Srilanka Beautiful Places

Yala National Park Videos..

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 31 Mar 2013 17:06:00 +0530

Yala National Park Videos..

Yala National Park is the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka...

Weherahena Temple Sri lanka

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 16 Feb 2013 17:46:00 +0530

Weherahena ( Veherahena) Temple

Weherahena ( Veherahena) is popular temple among the buddhist pilgrims.Although there is nothing of historical significance, the story of the temple is quite interesting. In addition, the temple is said be the largest and the first tunnel temple in the world. The even though it is said this temple was adobe to arhath bikkus in the ancient Sri Lanka, the story of the temple starts during the early part of the 20th centaury. The Most Rev. Parawahera Rewatha Thero was sent to Weherahena area in the early part of centaury as a punishment by his teacher. Weherahena was just a mound of 1/2 acre of think Jungle with only a Bodhi Tree. It is said that Ven.Revatha Thero came only with an blanket, mattress and the bowl. He managed to get the villagers organised and built a small clay house for him self but soon came with a grand idea of building the largest buddha statue in the world. He also wanted to build a tunnel temple as in ummaga jathaka story. With the support of Anagarika Dharmapala, one of the leaders in Buddhist Revival of Sri Lanka and India, Anagarika Dharmapala kept the foundation stone to the temple in 1939 with great blessings. The 600 feet tunnel was fist build by excavating the mound of earth. Once this was completed, the 88 cubit (39 metres) buddha statue was started. The statue was completed in 1976. The whole length of the tunnel is decorated with various scenes from Jataka stories. The cover over the buddha statue has been build with the financial assistance of a generous donor from Japan after 1976. (details by amazinglanka)

Distance from Colombo to Koggala is 168 Kilometers

Yala National Park

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 15 Feb 2013 12:57:00 +0530

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka. Actually it consists of five blocks, two of which are now open to the public; and also adjoining parks. The blocks have individual names also, like Ruhuna National Park for the (best known) block 1 and Kumana National Park or 'Yala East' for the adjoining area. It is situated in the southeast region of the country, and lies in Southern Province and Uva Province. The park covers 979 square kilometers (378 sq mi) and is located about 300 kilometers (190 mi) from Colombo. Yala was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, and, along with Wilpattu it was one of the first two national parks in Sri Lanka, having been designated in 1938. The park is best known for its variety of wild animals. It is important for the conservation of Sri Lankan Elephants and aquatic birds.
There are six national parks and three wildlife sanctuaries in the vicinity of Yala. The park is situated in the dry semi-arid climatic region and rain is received mainly during the northeast monsoon. Yala hosts a variety of ecosystems ranging from moist monsoon forests to freshwater and marine wetlands. It is one of the 70 Important Bird Areas (IBAs) in Sri Lanka. Yala harbours 215 bird species including six endemic species of Sri Lanka. The number of mammals that has been recorded from the park is 44, and it has one of the highest leopard densities in the world.

History of the Yala National Park

YALA is among the oldest and best known of Sri Lanka 's National Parks. Yala covers about 1297 sqkm or 129,700 ha. And it is the largest agglomeration of protected areas in the country. The multifarious ecosystems ranging from Moist Monsoon Forest , to Dry Monsoon Forests, Semi Deciduous Forests, Thorn forests, Grasslands, fresh water & marine wetlands, and sandy beaches, possesses a large number of important plant species and smaller animals.
    Kumbukkan Oya in the North East and Menik Ganga and tributaries on the West, flow through the Park providing a source of water to the animals even during the driest months of the year.
    Yala plays a very significant role in conservation of a large number of flora and fauna in the country. Historical and religious sites such as Kataragama, Sithulpahuwa and Magul Maha Vihara and many archaeologically important places add additional significance to the area.
     Yala West (Ruhuna) National Park is well recognized as one of the best parks in the world to observe and photograph leopards. The park covers an area of over 100,000 hectares and is divided into five blocks.
Block one is the most visited area since it contains the highest density of leopards. However other areas of Yala such as Yala East had been closed to visitors for some years and it will take time to research leopard numbers in these areas. Yala West consists of scrub jungle, brackish lagoons and stunning rock monoliths scattered throughout the park, its eastern edge is bounded by the South East coast. Yala has well over thirty leopards, probably the highest density anywhere in the world. It is also thought that Sri Lankan leopards are a distinct sub-species from their Indian neighbors, and the largest leopards in Asia.

Block	Extent	Date added to the park
Block I	14,101 hectares (54.44 sq mi)	1938
Block II	9,931 hectares (38.34 sq mi)	1954
Block III	40,775 hectares (157.43 sq mi)	1967
Block IV	26,418 hectares (102.00 sq mi)	1969
Block V	6,656 hectares (25.70 sq mi)	1973
Source: Sri Lanka Wetlands Information and Database

Location:

Yala National Park (divided into Yala East and Yala West) is situated in the southeast corner of Sri Lanka, approximately 300 kilometres from the capital, Colombo. The park covers a surface area of roughly 129,700 Ha which hosts a diversity of ecosystems ranging from dense jungles, grasslands and lakes to waterholes, wetlands, flat plains and sandy beaches. Only a sixth (14,000 Ha) of the park is open to visitors.

Famous for:
the highest concentration of leopards (Panthera pardus) in the world (est. 35) but also elephants, crocodiles. Also Cultural sites, like the Magul Maha Vihara ruins, dating from the 1st century BC.

Weather:
Generally hot and dry as the park is located in an arid region of the country. There are several rainy periods: November to January, March/April and September. The dry season falls between May and August. The average annual temperature is 27 C.
Getting there:
Tissamaharama is the closest town to the park.

Bambarakanda Waterfalls of Sri Lanka (Bambarakanda Ella)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 15:57:00 +0530

Bambarakanda Waterfalls of Sri Lanka(Bambarakanda Ella)

The highest waterfall in Sri Lanka is the Bambarakanda Ella, with a height of 865 feet. The main access to the falls is via Haputale and the force of the winds causes the gushing waters to quiver and sway.

