Adams Peak, Ella/rock and the Namunukula Mountain range. And if you are in the vicinity of Kandy, exploring the beautiful Knukles Range Heritage and Wilderness area will simply take your breath away. The region stretches an impressive 155 sq. km with five major forest formations, a wide variety of rare and endemic flora and fauna and mountain scenery. (refer Eco-Team advert.)

Cycling & Mountain Biking

Hot Air Balloon Although this is a relatively new sport to Sri Lanka, the concept has taken a professional turn. With trained balloon pilots and ground crew in coordinating with the route no chance is taken for granted. The whole experience will take about 4 hours beginning with the preparations and inflating the balloons. Safety lessons and landing time included. A general tour begins as early as 6:30am. Few Local organisations offer Baloon rides, They have to be prior booking made.

Kite Surfing Probably yet to be renounced for Kite surfing the best location yet for this sport is Kalpitiya. With the ideal wind conditions, its best for beginners around January to March. From May to August the winds shifts to South West direction with higher shore breaks, this is ideal for more advanced and professional kite surfers. Kite surfing lessons and tailored packages can be arranged through adventure teams. Contact kitesurfing Lanka if you wish to experience the wind and the wave.

If you prefer to get about on two wheels there are many interesting trails in the lowlands that take you through a beautiful landscape of tea, rubber and spice plantations. For those seeking more of a challenge, hill country locations such as the Knuckles National Heritage and Wilderness area offer a number of steeper trails that are only suitable for more experienced cyclists. (refer Eco-Team advert.)

Rock climbing

Canoeing/Kayaking

Surrounded by lovely waters of the Indian Ocean this sport is no exception to the adventure category. Diving opportunities are ample along southern, eastern and western shores. November to April is considered the best time if you are in the west and south shores and April to September along the east. Diving gear can be rented and lessons can be arranged by most of the resorts in the area who will recommend respectable diving schools

With 103 rivers and a wealth of swamps, lagoons and interconnected old canals, Sri Lanka provides no end of opportunities to try out this different and relaxing mode of transportation. Canoeists can marvel at ever-changing landscapes and a fascinating variety of flora and fauna. (refer Eco-Team advert.)

Relatively another new sport in Sri Lanka. There are climbing sites depending on the capability of the individual. A programme for rock climbing will take up to 2 to 3 days. Safety Helmets and Harness with other related gear included in the package. Accommodation transport will is included in most packaged programmes.

Diving

Adventure Sport Operators Kitesurfing Lanka Dutch Bay Road, Kandakuliya Road, Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka. Dolphin and Whales Watching Trips, Horse Riding Excursions, Kayaking Trips, Kitesurfing,

Adventure Sports

Snorkeling. Tel: +94 77 368 6235 Email: info@kitesurfinglanka.com Web: www.kitesurfinglanka.com (May to Oct.) Web: www.kalpitiyadolphin.com (Nov. to April)

Eco Team

Eco Island

20/63 Fairfield Gardens, Colombo 08. Tel: 011 5830833 Tel: 011 5835893 Email: reachme@srilankaecotourism.com Web: www.srilankaecotourism.com Skype: ecoteamsrilanka

140/2, Avissawella Road, Mahabuthgamuwa, kotikawaththa, Mulleriyawa New Town. Tel: +94 113 560 963 Mob: +94 727 456 416 Email: info@EcoIslandSrilanka.com Web: www.EcoIslandSrilanka.com

Ratnapura – City of Gems Abundant in lustrous gems that echo the exotic hues of paradise itself, Sri Lanka is renowned as ‘Ratnadweepa’ or the ‘Island of Gems.’ From sea blue sapphires and deep red rubies to tourmalines of forest green, rich purple amethysts and sunset hued golden topaz; it is home to a large variety of precious and semi-precious gems of an endless spectrum of colour.

sparkle of Ceylon gem stones makes you almost believe they possess magic, and together with their multitudes of vibrant hues they are iconic of their native land. These precious stones are eternal tributes to Sri Lanka; the blue topaz as blue as its skies, the bright yellow sapphire resembling the radiance of its sun and the honey coloured cat’s eye as golden as its beaches… Once set upon the various beautiful jewellery designs wrought by the local jewellers, their appearance is royal and allure irresistible.

Sri Pada or Adam’s Peak Ratnapura is situated at the foot of the 2243 metre high Adam’s Peak. All four major religions claim Adam’s Peak as a holy mountain. Buddhist call the mountain Siri Pada (the sacred footprint) and believe the Lord Buddha has visited this mountain and set his sacred footprint. Hindus say it is Lord Shiva’s and Muslims believe that it is the place where Adam first set foot on earth. Catholics say it is of St. Thoma’s the Christian apostle who preached in South India. The pilgrimage season is from December to April. Looking down from the mountain summit the panoramic view of the mist covered hill tops and the forest covered low lying valleys unfold as far as the eye can see. The sunrise seen from the top of Sri Pada is an unforgettable sight and the journey an exhilarating experience From Ratnapura the Sinharaja Rain Forest and Udawalawe National Park are just 3 to 4 hours by Vehicle

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63 Ratnapura | Jaffna

ocated 101 km south east of capital Colombo passing all shades of paddy fields, rubber estates and tea plantations, you will reach this gem of a city. Ample are the lovely sceneries of wide mountains also evident are the gem pits in the surrounding areas. The town is a trade stall for gem buyers and sellers. It attracts not only the individual buyers but also Large scale international traders. If you could visit a Gem Workshop you will experience the craftsmanship of how these stones are cut and polished and given its lustre. The Ratnapura Gem Bureau or even the Gem Museum are places that can be visited to see the many different types of Sri Lankan gems. Renound for the Sri Lankan Blue sapphire It’s no wonder that this Jewel is even worn by Royaly. Its been told that King Solomon made gifts of these precious stones in order to woo the heart of Queen Sheeba. The local gems themselves are almost as illustrious as the personalities they adorn; famed and coveted world over for their deep colours, quality and lustre. The natural

Enigmatic Jaffna Slowly Jaffna awakens to greet her visitors after a prolonged respite. The peninsula is actually almost an island; only the narrow causeway known as Elephant Pass – for once elephants did wade across the shallow lagoon here, connects Jaffna with the rest of Sri Lanka.

ith a distinctive environment and history, Dry and flat, surrounded by sea and lagoon with a harsh natural vegetation growing over sand and limestone soils, Jaffna peninsula contains some of the most fertile and intensively cultivated farmlands in the country – rich fields of onions, tobacco, potato chilli and mangoes. Also characteristic of this area is the Palmyra palm. An area of ancient settlement, at least from the beginning of recorded history, Jaffna was the seat of the Tamil Kingdom of the 13th to 17th centuries. Tamil culture and the Hindu religion are particularly evident in the northern and eastern provinces, but their greatest concentration and highest development is centred on the Jaffna peninsula, which is considered the homeland of the indigenous Tamils. To the west of the peninsula are a number of small but inhabited sea islands, amongst them Karaithivu and Kayts, with its historic harbour; Nainathivu or Nagadipa with its ancient Buddhist temple and Nedunthivu (Delft) with its wild horses. The Dutch fort, built like a five pointed star was its main attraction but took the brunt of the attacks from two conflicting forces and is now being renovated with Dutch aid. The city has many Kovils, most dating

Jaffna | Boutique Hotels

from no later than the 19th century as older Hindu temples were demolished during the days of Portuguese rule. The most famous is the Kandaswamy Kovil in Nallur, just three km from the fort. A great festival is held here during July and August. In Jaffna market you can buy the famous Jaffna mangoes and see a wide variety of mats, baskets, hats and other items woven from leaves of the Palmyra palm.

Kantarodai Just a short drive from the small town of Chunnakam is a most impressive Buddhist site of Kantarodai ‘a miniature Anuradhapura’. Excavations have revealed over a 100 small dagobas in a two acre site.

Keeramalai To the west of Kankasanthurai is the beach of Keeramalai where there are fresh water springs. To the south east from Point Pedro the northern most part of the island are the sand dunes of the area known as the Manalkadu Desert, Sri Lanka’s own miniature Sahara!. On the island of Karaithivu is the famous Casuarina Beach, named after the Casuarina trees along the coral strewn shore. The sea is very shallow and you must wade out some distance to swim. Two uninhabited islands Kachchativu and Palativu are pilgrimage centres for Roman Catholics. The church of St. Anthony is the focus of the three day festival on Palativu in February attended by many fishermen. Jaffna still shows the ravages of the conflict spanning nearly 20 years yet the people are courageous and hard working with ready smiles to welcome visitors and enjoy the fruits of Peace.

Boutique Hotels An extravagant newcomer to the hospitality industry Boutique Hotels are located in the Hill side, by the sea, in the interior of the country beside rivers or even nature sites. Capturing the ecological elements of its location these building are architecturally stylish. The complimenting Interior decor captures luxury in its exquisiteness.

ri Lanka has developed her own style in creating Boutique Hotels during the past few years. Making use of exceptionally beautiful locations in the Island, combining local and colonial traditions, the ample use of the best Timber and the friendliness in our hospitality many of these Boutique Hotels strive to provide an exclusive stay to that discerning guest. Sri Lanka too has its share in the wondrous surroundings adding beauty to its stunning landscape. Often small 3-4 rooms, sometimes larger up to 20-25 rooms, mostly luxurious and full of character as these are ancestral homes, tea estate bungalows or family owned sea-side hideaways, which have been transformed

to cater to an exclusive clientele. As the country is wooing the up-market traveller, atmosphere and luxury is well taken into consideration. Guest rooms and suites may be fitted with telephone and Wi-Fi Internet, air-conditioning, honesty bars and often cable TV, jacuzzi, mini bar, herbal massage, spa, en suite spa treatment, swimming pool, gym, according to the standard of the hotel. Some may not concentrate on gadgetry but offer total relaxation and comfort amidst unparalleled surroundings and atmosphere. Your host is generally the owner of the premises who will gladly cater to your every whim. Guest services are often attended to by 24-hour hotel staff. Many boutique hotels have on-site dining facilities. These Boutique Hotels are always individual and focused on offering their services in a comfortable, intimate and welcoming setting offering an unique ambiance. Food you can be sure of being exceptional as you are sure to taste time tested recipes suitably developed to your taste.

For accommodation refer the hotel listing section

Ayurveda â&#x20AC;&#x201C; spa wellness centres

Age-old Ayurveda takes centre stage at Wellness Centres An aura of tranquillity embraces you as you enter the precincts of an Ayurveda Health Centre. The sweet aroma of freshly brewed herbal tea sooth your senses as you take a

sip to calm your nerves and prepare for the holistic experience... the natural way. The in-house Ayurveda doctor feels your pulse and identifies the treatment best suited to you. You are also advised on how to maintain your health and beauty. You are cleansed, exfoliated, massaged and wrapped in a rich herbal paste of flowers, bark and leaves and rested, for juices to seep into your body and enrich your soul.

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Boutique Hotels | Ayurveda

Imagine yourself in a jasmine scented world immersed in a bath filled with rose petals and sweet scented oil or gentle hands massaging your body with therapeutic oils while soothing music create an aura of perfect bliss.

The history of Ayurveda goes back as far as 1500 B.C. with the arrival of a branch of Indo-Europeans in India. Here they developed a great culture rich in many aspects. The religious ideas and philosophical thinking of these people are found in their holy texts – the Vedas. Namely the Rigveda, the Yajurveda, the Samaveda and the Atharvaveda. These texts are replete with data pertaining to botany and zoology and these ideas gradually gave rise to their medical science later famous as the Ayurveda. Ayurveda means the science of longevity. Almost all prescriptions used in treatment are produced by raw materials found naturally and no artificial substances are used. These would come from roots, stems, barks, leaves, flowers, seeds, fruits & nuts of many a plant. From animals: milk,

honey, pearls, musk, shells and from earth: iron, gold, silver & copper are used. Ayurvedic drugs do not harm the organs of the body and do not give rise to any side effects. Ayurveda or indigenous medicine as practised in Sri Lanka and India has drawn the interest of the West for quite sometime. A tourist is initiated to this great form of medication through Ayurvedic Health Centres, Health Spa’s and Wellness Centres while on tour in our island. Most of the treatment practised in these centres are based on Ayurveda and in some centres Japanese, Chinese, Thai and Balinese methods of therapy as well as Aromatheraphy are used. Popular treatments picked by clients at these Ayurvedic Health Centres are: Head Massage, Head Oil Bath, Herbal Steam Inhalation, Face Massage, Body Massage, Neck and Shoulder Massage, Foot Massage, Massage of upper/lower limbs, Milk Rice treatment, Oil Bath, Steam bath, Vaspaveda (Medicated Steam bath) Herbal Water Bath, Herbal flower Bath

Ayurvedha Clinics – Wellness Centres Siddhalepa Ayurveda Hospital Mt. Lavinia, Sri Lanka Tel: +94-11-2738622/3 Fax: +94-11-2735465 Email: siddalep@slt.lk

Beauty / Hair Dressing Salons La Passion Services for hair, beauty and reflexology. Specialist in facials, highlights, perms, head massage, manicure, pedicure, re-bonding, laser treatment and foot massage. Serves both gents and ladies.The salon is open 7 days a week. Working hours 8am-11pm Facilities: Ample Car park, credit card facilities, hot and cold water, fully air condition, fully equipped,

Ayurveda – spa wellness centres

VIP Facilities, New Technology, Pipe music, Cable TV. Branches: 100A Havelock Rd. Colombo 5 Tel: 011-2592259. 500 Galle Rd. Wellewatte Tel: 0713592259. 123A, Pannipitiya Rd. Battaramulla. Tel: 011-7592259. 823A, Negombo Rd. Welisara Tel: 0727592259. 15A Kandy Rd. Dalugama, Kelaniya Tel: 0759 59 22 59. 757/28B Kaduwela Rd. Malabe Mob: 0777 59 22 59.

Medical Services State owned hospitals in all parts of the island provide free medical and surgical attention. The principal hospitals in the island are : The General Hospital Regent Street, Colombo 08 Tel: 2691111

Sri Jayawardenepura Hospital Talapathpitiya, Nugegoda. Tel: 2778610-12, 2778614-15

General Hospital Kandy. Tel: 081-2222261, 081-2222170

Colombo South Hospital Kalubowila, Dehiwela. Tel: 2763261

General Hospital Negombo. Tel: 031-2222261, 22222488.

General Hospital Galle. Tel: 091-2222261

Private Hospitals Asiri Hospital Ltd No:181,Kirula Rd, Colombo 05 I General: +94 11 4523300 Fax: +94 11 2508768 Email: info@ asiri.lk Web: www.asiri.lk

Asiri Surgical Hospital Ltd. No:21-25,Kirimandala Mawatha,Narahenpita, Colombo 05. General: +94 11 4524400 Fax: +94 11 4527311 E: info@asiri.lk Web: www.asiri.lk

New Delmon Hospital No 258, Galle Rd., Colombo 06. Tel: 2501438, 2507198 Fax: 2363717 Email: delmon@sltnet.lk Nawaloka Hospitals Ltd No 23, Sri Saugathodaya Mawatha, Colombo 02. Tel: 2304444/5-7, 5577111

Oasis Hospital No 18/A, off Kirimandala Mw, Narahenpita, Colombo 05. Tel: 0115506000

Asiri Medi House Matara No.26, Esplanade Road, Uyanwatte, Matara. Tel: 412223180, Fax:414390840, Email: infomedihouse@asiri.lk

Durdans Hospital No 3, Alfred Place, Colombo 03. Tel: 2575205, 2575555, 2565880

Joseph Frazer Memorial Nursing Home Joseph Frazer Road, Colombo 05. Tel: 2588466.

Elvitigala Mw., Narahenpita. Tel: 011-4-530000

No.114, Norris Canal Road, Colombo 10. Tel: 4665500, 2666000 Fax: 4665544 Email: infochl@asiri.lk Web: www.thecentral.lk Advance facilities available for Neurology/Neuro Surgery, Renal Care, Dialysis & Kidney Transplants, General Surgery, All types of medical care, Gynaecology & Obstetrics, Specialized Pediatrics Unit, Intensive Care Units, (Medical, Surgical, Neuro Surgical & Neo-natal), Physiotherapy / Hydrotherapy, Eye Care Unit, Lifeline Preventive Healthcare Unit, OPD / Specialist consultation facilities, 24 hour Accident & Emergency Unit, Pharmacy, Laboratory Services, MRI/CT & X-Ray, US Scan, Mammography etc.

Day & Night Pharmacy Services

Ambulance Services

Some private hospitals such as Durdans, Oasis, Nawaloka, The Central run their own pharmacies day & night. Osu Sala 255, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2694713 a State run pharmacy is also open 24 hours

Durdans Tel: 2564566 Lanka Hospitals Tel: 5431088 (Direct 1566), Oasis Tel: 2369113, Lanka Red Cross Tel: 2691095, St Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ambulance Tel: 2341736, Certies Lanka Home Nursing & Swift care Tel: 2867000

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67 Medical Services

Lanka Hospital Ltd

The Central Hospital (Pvt) Ltd.

Shopping Shopping is very rewarding from excellent tea and ceramicware to exquisite gems, indigenous handicrafts, handlooms, silks and designer labels in clothes, leatherware, perfumes and cosmetics.

nmistakably stamped with Sri Lanka’s rich and varied cultural heritage, the local handicrafts would bring colour and character to any surroundings. The handicraft shops have an overwhelming range of items produced by local craftsmen – silver and brass filigree work and ornaments decorated with motifs dating back to the Kandyan period, enchanting wooden ornaments and wood carvings of ageless elegance, masks, drums and lacquer-work of jewel-like brilliance.

Batik Batik is a beautiful way to say Sri Lanka, and batik shirts, skirts, dresses, sarees, kurtas, lungis, sarongs, tablecloths, wallhangings and other fabric items are available in most hotel shopping arcades and shopping areas.

Gems and Jewellery Sri Lanka is famous for its high quality gems – from Roman times, through the colonial era, to the present. The gem trade is widespread, and blue, yellow or star sapphires, rubies, cats eyes, amethyst, topaz, aquamarines, garnets, moonstones, zircons and other precious stones are available throughout the island. Shops selling exquisite gold and silver jewellery delicate and modern with traditional flavour and also studded with precious and semi precious stones as well as pearls. Gem & jewellery trade. The

www.travellanka.lk 68

Shopping

SLGJE houses 38 shops, offers a free gem testing facility to foreigners. Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Exchange, Level 4&5, East Lower Block, world Trade Centre.

Ceylone Tea Some consider Ceylon tea the best in the world. Sri Lankan tea has some fine blends, and many grades, B.O.P. (Broken Orange Pekoe) being the best. Some shops specialise in the various local teas and flavoured teas which are very attractively packaged in woven or wooden packs, or even small gold plated tea pots for presentation.

Ceramic and Porcelaineware Sri Lanka is fast becoming the centre for the most exquisite ceramic and porcelaineware. There are several speciality shops in Colombo which undertake packing and overseas delivery.

Shops There are many exclusive shops catering to the tastes of the fastidious shopper/ Shops which specialise in pure cotton clothing, hand made shoes and bags designer wear shoes and bags, vhandloom items such as linen table ware, rugs and wall hangings in vibrant colours and contemporary design. Please refer to the list of shops in the following pages.

Shopping Malls A visit to the large modern shopping malls at Majestic City, Crescent Boulevard and Liberty Plaza is a must. In addition there are shops owned and managed by talented local dress designers in Colombo. The shopping area in Colombo stretches southwards along Galle Road and R.A.de Mel Mawatha (Duplication Road) down through Kollupitiya, Bambalapitiya, Wellawatte, Havelock Town, Reid Avenue and even up to Dehiwela and Mt.Lavinia.

ADVERTISE WITH TRAVEL LANKA AND TAKE YOUR BRAND ACROSS THE GLOBE

Fashion

Handicrafts/Handlooms

Beverly Street

The LOFT Art

438, R.A. De Mel Mw., Colombo 03. Open till midnight 365 days. Tel: 94-11-2564777, 94-11-2370242 Fax: 94-11-2370241 Branch: 155, S.de.S.Jayasinghe Mw, Nugegoda. Open till 9.00pm. Tel: 2825825

No. 246, Park Road., Colombo 05. Tel: 2589665/ 0771 548172

Glitz

Laksala The state owned emporium for Sri Lankan arts & crafts. No. 60, York Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 94-11-2323635, 2446583, 2422493, 2341267, 2333513-4 Fax: 94-11-2446582 Email: laksala@itmin.net Web: www.laksala.lk

Lakmedura 113, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 94-011-2328900 Fax: 94-11-2335380

Lakpahana Rajakeeya Mawatha, Colombo 07. Medarata Crafts Emporium Gatambe, Peradeniya, Kandy. Tel: 081 4926417 Email: deptindustrycp@yahoo.com

7th mile Post, Nugegoda Tel: 011-281 2021 Mt. Lavinia Tel: 011-273 3865 Hyde Park Corner Tel: 011-11-238 2676 Negombo Tel: 031 222 4141. Web: www.glitz.lk

Barefoot 704, Galle Road, Colombo 03. (Textiles & Souvenirs)

Aviraté

730, Galle Rd, Colombo 03. Batiks, Silver, Saree, Tea, Spices, Leather Products.

Flagship Store 30, Maitland Crescent, Colombo 07. Tel: 011 4380780

Double XL

Christina Souvenirs and Handicraft Show Room

Leather Goods

Specialists in clothing for Large to 6XL sizes. No: 31, Lauries Place (Duplication Road), Colombo 04, Sri Lanka. Tel: 0112599999, 0773949013.

Leather Collection

Kelly Felder

P. G. Martin Industries

Exclusive Ladies Wear Brand. 117, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 0117-227-000 Email: info@kellyfelder.com Facebook: “KellyFelderColombo”

(The complete leather boutique) 26, Flower Rd., Colombo 07. (Leather Goods) 197, Galle Rd, Colombo 03.

Batiks Rani Batiks

175 Bauddhaloka Mw, Colombo 07.

140, Poruthotha Rd., Palangathurai, Kochchikade. Tel: 031-2277118, 2279289, 031-4-396088, 870718, 0777-396088

5, Alexandra Place, Lipton Circle, Colombo 07. Tel: 2692712-3 US & European, Winter/Summer Fashions, Exclusive “Sri Lanka” T-Shirts.

Cotton Collection

Fazal’s Textile & Tailoring 184, Poruthota Road, Kochchikade. Tel: 009431-2277737

40, Flower Rd., Colombo 07. Tel: 2575299

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Shopping

Dilly’s – 41, Flower Rd., Colombo 07. Odel Unlimited

Sarees

Home Decor / Furniture

Pallu

Raux Brothers

For Sarees & Shalwars. Dehiwala Tel: 011-271 6660 Wellawatte. Tel: 011-258 7813

137, Bullers Road, Colombo 04. Tel: +94 11 2594495 Web: www.rauxbrothers.com Email: info@rauxbrothers.com

Rithihi Style of Expression. 19, Alfred House Gardens, Colombo 3. Tel: 011-2506321 / 011-2581988

Cotton & Fashion Textile Showroom Gatambe Peradeniya, Kandy, Tel: 081 3828255

Porcelainware Lanka Porcelain (Exqusite Porcelain ware) No 12, Glenabar Place, Bambalapitiya.

Furniture Gallery 7, De Fonseka Rd., Colombo 05. Tel: +94 11 5539116 / +94 11 2583813 Web: www. rauxbrothers.com Email: info@rauxbrothers. com

Swimming / Sports Equipment Glory Sports

Tea

Open daily from 9am-8pm. 01, Spathodea Avenue, Thimbirigasyaya Road, Colombo 05. Hotline: 0777 30 77 88 Tel: 011-2 55 3 555

Mlesna (Ceylon) Ltd.

Glory Treadmills

The Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most exclusive Tea Shops 44, Ward Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 2696348 (refer advertisement)

01, Spathodea Avenue, Thimbirigasyaya Road, Colombo 05. Hotline: 0777 30 77 88 Tel / Fax: 0112 581000

Masks Ariyapala Masks Museum & Showroom No: 426, Main Street, Ambalangoda. Tel: +94 91 2258373 Email: info@masksariyapalasl.com

Gems & Jewellery Asian Gems & Jewellery Head Office: 50/A, Hotel Road, Mount Lavinia. Tel: 94-011-2715487, 2726318 Fax: 94-0112723638 Email: asiangem@sltnet.lk Web: www. asian-gem-jewellery.com

Christina Jewellery 730, Galle Road, Colombo 03, Tel: 011 2500618, www.christinajewelry.com

Deepthi Jewellery Shop No. 20, Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Exchange, World Trade Center, East Lower Block (Gallery), Level 5, Bank of Ceylon Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel: 2390904, 5552688 Fax: 0094-11-2607543

Shopping

Email: fdodeepthi@eureka.lk Web: www. srilankabusiness.com

Gems & Jewellery by Swarna Mahal 676, Galle Rd., Colombo 03. Tel: 011-2590165 Mob: 077-3612658 Fax: 011-2590164 Email: kollupitiya@swarnamahal.lk Web: www. swarnamahal.lk

Hemachandra Brothers Jewellers, Gem Merchants and Exporters 4, York Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 2421921, 07222-48065 Fax: 2440712. 229, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2325147, 07222-60878 Fax: 2440712.

Jewel Qudsi

Rathne Jaya Gems and Jewellery Tools

No. 46 B, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2336946 Fax: (9411) 2452041 Email: qudsi@sltnet.lk Web: www.jewelqudsi.lk

Shop No,41, Level 04, Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Exchange, East Lower Block, World Trade Center, Echelon Square, Colombo 01. Tel: 011 2478528 Fax: 011 5515575 Hotline: 0777 510197 Email: lalithj@eureka.lk Web: www. rathnejayagemsandtools.com Branches: 108/1/1 Sea St. Colombo 11. Tel: 011 2432493. 233, Galle Rd. Dehiwala. Tel: 011 2718752.

