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Landa House Belihuloya Sri Lanka - Balangoda Sri Lanka Hotel Review - Best of 2008

2010-10-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

In 2008, I have stayed at over 30 hotels. Of some of these - the ones that either impress or depress me greatly - I have written about in this blog. Toward the end of the year, I had to visit Badulla for a presentation. The hotel I stayed at was the one I liked the most for 2008 or any year.

Belihuloya has always been a nice place to stop on the way to the southern hill country for a rice and curry at the beautifully located rest house along the oya (river). This time, though, I found Landa House, through a friend, which is even more beautifully located.

About 10 minutes from Balangoda on the newly carpeted A4 road, before you come to the bridge and rest house, you turn right and go down the steep hill. You keep going past the point where you think your car can return safely and you enter a beautifully overgrown garden with huge trees.

The hotel is a forest of water. It is overgrown with green and overrun with water. As you descend the staircase to the river, all you can hear is the roar of water from the surrounding water features.
It has four rooms in two buildings, each one far from each other. It is so overgrown with trees that if you're in one building, you can't really even see the other building. One building has two connected family rooms, each one with a big bed, TV/DVD and loft bed.

The other, closer to the river and more private, has two unconnected rooms that are more suitable for couples with river views and four poster beds but no TV/DVD. It also has a tree house, which is more like a Swiss Family Robinson treehouse than anything I've seen: a proper staircase leading up to it and a full bed with a spring mattress hung hammock style.

We stayed in one of the rooms overlooking the river. All the food was delivered to the room with no complaints; we had it on the balcony. The food is basic Sri Lankan food, cooked by a cute little old lady from nearby.

As I was writing this, I realised that there's just no way for me to describe just how great this place is. So, I created a photo walkthrough with 90 odd photographs so you can see just what Landa house is like.
he best part is the price. Our total bill came to just 5,500 which included three meals for two people and drinks (non alcoholic - no license) .

Landa house is now our favourite hotel. We like it because it has the best features of the more expensive places (like Sun House) that we've stayed but is absolutely a unique creation in and of itself. The way the buildings are integrated into the landscape, the design of the rooms, the little nooks they leave you to find for yourself, the unfussy, obliging service and most of all, the forest and water, left us wanting to return over and over again. Anyone who wants to take a romantic getaway and find themselves completely alone and undisturbed is advised to do the same.

Hotel Name: Landa House
Address: Belihuloya
Directions: On the A4 (high level road) past Balangoda
Phone: +94 772 923366 / +94 452 280288
Rates (all inclusive): LKR 2,500 weekdays/3,500 weekends for room only. Food works out to around LKR 500-700 per meal for two.

POLONNARUWA The medieval capital

2010-10-24T09:41:00.000-07:00

Polonnaruwa (218 km from Colombo) became established as the capital in the 11th century when Anuradhapura was abandoned due to foreign invasion. .

A dominant feature of the city is a vast irrigation lake of 5940 acres named Parakrama Samudra.

The palace complex of King Parakrama Bahu is a medieval stronghold of moats, walls, guard houses, bathing ponds thick-walled multi-storeyed castle.

The Sacred Quadrangle is a complex of twelve striking monuments : The Vatadage, The Thurupama, The Nissanka Lata Mandapaya, The Atadage, The Hetadage, Gal Potha, The Satmahal Prasada, two Hindu Shrines known as the Siva Devale, The Alahanana Pirivena a 12th century monastic university, the Lankatilleke Shrine, The Gal Vihare which is one of Sri Lanka’s most unforgettable monuments – a group of three colossal Buddha images in seated, standing and reclining poses is carved with fluid grace and almost live expression on a huge rock face.