The fall is only four miles distant from the Colombo-Bandarawela route that passes in the form of a clear tract of road from the midsection of forest. Being a wet seasonal waterfall the Bambarakanda accelerates in gratifying speed mostly during the monsoon months of September to March. The white flow amidst wilderness is a sight worth watching.

(some pic,by Anusha Prasad)

Maduwanwela Walawwa,,,(Maduwanwela Mansion)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 15:29:00 +0530

Maduwanwela Walawwa...(Maduwanwela Mansion)

A beautiful snow white deer lived in the nearby forests of Maduwanwela. It was the only one of its kind and King Wimaladarmasooriya II (1687-1706 AD) of the Kandyan Kingdom was bestowed a gift of true rarity when the white deer was captured and presented to him by Maha Disawa's ancestor Maduwanwela Maha Mohottala. The King was so delighted with this gift that he entrusted a great acreage of land for Mohottala's loyalty, or at least this was one of the stories of how the Walawwa came to being. Another tale tells of a Dutch outlaw who roamed the forests and was a burden to the villagers. The King had sworn that he would handsomely reward the efforts of anyone who could bring him the head of the outlaw. In which case, Maha Disawa's ancestors did the deed and thus were commended with the Walawwa and its now, vast territory.

He came on horse, they say, he left school at a tender age to return to his ancestral abode, the Maduwanwela Walawwa, where nearly four generations of his family had lived. He was raised by his grandmother and had grown to be a determined and brave soul and a patriot of his beliefs. Maha Disawa was his title, which followed his name; Wickamasinghe Wijesundara Eaknayake Abayakoon Mudiyanse Ralahamillage Sir Jemes Willeyam Maduwanwela, also known as the Black Prince by Bristish colonists, as he was one of the only dark skinned landlords who cradled his land as if it were his kingdom while passionately preserving Buddhist religious and Sri Lankan cultural values within it.

Adjoining the entrance, a large Bo tree standing tremendously wide at its trunk and reaching a summit which I could only guess, was encircled by a short stocky stone wall decorated with sculpted figures and ceramic plates as were the other walls of the same kind enclosing the Walawwa premises. Most of what the Walawwa used to be had collapsed with nearly 400 years of age and was in the process of restoration by the Archeological Department. The stone gate frame of the entrance to the Walawwa's immediate locality had been carved and although the shapes were a bit fuzzy, I could make out vague outlines of birds and flowers, both of which were shaped so as to symbolise good governance and prosperity.
The wind never ceased, and even as I stepped inside the Walawwa, the highly ventilated courtyards, now only seven of the then 21, were being showered with leaves, dust and the occasional flower. I wasn't aware of the direction, in actual sense I felt a bit lost, until I wound up in the pirith or prayer room at one end of the entrance with its floor set in vibrant mosaics of crushed ceramic. From here I followed my own directional instincts and opening some closed doors found a few dark rooms that were for storage purposes. 121 rooms were housed here once, some of which were used for storing large volumes of various grains, preserved meats and other foods that came from the Walawwa's hard working farming communities from 18 villages and it is believed that these stocks could, at any time of drought or food shortage, sustain the entire Walawwa and its villages for one whole year. 42 of such rooms including a few bedrooms, a bathroom and rooms set apart for special occasions are the only remnants of what was.
The Maha Disawa, his wife and daughter had had separate rooms of their own and the doorways in general were small in frame; both short in height and narrow in width, which may have meant that they were petite in body structure. However, other reasons portray the door frame to be short in height to demand respect from those who entered, with the bowing of head gesture.

One particular room in the house, the meeting hall, was known for how unusually cool it was inside, although the same couldn't be said for the weather outdoors; the reason being its ingeniously aerated wooden ventilation system which kept the high temperature out and the cool in.The Walawwa even had its own courthouse where the Maha Disawa was sometimes seen administering his judicial powers. The Maha Diswasa was believed to have had great respect for Mahatma Gandhi and had the upper storey of his mansion built in his honour. From where I stood, I could imagine that this may have been quite apparent, observing from the plainness of design, much like Gandhi's home in India, which was quite the opposite of the more structured environment on the ground floor. The last modification to the Walawwa, during the time of the Maha Disawa (1844-1930), was done in 1905 and the Walawwa is still known for its model portrayal of Kandyan architecture.

At my last stop within the mansion something seemed to almost make this room pride itself; and there it was - on the wall, a life sized, ornate a portrait of the Maha Disawa himself. It is said that this giant ornamental picture frame and its stand is made of the rarest of hard woods; ebony, satin, rosewood. Only a man who may have skillfully run a kingdom within a kingdom could have had such privilege. (copy w; btoptions.. )

Distance from Colombo to maduwanwala is 124 Kilometers

Water world Keleniya..

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 14:06:00 +0530

Largest aquarium of the South Asia.... Water world Kelaniya

Water world claims that they have the largest collection of fish in South Asia. Now they have two sections one for birds and the other for fish.

Water World comprises impressive attractions such as over 150 display tanks and ponds with a total water capacity of over one million liters, a walk path built to look like a cave spanning of over 800 feet, a Shark Dome with 110,000 liters of sea water, and over 10,000 living aquatic organisms.

Other attractions of Water World include, live diving shows with the sharks (Only when suitable diving conditions exist) riding boats at boat yard, hand feeding of fish and getting a hands on experience of marine creatures at the “ Touch Pool”.

surfing point in sri lanka

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 18:04:00 +0530

Surfing point in sri lanka

The best surf points in Sri Lanka are located on the South and East Coast with Hikkaduwa and Arugam Bay being the busiest, but there are many “secret spots” like Unawatuna, Ahangama, Weligama, Mirissa , Yala , Pottuvil , Okanda Bay or Panama......, where you still can find uncrowded surf.

Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 17:14:00 +0530

Ambuluwawa Biodiversity complex

Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex Ambuluwawa peak is located in the center of Gampola Kingdom established by the great Sinhala King Buvanekabahu IV. (1341-1357 AD) was hither to not put into any use. Height of the peak tram the mean sea level is 365 feet and from the Gampola town is 1965 feet Mayura Sandesa, the messenger poem written in the 14th Century describes this enchanting rock and the

Ambuluwawa This was declared a bio-diversity complex in 1997. The whole area surrounded by small villages is 920 acres – and the composite is all of 311 acres a vast throttle hold of afforest and stony land, of gently sloping shoulders of patana and columns of pine. Quite a lot of millions of years back Sri Lanka was a fraction of the Indian neckline of terrain and was connected to Gondwanaland. Subsequently it was pressed away towards north as a land mass. According to the Rama-Ravana legend Talaimannar passage is the place where Hanuman built his overpass to join Sri Lanka with South India. This was the position, which linked Sri Lanka with India as of time to time. Sri Lanka had gone astray this environmental relation several thousands of years before but it has resulted in creating a wealthy biodiversity at this point with huge inhabitants of fauna and flora. Quite a lot of millions of years back Sri Lanka was a fraction of the Indian neckline of terrain and was connected to Gondwanaland. Subsequently it was pressed away towards north as a land mass. According to the Rama-Ravana legend Talaimannar passage is the place where Hanuman built his overpass to join Sri Lanka with South India . This was the position, which linked Sri Lanka with India as of time to time. Sri Lanka had gone astray this environmental relation several thousands of years before but it has resulted in creating a wealthy biodiversity at this point with huge inhabitants of fauna and flora. Sri Lanka is well thought-out the country in Asia which has the richest biodiversity in a sole area. Biodiversity in this country spreads all the way through a wider variety of area as an effect of it is inter association with Indian neck of land. Importance of livelihood, diversity of forests and the natural novelty of the soil have created the bio land surroundings inherited to Sri Lanka and the mid country hills reside in a noteworthy set in the foundation of biodiversity. The area is heavily vegetated too. Bulky streams and roughly all the major rivers start from average mount nation, can be seen in the South Western side of the hill country. Wet basis as well as the productive top soil, comfortable plants that blows through the warm rays of the sun – all these are the results of the biodiversity in the mid country.

Pigeon Island Temple , Matara

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 17:58:00 +0530

Pigeon Island Temple , Matara....

This is an interesting place in Matara Town. Its situated in the sea. Its called as "Pigeon Island" It connect with the land side by a attractive hanging bridge. In the monsoon time its very difficult to reach the island. After entering the island there is attactive scenaries.

Botanic Gardens at Hakgala,

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 17:54:00 +0530

Botanic Gardens at Hakgala,

Botanic Gardens at Hakgala were established in 1861 for the purpose of experimentation and promotion of Cinchona cultivation in Sri Lanka. The gardens lying in the hill country among Sri Lanka's tea plantations in the Nuwara Eliya district are located along the Badulla Road, 9.5 km South-east of Nuwara Eliya, the popular holiday resort.
Situated at an elevation of about 1745 m above mean sea level, Hakgala Botanic Gardens, about 28 hectares in extent, lie under the shadow of the Hakgala Rock (meaning “Elephant's jaw rock”). This massive rock towers to a height of about 2,200m behind the gardens and the surrounding forest reserve like a solitary giant.
The gardens take the shape of several terraces upon the lower slopes of the rock and face the Uva Valley, across which some magnificent views of the Madulsima and the Namunukula range of mountains are seen in the distant landscape. The climate of the Gardens is subtropical, cool, fresh and some what similar to an alpine atmosphere.
The temperature ranges from 3°C to 15° C. While the lowest recorded was 3° C. The gardens receive rainfall from two monsoons. The South West from May to August and the North East from October to December, the annual average rainfall being about 2300 mm.
During the South west monsoon gusts of strong winds blow across the Gardens towards the Uva Valley, making weird sounds. During October to December. When thick mist envelope the gardens, heavy downpours of rain falls more frequent in the afternoon and evenings. The best time to see the gardens is probably from about mid March to the end of April, popularly known as the Nuwara Eliya seasons. The gardens put up their best display of temperate annual flowers, Roses and Orchids during this period.
The flora of the gardens is distinctly sub tropical and consists of representatives of the indigenous, montane flora intermingled with those introduced from other subtropical countries, systematically planted in various sections of the gardens.

Distance from Colombo to Hakgala 162 Kilometers

Kalwari Sharing Hiniduma,

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 10 Feb 2013 16:28:00 +0530

Kalwari Sharing Hiniduma

Just beyond 49 kilometers from the city of Galle,towards the interior of Sri Lanka, surrounded by a chain of mountains along with the highest mountain in the Southern Province, Mt.Haycock- lies Hiniduma Pattuwa. Hiniduma means the village with”light mist”. The Gin Ganga which flows between these gigantic hills has imbibed life into the lush vegetion of Hiniduma. So much so the picturesque Hiniduma has become rich in her cinnamon, tea and rubber cultivations. As, Christians, Hiniduma makes us proud for her longstanding, unshaken and deep faith in Jesus and His teachings. It could be called a Faith Heritage. Today thousands and thousands of pilgrims rally round Hiniduma during Lent to make their faith a reality in making the way of cross on “the Calvary Mountain” in Hiniduma.