JCC Gems & Jewellery Shop No 25, Level 05. Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Exchange, World Trade Center, Colombo 01. Tel/ Fax: 94-11-2391171, 94 77 9995611 Bangkok 66 831325777 Email: jcc.gems@ymail.com, heshan_c@yahoo.com

Kalana Gems & Jewellery Shop No. 12, Level 5 (East Lower Block), Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Exchange, World Trade Centre, Echelon Square, Colombo 01. Tel/Fax: 0094-112391182 Contact: Mr. Kamal Dharmasiri. Mob: 0094-777-743233 Email: kalanagj@sltnet.lk, kamalkorala@hotmail.com Web: www. srilankayellowpages.com

Lanka Gem Bureau (Opposite Liberty Plaza) 27 Clifford Avenue, Duplication Road Colombo 03 Tel: + 94115649999, 0777749980 Email: lankagembureau@live.com Specialized in Sri Lankan Sapphire and Tailor Made Jewelry Wholesale/Retail Merchants, Miners, Lapidarists & Exporters Manufacturers of Precious & Semiprecious get set jewellery (No Branches)

Nemlanka Jewellers Shop No. 24, Level 5, Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Exchange, East Lower Block, World Trade Center, Echelon Square, Colombo 01. Tel/Fax: 0094-0115-552692 Hotline: 0094-714763349 Email: aboralessa@gmail.com

Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Exchange. Shop No. 04, Level 5, East Tower, Block (Gallery) World Trade Centre, Echelon Square, Colombo 01. Tel: 0094 -11-2391147 Email: ongemuditha@yahoo.com Mob: 0777 809523 , 0755 107867

Raja Jewellers (Pvt) Ltd. 173, Galle Road, Bambalapitiya, Colombo 4, Tel: +94 11 2583223 Email: info@rajajewellers. com Web: rajajewellers.com

Shop No. 7, Level 5, Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Exchange, World Trade Center, Colombo 01. Tel: 2391236 Tel/Fax: 5552281 Mob: +94 777 536674 Email: gemsravi@sltnet/lk Web: www.srilankayellowpages.com/ravigems

Sangems & Jewellery / Sangems Laboratories Shop No. 02, Level 05, World Trade Center, Colombo 01. Tel: 0094-115-551269 Email: info@sangems.com Web: www.sangems.com Branches: Opp. Club Hotel Dolphin, Waikkala. Tel: +94 31 5677134. “Star Gems” Ranweli Holiday Village, Waikkala. Tel: +94 31 5678770

Sky Blue Gems Shop No. 43, Level 4, Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Exchange, World Trade Center, Colombo 01. Tel: 0094-11-2391320, Res: 0094-11-2532984 Email: dakshinasajitha@yahoo.com, senake2001@hotmail.com

Solar Gems & Jewellery (Pvt) Ltd Shop No. 33, Level 04, Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery Exchange, East Lower Block, World Trade Centre, Echelon Square, Colombo 01. Contact Mr. Lalith Wijekoon. Tel: 011 2335578 Mob: 077 7369418. Work Shop & Lapidary – Seeduwa. Tel: 011 2254 246 Fax: 011 2258 707 Email: solargems@sltnet.lk Branches: 282 Chilaw Road, Wennappuwa, HI 1, Shopping Complex, Air Port Road, Veyangoda.

The Jeweller 82A, Hotel Road, Mt Lavinia. Email: thejeweller.39@gmail.com Manufacturing Jeweller, Gem Merchant, Exporters. Approved by the State Gem & Jewellery Authority.

The Sevura Gem & Jewellery Shop No. 36, Level 4, Sri Lanka Gem & Jewellery.

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71 Shopping – Gems & Jewellery

On Gem

Ravi Gems

Exchange, East Lower Block (Gallery),World Trade Center, Echelon Square, Colombo 01. Tel: 2391133 Mob: 071-4202203

Traditional Gem Mine (Pvt) Ltd 15/5, T. G. Jayawardena Mw, Colombo 03. Tel: 94 11 2375196, 0777 483464 Fax: 011 4795048 Email: faraz@gemminelk.com

Wijaya Gems Shop No. 34, The Gallery, World Trade Center, Colombo 01. Tel: (+94) 11 5358003 Email:wijayag@slt.lk Web: www. wijayagems.lk 730, Galle Road, Colombo 3. Tel: +94 2506393–5 Fax: +94 11 4710051 Web: www.calibratedsapphires.com

Treasure Chest Fine Jewellery & Gems Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel Tel: +94-11-2491808 2-49, Majestic City Mall Tel: +94-11-25554885 G60, Liberty Plaza Mall Tel: +94-11-2574886 L2-25, Kandy City Centre Mall Tel: +94-81-2220890 47, Pedlar Street, Galle Fort Tel: +94-91-2247122 Email: treasurechest@enicbiz.com Experience Our Gold, White Gold & Silver Designer Jewellery Collection set with Diamonds, Precious & Semi Precious Gems Manoma Gems and Jewellery World Trade Center Shop No 08, Level 5 East Low Block Colombo 01. Tel: 0112390889 / 0777 517525 Email: geethagg@sltnet.lk

ZAM Gems (Pvt) Ltd 81, Galle Rd., Colombo 04. Tel: 0094-0112589090, 2503978, Web: www.zamgems.com Branches: Colombo Hilton, Cinnamon Grand, Ceylon Continental, Trans Asia, 548, Peradeniya Rd., Kandy.

The Oldest SEAFOOD Restaurant in COLOMBO

SEAFISH RESTAURANT

Whale of Dine since 1969

15, Sir Chittampalam Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo 02

Serves – Fresh authentic, Eastern & Western Seafood dishes with your favourite Wines & Spirits Tel: 2326915, Fax: 2451024 American Express, Master & Visa Card Accepted.

Shopping – Gems & Jewellery

Wine and Dine If you dip your finger into a local cooking pot you might be surprised by some strange flavours. Located right in the middle of the big shipping lanes of the ancient world, this spice-rich island has attracted many peoples to its beautiful shores. Sri Lankan culinary art reflects the traditions of these various cultures.

ost hotels here offer a wide variety of excellent oriental and western cuisine and special theme fare. There are restaurants specialising in Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Spanish, Italian, Swiss and German food or fusion food. Some specialise in Sri Lankan cooking.

Rice and Curry

‘Lamprais’ Try the Lamprais – no, they’re not the stuffed eels the Greeks drool over, but a Dutch variation of the rice and curry theme. Rice boiled in stock and a selection of “dry” curries are wrapped in a banana leaf and baked, to enhance the flavour.

Desserts If you still have room for dessert after all that, go for a delicious dessert of curd topped with treacle. Or try Watalappam – a rich pudding made with Jaggery, fudge from the Kitul palm treacle. If you’re battling the bulge, you can still choose from a mouth-watering range of fresh fruits that will really give you a feel of the tropics.

Fruits Try perennials like papaya, pineapple, several varieties of mango, passion fruit, and over a dozen varieties of bananas. Or go for the unusual – pearly white Mangosteen in its purple husk, Rambutan, Sapodilla, Soursap, Guava, Beli, Varaka and Durian.

Tambili (king coconut) While you’re here, don’t just ask for fruit juice. Tambili (king coconut juice) drunk straight from the golden fruit, the delicate Kurumba, the crushed pink ice of watermelon juice, passion fruit juice, orange, pineapple, papaya – take your pick.

Ceylon Tea Refresh yourself with the best in the world – Ceylon Tea. Sample the fine blends and venture out to the various flavours – orange, mint, lemon, lime, strawberry....

Breakfast Fare

Toddy & Arrack

The local breakfast and dinner favourites are hoppers and string-hoppers. Hoppers are light and crisp and bowl-shaped, made by swirling a mixture of rice flour and coconut milk in a wok-shaped pan. The sides are wafer-crisp and the centre is soft, and it’s delicious when eaten hot with an egg baked in the centre. String hoppers are delicate

The two traditional Sri Lankan drinks that cheer are Arrack and Toddy. Toddy is the fermenting sap of the coconut flower. Arrack is the distilled essence of toddy. VSOA (Very Special Old Arrack), 7 year Arrack, and double distilled Arrack are served in most hotels, but the best toddy is found at wayside taverns. The local beers – lager, pilsner, three coins & stout, are also very popular and freely available. Some Supermarkets sell liquor and beer.

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Wine and Dine

If you’re looking for a taste of Sri Lanka, you should try rice and curry. Boiled rice and spicy curries are the staple diet of most Sri Lankans. A warning to the uninitiated – watch out for those curries – “hot” is definitely the word for them, and they can be tough on the first timer’s palate. Just about anything can be curried. It’s a dish of meat, fish or vegetables, cooked in coconut milk and seasoned with chillies, pepper, onions, various spices, cinnamon, cardamon, cloves, nutmeg, tumeric... Rice (either boiled plain white or spicy and coloured with tumeric) is usually served with up to six or seven curries. It may be accompanied by various pickles, chutney, and sambol – a spicy mixture of ground coconut and red chillies. Well known is the fact that Mediterranean food constitute the most nutritious meal. Take it as a fact that a typical Sri Lankan meal of rice and curry washed down with water often hot, is an excellent competitor or a close second.

circles made of squiggles of rice flour paste squeezed through a sieve, steamed till they’re light and soft.

Restaurants Bars & Diners/Pubs The Keg Restaurant & Pub 338, T.B. Jayah Mawatha, Colombo 10. Tel: 5558204, 5555996-9

The Floor By O! Maitland Crescent, Colombo 07, Sri Lanka Tel: +94 112 674299

Machang Pub – Nawala No 372/A Nawala Road, Rajagiriya Tel: 0112 862077

CIOCONAT lounge Arabic Food, Italian Cuisine, Shisha Tent, Specialty Hot & Cold Beverages! 107, Barnes Place, Colombo 07 Tel: 0112679292 FB: facebook. com/cioconatsl Web: www. cioconatlounge.com

Barefoot Garden Cafe

704, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 011 2553075, 011 2580281

Machang Pub – Bentota No 367, Galle Road, Bentota Tel: 0342 271900

Machang Pub – Negambo 171/A Thalduwa Road, Negombo Tel: 0773 072944

Tsing Tao

The Commons

Fast Food

Chinese/Chinese SeaFood

Dinemore

98/1, Havelock Road, Colombo 05. Tel: 011 2593017

Pizzas, submarines and more. 60A Darmapala Mw. Colombo 03. Tel: 0114-855855 Thurstan Road,Colombo 07. Tel: 0112370100, 50A Muttiah Rd. Colombo 02. Delivery with in Colombo: Tel: 0115661661 Web: www.dinemore.lk

Chinese Dragon Cafe

Crescat Boulevard

11, Milagiriya Avenue, Colombo 04. Tel: 7808080

Food Court Colombo 03.

Hotel De Pilawoos

Great Wall Chinese Restaurant Sumathi Court,

417, Galle Road, Colombo 03.

Machang Pub – Dambulla

88, Chinese Seafood House

Odel – Alexandra Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 2676860

Delifrance – Galle No. 50, Pedlar Street, Galle Fort.

Email: galle.delifrance@ gamma.lk Tel: 091 4946396 Bars Cafe 24, Deal Place, Colombo 03. Tel: 011 2575157, 4786678

Wine and Dine

Race Course Promenade Reid Avenue, Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo 07. Tel: 0112698989

74 A Dharmapala Mawatha Colombo 07. Tel : 0112574384

8, Sea View Avenue, Colombo 03. Tel: 011 2573456

Delifrance

Xilaton Chinese Restaurant

Coffee Stop Cinnamon Grand Colombo, Colombo 01. Tel : 0112497382

Sandakema, 6/5D, Maragaha laga, Tholangamuwa Tel: 0772 106511

Cafes

43/12, College Avenue, Mt. Lavinia Tel: 011 2722723 / 071 4799899 Email: reservations@loontao.com Web: www.loontao.com

2/3, Dharmapala Mawatha,

Paradise Cafe

Machang Pub – Ambepussa 168 Sea Food Palace

No 34, Mirisgoniyawa Trinco Road, Dambulla Tel: 0662 284776

Loon Tao

126, Havelock Road, Havelock Town, (Colombo 05), Colombo Tel: (011) 250-8887

Machang Pub – Rathnapura Colombo 07. Tel: 011 2686043 Maragahayata, Paradise, Kuruwita Tel: 0452 263845

Moon River 140, Thimbirigaryaya Road, Havelock Town, Colombo 05. Tel: (011) 259-6885

491, Galle Rd., Colombo 03. Tel: 011 2508555

KFC Majestic City, Bambalapitiya. Majestic City Food Court Colombo 04.

KinJou Chinese Restaurant

Mc Donalds

(Since 1991) 33, Amarasekara Mw, Colombo 05. Spicy, Shichuwan dishes (Japanese collaboration) Tel: 94 011 2589477, 2591728

Pizza Hut

Peach Valley 27, Flower Road, Colombo 07. Tel: 011 2672888

498, Galle Road, Kollupitiya. 321/A, Union Place, Colombo 02.

Tel: 011 2334763,

011 2335860 Hotline: 011 2 729729 (for take away from any outlet)

Ice Cream

Regina Margherita

Sizzlers

CIOCONAT lounge

151, Park Road, Colombo 05. Tel: 011 7394440

The Sizzle

107, Barnes Place, Colombo 07 Tel: 0112679292

IL Gelato No. 220A, Lauries Place, Colombo 04. Tel: 011 2580218

Carnival No 263, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 011 2575498

Indian Amaravati Indian Restaurant No: 2, Mile Post Avenue, Kollupitiya, Colombo 03. Tel: 2577418

Amrith Indian Restaurant 17, Dickman’s Road, Colombo 05.

Shanthi Vihar 3, Havelock Road, Colombo 05. Tel: 011 2580224

82 Barnes 82, Barnes Place, Colombo 07. Hotline: 07721121101 Tel: 0112 695034 Email: happenings @82barnes.co

Japanese Nihonbashi No.11, Galle Face Terrace, Colombo 03. Tel:2323847,2423613-4 Sakura Japanese Restaurant

Han Gook Gwan

Cey-Nor Seafood Restaurant 335A, D.R.

25, Havelock Road, Colombo 05.

Indian Vegetarian

69, Hotel Road, Mount Lavinia. (Mediterranean with a fusion twist) Tel: 2725403

Dose King (Indo Ceylon Cafe)

Seafood

0777 006777

Beach Wadiya No.2, Station Avenue, Colombo 06. Seafish Restaurant 15, Sir Chittampalam A. Gardiner Mw., Colombo 02. Tel: 2326915, Fax: 2451024 Email:seafish@sltnet.lk (ReferAdvertisement)

Lavinia Breeze

Saraswathi Lodge

43/7, Beach Road, off De Saram Rd. Mt. Lavinia. Tel: 0773215951 Web: laviniabreeze.lk

Wijewardena Mw., Colombo 10. Tel:2380972-3

Jack Tree, 200, Park Road, Colombo 05. Tel: 5747788 Hotline: 0777424742 Thai – Siam House No:17, Melbourne Avenue, Colombo 04. Tel: 2595944

Coffee Shops Caffe Pascucci No.95, Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 011 4855411 Fax: 011 4722216

Toby’s Estate 276, Galle Road, Mount Lavinia Tel : 2716495

Wine and Dine

191, Galle Road, Colombo 04. Tel: 011 2581913, 011 2591568

Swiss

Thai

La Rambla

M3 Chennai Vegetarian Restaurant 14, Rudra Mawatha, Colombo 06. Tel: 011 2364505,

Raja Bojun 90, Ceylinco Seylan Towers, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 4716171

Korean

82, Dharmapala Mw., Colombo 03. Tel: 011 2301919

2591986, 011 2585592

Banana Leaf 86, Galle road, Colombo 04. Tel: 011 2584403

Chesa Swiss 3, Deal Place, Colombo 03. Tel: 011 2573433

Mediterranean

Greenlands 3A, Shurbberry Gardens, Colombo 04. Tel: 011

Sri Lankan

No. 14, Reinland Place, Colombo 03. Tel: 2573877

The Mango Tree

284, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 011 2574611.

32, Walukarama Rd. Colombo 03. Hotline: 0716 888 777 Web: www.thesizzle.lk Email: info@thesizzle.org

Italian Bayleaf Italian Restaurant No. 79, Gregory’s Road. Colombo 07. Tel: 5865199, 2695920

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Travel Agents Air Mark Travels & Tours (Pvt) Ltd. 94, Chatham St. Colombo 01. Tel: 2399999 Email: info@airmarktravels.com Web: www.airmarktravel.com

Acme Travels (Pvt) Ltd. 246, Park Road Colombo 05, Sri Lanka. Tel: +94 11 4527575 or 2596114 Fax: +94 11 2554539 Email: acmetrvl@sltnet.lk, info@acmetravels.com, acme@sol.lk Web: www.acmetravels.com

Enjoy Lanka Tours & Travels 55/3, Vinayalankara Mw, Colombo 10. Tel: +94 11 4962632 Hotline: 0773255585 Mob: 0714 820520 Fax: +94 11 2697398 Email: kumar@ enjoylankatours.com, reservations@ enjoylankatours.com Web: www. enjoylankatours.com UK Branch: 203, Askew Rd, Shepherd Bush, London SW 12-9AZ, England.

Tel: 00 44 2087493048 Mob: 00 44 7983047356 Email: enjoylankatours@yahoo. co.uk, allfourslandrover@yahoo.co.uk USA Branch: #15001, Staked Plain Loop, Austin TX 78717, USA. Office: 00 151 29969937 Mob: 00 151 25737700 Email: enjoylankatours66@ yahoo.com

J.J.&A. (PTE) Ltd. 21, Modera Street, Colombo 15. Travel Desk â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Galle Face Hotel, Colombo 03. Tel: 2381107, 4927956 Hotline: 0777-301735 Fax: 2596968 Email: deepal@eureka.lk Web: www. jjatours.com

Lets Travel (Pvt) Ltd. Office: GP1,Hotel Galadari, 64, Lotus Road, Colombo 01. Tel: 011-4736262 Fax: 0112392295 Email: brigitte@letstravel.lk Web: www.letstravel.ch

Lanka Leisure Travel (Pvt) Ltd.

Tallman Tours Ltd.

No.38, Station Road, Wattala. Tel: 5336439, 5336407 Mob: 071 5344299 Fax: 2945890 Email: sohan@lankaleisuretravel.com Web: www.lankaleisuretravel.com

263/3, 1/1 Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2573931, 2576806 Fax: 2574015 Email: tallmans@slt.lk

Mal-Key Travels & Tours (Pvt) Ltd. 58, Pamankada Rd., Kirullapone, Colombo 06. Tel: 2365251, 2365255, 2365253, 2502008 Fax: 2502494 Email: malkey@pan.lk Web: www. malkey.lk

People's Travels (Pvt) Ltd. 59, D. R. Wijewardena Mw., Colombo 10. Tel: 2332747, 2478385 Tel/Fax: 2434530

Quickshaws Tours Ltd. 03, Kalinga Place, Jawatte Road, Colombo 05 Tel: (0094) 11258 3133-4-5, 250 8368 Fax: (0094) 11258 7613 Tours to suit your interests and budget â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cultural, Wildlife, Beach, Hotel Reservations. ASTA, JATA, PATA, TAAI, TAASL SLTB Licence No: 137 Email: tours@quickshaws. com Web: www.quickshaws.com Open daily 8.30am-5.00pm.

Taj Travel Services (Pvt) Ltd 86 1/1, Chatham Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 2441166, 2434681, 2433664 Fax: (Day) 2441166, 2434681 (Night) 2638334 Mob: 0777-724686 Email: tajtravels@sltnet.lk

Under New Management

Travel Agents

Tangerine Tours Ltd. 236, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2343720/7 Fax: 2434524, 2448279 Email: tangerinetours@mi.com.lk Web: www.tangerinetours.com

Time Travel & Tours 82/1/3, Galle Rd, Colombo 04. Tel: 2552918, 2552921, 2552948 Fax: 2552917 Email: timetrav@sltnet.lk

Siri Nature Tour In Sri Lanka (Approved by Ceylon Tourist Board) No: 264/3/B, Batalanda Road, Makola south, Makola, Srilanka. Tel: 0094 11 2962 629 Hotline: 0094 77 373 0017, Fax: 0094 112963893 Email: wrsiri@ srilanka-nature-tour.com, wrsrihouse@ sltnet.lk Web: www.srilankanature-tour.com, www.siritravels.com

Asian Wings (Pvt) Ltd 64, W.A.D Ramanayaka Mawatha, Colombo 02. Tel: 0094-11-2335056/5370931/2 Fax: 0094-11-2335057 Email: asianwings@eureka. lk, sales@asianwings.com, asianwingstour@ sltnet.lk Web: www.asianwings.com, www. asianwingslanka.com

Airwing Tours

EASTWIND TRAVELS (PVT) LTD

No. 68, Colombo Road, Negombo. Tel: +94 31 2238116, 2238376, 2238377, +94 31 4870001-4, 0777 786929 Fax: +94 31 2238155 Email: airwing@sltnet.lk Web: www.airwingtours.com Airport Office: Tel: +94 11 4832554 City Office: +94 11 2697384 Negombo Office: +94 31 4873301

61, 5th Floor, EML Building, W.A.D.Ramanayake Mawatha, Colombo 02. Tel: +94-11-5730095 Fax: +94-11-2302801 Email: eastwind@ eastwind.lk Web: www.eastwind.lk. Handles Airline ticketing, Inbound/Outbound tours, Worldwide Hotel Reservations & All Other Travel formalities. Member: Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

Emcee Travels (Pvt) Ltd

Camlo Lanka Tours (PVT LTD

Luxury Limousine Services. 198/1A Kesbewa Road, Boralesgamuwa. Email: emcee@sltnet.lk Office: 0117364656 Email: info@emceetravels.com Web: www. emceetravels.com “Explore Sri Lanka in Comfort and Style”

Office 52, Level 02 Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 0773666999 Travel Counter – Grand Oriental Hotel York street Colombo 01. Tel: 01124283399 24hour Hotline: 0722 409409 Email: info@ camlolanka.com Web: www.camlolanka.com

Direct Link 225/7 Sri Sangaraja Mawatha, Colombo 10, Sri Lanka P.O.Box 1834. Tel: +94 11 313 5599 Hunting: +94 777665664 Fax: +94 11 233 6385 Web: www.directlink.lk Email: info@directlink.lk Skype: Direct.link

30, College Avenue Mt. Lavinia Tel: 2 738653, 2 713975 Email: info@tropicinn.com Web: www.tropicinn.com The Comprehensive Monthly Guide to Travellers in Sri Lanka

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Travel Agents

Tropic Inn

Transport Road Sri Lanka has a good network of metalled roads connecting all principal towns and places of tourist interest. Your travel agent will be able to arrange for a good three or four seater car (air-conditioned, if necessary) with experienced chauffeur-guide. Mini-buses and coaches for larger groups are also available. Traffic circulation is on the left.

Bus The Sri Lanka Central Transport Board maintains an island-wide network of bus services. Express bus services are available to all principal towns. Seats could be booked in advance, except during certain festival seasons. For information : Central Transport Board, Tel: 2329604/5, Central Bus Station, Olcott Mawatha, Colombo 11. Private bus services operate to all major towns in the island from the Private Bus Stand, Pettah. A/C Inter-City buses are also available from this stand. Tel: 3150916, 5852746. See page 75

Rail The Sri Lanka Government Railway serves all important tourist destinations in the island. Towns served from Colombo include Kandy, Nanu Oya (Nuwara Eliya), Bandarawela, Badulla, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Mat ara, Matale, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Trincomalee, Negombo, Bentota, Batticaloa and Vavuniya. The popular Yal-Devi xpress now runs daily to Kilinochchi. Accommodation: Two classes – 2nd and 3rd – on long distance trains. 1st class – advance bookings – only on trains with sleeping berths, air-conditioned coaches and observation saloons. For groups of 20 to 35 – a diesel deluxe coach is available. Contact: For information and bookings – Railtours – Fort Railway Station, Colombo 01. Tel: 2435838. Open 0800 to 1630 hrs. daily (except 1200 to 1300 hrs.) Also, Station Superintendents, Fort Railway Station,

Transport

Colombo 01, Tel: 2421281 – Ext. 462. Railway Time-table to important tourist destinations is found on page 76.

Domestic Flights Air Travel is another popular mode among the business and leisure sectors. Air Taxi, Expo Air, Helitours, Saffron Air, Cinnamon Air, Cosmos Aviation, Simplifly and Senok Aviation are Domestic flight operators. One can arrange for drop and pick up at Golf links, excursions over historical sites and beach resorts. All fights are operated by Aviation licensed pilots.

