Get Sri Lankan’ed” kicks off in style with a Press Conference in Mumbai

Sri Lanka Tourism’s second 3Day Mega Promotional campaign named “ Get Sri Lanken’ed”  kicked off in style in the city of Mumbai on 10th Friday 2013 with a high profile media conference held in Taj Lands End Hotel- Salcette –Mumbai . The press conference was the first of series of events lined up under the “Get Sri Lankaned” promotional campaign of Sri Lanka Tourism, implemented with the aim of positioning Sri Lanka as a most sought after travel destination in emerging markets of the world. 
Organised with joint efforts from Public and Private sectors, the “Get Sri Lankaned” campaign has been initiated under the advice of H.E the President Mahinda Rajapaksa inspired by the vision of  developing sustainable tourism industry in Sri Lanka. During the press conference the Indian media was briefed about the objective of the promotional campaign and the nature of events scheduled to take place from 17th -20th May 2013 in Mumbai. The press conference was graced by the distinguished presence of  the Hon. Muthu Sivalingam- Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Hon. Sanath Jayasuriya (MP) - Sri Lanka tourism Brand Ambassador, Ms.Upekka Samaratunga –Honorary Consul in Mumbai, Mr.Bhashwara Gunaratna Chairman- Sri Lanka Tourism, Mr.Rumay Jauffer – Managing Director of Sri Lanka Tourism, Mr.Nishantha Ranatunga- Secretary, Sri Lanka Cricket, Mr. Douglas Nanayakkara –Additional Secretary ,Ministry of Higher Education, Mr. Rohit Khosla – General Manager- Taj Group of Hotels.
Addressing the gathering the Hon. Deputy Minister -Muthu Sivalingam noted that India and Sri Lanka have many similarities as Asian Nations and the long standing relationship they have as close neighbors creates immense opportunities for both countries to share common interests, values and develop socio-economic ties with each other. “We would not call India our Big Brother, we would like to call it our elder brother” remarked the Hon. Deputy Minister emphasizing the good will existing between the two countries. He also stressed the giant efforts put into developing tourism industry by the government of Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Economic Development, and it is time to reap the benefits of tourism industry of Sri Lanka.  
Mr.Bhashwara Gunarathna Chairman- Sri Lanka Tourism addressing the media explained the rationale behind launching “ Get Sri Lankaned” campaign in India and how Sri Lanka Tourism plans to achieve maximum influx of Indian tourists from Indian market. “According to UNWTO reports Indian out bound tourists will rise to 50 million in 2020. Sri Lanka’s target is to attract 400,000 Indian tourists by year 2016 thus helping to reach the goal of 2.5 million arrivals by year 2016.”  Mr. Gunaratna also added that “we are thankful to H.E. the President of Sri Lanka and Hon. Basil Rajapakse –Minister of Economic Development for the continuous guidance provided to carry out promotional campaigns of this nature to develop travel and tourism industry of Sri Lanka. 
Hon. Sanath Jayasuriya (MP) and Tourism Brand Ambassador, captured the center of attention of the media during the press conference and in his speech mentioned that “I am glad to be in India on a different mission to cricket, my country has always supported me throughout my career as a cricketer and I am inviting all my media friends here today to help us promote Sri Lanka in India to enhance the relationship of both nations. Sri Lanka always treats everyone the same. We never had any issues with Chennai people coming to Sri Lanka. We treat them like brothers and sisters and we will continue to do that," he maintained. 


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Things to do in sri lanka

                             Things to do in sri lanka

things-todo-mainA world of attractions presents itself to guests who choose to visit Sri Lanka. Whether it’s the fun life on the beach or the various marine activities that are on offer Sri Lanka has everything you could ever possibly seek. Historic sights that are strong representations of the country’s culture and history are also on offer to be explored. Examples include the World Heritage Sites of Sigiriya, the Rock Cave Temples at Dambulla, Anuradhpura and Polonnaruwa Ancient Cities. As a country boasting of an ancient civilization Sri Lanka has many cultural events and activates. One such prominent cultural event in Sri Lanka is the Perahara. This festival or parade features everything from elephants to an array of performers who impress the crowd with various feats and attire. This signifies the strong Buddhist heritage of the country as the parade actually has a strong religious basis. For those who are interested in Nightlife, Sri Lanka provides many night activities to indulge in. The capital Colombo comprises many post dusk activities, as the city boasts of various different clubs that cater to a wide ranging audience. Whatever you are choosing you are sure to find a night venue that is to your liking when in Sri Lanka.