One day in the Holy Week of 1948, just before Good Friday there was a major out burst of bush fire in the mountain just opposite the Hiniduma Church. That particular land happened to be a part of the church property too. It had been purchased by His Lordship, Most Rev. Dr. Van Reeth, the Bisho of Galle, in all 18 acres. Rev. Fr. Cyril Edirisinghe, the Parish Priest, kept awake throughout the whole night just gazing at the mountain on fire. The next day, early in the morning Fr. Edirisinghe look at the mountain with great sorrow. Oh! The mountain was completely burnt out. The lush green vegetation turned into blackish remnants, but he happened to notice a half burnt tree in the shape of a cross right on the top of the mountain. An idea stuck him, “What a sight for a Calvary!” That dream became a reality when he kept his first step to the mountain with some of his parishioners. They climbed the hill for the first time. That climbing was not just a journey but for them it was a spiritual journey and a biblical journey. The Holy Scripture became alive and Fr Cyril and the parishioners were beginning to realize that they were re-living the experience of Gethsemane, Kidron Valley and Mt. Calvary-Golgotha. In 1948, Fr.Edirisinghe and the Parishioners made the first Way of the Cross on Good Friday on the mountain along the raged ways to the top. They placed some wooden crosses to mark the Stations of the Cross.

Fr.Edrisinghe’s enthusiasm towards that Calvary experience grew little by little like a flame. Later he managed to build cement crosses instead of wooden ones. The encounter between Most Rev. Dr. Laudadio S.J, then the Bishop of Galle and Fr. Cyril made Hiniduma a place of pilgrimage. Fr. Cyril got hold of Mr. Somadasa a genius Buddhist sculpture to carve life size statues of the station of the cross. Up to date these stations depict the enthusiasm of good Fr. Cyril and the competence of Mr. Somadasa. May they rest in peace.

In 1958, Hiniduma was declared and blessed as a Diocesan Shrine. Rev.Fr. Stephen was the pioneer in building the pilgrim rests. From then onwards all most all the administrators shed their sweat in making Hiniduma a place of experience of faith and revival of spirit.

In 1994 Calvary Shrine was blessed with a concrete bridge across the Gin Ganga. Earlier it was a very difficult task to cross the Gin Ganga to reach the bottom of the Calvary mountain. Every year people had to have a temporary bridge across the river made out of logs. Most of the times that bridge was washed away with annual floods that made the situation worse. Thanks to the untiring efforts of Most.Rev.Dr. Don Sylvestor, the Bishop of Galle and Rev. Fr. Bede de Silva, then the Adminstrator, a solid concrete bridge came into existence.Yet it was washed off completely during the heavy flood in 2003. The present bridge came into existence under the supervision of Rev. Fr. Boniface Perera, then the Administrator.

Madu Ganga River , Balapitiya - Sri Lanka

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 9 Feb 2013 11:34:00 +0530

Maduganga Balapitiya, Sri lanka,,,

Between Colombo and Galle there exists a beautiful river called Madu Ganga in Balapitiya which offers a glimpse of how it has become a part of the life of the people in the area .

In the outset Madu Ganga is considered as Sri Lanka's second largest wetland consisting of 28 islands including two main islands providing shelter to 215 families.
Over the past generations Madu Ganga has played an important role in providing food and shelter and of course providing easy access to the main land via small wooden boats.
During the pre colonization period Madu ganga was used as one of the main water ways connecting cities and ancient Sinhala Kingdoms.
The main treasure of Madu Ganga is its mangroves that act as a bio-lock to the area in giving protection to the variety of aquatic plants and animal life. They provide a home for different kinds of aquatic plants, crabs, shrimps, fish, various invertebrates and other animal life including crocodiles .

Distance from Colombo to Balapitiya is 82 Kilometers

most popular taprobane island & weligama beach ..

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 8 Feb 2013 16:53:00 +0530

Weligama is an idyllic village on the Southern coats of Sri Lanka in Matara district. Well known for its stilt fishermen and some of the most enchanting beaches in Sri Lanka, this idyllic bay boasts the most exquisite sandy beaches in Sri Lanka. Weligama is a popular tourist destination that draws not only beach lovers but also those who are interested in its history as there are many colonial edifices near by.

There are many handy accommodation options in and around Weligama ranging from five star hotels like Fortress The through to a string of budget and cheap local hotels to suit your every need and budget. We have compiled a special list of cheap Weligama hotels for the budget travelers.

Taprobane Island was originally built in the 1920's by the romantically named but self styled Count de Mauny-Talvande. The island with its neo palladian mansion has played host to kings, queens, presidents, prime ministers, aristocracy, writers and eccentrics, giving it a very colorful history, which guests can now share.

Distance from Colombo to Koggala is 145 Kilometers

Mirissa beach .. The Blue Whales are seen in three locations off the coast of Lanka

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 8 Feb 2013 16:31:00 +0530

Mirissa

Mirissa and its breathtaking sandy beach pretty much transforms your dreams and visions of a tropical paradise into an everyday reality.
Located close to the Southern tip of the Island of Sri Lanka and only about 200 km from the Equator, this secluded crescent shaped beach is the perfect place to sit back, relax and forget about all the hussle and bussle of your other life that’s a million miles away.
This small sandy tropical beach boasts some of Sri Lanka’s best and most stunning sunsets and sunrises.
All the Guest Houses in Mirissa are set back from the actual beach giving you the impression that you are on a deserted palm fringed island. Every now and again the silence is broken by the sound of a coconut falling on the sand or a chilled beer being opened by someone further up the beach.

The Blue Whales are seen in three locations off the coast of Lanka–Mirissa, Kalpitiya and Trincomalee. Mirissa being the prime spot out of the three, sandwiched between the towns of Weligama and Matara, is a 35 km or one hour drive south of Galle. http://srilankafree4u.blogspot.com/2013/02/blue-whale-watching.html

Distance from Colombo to Koggala is 146 Kilometers

Unawatuna Beach-probably the best beach in the world..

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 8 Feb 2013 16:24:00 +0530

Galle Fort & Unawatuna Beach

Galle Fort.

Basking on the southern coast of Sri Lanka in the bay of Galle, the Fort was first built by the Portuguese in 1588 before being extensively fortified by the Dutch in the mid 1600s. Recognized by UNESCO for its cultural heritage value, the Fort was declared a World Heritage Site in 1988 as a unique exposition of "an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries." For more history.