Ballooning Adventure Asia Int. Operates hot air balloon flights based in Kandalama. They also offer a range of land and water based adventures. See www.ad-asia.com or Email: adventure@ wow.lk

Hiring Vehicles If you prefer to journey by car or coach please contact the Travel Agents or Tour Operators listed in this guide who would provide chauffeur driven or self drive cars. (Vehicle Rates are subject to change owing to fluctuation of petrol rates)

Cars A/C Cars could be hired @ rates from US$55.00 – 65.00 +15% Vat per to a minimum distance of 100 kms per day. (Rates Subject to Change)

Coaches Depending on the capacity, make and condition of the Vehicle, the rates for AC coaches begin from Rs. 70 +Vat. For MiniCoaches of 26 seaters range Rs. 200 onwards per km. Larger the vehicle with A/C the rates vary. Non AC vehicles are cheaper. The driver’s allowance may range between Rs. 550/- to Rs.750/per day. (Rates Subject to Change)

Airport Transfers Transfers from the International Airport to Colombo and Negombo are handled by approved transport and travel agents. Airport to Colombo is around Rs. 2,800 onwards with Air Conditioning. This fare is for up to four persons travelling in one air-conditioned vehicle. (Rates subject to change)

Taxis & Cabs There are radio-controlled taxi services operating in Colombo and the suburbs. The prices are metered. A kilometre begins around Rs. 68 at present. Some cab services will have a call up

charge for locations beyond Colombo City limits. These cabs could be hired for long distance travel too and will offer better rates on mileage. (Rates Subject to Change)

Three-Wheelers An interesting aspect of the street scenery in Colombo and the suburbs, and many provincial towns, is the three-wheeler scooter taxi. They take you quickly through traffic. Metered three wheeler service has been introduced recently where charge is Rs: 50/- for the 1st km and Rs: 30/- per km

thereafter. It is advised to agree or negotiate a fare with the driver if meter is not available prior to commencing travel. Budget Taxi Tel: 0117-299299, Home Taxi Tel:0777 127128, Sanway Taxi Tel; 0777 535343, Speed Taxi Tel: 0777 227223 Quick Taxi: 0777 553553 Fair Taxi Tel: 0117 588588 The threewheeler is a good ride for the more daring and adventurous!

Self -drive cars Self drive AC cars could be hired at rates ranging from Rs. 2,500 – 4,500 per day. The price will vary again depending on the number of days and the type of vehicle required. A refundable deposit ranges from Rs. 25,000 – 55,000. Some rent-a-car companies do not charge a deposit.

Transport Operators Taxis 2 588 588 Kangaroo Cabs Hotline: 0112 588 588 Web: www.2588588.com www.2588588.com/facebook 91 1/6 Galle Road, Colombo 04

2577 577 Kango Taxi

Quickshaws Rent-a-car Quickshaws Limited, 3 Kalinga Place, Jawatte Road, Colombo 05. Tel: (94-11)258 3133-4-5, 2508 368 Fax: (94-11)258 7613 Email: tours@ quickshaws.com Web: www.quickshaws.com Self Drive, chauffeur driven, vans, 4X4, coaches, tour planning Open daily 8.30am-5.00pm. VISA, MASTER, AMEX

Taj Travel Services (Pvt) Ltd.

24 hrs taxi service. All kind of new model cars, wedding cars, chauffeur driven with electronic taxi meters. 297 Galle Rd. Colombo 03. Tel: 2577 577. Email: marketing@kangocabs.com Web: www.kangocabs.com

39 1/21, (First Floor) Chatham Street, (Opposite Clock Tower) Colombo 01. Tel: 2441166, 2434681 Fax: 2441166 (Day) 2638334(Night) Mob: 0777-724686 Email: tajtravels@sltnet.lk

Tangerine Tours Ltd. 236, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2422519/ 2434446/7, 2343720 Fax: 2448279, 2434524 Email: tanerinetours@eureka.lk

2556 556 Radiant AC Cabs

Lespri Enterprise 46, St. Lucia’s St, Colombo 13. Tel: 2433433 Email: rentacar@lespritours.com, lespritt@ sltnet.lk Web: www.lespritours.com

Rent A Car

EMCEE

Mal-key Rent-a-car (Pvt) Ltd

198/1 A Kesbewa Road, Boralesgamuwa Tel: 0117364656 / 0777329292

58, Pamankada Rd., Kirulapana Colombo 06. Tel: 2365251, 2365253, 2365255, 2502008 Fax: 2502494 Email: malkey@pan.lk

Kings Rent a Car 50, Ramya Mawatha, Subuthipura, Battaramulla, Sri Lanka. Tel: (94)-11-2889860 / 2875063

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Transport Operators

455, Co-op House, Galle Rd, Colombo 03. Head office Tel: 011-2590784 Marketing Tel:0115761762 Email: radiantcabs@sltnet.lk Web: www.radianttaxi.com Yard: 5, Athula Place, Polhengoda. Tel: 011 57510861

JF Tours & Travels (Cey) Ltd.

Automobile Association

No. 58 Havelok Road, Colombo 05. Tel: +94 11 2587996/2589402 Fax:+94 11 2505746 /2580507 Mob: + 94 777 410066 Email: inquiriesjft@sltnet.lk Web: www.jftours.com

Information on import of vehicles under carnet, driving licences, condition of roads, etc. from Automobile Association of Ceylon, 40, Sir Macan Markar Mawatha, Galle Face, Colombo 03. Tel: 2421528-9

Domestic Flights operating in Sri Lanka Air Taxi â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tel: from any telephone network in

Cosmos Avaition Services Pvt Ltd

Sri Lanka- 1979 Fax: +94 197333999 Online Booking queries: bookings@srilankan.com

Tel: 0773033584

Helitours â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sir Chithampalam Gardiner

Tel: 2556535

Mawatha,Colombo 02. Tel: 3144944, 2441671 Hotline: 3314244 Fax: 2441681 Email: helitourstickets@slaf.gov.lk

Saffron Aviation (pvt) Ltd Tel: 2475451

Senok Aviation Pvt Ltd Millennium Airlines Tel: +94777 703703 Expo Air Tel: 555156-59, 2555167 Fax - 2555169 - 170

How to get there by Bus The bus services in the main towns are fairly frequent. Long distance services are operated from Colombo at Pettah Central Bus Depot: Olcott Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel : 2329604-5 There are two services, one operated by the Sri Lanka Transport Board and the other operated by Private Bus Companies. The private bus station is quite c lo s e to t he Cent ral Bus D e p ot .

Tel: 3150916, 5852746 Bus services are more frequent in the private Bus Station. Most buses and coaches have air-conditioning. Buses to the coastal towns ply every 1/4 -1/2 an hour, To Kandy every 15 minutes. To other long distance destinations between 1 hour to 1 1/2 hours. Both government and private buses and coaches carry the same destination numbers. Please note traffic plan in Colombo is changed from time to time, buses may be de-routed accordingly.

Bus numbers to popular places in Colombo Pettah No:

Galle Face Green No:

100,101,137 from Galle Road. No: 112 from Bambalapitiya.

100,101,137 from Galle Road, No: 112 from Bambalapitiya,

BMICH No: 104,154

Any bus from Galle Road Which operates via Kollupitiya, walking distance from there.

Sri Lanka Tourism:

Bellanvila Temple No:

Dept. Of Immigration & Emmigration:

117,119 from Dehiwela

Any bus which operates via Maradana towards Pettah.

Zoological Gardens No:

Mount Lavinia Beach:

176,118 from Dehiwela

All buses which ply on Galle road passes Mount Lavinia (plenty of buses).

Kelaniya Temple No: 224,235 from Pettah

Customs Office:

Fort Railway Station No:

(old Times building, Fort) No: 100,101,112 from Galle Road.

100,101 from Galle Road

Some bus numbers of popular destinations From Colombo To:

Kurunegala No

6, 5

Ratnapura No

Kandy No

Sigiriya No

Batticaloa No

Galle No

Badulla No

Ampara No

Nuwara Eliya No

Negombo No

240

Matara No

International Airport No

187

Kataragama No

Anuradhapura No

4,15,57

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Transport

Trincomalee No Polonnaruwa No

Railway Reservation of accommodation in Trains

Railway Retiring Rooms

Can be reserved 10 days Prior to the date of travel from fort Railway Station. Tel: 2432908 Mon – Sat 0830 am – 0330 pm, Sun - Holidays 0830 – 12.00 Noon. Reserved accommodation is available in the following trains. First Class – Sleeping berths in night trains, seat in the observation saloons of hill country trains and seats in the air-conditioned coach in the northern line. 2nd & 3rd Class – Sleeperettes on day and night trains.

The Viceroy Express

Are available at Anuradhapura, Kandy, Polgahawela, Mihintale, Galle, Trincomalee, Maho at nominal rates for overnight stay. Inquires for prior bookings could be made by calling 2320109 Colombo or at the respective stations. Railway Inquiries – Tel: 2434215 (Fort) Fort Railway Station – Tel: 2421281 See Sri Lanka by Steam Train (for Groups of 15 & over) The “Viceroy Special” is the only passenger steam train still in operation in Sri Lanka. For Reservations contact: J.F. Tours & Travels ( Cey lo n ) Ltd., 5 8 , Havelo c k Ro ad, Colo mb o 05. Tel: 2587996, 2589402

The Railway time table to popular destinations (Subject to Change – please check before you embark on your journey.)

Colombo – Trincomalee

Colombo – Kandy Fort – Kandy 0555 0700* 0945 1035* 1240 1745

Fort – Trinco

Kandy – Fort 0845 0935 1220 1352 1604 2058

0510 0615 1030 1500 * 1530 1605 1655 # * Intercity, Observation saloon available # Weekends only (Kandy Tel: 081-2222271)

0815 0845 1350 1730 1840 1855 1910

Colombo – Anuradhapura Fort – A' Pura

A' Pura – Fort 0500 0640 Ex 0825 1330 # 1600 2330 *Intercity, Airconditioned saloon available (A'pura Tel:025-2222271) # Only Sundays

0545 Ex 0650 Ex 2015

0940 1005 0115

0950 1035 1300 1830 1915 0415

Colombo – Polonnaruwa Fort – P'naruwa 0610

1210

(P'naruwa Tel: 027-2222271)

P' naruwa – Fort 0925 1630 2025 0435 2225 Ex 0530

Tinco – Fort

0605 1400 2100 0515 (Trincomalee Tel: 026-2222271)

0700 1930

1600 0500

Colombo – Nuwara-Eliya Fort – N' Oya

N'Oya – Fort

0555 1245 0925* 0945* 1600 1200 2015 0232 1350 2145 0403 2217 * Intercity, Observation saloon available (Nanu Oya Tel: 052-2222873)

1530 1900 2025 0515

Colombo – Hikkaduwa Fort – Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa – Fort 0650 0905 0405 # 0835 1020 0445 1030 1220 0525 # 1420 1615 0530 1545 1720 1550 1700 * 1850 1930 2230 (Hikkaduwa Tel: 091-2277271) *Only to Hik. # Only Weekdays

0655 0710 0745 0800 1805

Colombo – Batticaloa Fort – Batticaloa 0610 * 2015 * 2100

Batticaloa – Fort 1415 0715 0400 1745 0715 2015 *

1600 0430 0600

* Intercity, Observation saloon available (BaticaloaTel:065-2224471)

Transport

Museums The Department of National Museums maintain ten Museums devoted to the study and display of objects of cultural artistic and scientific interest pertaining to Sri Lanka’s pre-history, archaeology, anthropology, zoology, entomology, geology and palaeontology. Museum publications are on sale at all National Museums. There are also other Museums dealing with specific subjects. Colombo National Museum

Dutch Period Museum, Pettah, Colombo

Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2694767-8. The oldest and largest Museum in the country, established 1877. Best known for collection of antiques and objects of art. The library of the museum has more than 4,000 palm leaf manuscripts. Among the exhibits are the regalia of the King of Kandy; ancient and medieval jewellery; rare collection of traditional masks; wood and ivory carvings; an exquisite collection of Buddhist and Hindu Bronzes, temple frescoes; ceramics objects including VOC plates of the Dutch period; antique furniture; lacquered objects; ornate brass, bronze and silver objects; stone sculpture and lithic inscriptions. The recently refurbished and revamped Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa Galleries are well worth a visit. For the visitor on a short tour, unable to visit the ancient cities of Sri Lanka, a visit to the Colombo Museum will give an idea of the history of the country and its people. Open from 9.00-5.00pm (Closed on Poya Day).

Situated at No. 95, Prince Street, Pettah. The building housing the museum dates back to the 17th century and has been restored with the assistance from Netherlands. The displays depict the political, social and economic conditions in the maritime provinces of the Island under the Dutch rule and it gives an idea of the culture of the Kandyan Kingdom during this period. Tel: 2448466 (Closed on Sunday & Monday)

Natural History Museum

Established in the premises of Dalada Maligawa it provides the opportunity to study Buddhism Worldwide. Contributions from 17 Buddhist countries made this grand lotus journey into Buddhist culture possible Entrance fees Rs. 500

Archives and Library situated at 191, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07, houses many valuable books inherited as “family treasure” by late President J. R. Jayawardane and priceless gifts received by him from many Heads of State during his distinguished career.

Kandy National Museum This museum is housed in the old palace devoted to queens. It is located behind the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Collections are all of Kandyan period (17th – 19th centuries) and include jewellery, textiles and clothes, arms and weapons, ritual objects, ivory carvings, pottery. Open from 9.00am-4.30pm Tel : 081 2223867 (Closed on Sunday, Monday & Public Holidays)

National Buddhist Museum Kandy

Ratnapura National Museum This museum is housed in the Ehelapola Walawwa situated on the Ratnapura – Colombo road. Of special interest is its collections of pre-historic objects and fossil of Rhinoceros, Hippopotamus and Elephant collected from the gem pits of Ratnapura District. Other exhibits include jewellery, textiles, flags, gems and semi-precious stones. Tel: 045 2222451 (Closed on Sunday, Monday, Public Holidays)

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Museums

Natural History Museum is located in the same premises as the National Museum facing the Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha. It’s display contains birds, mammals, reptiles, sea-mammals, insects, botanical and also gems and geological specimens of Sri Lanka. Open from 9.00-5.00pm (Closed on Poya Days)

Jayawardane Cultural Centre

Galle National Museum

– open daily from 0900hrs-1800hrs, Closed on Friday from 1200hrs-1400hrs.)

Located in the historic Dutch fort of Galle. This museum displays objects connected to the history and life of people of Galle. Products of handicrafts include reedware, embroidery, horn and shell objects. Tel: 0912232051 (Closed on Sunday, Monday, Public holidays)

Ambalangoda Mask Museum

Galle Maritime Museum Is housed in an old Dutch building in the historic fort of Galle. It has on display objects connected with marine biology and botany. There are also some beautiful diagrams showing local fishing methods. Opened after the Tsunami with a plush new look. Tel: 0912242261 (Closed on Sunday, Monday, Public holidays)

Koggala Folk Museum Koggala Folk Museum presents a rare collection of folk implements and appliances from different parts of the island. The items are arranged under twenty five different categories representing handicrafts, folk art and music, cottage industries, agriculture folk medicine, costumes, religion etc. This museum created as a tribute to Martin Wickramasinghe, the doyen of Sinhala writers is Ginpathaliya in Koggala, the birthplace of the late writer that had once been the playing field of young Wickramasinghe. Entrance Fees: Rs.200. Tel: 0912283427

Situated at 426, Main Street, Ambalangoda. Established in 1987 to protect and promote Sri Lanka’s unique ‘Mask’ culture of the southern coastal belt with aid and cooperation of the German Government. Among the exhibits are masks over 250 years old belonging to the family of Ariyapala Gurunanse, the great artisan of Ambalangoda masks. There are two kinds of masks, the masks with bulging eyes and menacing expressions are those depicting the faces of demons used in exorcism ceremonies. The others are faces of animals and human figures associated with the low country folk theatre. A visit here would be a fascinating experience. (Admission free. open from 8.30am-5.30pm) Tel: 0912258373

Walisinghe Harischandra Museum Maha-Hunupitiya, Negombo. Walisinghe Harischandra was regarded as a national hero lived in the 19th century. He was active in educating the Sri Lankan of the value of their cultural heritage at a time when most of the people blindly imitating the western way of life. The museum houses some furniture and the other articles belonged to Walisinghe Harischandra and objects of traditional arts and crafts. Entrance Fees: Rs.100. Tel: 0312233641 (Closed on Sundays)

Maligawa Museum Centuries old articles gifted to the Sri Dalada Maligawa by kings, nobles and other devotees have been put on display in a well laid out museum within the precincts of the Maligawa. Housed in the two upper stories of the building at the back of the shrine house, this museum displays rare ola manuscripts, Royal apparel, life size models of the last King and Queen of Kandy, variety of antiquities, ornaments and ritual objects.

Historical Mansion – Galle

Monument to Rajah (former Maligawa Tusker)

A splendid Dutch building, the oldest within the Dutch Fort has been lovingly restored to its original grandeur and consists of three units. The Museum contains a collection of rare and antique items dating from pre Portuguese period to British Colonial era. Jewellery, pottery, Coins and Chinese porcelain items are on display. The Art Gallery provides facilities for exhibition, sale and purchase of rare antiques and Colonial furniture. The Arcade houses a gem jewellery and handicraft shop equally interesting for the visitor. A guarantee certificate is issued to all articles sold as to its authenticity. (admission free

To the north of the Maligawa complex facing Natha Devale is the mausoleum of Rajah, the most devout servant of the Maligawa. The Maligawa tusker that carried the relic casket in the annual Esala perahera for 50 years from 1937 to 1987 died in 1988. But the majestic tusker still stands gracefully in still life inside the building with an extended lease of life given by local taxidermists bringing nostalgic memories to those who have seen him carrying the casket in the perahera. Visit to the mausoleum is a tribute paid to the dead tusker.

Museums

Archaeological Museums The Department of Archaeology maintains archaeological museums at Anuradhapura, Kandy, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Jaffna, Panduwasnuwara, Ampara, Yapahuwa, Dedigama, Vavuniya, Mihintale and Dheegavapi. Open on all days except Tuesdays &

Sundays from 0830hrs-1615 hrs. Publications on respective archaeological sites available for sale. P h o t o g r a p h y : P e r mi t f r o m Commissioner of Archaeology, Dept. of Archaeology, Sir Marcus Fernando Mw, Colombo 07. Tel: 2692840. General Services Branch Tel: 2688326

The Gemmological museum At Ratnapura (6 Ehelepola Mawatha, Batugedera, Ratnapura) and in Kandy (Ceygems Internatiional, 673, Peradeniya Road, Kandy) established by Mr. A.G.B. Amarasinghe, Consultant Gemmologist and Professional Collector, has a rare collection of gems, precious minerals and other specimens.

Gem & Mineral Museum No. 4 Gothami Mawatha (off Templers Road) Mount Lavinia Tel: (011) 2726796, (011) 2724789 Fax (011) 2733693 Email: mincraft@slt.lk, www.mincraft.com

Christina Gem Museum No. 730, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Rare Collection of Gem mineral and its crystal formation including Ceylon Sapphire collection. A short film on gem mining, production & finished jewellery could be viewed at the Auditorium.

Ceylon Tea Museum – Hantane, Kandy It is a project jointly operated by Sri Lanka Tea Board and Tea Industry Stakeholders to exhibit over 100 years old machinery, documents, pictures and items of historical value to the Sri Lankan tea industry. One of best of its kind in the world. A panoramic view of the surrounding hills from the fourth floor. May taste a free cup of tea. Tickets: Rs.500/ adults & Rs.200/- students. Ceylon Tea Museum, Uduwela Road, Hantane, Kandy. Tel: +94 813803204 Open: Tuesday - Saturday from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm Sunday - 8.30 am to 3.30 pm (Closed on Mondays & week Poyadays) web: www.ceylonteamuseum.com

Museum Times Colombo museum open from 9.30am–6.30pm others 9.00am–5.00pm except on days mentioned.

Entrance Fees Colombo, Kandy and the Dutch Museum charges Rs: 500/- per adult and Rs: 300/- per child. Ratnapura & Galle National Museums, Anuradhapura Folk Museum, National Natural Science Museum and the Galle Maritime Museum charges Rs: 300/- per adult and Rs: 150/- per child.

Photography Rs. 250/- with no special facilities. Video Camera: Rs. 2,000/- The use of special equipment to photograph or video cassette museum exhibits is prohibited without prior permission from the Director.

Guides Guides could be engaged at the National Museums by prior arrangement, free of charge. (Rates mentioned are subject to change)

Festivals in Sri Lanka

he full moon (Poya) day of each month known by the traditional Sinhala name is of special religious significance. The exact dates of Sri Lanka’s festivals change from year to year as they depend on lunar or solar

phases. You may refer to the Travel Lanka guide or the Travel Information Centers of the SLTPB for details. Sports events in Sri Lanka too attract fanfare. While Sri Lanka is internationally known for sports like cricket and athletics, an increasing array of sporting events including golf

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Festivals in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s deep-rooted and ancient civilization has endowed the island with a legacy of colourful national and religious festivals. Hardly a month goes by without a unique national or religious celebration of diverse cultures and religions, celebrated by people with a genius for pageantry and ceremony.

tournaments, water-sport events and motor races, horse races are becoming popular attractions in some of the most scenic locations.

December – May Sri Pada Pilgrimage Season

Sri Pada or Adam’s Peak as it is known to the Westerners, is a mountain 2,237 meters high situated in the South-west corner of the Central Highlands. Thousands of pilgrims from many faiths climb the mountain to pay homage and make observance commencing from full-moon day of December to the full-moon day of April the following year. Buddhists believe that it enshrines the foot print of Gauthama Buddha at the summit. Hindus, Muslims and Christians also make prilgrimage for their own religious reasons. The spectacle of sunrise from the mountain top is an unforgettable sight.

January 14 Thai Pongal Day A harvest festival equivalent to a thanksgiving event celebrated by the Tamil community in Sri Lanka and across the world.

January 12 –13 – 14 Durutu Perahera Pageant A colourful religious pageant at the Kelaniya Temple 12 km away from the city of Colombo.

February 4 National Day This day commemorates the granting of independence to Sri Lanka by the British on 4 February 1948. It is a great patriotic and national occasion celebrated with colourful parades.

February 14 Navam Perahera Pageant

A Co l o u r f u l t r a d i t i o na l p e r a h e r a organised by Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo parades the city streets for two nights. Dances, elephants, whip crackers make it an unforgettable event.

Festivals in Sri Lanka

April 13 – 14 Sinhala and Tamil New Year

The two ethnic groups in Sri Lanka, the Sinhalese and the Tamils celebrate a common traditional New Year in the month of April, originally a harvesting thanksgiving. This marks the passage of the sun from Pisces to Aries. Traditional customs are observed on this day with merrymaking, fun and games and lavish hospitality.

April Nuwara Eliya Season

Nuwara Eliya comes alive during April to entertain thousands of visitors who flock to this salubrious Hill Station to avoid the heat & humidity experienced in most parts of the island during April. Nuwara Eliya offers visitors numerous enjoyable events during its high season. These include the Mahagastota Hill climb and Radella Hill climb (motor races), Mount Bike Races, and several turf events at its race-course. Among them are the Governor’s Cup (a revival of colonial horse-racing event and other races). The resort’s major horticultural events – flower and agricultural shows and garden competitions are also schedules for April. Other seasonal events include golf and tennis tournaments, live music fiestas and dances. Nuwara Eliya has ‘mini seasons’ in August & December as well.

May 14 – 15 Vesak Full Moon

Vesak is a thrice blessed day for Buddhists throughout the world. It commemorates the birth of Prince Siddhartha, his attaining enlightenment and passing way into Nibbana as Gauthama Buddha. It is a day of great sanctity devoted to religious observances and charity. The day is also celebrated with festivity with numerous colourful decorations and illuminations, pandals and pageants. Wayside stalls distribute food and refreshments to the pilgrims and passers by.

June 12 Poson Full Moon

Poson, the full-moon festival commemorates the advent of Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BC. The day is celebrated with religious observances. The centre of festivities is at Mihintale (about 10 km) from Anuradhapura where the Buddhist doctrine was first preached by Arahat Mahinda, son of the great Emperor Asoka of India. Apart from religious festivals there are illuminations and decorations and processions in various parts of the island.

June 15 – July 13 Kataragama Festvel

The Kataragama festival is a major Esala Festival. Karatagama in the south-East corner of the island is a jungle shrine dedicated to God Skanda and is a popular pilgrim centre for Buddhists and Hindus. The climax of this festival is the fire walking ceremony

usually during end of the festival. Grand perahera is on 12 July.

three feasts in July, August, and October. The August 15th festival draws the biggest crowd, nearly a million people.

July

August

Udappu Festival

Bellanwila

Four miles west of the Colombo/Puttalam highway between Mudal Lake and the Sea is the fishing village of Udappu. The festival is centered in and around the kovil dedicated to Goddess Drupadi. Men, women & children tread the hot coals at the Fire Walking Ceremony in the belief that Goddess Drupadi’s flowing hair will protect them from harm.

A colourful Esala pageant is also held at the Rajamaha Vihara (Buddhist temple) at Bellanwila, a Southern suburb of Colombo. The perahera features low-country folk dancers in addition to Kandyan dancers.

August – September Nallur Festival – Jaffna

July 26 – August 17

The largest Hindu temple festival in Jaffna. It is a major highlight of social, cultural and religious spirit of Jaffna society. Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil (temple) is one of the most important temples in the Jaffna peninsula. The presiding deity is Lord Muruga.

Dondra (Devinuwara – City of Gods)

Vel Festival – Colombo

In southern Sri Lanka, 160 km from Colombo is the shrine dedicated to God Vishnu at Dondra, where Esala Festivals take place every year with a colourful perahera.

August 1 – 11

Some of Colombo’s main streets take on a festival atmosphere in August where the capital’s main Hindu festival takes place and ornately decorated Vel Chariot makes its annual trip carrying the weapons of God Skanda from one temple to another.

October 22

Kandy Esela Perahera

The most magnificant of these festivals is the Kandy Esala Perahera. A spectacular medieval day pageant is held for 10 nights with Kandyan dancers and Drummers in colourful traditional costumes. Kandyan Chieftains in medieval court dress, more than one hundred caparisoned elephants whip crackers, torch bearers etc. It is an unforgettable experience.