The Archaeological Museum located by the side of the Parakrama Samudra presents original artefacts found in Polonnaruwa and also replicas and artistic impressions of the ancient monuments.

dambulla cave temples and sigiriya rock

2010-10-24T09:38:00.000-07:00

dambulla cave temples and sigiriya rock

saw lots of good things today, but the real story is how my mood shifted from really, really bad to really, really good. to understand, just how ****** the day started, you have to understand just how bad my hotel was last night. there is really no way to describe how awful the place was, but i will try.

imagine if ramsey decided that he wanted to build a hotel in dambulla. wait, that won't work, ramsey would never use unlicensed contractors. here you go: imagine annie decided that she wanted to build a hotel in dambulla, but she was on a really tight budget so instead of hiring a construction crew she captures a bunch of monkeys. oh wait, annie hates monkeys. okay this will work, imagine that steve wanted to build a hotel in ...

"Hambantota"

2010-08-05T02:21:00.000-07:00

Heading eastward from

Tangalle, the scenery changes from the lush green of

the southwest to more open landscapes as you enter

the dry zone of southeastern Sri Lanka.

Hambantota, 240km (150 miles) from Colombo,

is an independent travelers' haven that is showing

some of the signs of escalating into a fully fledged holiday resort.

Like other south coast towns and villages,

it would probably already have made the

transition if not for the troubles of the

1980s and 1990s. Hambantota stands on a

sandy headland, on the seaward side of

which a huge fleet of outrigger fishing

canoes draws up, and the horizon is

almost always dotted with their small

triangular sails.
With sweeping sandy beaches on either side,

it is also a convenient base for exploring the

nearby Bundala National Park and, somewhat

further away, the Ruhuna National Park and

the temples at Kataragama.

Sri Lanka Holiday Packages

2010-08-02T10:21:00.000-07:00

Sri Lanka Holiday Packages

We offer tailor-made Sri Lanka Holiday Packages for individuals, couples, families and groups.
All our Sri Lanka Holiday packages are organized by us and guarantee 100% satisfaction combined with an unique and special experience.

We are offering a great choice of All-Inclusive Packages so make sure to visit this page often. Sri Lanka all-inclusive resorts provide a great value, especially with Sri Lanka Holidays as your All Inclusive Tour Operator.

Booking a all inclusive holiday in Sri Lankas means that you pay one set price for just about everything, including accommodation, food and drinks. This means you shouldn’t even need to think about where to go for your next meal or where to get a drink.

The best part of an all inclusive vacation is the "worry-free" environment. There is an all inclusive resort for every budget and every personality. We here at Sri Lanka Holidays specialize in making your all inclusive dream come true. We do that with the best prices on the market and a personal service.

If you didn't find the Sri Lanka Holiday Package you were looking for please contact us. We do have great discount and special offer deals for most destinations on the island.

Havelock Bungalow Nuwara Eliya

2010-08-02T10:13:00.000-07:00

Havelock Bungalow Nuwara Eliya

Location	:	Nuwara Eliya
Category	:	Holiday Bungalows for locals Long Term Holiday Home Rentals in Sri Lanka
Distance from Colombo	:	180 Km (5 hour drive)
Distance from Airport	:	168 Km (4.30 hour drive)
Price Guide	:	Rs. 25,000/- per night onwards

Overview
A luxury Bungalow located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya City Centre. Three storied Bungalow with separate entrance for each floor. The bungalow consists of Nine well appointed rooms with attached bathrooms with hot water.

Owner considers selling outright - Rs. 85 Million

Accommodation

Ground Floor – Three rooms with three attached bathrooms (Accommodates four adults and two kids)

First Floor – Three rooms with three attached bathrooms, Pantry, Dining, Living, Common bathroom and log fire place. (Accommodates six adults and three kids)

Second floor - Three rooms with three attached bathrooms, Pantry, Dining, Living, Common bathroom. Children play room and log fire place. (Accommodates six adults and three kids)

Rates

Ground floor and first floor - Rs. 30,000/- for both floors per night (Includes cooking fees)

Second floor - Rs. 25,000/- per night (Includes cooking fees)

Contact Us

Best of Lanka (Pvt) Ltd

#104/7, Cooray Place, Stanley Tillakaratne Mawatha.
Nugegoda.
Sri Lanka.