Whether on a ‘guided walk’ or strolling along the narrow streets, today you will see clear and well maintained evidence of the Dutch influence. Although these days there are some notable differences to 400 years ago.

Today a Museum occupies the stables; jewellery shops abound; cafes emerge from behind restored columns; interior design shops mingle with book stores and fashion outlets; and to cap it all the Dutch Governor’s residence is now the luxurious Amangalla Hotel.

Accommodation has also changed and there is something for every budget and preference within these historic ramparts . Galle is the cultural capital of the southern coast of this magical island and along with the seven other UNESCO sites in Sri Lanka, Galle Fort is a must see for everyone.

Distance from Colombo to Galle is 116 Kilometers

Unawatuna Beach-probably the best beach in the world..

Unawatuna Beach was named the world’s best beach by The Discovery Channel in 2004. That may be a stretch today, but Unawatuna is undoubtedly the best beach in Sri Lanka-none other offers the same combination of golden sand, a protected bay that offers the country’s best swimming, the famed beauty of the headland with its temple and sunset, and the laid back atmosphere of Unawatuna. Accessibility is also unrivalled, only an hour and a half from Colombo. It is simply the best all round beach in the country, and probably the world.

Distance from Colombo to Unawatuna is 121 Kilometers

Best beaches southern sri lanka , Bentota & Hikkaduwa,

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 7 Feb 2013 16:09:00 +0530

Bentota

Bentota Beach Hotel at Bentota Beach is one of the very first beach resort hotels of Sri Lanka. Nestled in a narrow strip of land between the Bentota Beach and Bentota River, the luxury hotel with its expansive gardens of groves of Coconut palm trees spreading over 30 acres are built in the traditions of Colonial Dutch Architecture. The hotel is set up in such a way as to bring about grand views of the surrounding scenery of beach, river and verdant green land of Bentota.

The combination of unrivaled location and Geoffrey Bawa's concepts of architecture of the hotel has made it one of the most popular and most sought after beach resort hotels among the Sri Lanka Hotels.

Expansive golden sandy beaches tempts you all to get you skin tanned in the sun, let the children play safely, take romantic beach strolls and sit tight and enjoy a stunning sunset, all this within a single day. As if all that wouldn't do the hotels gardens invites you to take a stroll around, play outdoor games in the shade of palm trees as well as to sit and chat with your loved one in the well maintained and shaded expanses of grassy lawns. Bentota Beach Hotel River Boat is all yours to host parties while floating in the Bentota lagoon and river.

Distance from Colombo to Beantota is 62 Kilometers

Hikkaduwa

Sri Lanka is home to some of the best stretches of beaches in South Asia. The country’s beaches have become its foremost tourist attraction and since of late, many important festivals have been centred around it.

Hikkaduwa is one of the well-known and admired beach resorts of this paradise island. It is positioned 98 kilometres south from the commercial capital, Colombo. The extraordinarily attractive beach of Hikkaduwa is a place of fun and excitement and always has something for everyone.

The only marine sanctuary of the country is situated in Hikkaduwa since its inception in 1979. The Hikkaduwa Marine Sanctuary is home to around 70 diverse types of corals and is constantly frequented by the likes of conservators, scientists and biologists. Many believe this is the best place to explore marine creatures such as coral fish, lobsters and various kinds of coloured tropical fish. A beautiful stretch of a 1.5 kilometre long beach runs parallel to the coral reefs of this beautiful marine sanctuary. The reefs here consist of twelve kinds of butterfly fish and five kinds of angelfish.

The beach of Hikkaduwa is a great place to enjoy numerous water sports activities, as well is the venue for the annual beach festival that attractions local and international travellers in large numbers. With regard to the various sports and leisure activities that are on offer, one of the unique highlights of the Hkkaduwa Beach is the glass bottom boat rides that are ever popular amongst nature lovers. It is a place of discovery and wonder for the likes of snorkelers, wind surfers, divers and for those who wish to enjoy an enthralling deep sea fishing experience. The breathtaking beaches are also perfect for those who simply want to relax, gaze at the Indian Ocean and ponder on the earth’s beauty.

This amazing beach resort offers its visitors a pleasant yet memorable nightlife and abundant dining venues to enjoy an array of succulent seafood. The vast number of hotels and guesthouses located right along the beach provide modern facilities, friendly service and some remarkable views of the sparkling blue ocean. Visit this beautiful destination and be awed by the beauty and opulent ambience.

Distance from Colombo to Hikkaduwa is 115 Kilometers

Blue Whale Watching...

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 6 Feb 2013 14:02:00 +0530

Come watch the whales with professionals at sea.....

The Sri Lanka Navy's passenger craft "Princess of Lanka" set sail on a new journey at the launching of “whale watching project” venture since 30 January 2011 at port of Galle. The Princess of Lanka passenger vessel played a pivotal role in ferrying thousands of security forces personnel, civilians and goods between Trincomalee , Kankesanthurai ports and Thalai Mannar till the main land supply routes were cleared and restored after the dawn of peace.

"The passenger craft Princess of Lanka" utilized for whale watching/sea cruises under the auspices of Jet liner nautical enterprise will chart the waters as a recreational cruise ship whilst witnessing the beauty of Sri Lankan territorial waters in Indian ocean where passengers will have a rare opportunity of close encounter with the largest living mammals and spinning dolphins with luxury and comfort. The ship is redressed and equipped to cater to the needs of the new clientele and is manned by a well disciplined and highly trained professional naval crew who are in par with the best in the hospitality industry. The cruises are scheduled to operate from Galle and Trincomalee during the period of month of November to April and month of May to October respectively. The list of packages offered by the whale watching project and the procedure of booking are in this site.