August 31 – September 13 Munneswaram

The festival of lights celebrated by all Hindus. Hindu homes are lit up at night, new clothes worn, homes spring cleaned and all Hindus purify themselves with an oil bath. Illuminations are designed to welcome Lakshmi.

November 6 Sangamitta day – (Unduwap Full Moon)

This day marks the historic event of bringing a sapling of the sacred Bo-tree under which Gauthama Buddha attained enlightenment in India by Arahat Theri Sangamitta, sister of Arahat Mahinda and daughter of Emperor Asoka.

December 25 – Christmas

The Christmas day is celebrated by the Christian community in Sri Lanka on this day.

Festivals in Sri Lanka

About 75 km north of Colombo (3km from Chilaw) is a Hindu shrine dedicated to God Siva where a colourful temple festival with fire walking takes place during the Esala Festival time.

Deepavali: Festival of Lights

August Festival of Our Lady of Madhu

(Three feasts in July, August, October) Madhu is a Roman Catholic Marian shrine in the Mannar district. With a history of over 400 years, the site is considered as the holiest Catholic shrine in the island and is a well known place of devotion for both Tamil and Sinhalese Catholics. The Madhu Church holds

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Religious Information Buddhist Centres Information on Buddhism and meditation could be obtained from the following places: • International Buddhist Research and Information Centre (Sasana Sevaka Society – Colombo Branch), 380/9, Sarana Road, (Off Bauddhaloka Mawatha), Colombo 07. Tel: 2689388. • Buddhist Cultural Centre Branch at 380, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2689786 (Open all days except Sunday from 8.30am - 5.30pm) • The All Ceylon Buddhist Congress, 380 Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07. • The Bhikku Training Centre – Gangarmaya 61, Sri Jinaratana Road, Colombo 02. Tel: 2323038. • B uddhist Cultural Centre, 125, Anderson Road, Nedimala, Dehiwela. Tel: 2726234, 2734256 Fax: 2736737 Email: bcc@Sri.lanka.net • T he Buddhist Publication Society, 54 Sangharaja Mawatha, Kandy. Tel: 08121223679, 21237283 (Membership and books on Buddhism could also be obtained from here.)

Some famous Buddhist Temples in and around Colombo: • A sokaramaya – Thimbirigasyaya Road, Colombo 05. Beautiful mural paintings. • Bellanwila Raja Maha Viharaya – Bellanwila, Recognised seat of learning and beautiful mural paintings. • D h a r m a y a t h a n a y a – N o. 381 Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 03. Tel: 2691865 • Dipaduttaramaya – 159, Kotahena st, Colombo 13. Colombo’s oldest temple – built in 1806, Murals painted by Burmese monk in 1890. • G otami Viharaya – Gothami Road, Colombo 08. Modern mural paintings by well known artist George Keyt assisted by Manjusri.

Religious Information

• Issipatanaramaya – Issipatana Mawatha, Colombo 05. Beautiful Mural paintings. • Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya – (13 km from Colombo) One of the 3 places in Sri Lanka visited by Lord Buddha, Fascinating wall & ceiling paintings by famous artist Solius Mendis. The annual procession in January is second only to the Kandy procession in spectacle. • Paramananda Purana Viharaya – 29, Paramananda Mawatha, Colombo 13. Very old temple built in 1806. • Vajiraramaya – 4, Vajira Road, Colombo 4. Highly reccognised seat of learning.

Hindu Kovils The Hindu Kovils found in the city are enumerated below: • Sir Ponnambalam – Vaneswarar Kovil at Korteboam Street, Kochchikade – built entirely of granite imported from South India. • Sri Bala Selva Vinayagar Moorthy Kovil – at Captain’s Garden, off D.R. Wijewardena Mawatha, has shrines dedicated to Shiva and Ganesh. • Sri Siva Subramania Swami Kovil – at Kew Road, Slave Island – used by Indian soldiers during the time of the British. • Sri Muthumariamma Kovil – at Kotahena, dedicated to a Hindu Goddess of healing. • The new and old Kathiresan Kovil – at Sea Street dedicated to Skanda, the God of war and victory. • Two Kathiresan Kovils – on Galle Road at Bambalapitiya. • Sri Siva Subramania Swami Kovil – 98, Ginthupitiya Street, Colombo 13, dedicated to Lord Muruga (God Kataragama) Information on Hinduism could also be obtained from Ramakrishna Mission International Culture Centre, Ramakrishna Road, Colombo 06.

Islamic Mosques The following are some of the many mosques found in the city: • Grand Mosque at New Moor Street. • Maradana Mosque at the Zahira College premises. • Devatagaha Mosque at De Soysa Circus. • The Mosque at Mutwal • Sammankottu Mosque at Main Street, Pettah • The Kollupitiya Mosque at Duplication Road, Colombo 03. • The Bambalapitiya Mosque at Bauddhaloka Mawatha near the Galle Road Junction. • The Borah Mosque at 4th Cross Street, Pettah.

• T he Military Mosque and Akbar Mosque at Slave Island.

Christian Churches Listed below are some of the many christian churches in the city. Roman Catholic • St. Philip Neri’s Church – 157, Olcott Mawatha, Colombo 11. • S t. Mary’s Church – Lauries Road, Colombo 04. • St. Lawrence’s Church – Galle Road, Colombo 06. • St. Mary’s Church – Galle Road, Dehiwela. Anglican • St. Peter’s Church (Mission To Seamen) – 26, Church Street, Colombo 01. • Christ Church – Galle Face, • S t. Mic hael’s and A ll A ngels – 1, Cameron place, Colombo 03. • Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour – No. 368/3, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07. • St. Paul’s Milagiriya – 299, Galle Road, Colombo 04. • Christ Church – Galle Road, Dehiwela. • Church of St. Francis of Assisi – Hotel Road, Mount Lavinia. Assembly of God • N o. 160/30, Kirimandala Mawatha, Colombo 05.

International, and Interdenominational • St. Andrew’s Church (formerly Scots Kirk), 73, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Dutch Reformed Church • Dutch Reformed Church, Bambala-pitiya – 724, Galle Road, Colombo 03. • Dutch Reformed Church, Wellawatte – 363, Galle Road, Colombo 06. • Dutch Reformed Church – Station Road, Dehiwela. Methodist Church • Methodist Church, Kollupitiya – 6, Station Road, Colombo 03 (Colpetty Junction). • Methodist Church, Wellawatte – 10, First Chapel Lane, Colombo 06. • M ethodist Church, Mount Lavinia – 29, Hotel Road, Mount Lavinia. Baptist Church, Cinnamon Gardens • 120Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Pentecostal Mission Service • Mission – 41, Greenpath, Colombo 03. • Mission – 78/5, W.A. Silva Mawatha, Colombo 06. Seventh day Adventist Church of Sri Lanka. • 7, Alfred House Gardens, Colombo 03. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormon Church) • 15, Melbourne Avenue, Colombo 04. Jehovah’s Witnesses • W atch Tower Society of Lanka, 711, Station Road, Wattala (Branch) • 62, Layard’s Road, Colombo 05 • 194/1, William Place, Mt. Lavinia • 680/2, Peradeniya Road, Kandy. Calvary Church • 123, High Level Road, (Edmonton Road Junction) Colombo 06.

Australia High Commission of – 21, Gregory’s Rd., Colombo 07. Tel: 2463200 British High Commission – 389, Bauddhaloka Mw, Colombo 07. Tel: 5390639

British Council 49, Alfred House Gardens, Colombo 03. Tel: 2581171 Kandy Branch: 88/3, Kotugodella Veediya, Kandy Tel: (081) 2222410

BrAZIL Embassy of – 42/1, Horton Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 5566900 Bangladesh High Commission for the People’s Republic of – 03, Gregory's Rd, Colombo 07. Tel: 2695748 Canada High Commission of – 33A, 6th Lane Colombo 03. Tel: 5226232, 5226298

China Embassy of the People’s Republic of – 381 A, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2694491 Cuba Embassy of the Republic of – 27, Anderson Road, Colombo 05. Tel: 2501583

Egypt Embassy of the Arab Republic of – 39, Dr. Lester James Pieris Mw, Colombo 05. Tel: 2583621, 2508752

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Foreign Missions in Sri Lanka

European Union Delegation of the – 26, Sir Marcus Fernando Mw., Colombo 07. Tel: 2674413

France Embassy of – 89, Rosmead Place, P.O. Box 880, Colombo 07. Tel: 2639400

Germany Embassy of the Federal Republic of – 40, Alfred House Avenue, Colombo 03. Tel: 2580431

The Embassy of Vatican – The Holy see Apostolic

Korea Embassy of the Republic of – 41, Guilford Crescent, Colombo 07. Tel: 2699036-8

Palestine Embassy of the State of

Kuwait Embassy of the State of – 292, Bauddhaloka Mw., Colombo 07. Tel: 2597958-60

Romania Embassy of –

Libyan People’s Bureau of the Socialist People’s Libyan Arab Jamahiriya – 120, Horton Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 2697311, 2693700

Russia Embassy of the Russian Federation 62, Sir Ernest de Silva Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2573555

Malaysia High Commission of –

– 110/10, Wijerama Mw., Colombo 07. Tel: 2695991 25/1, Horton Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 2673331

Saudi Arabia Royal Embassy of the

Nunciature – 220, Bauddhaloka Mawatha Colombo 07. Tel: 2582554

No. 33, Bagatalle Rd., Colombo 03. Tel: 7557711-13,

kingdom of – 39, Sir Ernest de Silva Mawatha, (Flower Road,) Colombo 07. Tel: 2682087, 2682089

India High Commission of –

Maldives High Commission of the Republic of – 25, Melbourn Avenue, Colombo 04. Tel: 2587827

South Africa High Commission of – 114, Rosmead Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 2463000 Thailand Royal Thai Embassy

India Asst. High Commission of –

Myanmar Embassy of the Union of – 4A, Rosmead Avenue, off Rosmead Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 2681007

31, Rajaphilla Mw., P.O. Box. 47, Kandy. Tel: 081-2222652

Nepal Royal Embassy of – 153, Kinsey Road, Colombo 08. Tel: 2689656/7

Indonesia Embassy of the Republic

Netherlands Royal Embassy of

36-38, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2421605, 2422788 Visa office: 433, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 4505578-88

of – 400/50, Sarana Rd., Off Bauddhaloka Mw., Colombo 07. Tel: 2674337

Iran Embassy of the Islamic Republic of – 5, Independece Av., Colombo 07. Tel: 2681018

Iraq Embassy of the Republic of – 19, Barnes Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 2300640

– 25, Torrington Av, Colombo 07. Tel: 2510200

Norway Royal Embassy of –

of – 9th Floor Green Lanka Towers, 48/46 Nawam Mawatha, Colombo 02. Tel: 2302500-3

United Arab Emirates Embassy of – 44, Ernest De Silva Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2565052-3

United States Of America

49, Bullers Lane, Colombo 07. Tel: 5608700, 5608799

Embassy of the – 210, Galle Rd, Colombo 03. Tel: 2498500-1

Pakistan High Commission of the

USAID 44, Galle Rd, Colombo 03. Tel: 2498000

Islamic Republic of – 42 & 44 Bullers Lane, Colombo 07. Tel: 2055681-2

Italy Embassy of – 55, Jawatte Rd, Colombo 05. Tel: 2588388 Japan Embassy of – 20, Gregory’s Rd., Colombo 07. Tel: 2693831-3

Honorary Consular Corps Austria Honorary Consulate of

Croatia Honorary Consulate of

– 424, Union Place, Colombo 02. Tel: 2691613

– 185, Union Place, Colombo 02. Tel: 2329618

Belgium Honorary Consulate of –

Denmark Honorary Consulate of

69/5B, Alvitigala Mw, Colombo 08. Tel: 2674141,2673350

Royal – 5-03C, East Tower, WTC, Colombo 01. Tel: 5556699

Chile Republic of, Honorary

Finland Consulate General – 23/25 Rheinland Place, Colombo 03. Tel: 4742005

Consulate – 83, George R. de Silva Mw, Colombo 13. Tel: 2324203

Foreign Missions in Sri Lanka

Greece Honorary Consulate of – Meewella Bldg., 329, Galle Rd., Colombo 04. Tel: 2556701 Hungary Honorary Consulate of – 104, Nawala Road, Narahenpita, Colombo 05. Tel: 2589960, 2503750 Jordan Honorary Consulate of – C/O Akbar Brothers, 344, T.B. Jayah Mw, Colombo 10. Tel: 2697151

Lithuania Republic of Honorary

Peru Honorary Consulate of –

Slovak Republic Honorary

Consulate – 04, Rotunda Garden, Colombo 03. Tel: 2320079

“Alliance House” 84, Ward Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 2673673

Latvia Republic of Honorary

Philippines Honorary Consulate of – No. 41, Sir Ernest de Silva Mw., Colombo 07. Tel: 2696321

Consulate of – No.130, Level 1, Nawala Rd., Narahenpita, Colombo 05. Tel: 2369836

Consulate – No. 7 1/1, Upper Chatham St., Colombo 01. Tel: 2385660/1

Mauritius Honorary Consulate of – 104/11, Grandpass Rd., Colombo 14. Tel: 2330859

Poland Honorary Consulate of – 2nd Floor, 409, Galle Rd., Colombo 03. Tel: 2565612

Israel Honorary Consulate of – 90, Cotta Rd, Colombo 08. Tel: 7390200

Portugal Republic of Honorary

Mexico Honorary Consulate of –

Spain Honorary Consulate of –

16, Kensington Garden, Colombo 04. Tel: 2588135

9, East Tower, WTC, Echelon Square, Colombo 01. Tel: 5533500/1

Consulate – 255, Duplication Rd., Colombo 03. Tel: 2576687

Sweden Embassy of – 33 1/1, Dr. Lester James Peries Mawatha, Colombo 05. Tel: 2504432 Ukraine Honorary Consulate General of – 40/1, Dickman’s Rd, Colombo 05. Tel: 2588924 Yemen Republic of Honorary Consulate – 22/2, Thurstan Rd, Colombo 03. Tel: 2565171

Specialised Agencies of the United Nations and Other Agencies United Nations Development Programme

United Nations Children’s Fund

International Water Management Institute

(UNDP) Tel: 2580691

(UNICEF) No 35, Balapokuna Road, Colombo 05. Tel : 2768555

(IIMI) 127, Sunil Mawatha, Pelawatte, Battaramulla. Tel: 2787404

World Health Organization

ICRC

United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Tel: 2586244)

United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) Tel: 2586244

World Food Programme (WFP) Tel: 2586244

(WHO) 226, Bauddhaloka Mw, Colombo 07. Tel: 2502842

Food And Agri Culture Organization (FAO) 202, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2588537

United Nations High Commissioner For Refugees

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). Tel: 2552421

(ILO) Tel: 2580691 No. 202/204, Bauddhaloka Mw., Colombo 07.

South Asia Co-operative Environment Programme (SACEP) 10, Anderson Rd., Off Dickmans Rd, Colombo 05. Tel: 2589787

Sri Lanka Red Cross Society 106, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2691095, 2699934/5.

Asian Development Bank SL Resident Mission 49/14 -15, Galle Rd, Colombo 03. Tel: 5331111

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) – 5th floor, Green Lanka Towers, 46/45, Nawam Mawatha, Colombo 02. Tel: 2303700

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93 Foreign Missions in Sri Lanka

International Labour Organisation

(UNHCR) 97, Rosmead Place, Colombo 07. Tel: 2683968

29, Layards Road, Colombo 05. Tel: 2503346

Business & Investment The attraction of Sri Lanka today is not only that of history, beauty cultural splendour and the warmth of its people. Together with all this, the country is also on a new wave of progress, and is an increasingly attractive investment centre in South Asia. Investment under BOI Exchange controls have been removed and tax exemptions extended to the wide range of foreign investments. Investment approvals are fast and easy to obtain, from a non-stop clearance house. Expertise is encouraged and repatriation of profits is assured. English is widely spoken, written and understood by the middle and upper layers in the business and administrative sectors. Computerization is going on in every sector of economic and business ac tivit y. Communication skills are high, as are educational standards. Sri Lanka is well into the information revolution. Sophisticated information technology is readily available. The media

reports extensively on business and investment trends. Economic reportage is gaining importance. There is a strong legal tradition in the country, with respect for the rule of law and an excellent legislative framework. Both the government and opposition parties in this democracy are committed to foster private sectorled growth of the economy. The Board of investment in Sri Lanka (BOI) functions as a “one – stop” investment promotion centre. The BOI approved projects have been established in the investment promotion Zones of Katunayake, Biya gama, Koggala and other parts of the country. Very soon the government will be identifying a few more promotional zones to promote foreign investment and employment among the local youth. Sri Lankans have been recognised all over the world as hard working and skilled. Foreign investment have come from a number of countries such as United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, China, Germany, Hong Kong, Australia, Sweden, United States of America, Pakistan and Belgium.

Trade Establishments Board of Investment of Sri Lanka

Ceylon National Chamber of Industries

Industrial Development Board of Ceylon

26th West Tower, Echelon Square Colombo 01. Tel: 2434403-6, 2346181

1st Floor, Galle Face Court 2, Colombo 03. Tel: 2331444

615, Galle Road., Katubedda, Tel: 2605323, 2605394, 2605450

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce

Sri Lanka Export Development Board

50, Nawam Mawatha, Colombo 02. Tel: 2421745/6

Level 4 Export Guarantee House, 42, DHP Building, Nawam Mw., Colombo 02. Tel: 2300705-11

National Chamber of Commerce

Sri Lanka Export Credit Insurance Corporation Level

450, D. R. Wijewardena Mawatha, Colombo 10. Tel: 4741788

4 Export Guarantee House, 42, DHP Building, Nawam Mw., Colombo 02. Tel: 4883521, 4883564

Business & Investment

Sri Lanka Standards Institute 17 Victoria PL., Elvitigala Mw., Colombo 08. Tel: 2671567, 2671572

Ceylon Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research (CISIR) 363, Bauddhaloka Mw, Colombo 07. Tel: 2693807-9, 2698861-3

Some Leading Commercial Banks Operating in Sri Lanka Bank of Ceylon Head Office, No. 04, Bank of Ceylon Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel: 2446790-9

Commercial Bank of Ceylon Ltd.

Hatton National Bank Ltd. HNB Towers, 479, T. B. Jayah Mw, Colombo 10. Tel: 2664664

Peoples Bank

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Commercial Houseâ&#x20AC;?, 21 Bristol Street, P.O. Box 856, Colombo 01. Tel: 2445010-15

Peoples Bank

Head Office 75, Sir Chitthampalam A. Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo 02. Tel: 2327841 (6 Lines)

Sampath Bank Sir James Pieris Mawatha, Colombo 02. Tel: 2358358, 2300260

Seylan Bank Ceylinco Seylan Towers, 90, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2456789, 4701000

Nations Trust Bank 242, Union Place, Colombo 02. Tel: 4313131

International Banks American Express International Banking Corporation 104, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 4414141, 4414100

NDB Bank 40, Nawam Mawatha, Colombo 05. Tel: 2448448.

Habib Bank Ltd.

Public Bank Berhad

140-142, Second Cross Street, Colombo 11. Tel: 2326565, 2329413, 2324528, 2328713

314, RA De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 03. Tel: 2576289 /92

Indian Bank

37, York Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 2480000

57, Sir Baron Jayathilake Mw, Colombo 01. Tel: 2323402-3, 2447163

Citibank, N.A.

Indian Overseas Bank Ltd.

65 C Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 4794700

139, Main Street, Colombo 11. Tel: 2324422-4

Deutsche Bank Ag-Colombo Branch

Muslim Commercial Bank Ltd.

86 Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel: 2447062-6

08 Leyden Bastian Road, Colombo 01. Tel: 2448765/6

Standard Chartered Bank

State Bank Of India 16 Sir Baron Jayatilake Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel: 2326133/5, 2323856

The Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corporation 24 Sir Baron Jayatilake Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel: 2325435, 2446591

95 Business & Investment

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Airlines Serving Sri Lanka Austrian Airlines – Browns Tours Ltd, Level 6, HNB Tower, 479, T.B. Jayah Mawatha, (Darley Road) Colombo 10. Tel: 2555318

Kuwait Airways – South Asian Travels Ltd, Ceylinco House, 69, Janadhipathi Mw., Colombo 01. Tel: 2445531

Air Sahara – 140/A, Vauxhall

Mihin Lanka

St., Colombo 02. Tel: 4732400

61, EML Bldg, W.A.D. Ramanayake Mw, Colombo 02. Tel: 2002255

Air Asia – On line www. airasia.com via mobile mobile. airasia.com

China Airlines – 35, Edward Lane, Colombo 03. Tel: 2598184

Cathay Pacific Airways 186, Vauxhall Street, Colombo 02. Tel: 2334145/8

Emirates – 9th Floor, Hemas House, 75, Braybrooke Place. Colombo 02. Tel: 4704040

Ethihad – Level 3, WTC, Colombo 01. Tel: 4766500 Gulf Air – No. 1 Justice Akbar Mw, Colombo 02. Tel: 2359888

Indian Airlines – Bristol Complex, 4, Bristol Street., Colombo 01. Tel: 2326844

Jet Airways – 1, Justice Akbar Mawatha, Colombo 02. Tel: 2475375, 2260088

Korean Air – 7th Floor, East Tower, WTC, Colombo 01. Tel: 2323977

Malaysian Airlines 81, York Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 2344322

Omani Air – 400, Deans Road, Colombo 10. Tel: 077 3033591, 0112168268 Airport – 077 3033130 Pakistan International Airlines – No.47, Ananda Coomaraswamy Mw., Colombo 07. Tel: 2576781

Qatar Airways – WTC, West Tower, 2nd Floor, Colombo 01. Tel: 5570000

Singapore Airlines 315, Vauxhall Street., Colombo 02. Tel: 2499690

SriLankan Airlines – Level 19 – 22, East Tower, World trade Centre, Echelon Square, Colombo 01. Tel: 019 733 5555 Ticketing, Flight Information, Re-confirmation, Tel: 1979 Ticket Office, Kandy: 17, Temple Street, Kandy, Tel: (Res/R.Con): 0812232494/5, (Direct): 0812233123 SriLankan Airlines Head Office Airline Centre, BIA, Katunayake. Tel: 0197 335555

Sri Lankan Airlines Information & Inquiries

Turkish Airlines – Pership

1979 Air Port – Tel: 019-7335555 Other Airlines – Tel: 2252861

House, 35, Edward Lane, Colombo 03. Tel: 5871053/4

Thai Airways International Ltd. – JAIC Hilton, Union Place,

Qantas Airlines –

Colombo 02. Tel: 2307108

400, Deans Road, Colombo 10. Sri Lanka Tel: 2168168

British Airways – Air Global

Royal Jordanian Airlines 40A, Cumaratunge Mawatha, Colombo 03. Tel: 2301621-3

(Pvt) Ltd. GSA for British Airways C/O Hayleys Leisure Holdings (Pvt) Limited, No: 400, Deans Road, Colombo10, Sri Lanka. Tel: 0112168168, 0112168118

Airline Representation Air India Express

Air Canada

Air France

108, Y.M.B.A. Building, Sir Baron Jayathilaka Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel: 2422249

6-2, East Tower, WTC, Colombo 01. Tel: 5474747

65/C, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2439747

Airlines Serving Sri Lanka

Alitalia

Asiana Airlines

Northwest Airlines

Hemas Building, No 79, York Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 4731551-6

C/o Walkers Tours Ltd., 9, York Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 2430380

65/C, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2439747

American Airlines

Condor

9A, York Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 2348100

Walkers Tours Ltd, 130, Glennie St., Colombo 01. Tel: 2306478

5, Baurs Bldg, Upper Chatam Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 2435403/5

Air Maldives

Swissair /Balair

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

Hemas Building, No 79, York Street, Colombo 01. Tel: 4731551-6

65/C, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 07. Tel: 2439747

Seaports Sri Lanka is a convenient link, strategically placed on the main sea routes straddling the Far East, the Middle East, Europe and America and many shipping lines call at the ports of Colombo, Trincomalee ,Galle & Hambantota.

Colombo

The port of Trincomalee is one of the finest natural harbours in the world. It has a water area of 2,023 hectares, an unlimited draught and can accommodate the largest tankers with ease.The Trincomalee harbour provides ample space for lay-up ships and tankers, and has been used for the purpose by several shipowners.

Galle Sri Lanka’s third major port is the port ofGalle, which can accommodate two vessels at alongside berths. It has a water area of 320 hectares and is equipped with transit sheds havin road and rail access.

Hambantota Inaugural-construction work on the Hambantota sea-port marked the dawn of a new phase of development for Hambantota. The entire project to be completed in 15 years and in four phases is estimated to cost one billion US$.The Port will be capable of handling 20 M. twenty foot equivalent units (TEUS) per year with km of berths, The project includes: a gas-fired power plant project, a ship repair Unit, a container repair unit, an oil refinery and a bunkering terminal.The proposed bunkering terminal, once completed will be able to handle upto 500,000 metres tons of oil products a year. The Indu – Lanka Ferry Service/ Colombo-Tuticorin is Temporarily suspended. until further notice.

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Seaports

The purpose-built, fully equipped JAYE Container Terminal which has two common user berths, is 632 metres long, and its draught of upto 13 metres makes it capable of handling upto two fourth generation container vessels at a time. The two berths at the JAYE Terminal provide complete container terminal facilities equipped with modern cargo handling equipment. The JAYE Container Terminal includes a Container Freight station of 5,400 M2 for stuffing and destuffing of all types of cargo. The other container terminal, at Queen Elizabeth Quay, is 425 metres long with a maximum draught of 12 metres. Over 65% of dry cargo handled is now in containerised form. Facilities are also available for handling ‘LASH’ and ‘RO-RO’ vessels. Bulk handling and dry dock facilities are also available.