Activities

Sri Lanka like said by Marco Polo the traveller (1293 A.D) actually a Land like no other. This small island of only 270 km long and 140 km wide has the most diversed activities you can do on your Sri Lanka tour. Each activity will be an unforgettable experience you will take home with you. Wherever you go you will be able to reach incredible golden beaches, ancient cities, cultural sites, Wildlife parks, beautiful waterfalls, untouched rain forests, rolling hill country with tea plantations and botanical gardens are some of the must see places of this paradise island.

Relaxing on the Beach

A single line of footprints crosses the golden sand towards the Indian Ocean, which spills softly onto the beach. Beyond the stretch of calm, indigo-blue sea, a line of breaking waves marks the coral reef where recreational divers discover vividly coloured tropical fish and living corals. Sri Lanka offers over 1,300 kilometres of idyllic sandy beaches. With its year-round summer and two different weather
systems, whatever the time of year, there’s always a beach with sunshine and a choice of calm seas or steady surf depending on what you feel like. There’s a beach for all tastes, budgets and seasons in the lovely island of Sri Lanka.Pasikuda & Kalkuda, Negambo, Wadduwa, Kosgoda, Beruwela & Bentota, Trincomalee, Tangalle, Dondra Hea, Mirissa, Weligama, Tangalle Bay, Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, Arugambay

Sanctuaries

According to ancient Buddhist scriptures, the concepts of wildlife sanctuaries have its origins in Sri Lanka. Long time ago as 247BC, the King of Sri Lanka at the time, Devanampiya Tissa, created the world’s first wildlife haven in what is today known as the cultural triangle in the country’s north central province when he decreed, “all human beings  should follow the hallowed Buddhist precept of not harming any form of
life”. Like all islands, Sri Lanka boasts numerous unique species. The 65,610 square-kilometer (25,322 square-miles) area houses an opulent wildlife gene pool, with its wildly diverse habitats, from cool misty mountains to rain forests, rolling oceans and expansive beaches, and even an arid zone for all the world like the plains of Africa. More than 14 percent of Sri Lanka’s land area is dedicated to sanctuaries for fauna and flora and showcases some 86 species of mammals with the elephant taking pride of place, Sri Lanka has 4 species of wild cats (The Largest of them is Sri Lankan Leopard known as Panthera pardus kotiya), exotic birds and many varieties of deer, monkey, the sloth bear, wild boar, jackals, mongoose, porcupine, shrews and wild buffalo. The Island is also one of the few places in the world where the largest mammal on land – the elephant - and the largest mammal at sea – the Blue Whale - can both be spotted during the course of a day. Sri Lanka is in essence more like a continent compressed into an island in terms of its biodiversity.

Kumana National Park, Uda Walawe National Park, Wilpattu National park, Horton Plains National Park, Yala National Park, Wasgamuwa National Park, Minneriya National Park.

Whale & Dolphin Watching

The ever smiling, mischievous dolphins will put on a show while some of the oldest and the largest sea creatures, the humpback and the blue whales, will nonchalantly glide past you, when you embark on a whale/ dolphin watching excursion off the Southern, Eastern or the West coast of Sri Lanka. The ideal locations for whale watching would be Dondra Point (accessible from Galle,
Hikkaduwa and Mirissa) and Trincomalee while the sea off Kalpitiya teems with an abundance of dolphins.
 

Golf

Putt a hole in Asia’s second oldest Royal Golf Course outside of the British Isles. With a history dating back to 1897, Sri Lanka’s three superb golf courses offer three completely different experiences for the avid golfer. The Royal Colombo Golf Course clings to ancient tradition on and off the course; the railway line running through the middle of the course ups the colonial quirkiness. The tropical ambience
of the Royal Colombo Golf Course is complemented by the fir-lined, misty fairways of the Nuwera Eliya Golf Course set in the heart of the tea country. The Victoria International Golf and Country Resort set in Kandy, is a modern challenging course along eight kilometers of the scenic Victoria Reservoir, with undulating hills of Kandy in the background.
 

Deep- Sea Fishing

As the waves plummet the sides of the boat and the sea birds call above your head, the ocean’s scent and the thrill of the chase is exhilarating.Shark, Marlin, Tuna, the big names in deep-water game fishing roam Sri Lanka’s deep seas. Closer to shore the calmer waters teem with a variety of species, and the hospitable local fishermen are only too willing to . invite visitors to join them on their daily or nightly excursions off the coastline
With wrecks as dated as the 18th Century dotting the seas, deep reefs and reef walls provide enthralling explorations for scuba divers. For the less adventurous on-shore coral reefs are ideal for snorkelling. The abundant marine life found around the island is surpassed only at Hikkaduwa in the southern coast where the reef is thought to contain more species of fish than the Great Barrier Reef.
 