THE PLATFORM

* Length	:- 40M
* Breadth	:- 10.1m
* Draught	:- FWD 1.8m :- AFT 1.6m
* Speed	:- 31 Knots

Princess of Lanka

* Cruising Speed	:- 28 – 30 Knots
* Max Power Output	:- 2000 kW/2682.04HP
* Engine Type	:- MTU 16V 396 TE 74L
* Life Raft Details (50 personnel x 8)	:- For 400 personnel
* VIP Seating Capacity	:- 24
* Economy Class Seating Capacity	:- 276

Hummanaya Blowhole in southern Sri Lanka

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 6 Feb 2013 12:56:00 +0530

Hummanaya.... 89 km. south of Colombo is Dikwella, a coastal town 22km east of Matara,6km east of Dikwella at kudawella there is a cliff where the only known blow-hole in Sri Lanka - and only one of a small number worldwide! - is located.

Horton plains national park world's end

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 5 Feb 2013 14:38:00 +0530

Location	Central province, Sri Lanka
Nearest city	Nuwara Eliya and Ohiya
Coordinates	6°48′N 80°48′ECoordinates: 6°48′N 80°48′E
Area	3,160 hectares (12.2 sq mi)
Established	1969 (Nature reserve) 1988 (National park)
Governing body	Department of Wildlife Conservation

Secluded in the mountains blanketed by the mist, Horton Plains is a unique eco system with cool climate on a elevation of 2300 meters above sea level. The reserve is home to many endemic flora of the country and for fauna the Sri Lankan Sambar deer herds and rare sighting of the mountain leopard is recorded. Horton Plains marks the beginning of 3 large rivers in Sri Lanka – Mahaweli, Kalani and Walawe that feeds water for some of the main agricultural regions in the country. The worlds end, a sheer fall of land mass of about 1000 meters giving the place its name, and Backers Falls located deep in the jungle are 2 of the major attractions of the park.

Nuwara Eliya

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 3 Feb 2013 17:51:00 +0530

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is a city, in the hill country of the Central Province, Sri Lanka. The city name meaning is "city on the plain (table land)" or "city of light". The city is the administrative capital of Nuwara Eliya District, with a picturesque landscape and temperate climate. It is located at an altitude of 1,868 m (6,128 ft) and is considered to be the most important location for Tea production in Sri Lanka. The city is overlooked by Pidurutalagala, the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka.

History

The city was founded by Samuel Baker, the discoverer of Lake Albert and the explorer of the Nile in 1846. Nuwara Eliya's climate lent itself to becoming the prime sanctuary of the British civil servants and planters in Ceylon. Nuwara Eliya, called Little England then, was also a hill country retreat where the British colonialists could immerse in their pastimes such as fox hunting, deer hunting,elephant hunting, polo, golf and cricket.
Although the town was founded in the 19th century by the British, the whole district is today visited by native travelers, specially during the month of April, the season of flowers, pony races, go cart races and auto rally.
Many of the buildings retain features from the colonial period such as the Queen's Cottage, General's House, Grand Hotel, Hill Club, Town Post Office and even new hotels are often built and furnished in the colonial style. Anyone who visits the city can wallow in its nostalgia of bygone days by visiting these landmark buildings. Many private homes still maintain their old English-style lawns and gardens.

Climate

Due to its highland location, Nuwara Eliya has a subtropical highland climate (Köppen climate classification Cfb), with a mean annual temperature of 16 °C (61 °F).
In the winter months it is quite cold at night, and there can even be frost. However, it rapidly warms up as the tropical sun climbs higher during the day.

Climate data for Nuwara Eliya
Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	Year
Record high °C (°F)	25.9 (78.6)	25.6 (78.1)	26.8 (80.2)	27.7 (81.9)	27.3 (81.1)	26.4 (79.5)	25.4 (77.7)	24.7 (76.5)	25.4 (77.7)	24.2 (75.6)	26.2 (79.2)	27.5 (81.5)	27.7 (81.9)
Average high °C (°F)	20.0 (68.0)	21.2 (70.2)	22.5 (72.5)	22.8 (73.0)	21.3 (70.3)	18.9 (66.0)	18.5 (65.3)	18.7 (65.7)	19.2 (66.6)	19.8 (67.6)	19.8 (67.6)	19.4 (66.9)	20.2 (68.4)
Daily mean °C (°F)	14.7 (58.5)	15.3 (59.5)	16.3 (61.3)	17.1 (62.8)	17.1 (62.8)	16.1 (61.0)	15.7 (60.3)	15.7 (60.3)	15.7 (60.3)	15.8 (60.4)	15.6 (60.1)	15.2 (59.4)	15.9 (60.6)
Average low °C (°F)	9.4 (48.9)	9.4 (48.9)	10.2 (50.4)	11.4 (52.5)	12.8 (55.0)	13.3 (55.9)	12.8 (55.0)	12.7 (54.9)	12.3 (54.1)	11.9 (53.4)	11.5 (52.7)	11.0 (51.8)	11.6 (52.9)
Record low °C (°F)	1.2 (34.2)	0.4 (32.7)	1.1 (34.0)	4.4 (39.9)	7.8 (46.0)	8.7 (47.7)	2.3 (36.1)	8.4 (47.1)	7.2 (45.0)	5.1 (41.2)	2.4 (36.3)	1.9 (35.4)	0.4 (32.7)
Precipitation mm (inches)	100.6 (3.961)	77.7 (3.059)	71.5 (2.815)	158.4 (6.236)	175.9 (6.925)	171.9 (6.768)	164.9 (6.492)	161.0 (6.339)	178.8 (7.039)	226.8 (8.929)	221.7 (8.728)	196.0 (7.717)	1,905.2 (75.008)
Avg. precipitation days (≥ 1.0 mm)	8	7	8	13	13	16	17	16	15	18	17	15	163
% humidity	75	67	65	73	87	84	84	84	83	83	82	85	79
Source #1: World Meteorological Organization^[1]

Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 3 Feb 2013 16:05:00 +0530

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is an orphanage, nursery and captive breeding ground for wild Asian elephants located at Pinnawala village, 13 km (8.1 mi) northwest of Kegalle town in Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka. Pinnawalla is notable for having the largest herd of captive elephants in the world. In 2011, there were 88 elephants, including 37 males and 51 females from 3 generations, living in Pinnawala.^[1]
The orphanage was originally founded in order to afford care and protection to many of the orphaned unweaned wild elephants found wandering in and near the forests of Sri Lanka. It was established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC).^[2]
The Millennium Elephant Foundation is a separate registered private charity organization which is a retirement home for 7 elephants and a tourist attraction.^[3]

Daily actiivities

At Pinnawela an attempt was made to simulate, in a limited way, the conditions
in the wild. Animals are allowed to roam freely during the day and a herd
structure allowed to form.

independence day of sri lanka 4th of february

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 3 Feb 2013 14:38:00 +0530

Sigiriya (Lion's rock)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 1 Feb 2013 18:35:00 +0530

Sigiriya (Lion's rock) is a rock fortress and ruins of a palace situated in central Matale District of Sri Lanka dating to the fifth century B.C.E. Although the history of the building of the fortress, palace, and monastery is unclear, most probably it was built by King Kasyapa (477–495 C.E.) of the Moriyan dynasty as a fortress and palace. After Kasyapa's death, the fortress was converted into a Buddhist monastery and served for the next eight hundred years when it was abandoned in the fourteenth century. Rediscovered by British explorer John Still in 1907, the site has undergone extensive archeological work, opened to researchers, scholars, and visitors.
Located on a prominent hill standing 370 m above the plane surrounding it, Sigiriya makes a striking appearance. The site has tremendous cultural and historical significance. Its western rock face, 140 m long and 40 m high, has won acclaim for the abundant erotic frescoes that are strikingly similar to the paintings in Ajanta Caves of India. Sigiriya has an upper palace that sits at the top of the rock, a mid level terrace, a lower palace with gardens, moats, and walls at the base of the rock. The architects created a sophisticated reservoir and garden system for aesthetic beauty, drinking water, and air cooling. When Sigiriya converted to a monastery after King Kasyapa's death, Buddhist monks removed many of the erotic paintings as out of keeping for a place of religious practice. UNESCO designated Sigiriya a World Heritage Site in 1982, one of seven World Heritage sites in Sri Lanka.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sigiriya

Temple of the Tooth ( Sri Dalada Maligawa )

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 1 Feb 2013 17:58:00 +0530

The Sacred Tooth Relic

Literary sources indicate that the sacred Tooth Relic was received by king Vimaladharmasuriya I with great veneration and placed in the new three – storied shrine built by him near the royal palace. The Dutch Plan of 1765 shows the ground plans of two shrines. The one at the back should be the original one built by the king. His successor was Senarat (1603 – 1634), a brother of the deceased king had to face severe opposition from the contenders. He had to live in such distant places as Mahiyangana. He was able take the Tooth Relic to a safe location at Madamahanuvara in the hills enveloped with thick forest cover. Even under these difficult conditions, king Senarat was able to give due honor to the sacred Tooth Relic by placing it in a suitable shrine. Rajasimha II (1634 – 1686) succeeded king Senarat. As the Portuguese interference in local political affairs was intensified, Rajasimha sought the aid of the Dutch to circumvent the situation.