Trincomalee

Calendar 2014 S

JANUARY

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

APRIL

JULY

FEBRUARY T

2 9 16 23

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

31 3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

30 2 9 16 23

OCTOBER

3 10 17 24

5 12 19 26

1 8 15 22

30 2 9 16 23

31 3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

2 9 16 23 30

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

6 13 20 27

NOVEMBER 4 11 18 25

7 14 21 28

AUGUST

MARCH

6 13 20 27

MAY

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

1 8 15 22 29

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

JUNE

SEPTEMBER T

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

DECEMBER T

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24 31

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

Public, Bank and Mercantile Holidays – 2014 Jan

Feb

14 Tue

May

15 Thu

Day Following Vesak

*† ‡

14 Tue

Jun

12 Thu

Poson Full Moon Poya Day

*† ‡

Esala Full Moon Poya Day

Tamil Thai Pongal Day *† ‡ Milad-Un Nabi (Holy Prophet’s B’day) *† ‡ 15 Wed Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day *† ‡

July

12 Sat

04 Tue

National Day

*† ‡

July

29 Tue

*† ‡ Id-Ul-Fitr (Ramazan Festival Day) *†

14 Fri

Nawam Full Moon Poya Day

*† ‡

Aug

10 Sun

Nikini Full Moon Poya Day

27 Thu

Maha Sivarathri Day

*†

Sep

8 Mon

Binara Full Moon Poya Day

16 Sun

Medin Full Moon Poya Day

*† ‡

Oct

05 Sun

April 13 Sun

Day Prior to New Year Day

*† ‡

Oct

08 Wed

*† ‡ VId-Ul-Alha (Hadji Festival Day) *† Vap Full Moon Poya Day *† ‡

Mar

May

14 Mon Sinhala & Tamil New Year Day

*† ‡

22 Wed

Dipavali Festival Day

14 Mon Bak Full Moon Poya Day

*† ‡

Nov

06 Sat

Il Full Moon Poya Day

*† ‡

18 Fri

Good Friday

*†

Dec

06 Sat

Unduwap Full Moon Poya Day

*† ‡

01 Thu

May Day

*† ‡

25 Thu

Christmas Day

14 Wed Vesak Full Moon Poya Day

*† ‡

Calendar 2014

*† ‡

*†

International Airport Katunayake to Colombo Fort International Airport Katunayake to Negombo Zoological Gardens Dehiwela to Colombo Fort Galle to Weligama on the Galle-Matara Road Trincomalee to Nilveli on the Trincomalee-Kuchchueli Road The Royal Botanical Gardens to Kandy on the Colombo-Kandy Road The Hakgala Botanical Gardens to Nuwara Eliya on the Nuwara Eliya-Badulla Road The Henarathgoda Botanical Gardens Gampaha to Colombo Fort

Kilometer Chart

• • • • • • • •

31 Km 8 Km 11 Km 24 Km 16 Km 6 Km 9 Km 34 Km

Wilpattu Wellawaya 321 Vavniya 344 86 Valaichchenai 206 179 197 Trincomalee 108 97 286 146 Tissamaharama 345 238 403 59 380 Tangalle 69 408 301 412 122 369 Talaimannar 496 489 201 291 105 430 177 206 331 314 109 131 124 255 100 Sigiriya Ratnapura 198 365 133 151 283 296 280 121 234 (of which 27 km. is on the Colombo – Kandy Road) Puttalam 206 156 212 326 354 180 240 127 295 51 • Horton Plains to Colombo 163 Km (Arugam Bay) Pottuvil 377 221 268 430 222 159 246 138 344 100 335 Polonnaruwa 202 175 241 67 227 365 302 129 64 142 243 134 29 Km • Horton Plains to Nuwara Eliya Nuwara Eliya 217 187 206 148 174 341 210 146 259 224 256 87 234 (Colombo Airport)-Negombo 166 196 357 96 136 153 308 230 299 237 261 235 257 148 Mt-Lavina 47 192 228 334 143 106 181 352 183 252 269 292 266 234 195 Matara 148 195 245 377 258 293 169 331 501 35 104 418 336 414 158 343 Matale 303 154 127 103 114 292 154 167 71 238 314 251 156 179 153 192 133 Mannar 211 473 324 281 314 200 401 185 338 185 27 471 461 174 264 77 402 150 Kurunegala 219 68 254 105 74 119 122 306 87 119 79 246 253 270 164 187 161 206 115 Koggala 222 442 269 30 118 164 278 246 287 261 164 302 470 65 134 385 367 382 187 313 Kataragama 153 288 483 273 123 271 318 168 324 181 376 169 342 511 86 19 367 260 425 81 399 Kandy 245 246 42 237 26 276 128 99 77 140 264 129 142 92 264 275 223 182 203 179 164 157 Kalutara 159 240 87 136 355 185 117 31 78 192 259 298 174 77 215 383 152 221 300 322 298 198 226 (Pasekudah)-Kalkudah 325 196 262 370 190 266 182 339 294 262 227 65 142 242 298 132 291 304 241 108 06 210 182 199 Jaffna 348 439 320 565 524 303 218 295 557 408 375 398 283 486 269 422 262 246 555 543 237 348 142 484 234 Inginiyagoda 459 114 302 204 185 291 246 375 220 262 332 355 184 175 74 333 225 242 402 226 164 219 111 317 104 308 320 494 381 56 215 184 31 191 410 241 61 87 133 278 315 316 230 133 271 438 96 165 356 379 353 216 282 Hikkaduwa Hambantota 140 184 546 262 193 245 45 108 243 462 270 77 226 273 167 323 180 330 124 322 489 43 27 367 259 404 80 358 Habarana 323 272 223 222 115 215 97 345 301 79 157 72 331 183 63 174 43 250 132 198 24 182 332 322 85 112 100 264 90 Galle 289 122 17 307 512 383 72 232 167 13 209 428 257 45 104 151 290 332 303 248 150 288 455 80 148 373 381 370 203 299 Ella 232 230 109 245 133 452 180 179 133 110 216 175 370 159 187 220 222 56 242 129 262 106 230 397 151 88 284 178 312 29 288 Dambulla 206 264 25 298 247 248 248 133 191 72 318 176 55 164 47 309 160 129 150 58 270 140 174 24 192 307 296 109 132 106 237 86 COLOMBO 148 205 116 172 238 99 320 396 282 43 116 283 130 93 312 142 160 12 35 180 216 322 131 101 169 340 195 264 257 280 254 222 183 Beruwela 55 203 212 61 226 183 44 333 451 337 12 171 228 75 148 367 197 105 43 90 235 271 329 186 108 227 395 140 209 312 335 309 210 238 Bentota 09 64 212 204 52 236 174 35 325 460 346 21 180 219 66 157 376 206 96 52 99 244 280 321 195 100 236 406 131 200 322 344 318 219 247 Batticoloa 367 358 303 163 175 380 142 261 397 80 378 34 346 187 260 366 217 295 212 336 315 286 224 95 106 270 296 162 322 301 238 138 31 237 179 228 Bandarawela 183 198 205 197 197 08 240 222 117 253 141 445 188 171 124 118 224 166 361 150 195 212 213 47 250 138 253 98 221 388 159 96 292 186 309 37 281 Badulla 32 167 229 237 230 206 24 256 230 134 273 128 454 170 206 134 134 241 175 370 159 211 242 222 56 233 123 262 129 230 398 175 112 277 167 312 53 290 Anuradhapura 272 183 196 270 261 206 86 272 322 58 364 304 277 195 168 249 138 377 337 121 111 113 367 218 170 216 101 304 74 240 82 138 373 355 106 166 53 296 39 154 177 168 243 122 115 60 89 177 175 112 209 158 260 336 222 103 56 243 190 34 253 82 220 72 45 121 156 306 121 85 112 280 218 236 198 220 195 206 149 Ambepussa

OTHER DISTANCES OF IMPORTANCE 426 105 449 284 391 43 110 535 358 191 400 205 348 192 340 293 145 297 507 311 175 65 269 262 287 589 209 207 67 365 189 134 342 305 250 241 284 142 158 401 276

Yala

Kilometer Chart

Accommodation The hotels and guesthouses listed in the following pages are only those requested to be published at a nominal fee. Therefore please bear with us if a particular hotel you are searching is not in this list. The rates given in the hotel listings are subject to change without notice. Trust this guide will help to enjoy your stay in our island.

Colombo

4 4 4 4 5 5 5 6 6 6 6 7 7 7 7

Grand Oriental Hotel The Kingsbury Galadari Hotel Galle Face Hotel Hotel Nippon Ltd Lake Lodge Cinnamon Lake Side Colombo Hotel Sapphire Taj Samudra Pegasus Reef Hotel Ramada Colombo Opulent River Face Hotel Mount Lavinia Hotel Hotel Janaki Wayfarerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inn

Ramada Katunayake Natalia Airport Reah Hotel

Negombo

Hotel Rivi Ras Tropic Inn Ranveli Beach Resort

Wadduwa New Wadduwa Beach Resort Swiss Hotel - Lotus Flower Villa Ocean View

Kalutara The Sands Royal Palms Beach Hotel Tangerine Beach Hotel Avani Kalutara Resort

8 8 8

Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara

Bentota Avani Bentota Resort & Spa Bentota Beach Hotel

Sea Drift Motel Ceylonica Beach Hotel Club Hotel Dolphin Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beach Hotel Starbeach Hotel Topaz Beach Hotel Ltd The Icebear Guesthouse Paradise Holiday Village (Pvt) Ltd.

8 8 9 9 9 9 9 9 10 10 10

Club Villa The Surf Vivanta by Taj Bentota

Induruwa Royal Beach Resort Induruwa Beach Resort

Ahungalla Heritance Ahungalla

Hikkaduwa Chaaya Tranz Citrus Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Beach Hotel

Coral Sands Hotel

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10 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 12 12 12 12 12 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 14 14 14 14 14 15 15 15

Travel Lanka

1 Accommodation

Golden Star Beach Hotel

Club Palm Bay

Palm Beach Hotel

The Palms

Gateway Hotel Airport Garden Colombo

Marawila

Omni Holiday Bungalow

Beruwela

Katunayake

St.Lachlan Hotel & Suites

Berjaya Hotel Colombo

Golden Sun Hotel

Beach Resorts

Goldi Sands Hotel

Mount Lavinia

Nippon Villa Beach Resort Hotel Lanka Supercorals Hikkaduwa Beach Hotel Ocean View Cottage Cinnamon Garden Hotel & Restaurant The Harmony Guest House Time N Tide Hotel WHY NOT Guest House

Restaurants - Hikkaduwa Hotel Ritas & Beach Restaurant

Galle The Lady Hill Hotel Holiday Banglow

Unawatuna Thambapanni Retreat Thaprobana Rooms & Restaurant Hotel Neptune Bay Point De Galle Sri Gamunu Sun N Sea Zimmer Rest Shanthi Holiday Resort Unawatuna Beach Resort Comaran Beach Hotel KINGFISHER Hotel & Restaurant The Garden Restaurant Buffet Nor Lanka Hotel

Koggala/Habaraduwa Koggala Beach Hotel - Koggala

Weligama Heritage Weligama Neptune Resort

Matara

15 15 15 16 16 16 16 16

Seylon Holiday Resort Pigeon Island Resort

Anuradhapura

Heritage Hotel Anuradhapura Nuwarawewa Rest House Tissawewa Grand

16 16 16

Nature Breeze

Polonnaruwa Hotel Seruwa Giritale Hotel Hotel Sudu Araliya

17 17 17 17 17 17 17 18 18 18 18 18 18

Dickwella Kingdom Resort Dickwella Resort & Spa

Tangalle

Hotel Gajaba The Lake

Sigiriya Hotel Sigiriya Sigiriya Rest House Sigiriya Village Hotel

Dambulla Heritance Kandalama Amaya Lake New Rest House Dambulla

Habarana Cinnamon Lodge Chaaya Village Heritage Habarana

Lagoon Paradise Beach Resort

19 19 19

Kandy Kandy Residence Earls Regency Hotel Devon Hotels Senkada Rest & Spa

19 19 20 20

Amaya Hills Oruthota Chalets

Chaaya Blue Nilaveli Beach Hotel

Accommodation

Cinnamon Citadel The Kandyan Manor Hotel Thilanka

East Coast

Trincomalee

22 22 22 22 23 23 23 23 23 23 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24

Salika Inn & Restaurant

The Nature

21 21 21

Ancient Cities

Hotel Hilltop

Browns Beach Rest

Shahira Hotel

Queens Hotel Hotel Suisse

21 21

Serene Garden Hotel (Pvt) Ltd Hotel Bamiyan

25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 25 26 26 26 26 26 26

26 27 27 27 27

Kandy Panorama Resort Hunas Falls by Amaya Hotel Tree of Life Lake View Rest FoRest Villa Hotel

Udawalawe Safari Village Hotel

Restaurant Udawalawe Wasgamuwa

Nuwara Eliya

Safari Village Hotel

Grand Hotel Heritance Tea Factory Hotel Sunhill Rock Hotel Langdale by Amaya Blossoms Luxury Botique Hotel

Adamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Peak - Sri Pada White Elephant Hotel

Kitulgala

28 28 28 28 28 28

Belihuloya

Willys Safari Hotel

Tissamaharama The Safari Lake Side Tourist Inn Refresh Hotel Hotel Chandrika Priyankara Hotel

29 29

Hotel Breetaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Garden

Jayasinghe Holiday Resort

Yala Yala Leopard Lodge Chaaya Wild Yala

29 29

Belihuloya Rest House River Garden Resort

Bandarawela

Boutique Hotels Talalla Retreat

Bandarawela Hotel

Diyatalawa

The Sun House Amor Villa

Cranford Villa

Haputale Thotalagala Tea Plantation Bungalow Sherwood Tea Plantation Bungalow Grand Ella Motel

Mahoora Luxury Safari Camps

Pelican Restaurant

Hill Country

Ella

NATIONAL PARKS

Serene Pavilions

31 31 31 31 32 32 32 32 32 32 33 33 33

35 35 35 35

30 30 30

3 Accommodation Please note: The hotels and guesthouses listed in this book are those requested to be published at a nominal listing fee. The rates given in the hotel listings are subject to change without notice.

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Colombo Grand Oriental Hotel 02, York Street, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka. Tel: 011 2320320 Fax: 011 2447640 Email: info@ grandoriental.com Web: www.grandoriental. com Situated in the heart of Colombo, fully air conditioned with 75 rooms including 2 suits, 7 deluxe rooms, 4 semi deluxe rooms with attached toilets and baths, radio, piped music, mini fridge, IDD calls. Outlets: harbour Room with a breathtaking view of harbour, Sri Lankan Restaurant for traditional Sri Lankan buffet, Tiffin Hut for short eats cakes and sandwiches, Tap Bar & Blue Leopard Night Club. Guest facilities: Business

The Kingsbury 48, Janadhipathi Mawatha, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka. Tel: +94 11 242 1221/5421221 Fax:+94 11 2433251 Email: info@thekingsburyhotel.com We: www.thekingsburyhotel.com 229 Rooms. Multi Cuisine Restaurant Food & Beverage Hotline: +94 11 5635635 f&b@thekingsburyhotel.com Seafood Restaurant Food & Beverage Hotline: +94 11 5635635 f&b@thekingsburyhotel.com Chinese Restaurant Food & Beverage Hotline:+94 11 5 635 635 f&b@thekingsburyhotel.com Lobby Bar Food &

Galadari Hotel 64, Lotus Road, Colombo 01. Tel: 2544544 Fax: 2449875 Email: info@galadarihotel.lk Web: www.galadarihotel.com Situated in the heart of Colombo’s business district the hotel overlooks the Indian Ocean. A centrally A/C 15 storied 446 roomed super luxury hotel. 30 suites. Large rooms with attached toilet, hair dryer, IDD & Fax modem, 26 satellite TV channels, 5 channel radio, special room for the handicapped. Guest Facilities: Fully equipped Health Club, fresh water swimming & sun deck, Executive Lounge, Florist, Body Care (massage therapy), daily

Galle Face Hotel (Estd. 1864 – Heritage Hotel) 2, Galle Road, Colombo 3. Tel: +94 11 2541010 Fax: +94 11 2541072 Email : information @ gallefacehotel.net / reservations@gallefacehotel.net Web: www.

Colombo

★★★ Lounge, Travel Counter A/C, Tel.IDD, H/C water, shower, shower/bath, Cable TV, mini bar, 24hrs service, restaurant, bar, spa, night club, internet, left luggage, F/C exchange, credit cards, laundry, DR on call, car park available. Rates in US$ RO SGL 89 DBL 89 TRI 102, BB SGL 96 DBL 104 TRI 124, HB SGL 110 DBL 132 TRI 166, FB SGL 122 DBL 155 TRI 200. Supplement; Ex Bed 15, Deluxe 25, Suite 35. The above rates are non commissionable.

★★★★★ Beverage Hotline :+94 11 5635635 f& b @ thekingsburyhotel.com Sky Lounge Food & Beverage Hotline:+94 11 5 635635 f&b@thekingsburyhotel. com Deli/Pastry Shop Food & Beverage Hotline: +94 11 5 635635 f&b@thekingsburyhotel.com Laundry laundry@thekingsburyhotel.com Food & Beverage Hotline: +94 11 5 635 635 f&b@thekingsburyhotel. com GYM gym@thekingsburyhotel.com

★★★★★ newspaper, shopping arcade, limousine transport, airport Rep. Concierge, baby sitting. Restaurants: The Coffee Shop - serves Asian specialities. Lobby Bar - elegant afternoon high-tea. Live entertainment. Crab Claw Chinese Restaurant, Sheherezade - Arabic Restaurant - authentic Arabic cuisine, California Grill roof-top restaurant - seafood & steak with violin & piano music. Nightingales Karaoke Lounge, Club Envy, a pub theatre atmosphere.

★★★★★ gallefacehotel.net Location: By the Ocean in the heart of the Colombo city. Rooms: 145 fully AC rooms and suites ( 65 AC rooms in the Classic wing & 80 AC rooms newly refurbished in the Regency wing) Facilities:

Sea water swimming pool, spa, several rooms with Jacuzzis, In house movies, & Daily News papers. Restaurants : Verandah Restaurant & Bar (overlooking the Indian Ocean), Sea Spray Restaurant by the Ocean, 1864 – Fine dining restaurant with the wine cellar,

Pasticcino pastry shop, Sun down cocktails at the Patio, High Tea during week ends, and In on the green pub. (some facilities will not be available due to renovations).

Hotel Nippon Ltd. 123, Kumaran Ratnam Road, Colombo 02. Tel. 2431887/8, 2332601/2 Fax: 2332603. An ancient city hotel located at the heart of the Metropolitan City of Colombo. G.M. Mr. Leonard Caderamanpulle. 34 Elegant Rooms. A/C & N/A/C with telephone, attached bath. TV & mini fridge available on request. First floor rooms with balcony. Restaurants: The Orient - for Eastern, Western, Chinese and Moghul Cuisine - Open daily from 7.00am - 11.00pm. Sweet & Sour Cafeteria - For daily Sri Lankan Luncheon buffet, Pastries, Snacks & Take Away Specials - Open from 7.00am - 8.00pm. Dreamland Bar - Comfortable A/C

relaxation - open from 11.00am - midnight. Sakura Conference Hall - Fully A/C accommodating 160 pax theatre style with Audio/Visual facilities for special business seminars or conferences. Special rates on accommodation for groups of 15 pax. Airport transfers arranged, International Telephone calls & Telex facilities available. In close proximity to leading Night Clubs, Gymnasiums & Hospitals. Rates in Rs. DB A/C 3600 nett, DB N/ A/C 2500 nett. Breakfast 450. Extra Bed 450

Lake Lodge – Taru Management (Pvt) Ltd 20, Alvis Terrace, Off Alvis Place, Colombo 03. Tel: + 941123264 43 Email : lakelodgesales @ taruhotels.com, info@taruhotels.com, Web: w w w.t aruhotels.com Reser vations : +94112326443, +9411243270, 0777284158, MD Nayantara Fonseka (Taru) GM Hareez Rizwan Mohamed Your ‘home away from home’ while in Sri Lanka, whether for a few days of holiday or a month on business, Lake Lodge will be run in the typically friendly yet professional manner. 12 + 1 stylish ensuite Double Rooms with all modern conveniences Facilities:

AC, H/C Showers, CableTV, free Wi-fi, Licensed Bar. Guest Laundry, Left Luggage, Safety Deposit, Fax, Airport Transfer, Taxi Service. Spacious Lounge areas + 2 large terraces with view over park & lake. Breakfast Bar. As well as providing our guests with a delightful lunch and dinner menu, our Chefs are also available to prepare any meal to your individual requirement. Rates starting from US$ 90+++(Per Night)

Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo

& 7.00pm–11.00pm, Long Feng: 12.00pm–2.30pm & 7.00pm–11.00pm, 7 Degrees North: 4.00pm–1.00am (Mon–Fri) and 12.00pm-2.00am Sat-Sun, The Lounge: 8.00am–1.00am, Goodies: 7.30am–9.00pm, Pool Bar: 8.00am–9.00pm. Hotel Facilities: Business centre, Sauna & Steam rooms, Extensive banquet and conference facilities, Shopping Arcade, Executive Club Lounge, Non-smoking rooms, 3 floodlit tennis courts, 2 squash courts.

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Colombo

115, Sir Chittampalam A. Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo 02. Tel: (94 – 11) 2491000 Fax: ( 94 – 11) 2449184 & ( 94 – 11) 2544211 Email : lakeside @ cinnamonhotels.com Web : w w w. cinnamonlakeside.com. The only pyramid style resort hotel in the city, situated amidst the lush tranquillity of a landscaped garden with a panoramic view of the Beira Lake. Located 30km from the airport, within walking distance from the commercial and shopping area in Colombo. G.M. - Mr. Denis Gruhier, 321 Rooms, 19 suites. Restaurants: The Dining Room, 24 hours coffee shop, Royal Thai: 12.00pm–2.30pm

★★★★★

Hotel Sapphire 371, Galle Rd, Colombo 06. Tel: +94 11 2363306 Fa x : + 94 11 2360 455 Email : r sv tns @ hotelsapphire.com, sapphire@slt.lk Web: www.hotelsapphirelk.com 43 A/C Rooms. CEO Mr. Ronald Perera A/C Standard and Luxurious rooms - executive suites with H/C water, music, hair

★★ dryer, safety lockers, taxi, banquet facilities, A/C. Wood Rose Bar, Golden Palace Chinese restaurant, internet cafe, conference facilities.

The Taj Samudra Hotel 25, Galle Face Centre Road, Colombo 3. Tel: 0112446622 Fax: 011-2446348 Email: tshresv. colombo@tajhotels.com Web: www.tajhotels. com The Taj Samudra is strategically based in Colombo’s business hub and is also just a short stroll to the city centre for shopping and entertainment. Spread across 11 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the hotel also boasts a peerless view of the Indian Ocean. 270 rooms including 16 super luxurious suites, an ultra modern executive floor with all conveniences for the business traveler and Superior Rooms for your comfort. Restaurants: Latitude all Day Dining and Coffee shop,

★★★★★ The Lobby Lounge serves a choice of beverages with light eats too, Navratna for truly authentic Indian delights. The Golden Dragon serving a wide selection of Szechuan cuisine. The Steak and Grill House serves the finest continental food, open for dinner only. The Mix Bar is the perfect place to be at the days end. Facilities: Conferencing facilities including outdoor banqueting options. Swimming pool and state of the art fitness centre, shopping arcade, beauty salon, Travel desk and more.

Pegasus Reef Hotel – "The city resort that's just right". Hendala, Wattala. Tel: +94 11 2930205-9, +94 011 4816100/1 Fax: +94 11 2930254, +94 11 2930737, +94 011 4816053 Email: info@pegasusreefhotel. com Web: www.pegasusreefhotel.com 107 Luxury Rooms. Facilities: All Rooms centrally A/C, Pipe music. All rooms with separate balcony. 30 minutes from Bandaranaike International Airport & 20 Minutes from

Ramada Colombo No: 30, Sir Mohamed Macan Markar Mw. Colombo 03. Tel: 94-11-2422001 Fax: 94-11-2447977 Web: www.ramadacolombo.com Nestling in the hearth of the city, Ramada Colombo is the discerning traveller’s heaven. Ideal for business or leisure the hotel is located a walk or a quick ride away from shopping, night life, the ocean and popular sights and sounds of Colombo. 94 rooms including 2 suites offers comfortable accommodation with all amenities and a superlative Food & Beverage service. Restaurants: Mogul Restaurant, “Gardenia Coffee Shop” open 24 hours, “Oasis Lounge” with its wide array of cocktails and

Colombo

★★★★

Colombo City. Separate children’s pool, Indoor & out door games; Squash Court, Beach Volleyball. 4 main venues for Banquet & Conference Facilities, Travel counter (A Carson Cumberbatch Hotel)

★★★★ juke box. Facilities: Large outdoor fresh water swimming pool, Gymnasium, Spa, Steam and Sauna, Wi Fi, 2 telephone lines in guest rooms with voice mail facilities, inter connecting rooms., smoking and non smoking rooms, fully appointed room for disabled, Shopping Arcade, Gems and Jewellery Shop, parking facilities, same day laundry and valet service, car hire, tour information, and bookings counter located in the lobby. 50% discount on buffet meals for children under 12 years.