Diving

The ocean around Sri Lanka whispers of tales bygone, ones of regal maritime visits, of bandits and pirates and journeys of explorers and spice merchants. As you plunge into the warm waters and dive below, these stories come to life. The crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean with a visibility of 20 meters (65ft) provide perfect conditions for diving.
 

Surfing

Surf’s up in Sri Lanka! The east coast’s Arugam Bay is the best –kept secret among serious surfers, through gaining popularity worldwide not only for its waves but also for the pristine and beautiful beaches that surround it. Sri Lanka is a surfer’s paradise anytime of the year. Once the season ends at Arugam Bay, at another surfing hotspot especially for recreational surfers the season begins, along the southern coast in Hikkaduwa, Wewala and Narigama.
 

White Water Rafting

After navigating the Virgin’s Breast, you move through another couple of rapids before hitting the Killer Fall, where a sudden 90-degree drop and plenty of churning water really gets the adrenalin going. As the rapids dwindle to a patch of calm waters, the rafters are encouraged to jump in and body raft, just going with the flow past the riverine scenery of towering stands of bamboo, fruit trees and palms. And at the end of it all a lavish Sri Lankan
 

Hot Air Ballooning

As the multi-coloured hot-air balloon drifts silently above the forest, adventure takes on a whole new meaning. Startled by the noise of a sudden burst of gas keeping the balloon aloft, a couple of peacocks take flight directly below the balloon’s basket, their outrageously long iridescent blue and emerald tail feathers streaming behind like a psychedelic jet stream. Several deer dart nervously across a clearing below, but the
small herd of elephants continues feeding, utterly unfazed by this aerial intruder. Balloons that travel with the wind, make for one of the most surreal and tranquil sensations of flight. Following the initial adrenaline rush of the take off, one could settle down to absorb the wonder of the colorful earth below.
 

Hiking & Trekking

Take a demanding trek high in the mountain rainforest of the Knuckles Range, and see the valuable spice – cardamom - growing in the forest, catch sight of rare orchids and birds, and enjoy the exhilaration of exploring spots where few have been before. Traverse virtually unexplored country in the southeast, past the renowned Yala National Park where leopards prowl and elephants roam, past the
bird-rich Kumana wetlands and into a region where literally hundreds of ruined temples and maybe even cities lie awaiting discovery in the forests.
 

Waterfalls

Laced curtains of water cascade down steep precipices, throwing a fine mist of water to the surrounding, the incessant crash of water on the rock below is a symphony that is repeated from time immemorial. The central highlands of Sri Lanka are home to 350 waterfalls with Bambarakanda Falls plummeting a height of 263 meters (83 feet) to rank as Sri Lanka’s tallest fall. The mist shrouded
beauty and grandeur of Sri Lankan waterfalls also has interesting legends and folklore attached to it.
 

Botanical Gardens

It was a pleasure garden created for the king of Kandy.
A famous botanist once declared that Sri Lanka is simply one big botanical garden, nurtured by Nature itself. Yet when the British colonials arrived in Sri Lanka in the 19th century, they were determined to establish more gardens within this garden – man-made botanical gardens cloned from the mother Royal Botanic Gardens at
 
Kew in England. It was a pleasure garden created for the king in Kandy.The British established the gracious Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya. Another garden was set up in the hill country, established in 1861 at Hakgala south of Nuwara Eliya. And in 1876, yet another garden was established, this time in the lowlands at Henarathgoda, the Gampaha Botanic Gardens, designated for the trial planting of the country’s first Rubber trees. Other private gardens such as the famous Lunuganga and “Brief”, designed by world-renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa and his brother landscape artist Bevis Bawa, bring to life the paradisiacal charm that is refreshingly Sri Lanka’s.
 

Tea Country

While the winds of change blow softly but surely through the legendary rolling hills of Sri Lanka’s tea estates, the beautiful scenery that captivated Sir Thomas Lipton - who fell in love with the spectacular scenery around Dambatenne – still remains. From the highest spot in the region — a point known today as Lipton’s Seat — he would gaze over one of the most dramatic regions of the country, the seemingly
 endless hills and tumbling waterfalls giving way almost abruptly to the southern plains, which stretch as far as the eye can see, all the way to the coast. Centuries later, the enchantment of the tea country, its mystique and romance lives on. Hundreds of miles of green velvet smothers the mountainside, the soft mist settles to cloak the surroundings in romance and mystery and the quaint, little cottages beckon you with the tantalizing aromas of freshly brewed Ceylon tea.