Telephone	+94 11 2819457 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +94 11 2819457 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, +94 77 3476288, +94 77 2335051 +94 77 3595411
Fax :	+94 11 2819457
Hot Line :	+94 773 476288	Email:	info@srilankanexpeditions.com

Reservation Inquiry for Havelock Bungalow Nuwara Eliya

Nature Trails and countryside walking in Sri Lanka

2010-08-02T10:09:00.000-07:00

For those who want more than a mere walk through the countryside, at Srilankan Expedition we offer the opportunity to journey on a nature trail through Sri Lanka's rich and diverse natural environment with a special focus on the four key areas of the country's natural environment. These areas include the animal community, plant community, man-made habitats and scenery of Sri Lanka . Let our experienced and knowledgeable guides enlighten you with fascinating information about the environment through which you are walking so that you can develop a real understanding of everything you see, hear and smell–a true multi-sensory experience!

Overview

2010-08-02T10:08:00.001-07:00

Overview

Renowned fashion designer, Taru, has surpassed herself and “Sri Lankan Boutique” in this luxurious villa 30 minutes along the coast from sister “Taru Villas” in quiet Balapitiya at the mouth of the Madu Ganga.

Set on a belt of coconut plantations 500m inland, the surroundings are peaceful woodland. The forest hosts many birds, and you may make an interesting visit to the nearby prawn farm on the river that borders the garden.

An excellent opportunity to join friends in stylish and spacious suites and be waited upon by any of 15 discreet and extremely professional staff, attending to the garden, housekeeping and dining.

Taru’s colourful and symmetrical style blends natural stone and wood with a profusion of Asian antiques.

Relax in your private Jacuzzi under the stars, stroll down to the pavilion and take a dip in the glistening pool, or explore Ambalangoda’s antique labyrinths for Sri Lankan mementos. Travel up river in your private motorboat,cut the engine and reach for your fishing rod.

Highs	Lows
The most exquisite suites in Sri Lanka with deluxe bathrooms Ideal for the special family celebration Silent footed waiters serving cooling juices.	The gardens are vast and lush. A manicured and attended area by the villas for strolls by the lake or high grasses by the river mouth to encourage birdlife.

GALLERY

Quality

Overall Quality

Quality of Restaurant

Command of English

Quality of Service

Quality of Bathroom

	Swimming Pool
	Beach Access
	Groups Welcomed
	Ayurveda
	Maid Service
	River
	Woodland
	Landscaped Gardens
	Private Cook
	Dining Room
	Diving
	Patchy mobile reception

Boutique Hotels in & Beach Boutique Hotels

2010-08-02T10:06:00.000-07:00

Boutique Hotels in Sri Lanka & Sri Lankan Beach Boutique Hotels

A collection of luxury boutique hotels of approximately 3-15 rooms set on the Coast, the hills and in cities. Characterful hotels of high standards of service, stunning architecture, home comforts and delicious food. These small Hotels offer individual room tariffs and our Sri Lanka specialists can recommend an itinerary of various styles and luxury to meet your needs and budget. Many boutique hotels have a resident host, often members of the ancestral family who own and once occupied the boutique hotel as a family home. Some coastal villas will offer individual room rates in low season and are included below.

	Pool		Fine Dining		Beach Access		Child Friendly
	Ayurvedic		Accept Groups		Birdwatching		Solo Traveller

Price Guide*:

up to $50

$50 - $100

$100 - $250

$250+

*prices are based on double room in peak season or cost of private villa/night

Personal DriverTaxi

2010-08-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

Taxi

Only a few are metered and they are only really apparent in Colombo. Agree a price before you set off and ensure the driver knows your destination. Most hotel receptions / shops will give you a guide price or will arrange the taxi on your behalf.

Tuk-Tuk

In our opinion the best way to see the local sites, have some fun, and make friends with the locals. They are in abundance and you can barter but remember that this is their livelihood. Agree a fare before starting your journey especially if it’s a round trip. Tuk-Tuk’s are fine for journeys up to 20km. The drivers will try to entice you into fashion stores and jewellers so be firm and if they take it well, give them a tip and they will be happy to see you again the next time without the sales patter.

Bus

Ubiquitous, cheap, crowded and completely hair raising and uncomfortable. They are small and built for locals with short legs. There are plenty of buses going to the key destinations as the Govt CTB buses compete with the air-conditioned private companies for fares.