Opulent River Face Hotel No. 166 Koswatta, Nawala, Rajagiriya Tel: +94 11 2865994, +94 11 5338182 Mob: +94 777632858 Fax: +94 115338184 Web:www.riverfacehotel. com 15 luxurious rooms with all modern amenities ideal for business travellers. Just 20 minutes from Colombo in serene surroundings facing river front. Overlooking the Diyawanna Oya from the rooms and

★★★ bathrooms making you feel so close to nature, embracing you with tranquillity. Rates in US$RO DBL 50 SUITE (4beds) 95 BB DBL 65 SUITE 115 HB DBL 85 SUITE 150 FB DBL 95 SUITE 175

Mount Lavinia Hotel 100, Hotel Road, Mount Lavinia. Tel: 011-2711711 Fax: 011-2730726 /2738228 Email: info @ mountlaviniahotel.com Web : w w w. mountlaviniahotel.com Just 12 km from Colombo, the Mount Lavinia Hotel is unique as it is the only beach resort on the fringe of the city limits. A heritage Hotel with colonial architecture retaining the old world charm and elegance. 210 Rooms: Ocean View Wing with Superior rooms, Direct Ocean View Wing with Deluxe rooms, Colonial Wing with Standard rooms. Each room

★★★★ with balcony & sea view, AC, Phone, TV, Mini bar and Shower. Restaurants: Governor’s Restaurant, The Terrace, Seafood Cove, Lobby Bar, The pool terrace bar The Fishtale Bar and in-room dining. Facilities: Private Paradise Beach. Swimming pool & baby pool. Banquet and conference facilities, business centre, WIFI, spa, beauty salon, gym.

Hotel Janaki

★★★

43, Fife Road, Havelock Town, Colombo 05. Tel: 2502169, 2581524, 2585336, 5377308, 5377702, 5367795, 5330308, 5377704, 5673373 Fax: 2589139 Email: wim @ sol.lk Web: www. hoteljanakicolombo.com 40 Rooms. Twin/ Single including 10 Triples, fully A/C, attached toilets and

baths, Cable TV, Mini fridge, IDD, Fax, Email, Internet, Photocopying, Business Centre, Bar, Restaurants, Pastry Shop, Swimming Pool, Room Service, 24 hour money exchange, international credit cards accepted.

A Wayfarer’s Inn “Its just like coming home again”. 77, Rosmead Place, Colombo 7. Tel: 011-2693936 Mob: 0777310692 Fax: 011-2686288 Email: wayfarer@slt.lk

Colombo

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Beaches – South, West, North Coasts Katunayake The Gateway Hotel Airport Garden Colombo 234 / 238, Colombo Negombo Road, Seeduwa Tel: 5440000 Fax:2552953 Email: airport. colombo@tajhotels.com / gateway.colombo@ tajhotels.com Web: www.thegatewayhotels. com / www.tajhotels.com/gateway GM Shekhar Walavalkar 120 Rooms with A/C. HACCP ISO 22000 & OHSAS(ISO 18000) Certified Hotel with A/C - Satellite

★★★★ TV, WIFI Internet connections, Mini Bar, Safety lockers, 24 hour room service and the Buzz-All day diningBanquet facilities-Business centre, In-house laundryBeauty salon-Shopping arcade, Volleyball, Tennis courts, Nature trail, Swimming pool Fitness centre.

Ramada Katunayake No. 842, Negombo Road, Seeduwa. Tel: 2253646/7, 2258429, 2258430 Fax: 2254157 Email: info@ r a m a d a k a t u n a y a ke . c o m W e b : w w w . ramadakatunayake.com MD/GM. Mr. Asoka Jayamanne, Manager Mr. Janaka Jayasekara. On Airport – Colombo main road only 10min. From Colombo Airport and Free Trade Zone. 68 A/C Rooms. Facilities:

★★★★ 24 hours Front Desk, Business Centre, Wifi, 24 hours Coffee-shop, Public Bar Airport shuttle service, Travel services, Steam bath, Spa centre, 3 well equipped Conference Halls and Banquets etc.

Natalia Airport Reach Hotel 636/, Liyanemulla, Seeduwa. Tel: 2251616 Email: nathalia_info@yahoo.com. Ideally located and designed to exceed expectations of the Businessmen, Tourists, Airline Passengers, Airline Crews, to have a restful and safe stay. 10min drive from BIA & Free Trade Zone& to Negombo. 45 min. to Biyagama & Colombo. 08 A/C rooms and 04 non A/C rooms with views of Negombo Lagoon. Restaurant: Western/Eastern/

Authentic Cuisine, Bar, Satellite TV, Tea Making Facilities and Safety Deposit Lockers. Mini Fridges. Bathrooms have H/C water, Hair Dryers, Roof Top Beer Garden, 24hr Room Service, Doctor on Call, Internet (WI-FI), Foreign Currency Encashment, Laundry Service Banquet and Conference Hall, Tour Arrangements.

Negombo Sea Drift Motel No 2 A, Carron Place, Off Lewis Place Negombo Tel : 0773-094377, 031-2235534

Ceylonica Beach Hotel No 47, Lewis Place, Negombo Tel : + 94 (0) 312222976

Beaches – South, West, North Coasts

Club Hotel Dolphin

★★★★

Waikkal, Negombo. Tel: +94 (31) 2277788/9 Fax: + 9 4 ( 31) 2279 4 37 E m a il : i n q u i r ie s @ serendibleisure.lk Web: www.serendibleisure. com Reservations: Serendib Leisure Management, A. A. Building, 40 Sir Mohamed Marcan Marker

Mawatha, Colombo 03. Tel: +0 11 2332155-8, Fax: 0 11 2438933

Golden Star Beach Hotel (Pvt) Ltd 163, Lewis Place, Negombo. Location: 2km from Negombo Town. 20 Minutes drive from International Airport. Tel: 031-5310818-23, 031-2233564/5, Fax: 031-1510825 Email: goldenst@gsbhlk.com Web: www.goldenstarbeachotel.com 62 A/C Rooms. M.D. Mr. Deva D. Peter (031-22 33564/5) Facilities: Conference facilities, Sailing, Boating,

★★★ Fishing, Indoor games, Piped music, Taxi service, Tour Desk, Shopping Arcade, Cellar discotheque. TV in lounge, Family room, Bar, Pool Bar, Parking, Body Therapy Centre. Dr. on Call.

Don’s Beach Hotel

★★★

71/2 Lewis Place, Negombo Tel: +94 ( 0 ) 312238939 / +94 ( 0 ) 716819427 Email: reservation@ donsbeachhotel.com Web : w w w. donsbeachhotel.com Set on the beautiful coastal line of Negombo Beach Don’s Beach is a subsidiary of Golden Star Beach hotel a well renowned hotel for it’s warm hospitality and service. We try to give our guests the best service a budget hotel can offer to make them feel at home. Don’s Beach Hotel has newly furbished 12 A/C rooms with cable TV, hot/cold water and WiFiInternet. All other facilities (Swimming pool, Beach entrance, Bar & restaurant and Ayurveda and Spa) can

be used from Golden Star, next door sister hotel. We also operate our own Tour service and we are capable of organizing tours on request. Come and Savour the difference and make your stay in Sri Lanka and Negombo Memorable. Rates in US$ RO SGL 45 DBL 50 TRI 57, BB SGL 50 DBL 60 TRI 74, HB SGL 55 DBL 70 TRI 91, FB SGL 60 DBL 80 TRI 100. Children sharing with 02 adults 00-03 yrs. free of charge. 3-12 YRS BB 10 HB 15 FB 20 per day per child. Rates inclusive of 10%SC 12%VAT 2.04%NBT

Starbeach Hotel 83/3, Lewis Place, Negombo. Tel: 031-2222606, 5310822, Fax: 031-2238266 Email: info@ starbeachnegombo.com Location: 2 Km from Negombo Town. 20 mins drive from International Airport.

15 Rooms. M.D. Mr. Anthony Fernando. Facilities: Boating, Sea bathing, Taxi Service.

★★

21, Porutota Rd., Ethukala, Negombo. Tel: 031-2279265, 031-5310329 Fax: 031-5310334, 031-5313333, 0777-302780 Email: topaz.beach.hotel@gmail.com Web: www.topazbeachhotel.com 30 Rooms.

The Icebear Guesthouse Sri Lanka with Swissness since 20 Years. 95-2, Lewis Place , Negombo. Email: icebearhotel@yahoo. com Tel : + 94 31 2233862 Web : w w w. icebearhotel.com (E), www.icebearhotel.net

(D) free WiFi , Cycle, Tea, Restaurants “Old Europe”, Colonial “Century Cafe”. Ayurvedic Massage, Airport Taxi and Tour Service, Tourist Info.

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Beaches – South, West, North Coasts

Topaz Beach Hotel

Paradise Holiday Village 154/9, Poruthota Road, Palagathure, Kochchikade, Sri Lanka. Tel: 031-2274588, 031-2274589, 0314926300 Fax: 031-2279289 Mob: +94 777 166 905 Dir/ G.M. Mr. Anton S. Gomez ACHSGA Email: info@paradiseholidayvillage.com Web: www. paradiseholidayvillage.com 15 Miles drive from Intl. Air Port Katunayake. Bangalows, Apartments, Rooms. Bangalows: 2 Rooms fully furnished, fully equipped Kitchen, H/C Water, T.V. Apartments: (a).

Goldi Sands Hotel Goldi Sands Hotel, Ethukala, Negombo. Tel: 031 2279021, 031 2279227 Fax : 031 2278019 Email: goldi@eureka.lk Web: www.goldisands.com GM Lal Dissanayake Rooms: 68 A/C Rooms + 02 Suites Room facilities: hot/cold water, cable TV, Mini

★★ SGL Apartment for 2 persons fully furnished, fully equipped Kitchen, H/C Water, T.V. (b). DBL Appartment for 4 persons fully furnished, fully equipped Kitchen, H/C Water, T.V. Rooms: SGL & DBL Facilities: Snack Bar, Tour arrangements. Ayurvedic body massage treatment by qualified, experienced professionals.

★★★ fridge, tea/coffee maker open restaurant, a/c bar with pool table, swimming pool & Jacuzzi, Ayurvedha Body Therapy.

St. Lachlan Hotel & Suites No.25, St.Anthony’s Lane, Poruthota Road, Etukala, Negombo. Tel : +94 312275000 Fax : +94 312274998 Email: priyanthaa@yahoo.com Web: www.stlachlanhotel.com Small Paradise In the heart of the “Negombo Stretch” Rooms: 10 Deluxe Double Rooms and 6 Suites. All rooms include LED TV Panels, Satellite TV, Movie library, and Tea/Coffee

making facilities, Bathrobe and Slippers, Luxury Toiletries. Facilities: Swimming pool, Bar and Restaurant, Wi-Fi and a personalized service concept. The ARIA Restaurant and the AQUA Lounge offer stylish ambiance which is synonymous with Harpo’s ventures.

Marawila Club Palm Bay

★★★★

Colombo Fort Hotels Ltd.Sales & Reservations: 53 1/1, Sir Baron Jayatilleke Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel: 2381644/ 45 & 4722682 Email: ressvh@sltnet.lk Web: www.forthotels.lk

Mount Lavinia Berjaya Hotel Colombo 36, College Avenue, Mount Lavinia. Tel: +94 11 2739610/4 Fax: +94 11 2733030 Banquet (Dir): 2739608 Email: berjaya@slt.lk Web: www. berjayahotel.com 85 A/C Rooms. (20 Deluxe Rooms and 65 Standard Rooms) Facilities: Piped Music, All Rooms face the Sea & with a Balcony, Kiddies Pool, 4

Beaches – South, West, North Coasts

★★★★ Venues for Banquet and Conferences, Coffee Shop, Beach Restaurant and Bar, Special Sunday Buffet Package, Business Centre, Laundry, Credit Card.

Omni Holiday Bungalow Location: Omni Holiday Bungalow, Mount Lavinia. Contact Numbers: Tel: +94 (0)11 272 2397 Mob: +94 (0)77 728 7863 Fax: +94 (0)11 273 6808 Reservation: Omni Travel (Pvt) Ltd, No 71G, Mount Terrace, Huludagoda Road, Mount Lavinia. Email: sales@omnitravel.lk Web: www.omnitravel.lk/ omniholidaybungalow An upper middle class, traditional Sri Lankan house with all modern facilities in a residential area, 50 km from BIA, 12 km to Colombo

city center & 120m. to Mount Lavinia Beach. Close proximity to shopping & good dining. 3 bedrooms, Fully A/C, Daily breakfast, & cleaning, H/C Cable and Wi-Fi, Safety lockers, Purified drinking water, Hair Dryer, Butler service, Tour and travel arrangements, Chauffeur driven car or minivan.

Palm Beach Hotel

★

Semi-Boutique Hotel, 52, De Saram Rd, Mt. Lavinia. Tel: + 94 11 2712713 Fax: 94 11 2721827 Email:palmbeachhotel@sltnet.lk Rooms: 43 double rooms with A/C, H/C Water, Mini Fridge, Hair Dryers, Wi-Fi, Conference Hall (40 pax) 250 pax long Conference Hall, Coffee Shop, well Stocked Bar, Beach

Restaurant, Swimming Pool including Kiddies Pool, Night Club, Pastry Shop, Nicely laid out Garden, Spacious Car park & Travel Counter ect. Elegant Banquet Halls and sumptuous food

Rivi Ras Hotel Chalet Style on the Mt. Lavina Beach. 50/2 De Saram Rd. Mount Lavinia. Tel: 011-2717786 / 077-7340887

Fax: 011-2691076 Email: info@rivirashotel.com Web: www.rivirashotel.com

Tropic Inn No. 30, College Avenue, Mt. Lavinia. Tel: 2738653, 2713975, Fax: 2713975 Email: info@tropicinn. com Web: www.tropicinn.com Chairman: Mr. Fazal Abdeen, Manager Ms. L.Simpson Rooms: A/C & Non A/C Attached Bath, Taxi service, Parking,

Free Wi-Fi. Tours arranged. Rates in US$ BB SGL 50 DBL 60 TPL 70

Ranveli Beach Resort 56/9, De Saram Road, Mt. Lavinia, Tel: 2717385, 0773938737 Fax: 2717385 Mob: 0777-575452 Email: ranvelibeach@ymail.com Web: www.ranvelibeachmountlavinia.com

New Wadduwa Beach Resort

★★

No. 14, Ratnayake Place, Talpitiya South, Wadduwa. Tel. 038-4284020, 2296449 Web: www. newwadduwabeachresort.com G.M. Gihan Cooray

Swiss Hotel Lotus Flower International (Pvt) Ltd.

★★★

Situated on the beach front. No. 18, Ratnayaka Place, Talpitiya South, Wadduwa. Tel/Fax: 038-2236377 Reservations: Email: lifeayurveda@hotmail.com, mchl_trvr@yahoo.com

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Wadduwa

Villa Ocean View Hotel 200/1 Molligodawatte, Wadduwa. Tel: 038-4299699 Fax: 038-4299666 Email: villaocn@sltnet.lk Web: www.villaoceanhotels.com Manager: Palitha Jayasuriya. For Reservations: Ocean View Resorts No:6, Charles Way, Colombo 03 Tel: 0112575382-3, 011-4621370-2 Fax: 011-4741592 Email: ocnview@sltnet.lk Set amidst a lush palm fringed beautifully landscaped garden with a panoramic

★★★★ view of the horizon. 143 Rooms all with A/C (61 superior, 76 Standard, 6 suites)., Hair Dryer on request. Facilities: 2 outdoor swimming pools, Jacuzzi, 3 Conference halls (450 pax), 3 bars, Shopping Arcade, WiFi, Table Tennis, Mini Golf, Billiard, Animated Theme Shows, Elephant rides, Internet access, Ayurveda.

Kalutara The Sands Kudawaskaduwa, Kalutara, Sri Lanka. Tel: +94 34 2228484 Email: ashmres@aitkenspebce.lk Web: www.aitkenspencehotels.com/thesands

Royal Palms Beach Hotel De Abrews Road, Waskaduwa, Kalutara. Tel: 0094034-2228113/7 Fax: 0094-034-2228112 Email: info@royalpalms.lk Corporate Office: Mercantile Investments Building - Tangerine Group Hotels 236, Galle Rd., Colombo 03. Tel: 0094-11-2343720/7 Reservations: 2422518/9 Fax: 0094-11-2448279 Email: reservations@mi.com.lk, tangerine@ mi.com.lk Web: www.tangerinehotels.com, www.tangerinetours.com General Manager: Mr. Ravi Kurukulasuriya. 123 Luxrious Rooms, Inclusive of 4 Suites, 1 Royal Suit, Centrally A/C, Boarded Floor,

Tangerine Beach Hotel De Abrews Road, Waskaduwa, Kalutara. Tel: 0342237295/2237982/3, 2237640, Fax: 2237794 E m a i l : t a n b c h @ s l t n e t . l k We b : w w w. tangerinehotels.com, www.tangerinetours. com Corporate Office: Mercantile Investments Building - Tangerine Group Hotels 236, Galle Road Colombo 03. Tel : 0 094-11-2343720 /7 or Reservations: 2422518/9 Fax: 0094-11-2448279 Email: reservations@mi.com.lk, tangerine@ mi.com.lk 50 kms from Colombo on S/West Coast. Director/G.M. Mr. Lakal Jayasinghe. 7 Suites & 159

Avani Kalutara Resort

★★★★★ Sea Facing, equipped with Satellite TV, Hair dryers, Piped Music & Tea, Coffee making facility. Palmetto Restaurant Coffee Shop and the Orient Seafood Restaurant Lounge bar, Swim-up pool Bar. Kiddies Pool, Bubble Bath, Health Centre Gymnasiam and Sauna, Shopping Arcade, Snooker & Billiards, Below Zero Night Club & Fahrenheit Pub. Squash, Tennis and Ayurvedha n Spa at our sister hotel.

★★★★ A/C Centrally A/C, Piped Music, Deluxe rooms are equipped with TV, Mini-Bar, Hair Dryers & Tea Coffee making facility. Main Restaurant, Supper Club, Coffee Shop Lounge Bar and Swim-up Bar. Kiddies Pool, Playground, Kiddies play area, Two Flood lit tennis courts, Squash courts, Table Tennis, Beach Volleyball, Badminton, Ayurvedha & Spa. Theme nights and light entertainment. Conference Facilities.

★★★★

St. Sebastian’s Rd, Katukurunda, Kalutara. Tel: 034-2226537/8/9, 034-4280801-3 Fax: 0 34-2226530 Email: info@kanilanka.com Web: www.kanilanka.com

Beaches – South, West, North Coasts

Golden Sun Hotel

★★★★

Kudawaskaduwa, Kalutara. Tel: 034222 8484 Fax: 0342228485, Email: goldsun@sltnet.lk 96 Rooms. Reservations: 315, Vauxhall Street, Colombo

02. Tel : 2308408, Fax : 2433755, Email : ash m res @ aitken spence.lk Web : w w w. aitkenspenceholidays.com

Beruwala The Palms

★★★★

Colombo Fort Hotels Ltd. Sales & Reservations: 53 1/1, Sir Baron Jayatilleke Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel: 2381644/ 45 & 4722682 Email: ressvh@sltnet.lk Web: www.forthotels.lk

Heritance Ayurveda Maha Gedara Moragalla, Beruwela, Sri Lanka Tel: +94 34 5555000 Email: ashmres@aitkenspebce.lk Web: www. heritancehotels.com/mahagedara

Bentota Avani Bentota Resort & Spa Bentota. Tel: +94 (34) 2275353, +94 (34) 2275248 Fa x : + 9 4 ( 3 4 ) 2275313 We b : w w w. serendibleisure.com Reservations: Serendib Leisure Management Ltd, A.A. Building, 40, Sir

★★★★ Mohamed Macan Marker Mawatha, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka. Tel: 011 2332155-8 Fax: 011 2438933 Email: inquiries@serendibleisure.lk Rooms: 45 – Standard Rooms with A/C, Hot/Cold Water.

Bentota Beach Hotel

★★★★

Bentota. Tel: 94-34-2275176-7 Email: reservations@johnkeellshotels.com General Manager: Sanjeewa Perera

Club Villa arranged to “Brief” Bewis Bawa’s Famous Botanical Garden. Turtle farm in Kosgoda back waters of Balapitiya, UNESCO, Heritage City, Galle & to Ambalangoda where creative craftsmen make attractive masks. Special rates for Sri Lankans and expatriates. Inquire: Club Villa. American Express & Visa Cards accepted.

The Surf

★★★★★

Bentota 100 deluxe rooms overlooking the Sea For reservations contact Travel Bureau on Tel: 011 5585858 (Managed by the Galle Face Group).

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138/15, Galle Rd., Bentota. Tel: 034-2275312 / 074287129 Fax: 074-287129 Email: hameed2@ itmin.com Location: Beach Front. M.D. Mr. S.M.A. Hameed. 17 Rooms (4 A/C Deluxe, 1 Club Suite, 12 Non A/C Comfort). Facilities: Swimming pool with spa Billiards, Table Tennis, Chess and other indoor games. All rooms with Balcony or Terrace, meals served on your choice from wide ranged a’la carte menu. Personalized International standard service. Excursions

Vivanta by Taj Bentota Dhannavijayarana Road, Bentota. Tel: +94 34 555 5555, Fax: +94 34 227 5160 Email: Vivanta. bentot a @ t ajhotels.com Web : w w w. vivantabytaj.com An exclusive beach and spa resort. 162 modern rooms with private sit-outs overlook lush gardens and the blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Facilities: Infinity edge swimming pool, state of the art fitness centre, globally renowned Jiva Spa, shopping arcade, beauty salon, travel desk, Conferencing facilities more. Restaurants: S.H.A.C.K. - where fresh sea food

★★★★★ is celebrated in an open air surrounding overlooking the ocean. Sea View - the stylish fine dining restaurant with a great wine collection Oriental Pavilion - The only authentic Chinese restaurant in Bentota. The Palms 24x7 multi-cuisine offerings. Sea Lounge - where Bentota’s most imaginative cocktails come alive and should you want to dip and sip, try the sunken setting in the pool at the Pool Bar.

Induruwa Royal Beach Resort 560, Galle Rd., Galabada, Induruwa. Location: 66 km. South of Colombo - on the beach at Induruwa Tel: 034-2274351 / 034-2274352 Fax: 034-2274350 Head Office: 7 1/1, Palmyrah Av, Colombo 03. Tel: 5522860/861 Email: cnhtravels@sltnet.lk Web: www.royalresortsrilanka.com 15 Sea View Deluxe Rooms Facilities: Pool, Private Balcony, Beach

★★★ Volley Ball, Badminton, Darts, Fishing, River Cruises, Touring & Entertainment Programmes, Beach Restaurant, Photo copying, Taxi Service, Hotel Boutique, Dr. on call credit cardS accepted.

Induruwa Beach Resort Kaikawala, Induruwa, Bentota. Tel: +94 34 2275445 Web: www.induruwabeachresort.com Email: reserveivr@gmail.com Managed by: Anushka Wirasinha. 93 sea view rooms with A/C, Satellite TV, IDD Facilities, Safe and minibar. Facilities: Swimming Pool, 2 Outdoor Jacuzzis, Sauna, Gym, Ayurveda Spa,

Yoga, Salon, Internet Access, WiFi, Animated theme shows Table Tennis, Billiards, Café, Restaurant, Banquet Hall (350pax), 2 Conference rooms, 2 Bars

Ahungalla Heritance Ahungalla Galle Road, Ahungalla, Sri Lanka. Tel: +94 91 5555000 Email: ashmres@aitkenspebce.lk Web: www. heritancehotels.com/ahungalla

Hikkaduwa Chaaya Tranz P.O. Box 01, Galle Road, Hikkaduwa Tel: 0912278000, 091-2306600 Email: reservations@ chaayahotels.com Rooms: 140 superior rooms, 4 deluxe rooms, 2 family suites and 4 corner suites General Manager: Sanjeeva Perera. Restaurants: Main

Beaches – South, West, North Coasts

★★★★ Restaurant, Mediterranean Restaurant, The Crab, Others-PADI certified dive centre, Gymnasium, Conference facilities, Diving snorkeling and Whale watching arranged.

Citrus Hikkaduwa

★★★

400, Galle Road, Hikkaduwa. Tel: 0914383244 Reservations: Citrus Leisure PLC No. 02, Police Park Avenue, Colombo 05. Tel: 011 5219591, Fax: 011 2593455 Email: res@citrusleisure.com Web: www.citrusleisure.com Contact Person: Mani Sugathapala, Director Marketing. Rooms 40 deluxe, 51 Superior Rooms 2 Suites overlooking the sea. Facilities: Piped Music,Tea/Coffee making facility, Hair Dryer, Fresh Water, Whale and Dolphin watching,

PADI Certificate, Surfing/Wind Surfing, Deep sea fishing, Diving, Snorkelling, Water polo, Boat Rides, Pool Billiards, Darts, Chess, Carrom, Open-air Bar adjacent to the Seafood speciality Restaurant, large Banquet Hall (190 persons) Medium Hall (125 persons) excursions to places of cultural value, natural beauty or even embark on a train ride.

Coral Reef Beach Hotel 336, Galle Road, Hikkaduwa. Situated on the beach, 100m. from Hikkaduwa Town. Tel: 091-2277197, Fa x : 0 91-2276 6 0 8 E m a il : i n fo @ c o ra l r e e f b e a c h h o t e l .c o m We b : w w w. coralreefbeachhotel.com M.D. Mr. N.Kamal

Mendis 30 Rooms (06 A/C). All rooms with private balcony and sea veiw Facilities: Eastern & Western Menu, Sea food specialty. Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Deep Sea Fishing, Glass bottomed boat rides.