Adams Peak

From all corners of this enchanted isle they come, clouds of small yellow butterflies, drawn as if by magnet to the hill country of southwestern Sri Lanka. Drifting above thousands of pilgrims as they toil up the mountain, the butterflies eventually reach the summit where a sacred footprint is embedded in a rock. Here, the butterflies die. Or, as Buddhists believe, have been reincarnated
into another form. Their final flight of pilgrimage is to awe-inspiring Adam’s Peak, a shared icon of four great faiths. More about Adam’s Peak

Known in English as Adam’s Peak, this 2,234-metre (7,329-feet) mountain has the remarkable distinction of being sacred to all of the major faiths in Sri Lanka. “Sri Pada is the only mountain in the world receiving veneration of devotes belonging to different faiths". To the Buddhists, this is Sri Pada, where Lord Buddha left his footprint on the summit during his third and final visit to the island. Hindus call the peak Shivan Adi Patham. In clear weather, the distinctive shape of Adam’s Peak is visible far out to sea, and was used as a navigational aid for vessels sailing the Indian Ocean. Arab traders, seeing the mountain from afar, believed that its summit was where Adam first set foot on earth after being cast out from Paradise. To make his expulsion less of a shock, God chose the place on earth that most
   



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Sri lanka


  


Languages: Sinhala (official and national language) 74%, Tamil (national language) 18%, other 8% Note: English (a link language commonly) is used in government and spoken competently by about 10% of the population
Religion: Buddhist 69.1%, Muslim 7.6%, Hindu 7.1%, Christian 6.2%, unspecified 10% (2001 census)
Time zone: Sri Lanka Standard Time is five and a half hours ahead of GMT. (Adjustments should be made for summer-time changes in Europe.)
Currency (code):   Sri Lankan rupee (LKR)

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Sri Lanka

Set in the Indian Ocean in South Asia, the tropical island nation of Sri Lanka has a history dating back to the birth of time. It is a place where the original soul of Buddhism still flourishes and where nature’s beauty remains abundant and unspoilt.

Few places in the world can offer the traveller such a remarkable combination of stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, captivating cultural heritage and unique experiences within such a compact location. Within a mere area of65, 610 kilometres lie 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 1,330 kilometres of coastline - much of it pristine beach - 15 national parks showcasing an abundance of wildlife, nearly 500,000 acres of lush tea estates, 250 acres of botanical gardens, 350 waterfalls, 25,000 water bodies, to a culture that extends back to over 2,500 years.

This is an island of magical proportions, once known as Serendib, Taprobane, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, and Ceylon. Discover refreshingly Sri Lanka!

Popular Destinations

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, most sacred town of Sri Lanka, can be termed the birthplace of Sinhala civilisation. It was the capital of Sri Lanka continuously from the 5th century BC to AD 1017. When many parts of the world were emerging from the stone age, Anuradhapura had already become an advanced civilisation. Merchants of the city traded all round the world, people had sophisticated systems of man-made lakes and canals and structure of the town was well-planned. The place has been marked by Ptolemy in his first ever map. Famous monk travellers Fa Hien and Buddha Ghosha of the 5th century have also mentioned Anuradhapura in their relics, testifying on its glory.

Arugambay

Arugam is a small fishing village on the East Coast of Sri Lanka. The discovery of the bay by surfers has made Arugam Bay one of the sought after surfing spots in Sri Lanka tourism. The beautiful bay with its gorgeous sweeping sand with amazing swells and long consistent breaks is one of the top ten surfing destinations in the world. The spectacular view, the sugar sandy beaches and the surroundings tropical forests with choice wild life gives it an ambience that falls a little short of being extravagantly exotic. This makes it a perfect place to unwind and allow the sea to seduce you in to snorkeling, swimming and surfing with a sigh of satisfaction that you planned your holiday well.

The surfers will find three points on the stretch of beach that attracts surfers from around the world from April to October. Pottuvil Point which is an hour and a half away by a cab or a tuk tuk is considered by seasoned surfers to be out of a dream of. It is a deserted stretch of sandy beach strewn with huge boulders at the edge.
Arugam Point is the main break at Arugam Bay and attracts the most number of surfers during the surfing season. Crocodile Rock is the third and the last of the three. An added attraction here is the possibility of your sighting crocodile, water buffalo, elephant, peacock, eagle or kingfishers that frequent the lagoon.
This surfer’s paradise has side walk cafes that serve delicious rice and curry and accommodation ranging from luxury holiday resorts to cheap Sri Lanka holidays.Any Sri Lanka Tailor made holiday which includes Arugam Bay is a sure experience, be it for surfing or relaxation.