They can be slow if you are on a long journey but on City links they own the roads. For timetables, call the main Bus Stand in Colombo on Tel: (Sri Lanka +94) 0112329604/5 or local bus station office for private timetables.

Rail

A slower and more comfortable ride than a bus and marginally more expensive. The rail network is quite comprehensive and criss-crosses much of the island. The coast line South from Colombo, the mainline from Colombo up through the Hill Country and northern line through the Cultural triangle to Trincomalee, all offer scenic journeys, especially if you travel 1st class.

However the trains are from the 1900’s and timetables are erratic with a margin of error greater than ½ day! 1st / 2nd class carriages are a must but seats and air conditioning are still not guaranteed, especially in peak season. We have wonderful memories sharing Christmas Eve with 30 people in a carriage made for 10 and 35°C!!

The main City links from Colombo, Galle and Kandy are acceptable and the observation and night carriages can be fun. You will need to book in advance. The costs reflect the standards and can be a cost effective alternative if you are on a budget.

For timetables, contact the Railway office in Colombo, Tel (+94) 0112435838 or visit the Tourist Board schedules on www.srilankatourism.org.

Moving Around Getting There

2010-08-02T09:59:00.000-07:00

We know that you like to seek out the best deals for flights so we have partnered with best flight operators and will gain the best price on the market for you. Here are our recommendations on the best operators.

From Europe - London to Colombo

10hrs direct (11 hrs return) or 14hrs via the Middle East Only non-stop carrier is Sri Lankan Airlines (Tel +44 (0)20 8538 2001) twice daily from Heathrow and twice a week via Amsterdam. Less frequent flights are also available from Zurich, Paris, Rome, Milan and Frankfurt.

We highly recommend Sri Lankan Airlines for service. They release their tiered ticket prices 3 months prior to the flight date. At that time, you can often find a limited number of well priced seats. They also operate a frequent flyer programme which is linked with Emirates, United and a few others.

Other airlines involve a change (or 2) in the Middle East and their home country.

	Other Airlines	Stop over
	High Quality	Emirates – via Dubai Gulf Air – via Bahrain LTU – via Germany
	Discount Airlines	Etihad – via Abu Dhabi Czech - via Middle East Qatar – via Middle East Royal Jordanian – via Jordan Kuwait – via Kuwait

Where to purchase your tickets?

Our customers will receive preferential rates from our flight partners Sri Lanka Tours / Taprobane Travel. They will keep us informed of your flight details and can place a no-obligation reservation on your desired flight whilst you arrange your accommodation with our consultants or on-line.

We would also recommend the following discount flight companies:

Web Site	Call Centre	Asian Line
www.dialaflight.com	Contact Alistair	0161 932 1911
www.e-bookers.com	0870 814 6026	0207 958 3611

Price range: £600-1200 peak season £350-650 low season.
If you are planning to stay in Sri Lanka for over a month check the duration date applicable to the price quoted.

From USA/Canada

No direct flights.
Via London & Middle East from East Coast.
Via Hong Kong, Singapore/ Bangkok from West Coast.

Thai Airlines, Singapore and Cathay Pacific all fly through on these routes and connect with Sri Lankan Airlines for the final leg.

From India

Air India flies from Delhi, Madras, Mumbai and Kerala.

From Maldives

Daily flights to Colombo which take approximately 1 hour.

From Australia / New Zealand

No direct flights
Via Singapore, India, Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur.

Bandaranaike International Airport

Located 34 km North of Colombo centre. Trains and buses are available but we would recommend a taxi or personal driver. It can be a bun fight of touting drivers as you exit the airport and there is no guarantee of a fixed rate nor a quality and insured driver/car. We are happy to provide quotes fro any journey with a reliable company and fleet.

If you have a long and onward journey from the airport, we would recommend a personal driver and car with an English speaking and licensed driver guide. Our recommended drivers maximise your sightseeing and not stop at every shop where he can make commission.

The airport departure tax should now be included within all airline tickets, but check with your agent when you purchase your flight.