This action did not meet the approval of the people and a chaotic situation arose again, even to the extent of ceasing the holding of the annual Tooth Relic festival and the king leaving the palace. However he was able to rebuild the sacred Tooth Relic shrine into a two-storied structure and place the Tooth Relic therein. After Rajasimha II, Vimaladharmasuriya II (1686 – 1706) occupied the throne. He was a peace-loving ruler and was able to maintain harmonious relations with the Dutch and attend to many religious activities. The higher ordination of monks was re-established with the help of Burmese monks. He built a new three-storied Relic House for the sacred Tooth Relic. This probably constitutes the structure shown in front in the Dutch Plan of 1765. The king is also credited with the preparation of a grand golden casket for the sacred Tooth Relic and he held great festivities and rituals in honor of the sacred Tooth of the Buddha. Next in line of the ruling house was King Viraparakrama Narendrasimha (1707 – 1739). He was the last Sinhalese king of a long line of rulers and is credited with the protection of the sacred Tooth Relic and ritual honors accorded to the Relic. He rebuilt the Tooth Relic shrine making it two-storied. The chronicle provides a graphic description of the decoration of the shrine with murals of jatakas, etc. At the recent bomb blast of the Tamil Tigers, amidst destruction and devastation of the Dalada Maligava premises, the structure of this shrine known as Vadahitina Maligava was miraculously saved. The falling off of the top plaster of some parts of the walls of the inner shrine has revealed some of the original murals that would belong to the re-builder of the shrine, Narendrasimha.
The next ruler was Sri Vijaya Rajasimha (1738 – 1746) of South Indian Nayakkar origin, who became converted to Buddhism under the influence of Venerable Valvita Saranankara. He was recorded in the Chronicle, Mahavamsa, as having opened the relic casket and seen the sacred Tooth Relic with his own eyes. With this incident, the king went into raptures and held a ceremony for the sacred Tooth Relic, surpassing all other festivities held in the past.
The second Nayakkar ruler was King Kirti Sri Rajasimha (1746 – 1779).
He was able to get down monks from Siam (Thailand) under the leadership of Venrable Upali, to hold the Higher Ordination ceremony of the novices including Venerable Welivita Saranankara, who later was declared the Chief Sanghanayaka (Sangharaja) of the Malvatta Chapter. King Kirti Sri remains the greatest benefactor of the sacred Tooth Relic. Many festivities and rituals were instituted by him, including the addition of the Dalada Procession to the end of Esala festival, which was at the time confined only to the four Devales of Natha, Visnu, Kataragma and Pattini. The external interference in local politics resulted in the invasion of Kandy by the Dutch and the Sinhalese seeking the aid of the British, who had already engaged themselves in the maritime trade. For about an year, the Tooth Relic was hidden away in the hills in safter sites. The king too fled to Hanguranketa. Finally, the Tooth Relic was brought back to Kandy and placed in the shrine with much veneration and ritual worship was commenced.
Thereafter, the third Nayakkar, Rajadhi Rajasimha (1779 – 1787) became king. Being a devoted Buddhist, he too continued the ritual worship connected with the sacred Tooth Relic. It was at this time the two European powers, the Dutch and the British, were enhancing their struggle for supremacy over the island.
At this moment, the last king of the Sri Lankan ruling house, Sri Vikrama Rajasimha, (1797 – 1815) also a South Indian Nayakkar, occupied the throne. His short period ended with the occupation of the island by the British in 1815. Under the prevailing calamitous situations, the Buddhist monks were able to take away the Tooth Relic to many safer locations. The British Governor at the time was Robert Brownrig who showed some keenness to safeguard the religious activities of the Buddhists, particularly those connected with the sacred Tooth Relic. The Britishers had realized the importance of the Tooth Relic to the natives, and therefore, did their best to please the Buddhists by showing much munificence to the worship of the sacred Tooth Relic. They too seemed to have realized the value of the Tooth Relic as the palladium of kingship. John D’Oyly, who was in charge of Kandy at the time, was originally averse to Buddhists under the Governor Maitland, but subsequently under the influence of Governor Brownrig, played a friendly role towards the Buddhist religion. Elaborate preparations in the form of festive celebrations and even processions were performed with a view to receiving the sacred Tooth Relic back in the Dalada shrine in Kandy.
During this period, the Tooth Relic had been moved to several locations such as Bamabaratala, Talagune and Madivaka viharas and the jungles of Bintanna, the country of the Vaddahs, and after the cessation of hostilities to some extent, the Tooth Relic was brought to a location closer to Kandy. Finally, with the help of the Chief Adigar, Ahalepola and chief prelates of both Malvatta and Asgiriya Chapters, the Tooth Relic was taken to its final resting place at Hindagala to Kandy with ceremonial processions arranged with the collaboration of British regiments who themselves marched in the Dalada procession. The Britishers faced yet another uprising of the Sinhalese led by Kapptipola in 1818 in the Uva Province. The Kandyans were again plunged into a bloody war situation. In these circumastances, the sacred Tooth Relic was taken away secretly to Hanguranketha by the monk engaged in the daily service (Tevava) of the Relic. The uprising was finally quelled and the sacred Tooth Relic was redeposited in the present Dalada shrine and all religious services reinstated, including the holding of daily service and the annual procession. The British Government, having realized the importance of the Tooth Relic to be left in charge of the Sinhalses Buddhists, made all necessary arrangements to form a strong committee to overlook the affairs of the Tooth Relic.
This committee comprised (1). Diva Nilame (Diyawadana Nilame), (2) Six important prelates from the Malwatta and the Asgiriya monasteries with 3 from each temple, (3) The Chieftains of Udunuwara, Yatinuwara, Dumbara and Harispattuva, and (4) The Basnayakes (Custodinas) of the four Devales(Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama and Pattini) and the Maha Saman Devale. The Committee was to be chaired by the Diyawadana Nilame (Lay Custodian of the sacred Tooth Relic). Although the responsibility of the Tooth Relic was handed over to this committee on 2nd October 1847, yet, the three important personages who acted as the custodians constituted the Maha Nayaka Theros of the Malwatta and Asgiriya Chapters and the Diyawadana Nilame. After the 1848 rebellion, the British Governor took over the responsibilities in regard to the Tooth Relic, and finally in 1853, all responsibilities were vested in the three authorities mentioned above. However, the British Government seemed to have continued some authority over the Tooth Relic in that, after the completion of the annual Dalada procession, the Diyawadana Nilame and the Basnayake Nilames of the four Devles had to report the successful completion of the event to the Governor at his Lodge. The tradition continues to this day, where at present the Head of the State, the Executive President receives the Nilames at the Kandy official lodge.

http://www.sridaladamaligawa.lk

Google map in Srilanka

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 1 Feb 2013 17:15:00 +0530

Google map in Srilanka

Srilanka map


	Add caption

Srilanka map

Srilanka Beautiful Places

Yala National Park Videos..

Weherahena Temple Sri lanka

Yala National Park

Bambarakanda Waterfalls of Sri Lanka (Bambarakanda Ella)

Bambarakanda Waterfalls of Sri Lanka(Bambarakanda Ella)

(some pic,by Anusha Prasad)

Maduwanwela Walawwa,,,(Maduwanwela Mansion)

Water world Keleniya..

surfing point in sri lanka

Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex

Pigeon Island Temple , Matara

This is an interesting place in Matara Town. Its situated in the sea. Its called as "Pigeon Island" It connect with the land side by a attractive hanging bridge. In the monsoon time its very difficult to reach the island. After entering the island there is attactive scenaries.

Botanic Gardens at Hakgala,

Kalwari Sharing Hiniduma,

Madu Ganga River , Balapitiya - Sri Lanka

Maduganga Balapitiya, Sri lanka,,,

most popular taprobane island & weligama beach ..

Welligama Beach ..

Mirissa beach .. The Blue Whales are seen in three locations off the coast of Lanka

Unawatuna Beach-probably the best beach in the world..

Best beaches southern sri lanka , Bentota & Hikkaduwa,

Blue Whale Watching...

THE PLATFORM

Hummanaya Blowhole in southern Sri Lanka

Hummanaya.... 89 km. south of Colombo is Dikwella, a coastal town 22km east of Matara,6km east of Dikwella at kudawella there is a cliff where the only known blow-hole in Sri Lanka - and only one of a small number worldwide! - is located.

Horton plains national park world's end

Nuwara Eliya

History

Climate

Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage

Daily actiivities

independence day of sri lanka 4th of february

Sigiriya (Lion's rock)

Temple of the Tooth ( Sri Dalada Maligawa )

The Sacred Tooth Relic

Google map in Srilanka