Ambewela

Ambewela is a small town or a hill station in Nuwera Eliya. It’s also a well-known dairy company. The climatic conditions in Ambewela make it a suitable location for dairy farming. This area is also sometimes called the ‘Little New Zealand’.

Ambewela farms are made up of two farms, Ambewela Farm and New Zealand Farm. Because of the perfect climate in the hill country, it boasts its superior breed of cattle, modern technology and top quality pastures where cattle graze freely. The farms have purebred cattle from Ayreshire and New Zealand. In order to maintain the quality of milk
 from the cows, the farm management takes great care to provide them with a balanced diet and sterilized water. They are also given excellent healthcare on a 24-hour basis. The largest grasslands of Sri Lanka are also a part of the Ambewela farms. In addition to the cattle, it has rabbits, pigs and goats.

Benthota

Bentota is the prime beach resort of the south-western and southern coastal belts of Sri Lanka. South of the city of Colombo, the city of Kalutara with its fine beach is the gateway to south western and southern bay beaches. Kalutara is the next popular beach. The Beruwala Bay Beach that is just before reaching Aluthgama at the Bentota Bridge and Bentota Bay Beach just over the bridge are the most popular twin beaches in the coast. The coast to the further south and onwards to the Deep South too is replete with lovely topical beaches.
Calm seas during the season from November to April make Bentota Beach ideal for snorkeling, diving, sailing, wind surfing, water-skiing, and deep-sea fishing on a traditional outrigger canoe.
Being one of the oldest established beach resorts in Sri Lanka, Bentota is famous for its professional tourist infrastructure. The many 5* hotels are often built in fantastic locations and even if you don't stay there, you will not grudge dropping in for a tea and enjoying the scenery. Bentota while offering 5* comforts also offers many affordable mid-range and budget places along the river and along the wide stretch of beaches.
Bentota is a well sought after destination especially by families. Safe swimming conditions combined with fun water sport and exciting excursions provide a marvellous and an ideal background for a relaxed holiday in Sri Lanka.

Colombo

Sri Lanka's capital upto recent times, Colombo, is a fascinating city, not only for a comfortable blend of east and west, but also for a cosy mixture of the past and present. It is still the commercial centre of the country. Situated 34 km. from the International Airport, Colombo has been a flourishing seaport for centuries. Today the bustle of the harbour mingles with the activity of its busy commercial, banking and shopping areas. The original trading settlers - the Portuguese, Dutch and the British have all left in their wake churches and monuments, names and religions, costumes and food and smatterings of their languages which have been absorbed into the speech of the Sri Lankans. Colombo, with its population of over half a million is divided into fifteen zones.
Colombo, the island's largest city, is noisy, frenetic - and just a little crazy. Thankfully, the breakdowns, snarled traffic and power cuts are received with a shrug and a smile. `No problem' might be the national motto; it's certainly the one phrase everyone knows and can say. While the city holds less obvious interest than many other parts of the island, it's still a colourful enough place and worth a visit to see what makes Sri Lanka tick.

Dambulla

  Twelve miles from Sigiriya is Dambulla, a vast isolated rock mass 500 ft. high and a mile round the base. Here is found the famous rock-temple dating to the first century BC. The view from the top of this rock is breathtaking 350 ft. above are a series of five caves turned into shrines. In the first cave is recumbent image of the Buddha 47 ft. long, cut out of the rock. There are images of deities associated with Buddhism. Dambulla is a unique and important historical site because of the amalgamation of the material from many eras.

Dambadeniya

Dambadeniya is a ruined ancient city situated in the North Western Province, Sri Lanka on the Kurunegala - Negombo road. It served as the capital of Sri Lanka in the mid 13th century. Much of Dambadeniya still lies buried on a huge fortified rock.

Hortain Plains

The most famous place of foreigners in Sri Lanka is Horton plains. Horton plains are at Nuwaraeliya, Badulla and Rathnapura districts. There are two main entrances to this plain. Those are Pattipola entrance via Nuwaraeliya and Ambewela or Ohiya entrance via Welimada or Bandarawela. Large Savannah plains, Waterfalls, High pure water, Forests and several natural and high eco diversity areas are available to visit at Horton Plains. Horton Plains is controlled by Wild life department of Sri Lanka. Hoton plains are invented by Mr. Horton who was animal hunter in British governing period. Earlier this place is identified as ‘Maha Eliya’. Eliya means Plains and Maha means Big. In this case real meaning of this name is a Large Plain. This area is high more than 2300m above from sea level.