Coral Sands Hotel

★★★

326, Galle Rd, Hikkaduwa. Tel: 091-2277513/2277436 Fax: 091-4-383225 Email: coralsands@stmail. lk Web: www.coralsandshotel.com

Nippon Villa Beach Resort No. 412/D, Galle Rd., Wewala, Hikkaduwa. Tel: 0914383095 Mob: 077 7292617 / 0725894306 Fax: 091-2277103 Web: www.nipponvillabeach.com

★ Email: nipponvilla@emailsrilanka.com 25 Airy Rooms. Ayurvedic Treatments.

Hotel Lanka Supercorals

Pool & Pool Bar, Safety lockers, Western and Eastern & Chinese cuisine with Sea Food Specials. Ayurvedha Health Club, Large Banquet Hall for up to 250 pax, Conference Facilities and much more. Visit Lanka Supercorals once and feel the difference.

Hikkaduwa Beach Hotel 298, Gallle Road, Hikkaduwa. Tel: 091 2277327 Fax: 091 2277174 Email: hikkaduwa@hbeachhotel. com Web: www.hikkaduwabeachhotel.com, CEO/GM Gamunu Karunaratne Location: 99 km from Colombo, 41 A/C rooms 9 Non A/C rooms with private Balcony and sea view, A/C bar, restaurant with Eastern & Western cuisine Buffet meals, Bar-be-Que

★★★ on the pool area, Glass Bottom Boat services, Scuba Diving, Snorklling Deep sea Fishing, Wedding Hall for up to 300 pax. 3 star facilities. Dr. on call, Credit cards, F/C exchange.

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390, Galle Road, Hikkaduwa. Tel: 091-2277387/8/9 - 4383385 Fax: 091-4383384 Email: supercorals@ sltnet.lk Web: www.hotellankasupercorals.com Chairman/M.D. Deshabandu W. Kaggodarachchi J.P. Manager: Mr. Ajith Dahanayake. Location: 99 kms from Colombo. 100 Roomes well furnished Beach Resort. 21 Deluxe 35 Superior & 44 Standard Rooms. Facilities: Fax, Large Pool adjoining Kiddies

★★

Ocean View Cottage Galle Road, Thiranagama, Hikkaduwa. Tel: 0094 912277237, 0094 914383315 Mob: 0094 777608542 Tourist board approved. A grade guest house, with 14 sea view rooms and a swimming pool. Email: oceanview@ sltnet.lk Web: www.oceanviewcottage.net

Cinnamon Garden Hotel & Restaurant

★★★

Galle Road, Thiranagama, Hikkaduwa. Tel: 091-2277081 Email: info@cinnamongardenhikkaduwa.com A/C rooms, non A/C rooms and satellite TV

The Harmony Guest House & Chillout Beach Restaurant. Top Secret Beach Restaurant & Coffee Bar – Galle Rd, Narigama, Hikkaduwa. Hotline: + 94 777 628682 Tel: +94 91 2277551 Email: topsecret@srilanka-holiday.info Web: www.srilanka-holiday. info. Rooms:12 Ideal location for Sun, Fun & Water Sports. Western & Eastern Cuisine.

Time N Tide Beach Resort 412 E, Galle Road, Wewala, Hikkaduwa. Tel: + 94 91 2277781 Mob: +94 (0) 777066814 Fax: 0912277140 Email: timentide@sltnet.lk Web: time-n-tide.com

WHY NOT Guest House, Seafood restaurant & Pub Galle Rd, Narigama, Hikkaduwa. Tel: 0914 921261, Mob: 0775233548 Web: www.whynotguesthouse. com Front of the famed surf point. Rooms: 8. Hot Water, Satellite TV. Fresh Sea Food. Why Not surf school, surf board rent, and surf lessons Tel: 0779881053

Hikkaduwa Restaurants Hotel Ritas & Beach Restaurant Galle Rd, Narigama, Hikkaduwa. Tel: +94 91 2277496, 4383208 Fax: -94 91 2277496. Email: ritas@ sltnet.lk Web: www.ritas.net.ms Rooms: 30, H/C Water.

Galle The Lady Hill Hotel Upper Dickson Road, Galle, Sri Lanka. Tel: 0912244322, 091-5450950, 091-5452852 Fax:

★★★ 091-2234855 Email: ladyhill@sltnet.lk Web: www.ladyhillsl.com

Holiday Bungalow Deniyaya (inland from the coast) Tel: 071 4479779, 011 2853921, 0777 266309 Situated in a tea estate, a lovely bungalow with all facilities. Motorable to the venue. 3 km fom Deniyaya town. Facing the majestic

Beaches – South, West, North Coasts

Sinharaja Rain Forest, 2 DBL, fully furnished with attached baths/toilets, H/C water. Cook available. Medium size garden & garage.

Unawatuna Thambapanni Retreat Yaddehimulla Road, Unawatuna, Galle. Tel: 0912234588 Fax: 091-2233130 Email: thambapanni@ sltnet.lk, info@thambapannileisure.com Web: www.thambapannileisure.com Location: 120Km 2 1/2hrs. drive from Colombo. Calm & Quite Nature Resort MD: Mr. Preshan Dissanayaka. GM: Mr. Janaka Kuruwitage. Rooms: 2 apartments, 3 Bungalows, 3 Tower Suites, 4 Deluxe, 6 Standard. All Rooms with A/C, Hot & Cold Water, LCD TV, Mini Bar,

Telephone, Private Balcony, Bath Tub, Antique Furniture. Restaurant: specialty restaurant with Italian, Chinese, Western, Eastern & Sea Food Cuisine. Facilities: Wi-Fi Zone, Swimming Pool, Yoga Meditation, Massage Centre, Library, Taxi Service, Room Service, Baby Sitting, Indoor Games, Bird Watching, Accepting Visa, Master, Amax Cards.

Thaproban Beach House Unawatuna, Galle. Tel: 091 4381722, 091 2227399 E m a i l : t h a p r o b a n @ g m a i l .c o m , i n f o @ t h a m b a p a n n i l e i s u r e .c o m We b : w w w. thambapannileisure.com Location: 120Km 2 1/2 hours South of Colombo. Newly refurbished boutique hotel on the world famous Unawatuna beach. MD: Mr Preshan Dissanayaka. GM : Mr. Janaka Kuruwitage. Rooms: 2 Penthouses (Master bed

room & Kiddies room), 4 Superior Rooms, 6 Deluxe Rooms, 2 Standard Rooms. All Rooms with A/C, Hot & Cold Water, Tel, TV, Mini-Bar, Private Balcony. Facilities: Wi-Fi Zone, Massage Centre, Library, Taxi Service, Baby Sitting, Room Service, Accepting Visa, Master, Amex Cards.

Hotel Neptune-Bay

★★★

Yaddehimulla Road, Unawatuna. Tel: 0094 (0) 91 2234014 Fax: 0094 (0) 91 4381538 Email: hotelneptunebay@ymail.com Web: www. hotelneptunebay.com Colonial style hotel facing the

sea with all modern facilities and conveniences. Spacious rooms with either a balcony or terrace. Pool on the first floor terrace overlooking the ocean on one side and a charming tropical garden at the back. Baby Pool.

Point De Galle (Family Beach Resort) Mihiripenna, Unawatuna. Tel: 091-2283206, 091-4-381300, Fax: 091-2234360, Email: pointdegalle@ sltnet.lk Web: www.pointdegallehotel.com

Sri Gemunu

Sun n Sea Unawatuna Sun n Sea Unawatuna. Tel: +94 (0) 91 2283200 Mob:+94(0)777 686833 Web: www.sunnsea.net Email: sunnsea.srilanka@yahoo.co.uk, ameendeane@yahoo.co.uk

Zimmer Rest Best Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurant in the area. Welladevala Rd., Unawatuna. Tel: 0914-380366 Email: jinsen_2004@hotmail.com Clean, Comfortable Rooms available.

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Beaches – South, West, North Coasts

Dalawella, Unawatuna, Galle. Tel: + 94 912283202, + 94 91 2283788 Fax: 94-091-4-380078 Email: susi@sltnet.lk, sales@sri-gemunu.com Web: www.sri-gemunu.com (Approved by Tourist Board)

Shanthi Holiday Resort

★★★

Your Holiday Home in Sri Lanka. Dalawella, Unawatuna. Natural Swimming pool, comfortable rooms&cabana Tel: 091-2283550 Fax: 091-4380081 Email: shanthiguest@sltnet.lk, info@shanthi-guesthouse.de Web: www.shanthi-guesthouse.de, www.shanthiguesthouse.com

Unawatuna Beach Resort Unawatuna, Galle. Tel: 091 4 384545 Fax: 091 2232247 Email: ubr@sltnet.lk Web: www. unawatunabeachresort.com MD: Vinodh de Silva GM: Janaka de Silva Location: 120kms3hours drive from Colombo. No. of rooms: AC Superior 27, Deluxe 18, Super Deluxe 4, Apartment 1, Luxury Suites 18, Super Luxury Suits 4, Superior rooms with AC, satellite TV, telephone, Mini Bar, Electronic safes, Free Wifi, Hot and Cold water. Deluxe Rooms with AC, satellite TV, telephone, Mini Bar, Electronic safes, Free Wifi, Complimentary tea/coffee, Hot and Cold water Luxury Suites with Butler Service, AC, satellite TV,

Comaran Beach Hotel Ganhena,Unawatuna,Galle. Tel: 0094 91 2283201/ 0094 7451900 Fax: 0094 91 2283201 Email: comaranbh @ gmail.com Web : w w w lavendishbeachresort.com 140km from Colombo. calm & quiet nature resort. Chairman/MD Mr Ranjan Dedigama. Residence Manager M.G.Sarathkumara. Operations Manager Rohana Dharmaratne. 1 apartment, 1 Suite room, 14 Deluxe Rooms and 10 standard rooms. All rooms with A/C, Hot & Cold Water,

★★★★ telephone, Mini Bar, Electronic safes, Free Wifi, Complimentary tea coffee service, exclusively designed furniture with a large balcony, Luxuriously designed bathroom with Jacuzzi, rain shower and H & C water. Facilities: Wellness Spa, PADI Diving Club, Aqua Gym, Yoga, Internet Café, Tennis Court, VolleyBall, Gymnasium, Badminton, Indoor Games, Beach Garden, Regular Entertainment, Happy Hours, Visa/ Master/ Amex / Maestro cards accepted.

★★★ TV, Mini Bar, IDD TP facilities, private balcony, Speciality restaurant with Western & eastern Food, Sea food and chinese cusine, Doctor on call. Facilities: WiFi Zone, Swimming Pool, taxi Service, Room Service, Currency Encashment, Accepting Visa and Master Cards. Room Rates in US Dollars. Deluxe Room HB DBL 95, HB SGL 75, HB TPL 120.

KINGFISHER Hotel & Restaurant Basigewatte Devala Road, Unawatuna. Tel: +94 (0)91 225 03 12 Email: info@kingfisherunawatuna. com, dumikingfisher@gmail.com Web: www.kingfisherunawatuna.com

The Garden Restaurant Buffet Mihiripenna,Talpe, Unawatuna Tel: 091 4923688, 0773 51018 8 , 0777 9 070 0 8 E m a i l : sajeewan1972@ gmail.com Ample Parking,

Nor Lanka Unawatune, Galle. Tel: + 94 91 2226194, +94 91 2226086, + 94 77 9530282 Email: norlankahotel@ yahoo.com, kallmanhelge@sltnet.lk Web: www.norlankahotel.com Rooms: 14 Comfortable rooms with private balcony A/C, Hot water, Mini Bar,

Beaches – South, West, North Coasts

Wedding & other Functions, AC/non AC Rooms. Breakfast - 7.00am - 10.00am, Lunch - 11.00am 4.00pm, Dinner - 6.00pm - 10.00pm ★★★★ IDD, Free WiFi, Health Centre Transport/ Roundtrips by Taxi or Van.

Koggala / Habaraduwa Koggala Beach Hotel Habaraduwa, Koggala. Tel: 091-2283243, 0912283244, 091-2283301 Fax: 091-2283260 Email: info @ koggalabeachhotel.com Web : w w w.koggalabeachhotel.com Koggala Beach Hotel is nestled on the golden sands fringed with coconut palms and tropical trees on an exquisite location with friendly staff, superb food and excellent service. 102 standard rooms and 12 superior rooms. Every room has a balcony or terrace with a view of the ocean. Attached bathrooms with H&C, individually controlled air-conditioning & ceiling fans, telephone, IDD, satellite TV, radio, mini bar.

★★★

Facilities: Two restaurants, two bars, swimming pool with jacuzzi and kiddies section, conference hall with capacity for 150 people, ayurvedic massage centre, shopping arcade, TV and Internet room, safe deposit boxes and left luggage facilities, FCE, daily evening cultural shows, animation and live music, vehicle and bicycle rentals. Beach volleyball, badminton, snorkeling, scuba diving, deep sea fishing, indoor game room, table tennis, carrom, chess and darts.

Weligama Heritage Weligama 10 Standard rooms Tel: 041 5210013

Neptune Resort

★★★

Surf Place Weligama. 484, New Road, Pelana, Weligama. Ideal Place for surfing and seafood on the beach. Tel: 041 – 2250803 / 0773852218 E-mail:

info@neptune-resort.com Web: www.neptuneresort.com. 20 A/C and non – A/C rooms with hot water. Airport pick up.

Matara Browns Beach Rest 39 B, Beach Rd, Matara. Tel: 041-2226298 M.D. Mr S.D.A. Kularatne 7 Rooms. 3 A/C, 4 Non A/C, with

hot water. Facilities: Restaurant & Bar. Over looking the ocean.

Dickwella Walgampokuna, Godauda, Kottegoda, Dickwella. 8 Rooms, Tel: 041-2259364 Email: info@kingdomsrilanka. com Web: www.welcometo-srilanka.com

Dickwella Resort & Spa “One more star in Sri Lankan sky” PVS 7020, B a t h e e g a m a , D i c k w e l l a . Te l : + 9 4 41 2255271/2255272 Fax: + 94 41 2255410 Email: reservation_drs@lolcleisure.com Web: www. dickwella.net Location: 180 kms from Airport. 3.5

★★★ hours from Colombo. Total 70 Rooms. 8 Suites, 18 Deluxe 40 standard twin/double or triple. Room rates on request depending on the season. Facilities: all rooms with A/C, Fan. All rooms sea view with terrace or balcony. Bazaar, Pizzeria, Action Bar. Fabulous

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Beaches – South, West, North Coasts

Kingdom Resort

Outside Terrace for “Evening Dining” overlooking the Indian Ocean. Afternoon Tea. Disco/ Karaoke. Conference Facilities. Sports and Recreational Facilities. Salt Water Swimming Pool, Table Tennis, Pool Table, Chess, Backgammon, Library, Bicycles, Midget Golf,

Archery, Badminton, Beach Volleyball, Canoeing, Snorkelling, Bodysurf, International Diving Center & Telescopes.

Tangalle The Nature Marakolliya, Medilla, Tangalle. Reservation: Ricky Harridge Mob: 0722310031 Tel: 047-2240844 Fax: 0472240845 Email: tangallenatureresort@gmail.com Web: www.natureresortstangalle.com

Lagoon Paradise Beach Resort

★★★

Marakolliya, Tangalle, Sri Lanka. Tel: 0094 47 2242509/528 Email: info@lagoonparadisebeachresort. com / lparadise@sltnet.lk Web: www.lagoonparadisebeachresort.com

www.travellanka.lk 20

Beaches – South, West, North Coasts

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Beach – East Coast Chaaya Blu

★★★★

Upuvali, Trincomalee - within close proximity to a number of small islands. Tel: + 94 26 2222307/ 2221611 Fax: 94 26 2227532 Email: reservations@chaayahotels.com Resident Manager: Lankesha Ponnamperuma.

Nilaveli Beach Hotel (Situated 15 km from Trincomalee). 11th Mile Post, Nilaveli, Trincomalee. Tel: 026-2232295/6, Fax: 026-2232297. Email: nilaveli@sltnet.lk Corporate Office: Mercantile Investments Bldg. Tangerine Group of Hotels - 236, Galle Road, Colombo 03. Tel. 2343720/7 Reservations: 2422518/9 Fax: 2448279 Email: reservations@ mi.com.lk, tangerine @ mi.com.lk Web : w w w.

★★★ tangerinehotels.com, www.tangerinetours. com Resident Manager, Mr Ravi Ramsay. 27 Rooms, Deluxe Rooms with seaview & Standard A/C Rooms with Seaview & Garden View, Beach Restaurant, Beach Bar, Sea bathing, Indoor Games, Parking facility, Boat excursions, TV in Lounge, Conference Facility.

Shahira Hotel Nilaveli Beach (Situated 15km from Trincomalee) 10th Mile Post, Nilaveli. Tel : 026-5670276, 071-3090393, 2733338 Colombo. Contact No: 24, Liyanage Road, Dehiwala. Tel: 5550589, 0777-944481 20 Rooms. 16 Non-A/C Rooms with Fan and attached toilet. 4 Non-A/C Cabana Rooms with fan and attached toilet. Beautiful location overlooiking Pigeon Island. Ideal for

Fishing trips. Splendid coral formations. Diving, Wind Surfing & Snorkelling Boat excursions. Jungle sightseeing trips. Restaurant, Western and Eastern Cuisine, Bar, Open Beer Garden. One minute walk to one of the best beaches in the Island.

Seylon Holiday Resort N0. 7(42), Alles Garden, Uppuveli, Trincomalee, three miles from Trincomalee town towards Nilaveli Road. Tel: 026 2224043, 2050250, 3207015 Fax: 2522212 Web www.seylon.com Manager. Mr. Siri. A/C - Non A/C Large Rooms with fan, WC, Eastern

and Western meals. Pool available. Children’s play area. Surrounded by Margosa Herbal Trees. 300 metres away from the sea - parking: 25 vehicles.

11th Mile Post, Nilavelie, Trincomalee. Head Office: No. 07, Rosmead Place, Colombo 07. Tel : +94112683383, +94264920633, +94267388388 Web: www.pigeonislandresort.com Ms. Roshi Stronach G M, Sales & Marketing. Rooms (30 Deluxe rooms & 8 Suite rooms, Tea / Coffee making facilities. Hairdryers in room (upon request), Mini Bar, Satellite

★★★ TV, IDD, In room safe, Shower cubical, Individual Controlled AC, Fan, Gym, Pool Bar, Main Bar, Main Restaurant, Ayurveda Centre, Kiddies Play area, Water Sports Facilities, Indoor & out door game facilities, Main pool & Kiddies pool.

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Beach – East Coast

Pigeon Island Resort Trincomalee

Ancient Cities Anuradhapura Heritage Hotel Anuradhapura Galwala Road, Pothnegama, Anuradhapura. Tel: +94(0)25 2237806 (Hunting) Reservations +94(0) 771097844 Fax: +94(0)25 2226495 Email: Info@heritagehotel.lk. Manager: Mr. M. P. M. Roshan Rooms: 35 A/C Rooms, H/C water, Room Service, A/C Restaurant (100 Covers) A/C Banquet Hall (300 Covers) Telephone, Free WiFi, Cable TV, Laundry, Swimming Pool, kiddies pool, Children’s playground, Ample parking space , Private balcony

Nuwarawewa Rest House Dharmapala Mawatha, New Town, Anuradhapura Tel: (0094 - 025) 222 2565, 222 3265 222 1414, 222 1372 Fax: (0094 - 025) 222 3265 Rooms: 70 A/C Rooms. Manager: Nihal Fernando. Reservations: Asst. Manager Lakshmi Weerasuriya Quickshaws Ltd. 3, Kalinga Place, Jawatte Road, Colombo 5. Tel: (0094 – 11) 258 3133-4-5, 258 2995, 250 8369 Fax: (0094 - 11) 258 7613 Email: hotels@ quickshaws.com Web: www.quickshaws.com Facilities: A/C Rooms, H/C water, Room Service, A/C

★★★ with stunning view of Tissa Lake, Conference Facilities, Telephone Local / IDD, Dr. on call, Encashment of Foreign Currency, Self making tea and coffee facilities, Wheel Chair Access, Sightseeing Tours, Easy access to Historical places Only 2km. 40km away from Wilpattu National Park - Bicycle on Hire. All Credit Cards accepted.

★★★ Restaurant, Telephone, well stocked bar & T V lounge, Laundry, Swimming Pool, kiddies pool, children’s play ground, Ample parking space, Conference Facilities, Telephone Local / IDD, Dr. on call, Encashment of Foreign Currency, Wheel Chair Access, Sight Seeing Tours, Easy access to Historic places, Bicycle on Hire, Credit Cards (AMEX, Master Cards, Visa,) etc.

Tissawewa Grand Old Town, Anuradhapura. Tel: (0094 025) 2222299, 2223505, Fax: (0094-025) 2223505 Manager: Mr. Nihal Fernando. Reservations: Asst. Manager Lakshmi Weerasuriya Quickshaws Limited No. 3, Kalinga Place, Jawatte Rd., Colombo 00500 Tel: (0094 – 11) 2583133-4-5, 2582995, 2508369 Fax: (0094 - 11) 2587613 Email: hotels@quickshaws.com Web : www.quickshaws.com Rooms: 07 - A/C; 08

- Non A/C Facilities Close to Archaeological Sites and Museum, H/C water, Room Service, Restaurant Laundry, Dr. on call, Encashment of Foreign Currency, parking, Wheel Chair Access, T.V., Bicycle on Hire, Credit Cards (AMEX, Master Cards, Visa, etc.).

Nature Breeze Nature Breeze Holiday Resort, No:388/48, 1 Stage, Harischandra Mw, Anuradhapura. Tel/Fax: 0252220318, 0777216131, 0254928747, 0714296379 Email: info@naturebreezelk.com / booking@naturebreezelk. com Web: www.naturebreezelk.com

Ancient Cities

Polonnaruwa Hotel Seruwa

★★★★

Ceylon Hotels Corporation PLC Hot Line: 011 5585858/0772 356185

Giritale Hotel

★★★

National Holiday Resort, Giritale. Tel. 027-2246311 Fax: 027-2246086 Email: ganeshant@ carcumb.com

Hotel Sudu Araliya (Pvt) Ltd New Town, Polonaruwa. Tel : 027-2224849, 0272225406 / 8 Fax : 027-2224848 Email : suduaraliya @ sltnet.lk Web : w w w. hotelsuduaraliya.com Rooms: 104 Rooms, General Manager: Emil Perera 0777860115 Room Tariff (US$) + 10 SC Spacious lake view-A/C rooms with balcony – H/C water-Piped music-Satellite TV-Mini bar, Telephone, Large scenic garden, Swimming pool with pool bar, kiddies pool-children’s park, Ayurveda Spa, Herbal garden, Lake view, Two large banquet halls upto 500 pax, outdoor dancing floor, Conf. Facilities,

★★★ Lakeside restaurant and bar, coffee shop, Business centre, Laundry services, Encashment/Recreation, Hotel Doctor, Entertainment, Safaris to national park, Boating, Excursions to heritage site, delicious food, Helpful staff-safety & security, parking, Driver Accommodation, Internet/Wi-Fi, Credit Card, TV Lounge. Rates in US$ RO SGL 90 DBL 100 TRI 110 BB SGL 95 DBL 105 TRI 115 HB SGL 105 DBL 120 TRI 140 FB SGL 115 DBL 140 TRI 170

Hotel Gajaba Kuruppu Gardens, Lake Resort,Polonnaruwa. Tel :027 2222394, 2222268, 2222392 Fax:027-2224091 Email: gajabaholidays@gmail.com Web: www.

hotelgajaba.com 24 Rooms. 10 A/C & 14 Non A/C. Beautiful Garden, Taxi Services, Cycles for Hire.

The Lake

★★★★

Polonnaruwa 50 deluxe rooms For reservations contact Travel Bureau on Tel: 011 5585858 (Managed by the Galle Face Group)

Sigiriya

Hotel Sigiriya

★★★ Ayurvedha Villa, Eco Centre, Outdoor Freshwater Pool & Kiddies Pool, Badminton, Bicycle Hire, Chess, Table Tennis, Volleyball, Cricket, Darts, Carrom, Conference Centre (125 Persons). Excursions: Bird Trails, Jungle Trekking, Village walks, Elephant Safaris to National Parks, Sigiriya Herbal Gardens, Pidurangala Temple, Sigiriya Rock Climb, Kaludiya Pokuna & Ritigala Archaelogical Sites.