Kandy

Kandy is a major city in SriLanka, located in the Central Province Sri Lanka. It is the second largest city in the country after the capital Colombo. Kandy was the last royal capital of Sri Lanka and a major tourist destination. Famous for the Temple of the Tooth and many other temples the city could be called the cultural capital of the island. Kandy is a good transit point to the cultural triangle to the north or hill country to the south. The city is also a good source of souvenirs or to experience many cultural performances at it's various hotels in the city.

Galle

The port of Galle, thought by some to be the Biblical city of Tarshish, splendidly illustrates the solidity of the Dutch presence in Sri Lanka. The 36-hectare (89 acre) Dutch Fort, built in 1663, has withstood the ravages of time. Its massive ramparts surround the promontory that forms the older part of Galle, and shelters within its walls sturdy Dutch houses, museums and churches. This area has a quiet, relaxed atmosphere that seems almost detached from the flow of history. The New Oriental Hotel, built for Dutch governors in 1684, is a colonial gem with a wonderfully atmospheric bar. Nearby is a tiny sliver of a beach suitable for a dip, though most travellers prefer to head along the coast to the fine beaches at Unuwatuna, Weligama and Tangalla. Plenty of public and private buses run up and down the 107km (66mi) stretch between Colombo and Galle, as well as any number of daily express trains.
The port of Galle, thought by some to be the Biblical city of Tarshish, splendidly illustrates the solidity of the Dutch presence in Sri Lanka. The 36-hectare (89 acre) Dutch Fort, built in 1663, has withstood the ravages of time. Its massive ramparts surround the promontory that forms the older part of Galle, and shelters within its walls sturdy Dutch houses, museums and churches. This area has a quiet, relaxed atmosphere that seems almost detached from the flow of history. The New Oriental Hotel, built for Dutch governors in 1684, is a colonial gem with a wonderfully atmospheric bar.

Nearby is a tiny sliver of a beach suitable for a dip, though most travellers prefer to head along the coast to the fine beaches at Unuwatuna, Weligama and Tangalla. Plenty of public and private buses run up and down the 107km (66mi) stretch between Colombo and Galle, as well as any number of daily express

Hambanthota

Hambantota is located at a distance of 240km (150 miles) from Colombo. Hambantota, situated on the southeast corner of Sri Lanka's coastline, is a well-sheltered fishing port with much history attached to it. Hambantota is also renowned for its rich, creamy curd, which is made from the buffalo milk.

Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is the island's most developed beach resort. It has a range of accommodation, good restaurants and pleasant cafe-lined beaches. There's good snorkelling at an attractive and easily accessible coral sanctuary, scuba diving at a number of wrecks in the bay, tours by glass-bottomed boats and pretty good surfing. It's a relaxed place, similar to many Asian beach resorts popular with Western travellers. There are also plenty of handicraft shops catering to tourist whims, a Buddhist temple, a nearby lake with abundant birdlife.

Induruwa

Induruwa is a small fishing village stretching along a small creek. The sandy beaches are ideal for long walks, sun bathing and swimming.
The nearby sweet water lagoons and the Maadu river with their amazing flora and fauna are making Induruwa also attractive for ECO tourists and bird watchers.

Kaluthara

Kalutara is a coastal town some 35 km south of Colombo. It was the spice trade that made Kalutara famous a few centuries ago. The town is most famous for its mangosteens, which are in season from May to July, and sold at the roadside in inviting purple-black heaps. In addition, some of Sri Lanka's finest basket ware can be found at Kalutara's Basket Hall. Intricate and beautiful geometrical patterns are used, and the colours are bold.

Kalpitiya

Kalpitiya is a settlement of traditional fishing families sitting in comfort on the water’s edge of the Puttalam lagoon. The lagoon, with a water surface area of about 32,750ha – is one of the largest lagoons in Sri Lanka.

The scenic attractions includes the Kalaoya estuary (one of Sri Lanka’s largest mangrove habitats), the Meeoya estuary, the Dutch Bay and the Portugal Bay. Kalpitiya and the surrounding little islands have mangroves, sea grass beds and extensive coral reefs. The combination makes it a heaven to be enjoyed in a long Sri Lanka vacation of swimming, snorkeling watching whales and dolphins. The brilliant sunset across the azure seas constantly listening to the hush of nature makes it an exclusive Sri Lanka honey moon holiday. The air conditioned chalets that are hidden away in the estuary can be a Tailor Made Sri Lanka package of exquisite ecstasy.
The coastal ecosystems provide vital services for human well-being. They support livelihoods, protect the community from extreme weather. Nature has shaped the cultural and spiritual values of the inhabitants of this peninsular rhapsody of nature. Fourteen wholesome islands and glistening copper coloured beaches await you. The other delight that will enthrall you is the 300 sq.km. marine sanctuary and the abundant marine life.

The Alankuda Beach is a Sri Lanka luxury that you must experience in a Sri Lanka vacation. It is indeed a Sri Lanka exclusive of a discrete dalliance with Dolphins and Whales during October to May.

The grand enticement of the ocean is watching whales and dolphins. The other pleasures that you could indulge in abundance are snorkeling over the spectacular coral formations, deep-sea fishing, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, kite and wind surfing.

Kithulgala

Kitulgala is a small town perched on the hills that slope down to the gushing waters of the Kelani River. The road that snakes its way up the central hill country bifurcates the little town that is one with the myriad charms of its surroundings.It is directly accessible from Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Ratnapura and Colombo. discovery of fossils connected to pre-historic man in nearby Beli Lena caves and the filming of “Bridge over River Kwai” where David Lean chose the river nearby to narrate the cruelty of modern man makes Kithulgala a place to see in any of Sri Lanka holiday deals. Known to be the largest cave in Sri Lanka, the excavations at Beli Lena have unearthed skeletal remains of the pre-historic “Balangoda man” (Homo sapiens Balangodensis) believed to be more than 32,000 years old.
White Water Rafting is what attracts the seekers of adventure. The river at its scenic middle section consists of 10 level two, and level three rapids. They are separated by a quietly flowing patch of the river. The higher part is more of a challenge that is recommended to the more experienced.

It is a picturesque little riddle of a town and village that you can unravel at leisure enjoying every moment of this Eden Resort in Sri Lanka.

A Sri Lanka tour has many such places where you can unwind by bike or hike, Kitulgala being one such place.

Kurunegala

Kurunegala was Sri Lankas capital for half a century during the regain of King Buwanekabahu II (1293-1302) housed the Tooth relic in Dambadeniya Temple. The Ethugala Climb, Dambadeniya, Arankale Forest, Ridi Vihara, Old Railway Station are attractions. The beautiful royal citadels in Kurunagala you can visit are Panduwasnuwara, Dambadeniya, Yapahuwa that has remains fortresses, temples, shrines, monasteries and hermitages.

Matara

Matara, situated on the south coast of Sri Lanka, is an old fort town built on the banks of the Nilwala Ganga, literally the Blue River. This district is well known to mineralogists as a prime location of zircon, a comparatively soft stone that has a brilliance and fire approximating that of a diamond. The star shaped fort here is an unusual and a unique structure. There are several beautiful and less crowded beaches along the coast between Galle and Matara and the closest to the town is at Polhena. Another attraction is a 25m high colourful Buddha statue built at Veherahena Temple. The temple is about 2 km from the town centre and about 1 Km inland from Pallimulla on the main road.

Weligama

Weligamais a popular tourist destination and hosts several boutique hotels. The name Weligama itself, in Sinhala, means `Sandy Village' which is a direct reference to the sandy bay beach. The loveliest stretch of the bay beach is round the island of Taprobane. Most often dozens of traditional colorful outrigger boats are seen pulled up following the night fishing expeditions.

Weligama beach is famous for its stilt fishermen. In chest-deep water on the beach, just few meters off-shore, are the stilt fishermen perched on a cross bar- one on one- of a single pole planted into the sea-bed. These fishermen, the poorest of the poor, spend hours with their lines cast out to the sea to catch small fish.

Negambo

The major beach resort in the West Coast is Negombo. The wide sandy beaches and the safe sea are the major attractions of Negombo, a traditional fishing town. Besides the beach, the fish market is worth visiting where busy trading of a variety of fish including prawns, crabs and seer takes place in the mornings when the fishing crafts return to the shore with their catch. The most popular fishing craft is the outrigger canoe called oruwa dug out from a huge log and is seen in large numbers in the Negombo lagoon.

Sigiriya

The spectacular rock fortress of Sigiriya is an impregnable fortress, a monastic retreat, and a rock art gallery. Built in the 5th century AD to fend of a feared invasion, it is situated atop a 200m (656ft) high rock, and at the height of its glory must have been akin to a European chateau plonked on top of Ayers Rock. There are water gardens, 5th century rock paintings of well endowed damsels, a 1000-year-old graffiti wall recording visitors impressions of the pin-ups, a couple of enormous stone lion paws and tremendous views.

To get to Sigiriya from Colombo, hop on a bus that stops at Dambulla, and from there catch any of the hourly buses going to the rock fortress, a total of 191km (118mi).