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Sigiriya, Sri Lanka. Tel: +94 (66) 22 86821/2 Fax: + 94 ( 66 ) 22 86820 Email : inquiries @ serendibleisure.lk Web: www.serendibleisure. com Reservations: Serendib Leisure Management, A. A. Building, 40 Sir Mohamed Marcan Marker Mawatha, Colombo 03. Tel: +0 11 2332155-8, Fax: 0 11 2438933 Rooms: 45 Superior Rooms with A/C, LCD flat TV with buit-in DVD Player, Mini Bar, Terrace, H/C Water, Piped Music, Hair Dryer, Tea/Coffee maker, In-room Safe. 34 Standard Rooms with A/C, Terrace, H/C Water, Piped Music, Hair Dryer, Tea/Coffee maker Facilities: Pavilion type open air Main Restaurant,

Sigiriya Rest House Ceylon Hotels Corporation PLC Hot Line: 011 5585858

Sigiriya Village Hotel

★★★

Colombo Fort Hotels Ltd.Sales & Reservations: 53 1/1, Sir Baron Jayatilleke Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel: 2381644/ 45 & 4722682 Email: ressvh@sltnet.lk,sigiriyavillage@forthotels.lk Web: www.forthotels.lk

Dambulla Heritance Kandalama P O Box 11, Dambulla, Sri Lanka. Tel: +94 66 5555000 Email: ashmres@aitkenspebce.lk Web: www. heritancehotels.com/kandalama

Amaya Lake

★★★★

Kandalama, Dambulla. Tel: +94 66 4461500 Fax: +94 66 2286932 Email: amayalake@amayaresorts. com Web: www.amayaresorts.com

New Rest House Dambulla (Milano Grand) No. 50, Kandy Road, Dambulla. (Behind the Central Bus Stand) Tel: +(94) 66 2285388, 0774 406683 Email: info@milanogrand.com Web: www.milanogrand.com H/C water, A/C Rooms, Wi-fi, Handicap bathroom, Car parking

Habarana Cinnamon Lodge

★★★

Habarana. P.O. Box 2, Habarana. Tel: +94-66-2270011 Fax: 94-66-2270012 Email: reservations@ cinnamonhotels.com

Chaaya Village

★★★★

Habarana. P.O. Box 01, Habarana. Tel: +94-66-2270047 Email: reservations@chaayahotels.com

Heritage Habarana 04 Standard rooms Tel: 066 2270003

Ancient Cities

Kandy Kandy Residence 197, Rajapilla Mw. Kandy. Tel: +94 814473707 Mob: +94 (0) 727807676 Email: info@kandyresidence.

com Web: www.kandyresidence.com 9 rooms (4 with A/C) all with private balcony, hot water, wi-fi free.

Earls Regency Hotel

★★★★★

Tannekubura, Kandy. Tel: 0812422122-5 Fax: 08124 22133, Email: erhotel@sltnet.lk 84 Rooms. For Reservations: 315, Vauxhall Street, Colombo 02. Tel:

2308408 Fax: 2433755 Email: ashmres@ aitkenspence.lk Web: aitkenspenceholidays.com

Hotel Hilltop No.200/21, Bahirawakada, Peradeniya Road, Kandy, Sri Lanka. Tel: +94 81 2224162 Email: ashmres@ aitkenspebce.lk Web: www.aitkenspencehotels.com/hilltop

Devon Hotels (PLC) Ltd.

★★★

No. 51, Ampitiya Road, Kandy. Tel: 081-2235164/66 Fax: 0812235167 Email: devon@sltnet.lk Web: www. devonsrilanka.com

Senkada Rest & Ayurvedic Spa K.I.I Road Talwatte, Kandy Tel: +94 81 2 229 291 fax: +94 81 2 240 260 Hotline: 075 560 72 97 Direct : 072 222 34 36 Email : admin @ senkadarest.lk web: www.senkadarest.lk G.M.

– Roshan Abeykoon The Senkada cleverly combines the ambience of a traditional house with contemporary standard of convenience and luxury.

Amaya Hills

★★★★

Heerassagala, Kandy. Tel: +94 81 4474022/8 Amaya Resorts & Spas. Level 27, East Tower, World Trade Center, East Tower, Echelon Square, Colombo 01.

Email: sales@amayaresorts.com Web: www. amayaresorts.com

Oruthota Chalets Rajawella, Digana, Via-Kandy. Tel/Fax: 081-2375396, 2376213 Web: www.oruthota.wb.gs

Salika Inn & Restaurant

★★★★

Cinnamon Citadel

★★★★

124, Srimath Kuda Ratwatta Mawatha, Kandy. Tel: 94-81-2234365/6 Email: reservations@cinnamon hotels.com

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No. 27/1, Rajapihilla Mawatha, Kandy. Tel: +94 81 2222365/94-716804459 Email: info@salikainn.com Web: www.salikainn.com

The Kandyan Manor (Home Stay) Rambukwelle Walauwa, Yatiyawala, Katugastota, Kandy. 214/3 Rajasingharama Mawatha, Katugastota, Stay in the comfort of a traditional Kandyan Home, three spacious rooms, all conveniences, bird watching,

nature walks, medieval temples, safaris arranged Tel: (081) 4950497 Mob: 077 455 914/3 Email: kandyanmanor@gmail.com

Hotel Thilanka No. 03, Sangamitta Mw., Kandy. Tel: 081-2232429, 2227159/60, 4475200 Fax: 081-2225497 Email: thilankah@sltnet.lk Web: www.hotelthilanka. com 40 Rooms, AC 07 Suites (with TV), 31, NonA/C Resident Manager: Mr. Upul Gederakumbura Reservations Manager: Mr. Sampath Karunaratne. Facilities: Banquet Hall (upto 300 Guests) Ayurvedic

★★★★ Herbal Treatment Centre, Yoga Classes, 2 Restaurants, Exotic Sri Lankan Cuisine, International Buffets, Taxi Service, 2 Bars, TV Lounge, Shopping Arcade, Business Centre, Conf. Facs., Dr. on Call, Udawattekele Rain Forest Excursions.

Queens Hotel Dalada Veediya, Kandy. Located in the city of Kandy and built by the British over 150 years ago, amongst splendid surroundings alongside the Kandy Lake. Total

★★★ number of rooms – 75 rooms For Reservations Tel: 081 22330026 Fax: 0812232079 Email: queens@ kandymail.lk

Hotel Suisse No. 30, Sangaraja Mw. Kandy For reservations Tel: 0 81 2233024 Fa x : 0 8122320 83 Email : reservations.suisse@kandyhotels.lk Ideally located right beside the historic and picturesque Kandy lake, the 90 roomed well-known colonial styled Hotel

★★★★ Suisse, stands on nearly four acres of landscaped gardens the only city hotel in Kandy to stand on such a significantly massive acreage. 04 suites, 36 deluxe rooms, 53 standard rooms.

Serene Garden Hotel No: 189, Rajapihilla Mawatha, Kandy. Tel: +94 (0) 81 2227915-7 Fax: +94-81-2227918 Email: info@ serenegardenhotel.com Web : w w w. serenegardenhotel.com Rooms 35 (Split-type),

★ Private balcony, Piped Music, Swimming pool with Jacuzzi and Roof top restaurant & Bar.

Hotel Bamiyan No. 223, Rajapihilla Mawatha,Kandy. Tel: +94 81-2219924 .

Kandy Panorama Resort 352/H, Dharmaraja Mawatha, Kandy. Tel: 94-812240400, 0094-81-2240404, Hotline: 0094-779944155 Email: panorama@sltnet.lk Web: www.kandypanoramaresort.com GM: Indu Abeysinghe Scenically situated on top of a picturesque mountain, surrounded by mountain ranges, valleys and the Mahaweli river. Ideally and lavishly furnished guest

Kandy

★★★ rooms with private balcony. Exotic Sri Lankan Cuisine and multi-national menus. Open air Restaurant. English and German speaking staff. 5 min. drive from the Temple of Tooth. Broad band Internet, laundry service, tour arrangement and travel information.

Hunas Falls by Amaya

★★★

Elkaduwa, Kandy. Tel: +94 81 4940320, +94 777280539. Fax: +94 81 2470044 Email: hunas@leisure. hayleys.com Web: www.amayaresorts.com

Hotel Tree of Life

★★★

Yahalatenna, Barigama, Werallagama, Kandy. (just 7km from Katugastota Junction on the Kurunegalla - Kandy Rd.) Tel: +94 81 2499777 Fax: +94 81 2499711 Email: tolhotel@sltnet.lk Web: www.hoteltreeoflife.com

Lake View Rest 71a Rajaphilla Mawatha, Kandy Tel: 081-2239421, 077-6205839, E-mail: dayabma@hotmail.com web: www.lakeviewrest.net 15 A/C and non A/C rooms with hot/cold water free WiFi and internet facility, A breathtaking view of the Knuckles Range, Kandy lake

and the city. Restaurant: experience the best Sri Lankan cuisine and choice of Chinese and western food. A very scenic short walk to the city. Airport transport, City tours or tour transport organized on request.

FoRest Villa Hotel

★★★★

The Hotel has an enviable location in the heart of the city and provides a unique experience of wow service. The intimate hotel is in complete contrast to its suburban surroundings. During the stay, some of the city’s coolest attractions like, The Temple of Tooth, Lakes, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, Temples and, etc., are all easily accessible. Stay at FoRest Villa Hotel Kandy

to feel the convenience of your vacation at a very reasonable price. You are just a part of our family! Hotline: 0094 77-535-0056 Tel: 0094-812234107 Email: info@forestvilla.lk Web: www. forestvilla.lk

Kandy

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High Country Nuwara Eliya Grand Hotel Grand Hotel Rd., Nuwara Eliya. (Adjoining Golf Course). Built in 1891. Tel: 94-052-2222881/7 Fax: 94-0522222264/5 Email: thegrand@sltnet.lk Corporate Office: Mercantile Investments Building - Tangerine Group of Hotels, 236, Galle Rd., Colombo 03. Tel: 94-11 -2343720/7 Reservations: 2422518/9 Fax: 0094-11-2448279 Email: reservations@mi.com. l k , t a n g e ri n e @ m i.co m .l k We b : w w w. tangerinehotels.com, www.tangerinetours. com G.M. Mr. Palaka Perera 154 Rooms with three

★★★★ Presidential Suites, 4 Junior Suites, Piped Music, Heaters, TV and Mini Bars, Tea/Coffee making facilities in all room, 3 Lounges, WIFI in public areas, Main Restaurant, Coffee Shop, Tea Lounge, Supper Club, Authentic Indian Restaurant, Take Away Snack Counter, Public Bar, Wine Bar, Three Billiard tables, Chess, Draughts, Health Centre, Sauna, Banquet Hall (200 participants Theatre style and a Board Room)

Heritance Tea Factory Kandapola, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka Tel: +94 52 5555000 Email: ashmres@aitkenspebce.lk Web: www. heritancehotels.com/teafactory

Hotel Sunhill 18, Unique view Road, Nuwara Eliya. Tel: 0522222878, 2223300, 2223710 Fax: 052-2223770 Email: hotelsunhill@sltnet.lk Reservation: 071-4107344 (The tariff is not applicable for long week ends) Facilities: 20 Rooms with Hot water,

Rock Hotel Scottish Type Hotel Overlooking Gregory’s Lake & Picturesque Green Hills. 60, Unique View Road, Nuwara Eliya. Tel: 011 -5731006, 052 - 5679002 Fax: 052-2235911 10 Rooms (Deluxe & Standard) Hot Water, Piped Music, Heaters, Cable TV, DVD, Dryer,

Langdale by Amaya Nuwara Eliya. Tel: +94 524924959 Fax: +94 524924831 Email: langdale@amayaresorts.com Web: www.amayaresorts.com

★ Cuisine: Eastern, Western and Chinese A-La-Carte, Pub, Conference Hall, Car Parking facilities.

★★★ Eastern, Western, & Chinese Cuisine, A-la-carte, Bar, Lounge with Fire Place, Parking.

★★ Reservations: 239, High Level Road, Colombo 05. Tel: 0715 338246 Email:inq@acaciainn.lk Web: www.acaciainn.lk

Blossoms Luxury Botique Hotel 4/12, Kandy Road, Top Pass, Nuwara Eliya Tel: 052 222 4042, 077 7731313 Email:blossoms.hotel@ hotmail.com, blossoms.hotel@gmail.com Web:www.blossoms.lk

High Country

Adam’s Peak - Sri Pada White Elephant Hotel Delhousie, Maskeleya. Tel – 0513507377 / 0094 771698703 / +94 777171395 / +94 727698703 / +94 779130118 Email - hotelwhiteelephant@ gmail.com. Web - www.hotelwhiteelephant. com. 10 large rooms,2 king size beds,Hot water, Large

balcony overlooking Adam’s peak & Kelani River, Exotic Sri Lankan Cuisine, Satellite TV, Wi-Fi and Internet, Bird watching, Nature walks, Hiking, Visit to a nearby tea factory.

Kitulgala Hotel Breeta’s Garden Ranjurawa, Ginigathene, Kitulgala. Tel: 0512242020, 0602511113 Tel/Fax: 0602519591, 5 D/Rooms with Hot & Cold Water, Swimming Pool.

Belihuloya Belihuloya Rest 14 standard rooms Tel: 045 2280156

River Garden Resort Nature & Adventure Activity Centre, Badulla Road, Belihuloya. Tel: 045-2280222/3, 0772-774775 Fax: 0 45 -228 0223 Email : reac h me @ s r i l a n k a e c o t o u r i s m . c o m W e b : w w w. srilankaecotourism.com Reservations: Eco Team [Pvt] Ltd, 20/52, Fairfield Gardens, Colombo 08. Tel: +94-011-5330833, 5335893, 0772-260990 Fax:

+94-011-53308513 Non A/C Individual Cottages, 01 Eco Lodge, 30 Tented Campsites Restaurant & Bar, Western, Eastern & Chinese Menus, Natural Pool, Room Service, Laundry, Security Service, Credit Cards accepted, Eco friendly Environment. Nature trails, Mountain biking, Canoeing & Kayaking, Wildlife Safaris, Rock Climbing, Ramayana Trail.

Bandarawela

Bandarawela Hotel No. 14, Welimada Road, Bandarawela. Tel: +94 57 2222501 Email: ashmres@aitkenspebce.lk Web: www. aitkenspencehotels.com/bandarawela

Cranford Villa 542, Kahagolla, Diyatalawa. 3 Standard, 2 Superior Rooms. Attached Baths, Hot & Cold Water, Indoor Games, Hot Water Jacussi, SAT. TV, RESV: 2587996, 5646611

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Haputale Thotalagala Tea Plantation Bungalow Colombo Fort Hotels Ltd.Sales & Reservations: 53 1/1, Sir Baron Jayatilleke Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel:

2381644/ 45 & 4722682 Email: ressvh@sltnet. lk Web: www.forthotels.lk

Sherwood Tea Plantation Bungalow Colombo Fort Hotels Ltd.Sales & Reservations: 53 1/1, Sir Baron Jayatilleke Mawatha, Colombo 01. Tel:

2381644/ 45 & 4722682 Email: ressvh@sltnet. lk Web: www.forthotels.lk

Ella Ella Motel

★★★

10 standard rooms Tel: 057 2228655

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High Country

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National Parks Accommodation – National Parks Mahoora Luxury Safari Camps BUNDALA, UDAWALAWA, WASGAMUWA & YA L A N ATI O N A L PA RK S , SI NG H A R A JA RAINFOREST & KNUCKLES NATURE RESERVE. If it’s the ultimate camping safari experience you’re looking for in the utmost comfort, MAHOORA is the choice for you! For more information: www. mahoora.lk Reservations: Eco Team (Pvt) Ltd, 20/43, Fairfield Garden, Colombo 08. Tel: 011 5830833, 5835893, Fax: 011 5330581 Hotlines: 077 2260990, 077 7004644 this is camping in style! The camp is set up prior to your arrival, transporting

in comfortable tents with raised beds, a fully equipped kitchen, chairs and tables, hammocks, flushable toilets, showers and even cold beer. On your return from the afternoon safari, you will be welcomed with a hearty barbecue meal in a magical setting – the whole area is lit up with traditional flame torches and a roaring campfire. So sit back, relax and let our experienced staff cater to your every need.

Udawalawe Safari Village Hotel R. B. Canal Road, Udawalawe. (The first Tourist Board approved Hotel at Udawalawe. Managed by S & K Safari Village Pvt. Ltd. Kin jou - Sakura Group.) 19 Comfortable Rooms with A/C, Hot water, Large restaurant serving Eastern, Western & Chinese cuisine. 10 minutes drive to National Park entrance and elephant

orphanage, 4WD Jeeps for safari tours. Tel/Fax: 0472233201 Reservations: S and K Safari Village (Pvt) Ltd. 33, Amarasekara Mw, Colombo 05. Tel: 2591728, 2589477, 4518353 Fax: 2591223

Restaurant Pelican Restaurant (Specialised in Chinese & Sri Lankan Cuisine), Near Udawalawe National Park, 580, Ratnapura Road, Colombage Ara. At 42nd KM post on Ratnapura Embilipitiya Road. Tel: 047-2232060

Wasgamuwa Hadungamuwa, Wasgamuwa. Tel/Fax: 072 4655085 (The first Tourist Board approved Hotel at Wasgamuwa. Managed by S & K Safari Village Pvt. Ltd. - Kinjou Sakura Group.) Beautiful location surrounded by lake. Picturesque view of Knuckles mountain range. 12 comfortable large cottages with hot water. 10mts. drive to National Park entrance. Large restaurant serving

Eastern, Western & Chinese cuisine. 4WD Jeeps for safari tours. Reservations : S and K Safari Village (Pvt) Ltd. 33, Amarasekara Mw, Colombo 05. Tel: 2591728, 2589477, 4518353 Fax : 2591223

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Willys Safari Hotel Wasgamuwa. Beautiful location surrounded by Dunuwila wewa & Knuckles mountain range. Reservation: No. 252/2, Nawala Road, Nawala, Rajagiriya. Tel: 2806311, 2805313 Fax: 2808312 Email : willyssh @ sltnet .lk Web : w w w. willyssafari.com M.D. Mr. Prasanna Ranasinghe, Manager: Mr. Mantjula Nanayakkara. 21 Rooms. 10 DLX Rooms (A/C, Fans, Hot Water, T.V., Furniture & Large Bathroom) 10 STD Rooms (A/C, Fans &

Furniture), 01 Family Room (A/C, Hot Water, T.V., Furniture). Willys Holiday Home 1 & 2 (walking distance to the National Park.) Facilities: 01 A/C Room/there is spacious accommodation for 10pax, T.V., Service of a cook, Refrigerator, B.B.Q. Grill, Fans & Linen, The main meals are: Sri Lankan, Chinese, Indian & Western. 4WD Jeeps for Safari Tours.

Tissamaharama The Safari

★★★★

50 deluxe rooms overlooking the tissa lake For reservations contact Travel Bureau on Tel: 011 5585858 (Managed by the Galle Face Group)

Lake Side Tourist Inn Akurugoda, Tissamaharama. Tel/Fax. 047-2237216/ 5675456 M.D. Mr. S.D.A. Kularatne, 22 Rooms. 11 A/C, DBLS 11 Non A/C SGLS. Swimming Pool, Restaurant Bar. Web: www.hotellakeside.com

Refresh Hotel (A/C Non A/C Rooms available) Akurugoda, Tissamaharama. Tel: 047-2237357

Hotel Chandrika Kataragama Rd., Tissamaharama.2 KM from Tissamaharama. Tel: 047/2237143, 2239365, 4 3 7 8 7 51 F a x : 0 4 7 / 4 3 7 8 7 5 0 E m a i l : c h a n d rika h otel @ slt net .lk We b : w w w. chandrikahotel.com Manager: D.M. Dissanayaka 20 A/C Rooms. Facilities: H/C Sat, Television, Tel/ IDD, Mini bar, digital safe, Swiming pool with submerged bar & whirlpool spa (Jacuzzi) Ovelooking natural garden Restaurant - continental cuisine, eastern/western

Priyankara Hotels (Pvt) Ltd. Kataragama Road, Tissamaharama. Located 1 km from Tissamaharama Town. Tel: 047-2237206, 4378378 Fax: 047-2237326/ 4378379 Email: priyankara@ sltnet.lk, Web: www.priyankarahotel.com Manager: Mr. Rasika Weeratunga 30 A/C Rooms. Facilities: All rooms with Individual Balconies overlooking lush paddy fields. Swimming Pool adjoining paddy fields, Kidies Pool, Main Restaurant serving Continental cuisine blending eastern and western specialty, Indoor Games, Bird Watching, Tours to Yala,

National Parks

★★★ specialist. VISA, MASTER, AMEX Card accepted, Room Service Laundry, Fishing, Bird waching Yala, Bundala safaris, Boat safaris, BBQ nights, Boating. Rates in US$ BB SGL 65 DBL 80 TPL 95 HB SGL 75 DBL 90 TPL 120 FB SGL 95 DBL 120 TPL 150 Deluxe Suppliment. US$ 25 Extra Bed 07 US$. Rates are noncommissionable & subject to Govt Tax.

★★ Bundala & Udawalawa National Parks. Close proximity to Kataragama God Skanda Kovil & Tissamaharama Archaeological Sites. Rates in US$ AC Deluxe BB SGL 90 DBL 110 TPL 130 HB SGL 100 DBL 125 TPL 160 FB SGL 110 DBL 140 TPL 190 Extra Bed 10. Meal rates B 10, L 10, D 10.

Jayasinghe Holiday Resort Detagamuwa, Katharagama. Tel: 047 2235146, 0777 673077 Fax : 047 2235030 Web : w w w. jayasinghehotels.com, Email: jayasinghe@live. com Chairman: Mr. Jagath Jayasinghe. 26 fully furnished AC Rooms, restaurant - Indian, Western & Eastern cuisine. Swimming Pool, Pool tables and many more indoor games. Live calypso music-weekends. Tours to Yala, Bundala,

★★ Udawalawa Parks, Taxi service to Kirivehera Temple, God Skanda & God Ganesh Kovils, Vadahiti Kanda, Muslim shrine etc. 10 mts away Transport available for Airport arrival and departure.

Yala Yala Leopard Lodge No 8, Deewara Gammanaya, Yala Junction. Boutique Private Lodge near Yala Junction, overlooking farm fields and the jungle. Just 15 minutes from Yala National Park entrance. Reservations: +94 77 738 5257, +94 11 266 9920 or + 94 77 342 0970 Email: info@bamleisure.com Web: www.bamleisure. com CEO: Suvi Wijayaratna. Comfortable A/C Bed Rooms, Attached Washrooms with Hot/Cold Water, Clean & Fresh Linens/Towels, Personal Care Amenities,

Housekeeping, TV/DVD/Safe Box in Rooms, Free Wi-Fi Internet, TV Room with Library, Swimming Pool & Jacuzzi, Restaurant & Sitting, BBQ Facility, Full Time Cook & Caretaker, Drivers and Maids Amenities, Luxury Safari/Bird watching Tours to Yala, Udawalawa & Bundala. Special Prices for Full Lodge Bookings.

Chaaya Wild Yala

★★★★

P. O. Box 01, Kirinda, Tissamaharama. Tel: 047-2239450/1, 112306600 Email: reservations@chaayahotels. com Rooms: 60 jungle chalets, 06 Beach Chalets, General Manager : Roshan De Silva. Restaurant: Main restaurant (Non A/C), Pool Bar, Observation deck bar, Hotel organized safaris and excursions.

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Boutique Hotels Talalla Retreat – Southern Beaches Region Sampaya House - Talalla South, Gandara, Matara. Tel: + 94 41 2259171 Mob: + 94 77 9039515 Email: rel a x @ t alalla re t re at .co m We b : w w w. talallaretreat.com Sri Lanka’s chic new boutique hotel, is a private world of barefoot luxury, Nestled metres from exquisite Talalla Beach, a secluded cove of turquoise water, golden sand and mesmerising sunrises, spacious villa style rooms set amid four tranquil

acres are elegantly appointed with open-sky marble bathrooms, private patios and lush views. Open-air gourmet restaurant. A signature spa treatment; or custom-built yoga pavilion and sparkling freshwater pool.

The Sun House 18 Upper Dickson Road, Galle. Tel: 091 4380 275 Fax: 091 22 22624 Email: info@thesunhouse. com Web: www.thesunhouse.com The Sun House is Sri Lanka’s original Boutique Hotel and comprises 7 rooms, high on a hill over looking Galle. 2 stunning suites, 2 deluxe rooms and 3 standard rooms set in quiet surroundings. Just 2 minutes down the hill is

Galle’s buzzing main street leading the famous Galle Fort for walks, sea air, shopping and restaurants. Fine varied cuisine. Our well known DICK’S BAR open daily. Competitive prices, affordable meals, and a wonderful atmosphere.

Amor Villa No. 40, Delawella, Unawatuna. Tel: +94 91 4933087 Mob: 0777 905205 Email: amorvilla7@hotmail. com Web: www.amorvilla.com A delightful, spacious colonial house lovingly restored retaining its

Serene Pavilions No. 20, Upali Mawatha, Wadduwa, Sri Lanka. Tel: +94 38 2294444, 38 7388400 Fax: +94 38 2294450 Web: www.serenepavilions.com www.thepavilionsrestaurant.com An exclusive 12 Pavilion boutique hotel, sits amidst a large beachside coconut grove with unsurpassed views of the Indian Ocean, 45 minutes from Colombo. The 12 luxurious Pavilions, which all boast subtle and refined décor, are a spacious 2500 sq ft in size. These Pavilions offer the best in exquisite elegance and are the largest individual Pavilions to be found in any truly boutique luxury hotel in Sri Lanka. Private pool with a large timber deck area for outdoor living. Carp and lotus-filled entrance ponds. Traditional Balinese-style Bale offering a sun-shaded

Boutique Hotels

original charm. 4 suites with A/C & modern facilities. Endless ocean views, spectacular sunsets & memorable dinning at the restaurant by the sea. 7 beach cabanas.

★★★★★ area ideal for perfect relaxation, an elegant and spacious living and dining area opening directly onto the deck, 24 hour personal Butler service, Butler’s pantry and kitchenette, an opulent marble bathroom with Jacuzzi and separate shower and WC, A king size 4 poster-bed with a pillow menu, a dressing room with vast wardrobe space, WiFi access, a cushion-clustered daybed, Home Entertainment system featuring IPod dock / DVD /CD Player and flatscreen TV, Electronic Safe, Hairdryer and multiple adaptors, telephones in every room with IDD connection, Private Bar with a carefully chosen selection of local and internationally branded drinks

Notes

The Comprehensive Monthly Guide to Travellers in Sri Lanka

Travel Lanka