Pollonnaruwa

Sri Lanka's medieval capital (11th - 12th Century AD) is a well-preserved city of ancient dagobas, moonstones, beautiful parks, massive buildings and stunningly beautiful statues. Polonnaruwa, is situated in north-central Sri Lanka (Ceylon), near the Mahaweli River. It is an ancient Ceylonese capital that was long deserted but has been revived in modern times. The city, beautifully situated on a lake, was once the most splendid city of Sri Lanka. The Sea of Parakrama - a vast 12th century man-made reservoir dominates the city. Although it is nearly 1000 years old, it is much younger than Anuradhapura, and in much better repair. Moreover, the monuments here are located in a more compact area, and their development is easier to follow.

Pinnawala

Pinnawela is a beautiful village on the banks of a river near Kegalle, a town that is between Colombo the commercial capital and Kandy the cultural capital. The pictorial village the world’s only elephant orphanage that cares for the largest elephant herd in captivity. It shelters many baby elephants, as well as a blind elephant and one crippled. The Sri Lankan species Elephas Maximus Maximus is the largest of the Asiatic elephant genus, and has patches with no skin color on its ears, face, trunk and belly. They are the darkest of all Asiatic elephants. Seeing this large herd of these behemoths is a great experience you can have on a Sri Lanka trip. In February 2011, the Elephant Orphanage of Pinnawela recorded the birth of the 55th baby elephant in its 40 year existence.
The count stood at 86 with the latest addition. The orphanage was founded in 1972 at the Wilpattu National Park, and was relocated in 1976 in to a 10 hectare coconut plantation on the banks of the Mahaoya River. The herd visits the river twice a day, the sight of the herd frolicking in the river deemed as a ‘must see’ for visitors.

The breeding program in the Orphanage was started in 1982. The breeding commenced with two males and three females. The male and female pair named Vijaya and Kumari has produced three calves at intervals of five and four years.

The Orphanage also produces paper made of elephant dung. The process is industrially feasible and commercially viable. The Elephant dung Paper is branded as “Pachyderm.” It provides an income to the villagers who are conservation enthusiasts fully integrated to the elephant orphanage that is the nucleus of a thriving village economy, all a part of a Holiday in Sri Lanka.

Pasikuda

The world famous Pasikudah beach in Batticaloa district along the east coast is a location attractive to both local and international holidaymakers. With its wide sandy beach and a reef protected sea it is an ideal place for children, wind surfers and water skiers.

The village itself is away from busy town life making it a popular beach retreat. Boat trips are readily available for viewing the coral reef and the sea is surprisingly shallow and calm for a long distance within making it a safe place of enjoyment especially for children.

Rathnapura

Roughly 100km (64 miles) southeast of Colombo on the outskirts of the hill country, Ratnapura is known as Sri Lanka's gemstone capital. It is the centre of a number of richly watered valleys between adam's peak and Sinharaja forest Reserve. The climate here is wet and humid. ratnapura was the traditional start of the toughest pilgrimages up to Adam's Peak, and this is reputed to be the best place for views of the sacred mountain.

Trincomalee

Trincomalee is a natural deep-water harbor, on the north-east coast of Sri Lanka. On the east side of the town of Trincomalee, on a cliff known as Swami Rock stands one of the oldest Kovils (Hindu temple) in Sri Lanka. The present day Tirukonesvaram Kovil was rebuilt on the site of the Dakshana Kailayam (temple of 100 pillars) - that was destroyed by the Portugese in the 17th century. The restoration work was completed in the 1960's, and it is a "must see" site, for the visitors to Trincomalee. Friday evening Puja (offerings) services are specially colorful.

Nuwara Eliya

Once the favourite hill station of the British, Nuwara Eliya still retains the vestiges of Empire: a blend of Tudor and Georgian architecture, gabled roofs, immaculate lawns with rose bushes and moss-covered gravestones. Soak up the quaint atmosphere by visiting the Hill Club - by jove, there's a golf course, tennis courts, even copies of Country Life here - or visit the botanic gardens and tea plantations in the surrounding hills.
Buses going to Nuwara Eliya leave Colombo almost hourly, and from Kandy with regular frequency. You can catch a train although you'll need to get off at Nanu Oya and catch a connecting bus, or taxi, to Nuwara Eliya itself as it does not have a train station of its own.

Jaffna

Jaffna city and seaport, northern Sri Lanka, capital of Northern Province, on a peninsula. The city is the trading center for the surrounding region in which coconuts, rice, and tobacco are grown.


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