Useful Telephone Numbers for flight changes

Sri Lankan Airlines - 011 242 1161
Royal Jordanian - 011 230 1621-4
Etihad UK - 0870 2417121 / Abu Dhabi - +9712 6444490
Emirates - 011 230 0200-5
Indian Airlines - 011 232 3136
Qatar - 011 4525 700
Singapore Airlines - 011 223 057

History & Politics

2010-08-02T09:52:00.000-07:00

History & Politics

Early years: It seems that the first Sinhalese people arrived in Sri Lanka from North India around 5-6th centuries BC, gradually replacing the Veddha hunter-gatherers. The kingdom of Annuradhapura developed in the 4th century BC and remained the center of Sinhalese kingdoms for almost 1500 years when it was superceded by Polonnaruwa, further South East. The system of free labour for the King enabled the building of the vast tanks (lakes) and irrigation systems, still in use. In the middle years 1252-1400 Sri Lanka suffered attacks by China, Malaysia, and Sth India, until in 1505 the Portugese arrived to monopolise the spice and cinnamon trades.

Kandy became the last Royal city of the Sinhalese in the 15th Century, whilst the Tamils migrating from Sth India established themselves on the Northern Jaffna Pa.

Colonial Years: Kandy enlisted the help of the Dutch to oust the Portugese colonists but succeeded only in replacing one European power for another- for the next 150 years. They have left some stunning antique furniture in their wake.

The fine harbour of Trincomalee attracted the British and in 1802 Ceylon became a Crown colony. The door was opened to British settlers who established coffee, then tea, rubber, and coconut plantations. This led to road and rail construction, administrative, educational and welfare development and the introduction of English as the official language.

Independence: In 1948 Ceylon became an independent member of the British Commonwealth and in 1972 changed its name to Sri Lanka.

Ethnic Conflict: The differences between the Tamils in the North and the Sinhalese have festered for 2000 years. This became serious fighting in the 1970’2 but with intervention from the Norwegian Peace Mission and threat of cuts to funding from America, peace was brockered in February 2002.

The Sri Lankan government is now committed to reopen and redevelop the North/East which were previously out of bounds to tourists.

Government: The country is divided into 9 provinces, united under a democratically elected President, Hon Mahinda Rajapakse of the Democratic Socialist Republic Party and recently elected Prime Minister, Ratnasiri Wickremanayake, of UPFA (United Peoples Front Alliance)

Food & Drink

2010-08-02T09:51:00.000-07:00

Food

Rice and curry is the staple diet for Sri Lankans. This is a colourful and delicious affair and every chef and region has its own delicacy. All fruits and vegetables are brought together but personal favourites of Boutique Sri Lanka are: Pumpkin and mango curry in coconut milk, Organic boiled vegetables, Para fish, Pol sambol and jackfruit. Sri Lankan curry’s are full of spice but not very hot and no heavy sauces. Locals eat with their hands in order to truly mix the flavours.

Traditional dishes also include, Devilled Beef (hot & spicy but delicious), seafood, grilled cuttlefish (squid or calamari), Sri Lankan omelette, hoppers (egg pancake sometimes with added sugar), String hoppers (rice noodles), fish egg rolls (similar to pancake roll) ambul thiyal (a tuna based pickle). Seafood is delicious on the coastlines eg. Para fish, jumbo prawns in season (Feb/March), lobster, tuna, whilst the River / Tank fish in-land, is also tasty. Trincomalee, Beruwala (SW), Welligama, and Colombo are the main fishing harbours.

Taru Villa will insist on fresh daily deliveries of fish from Colombo and fresh vegetables from Nuwara Eliya.

Bites are usually served with drinks in local bars and guesthouses. Locals dip into plates of devil beef and prawns as the Arrack slides down. The meat can be rather gristly and their appeal disappears as they go cold. Roti is commonly found on street corners - a doughy pancake used as wrap for vegetable and fish rolls or chopped up with vegetables. A tasty snack.

Breakfast for locals is hoppers or Dahl and bread. Hotels will often offer a full Sri Lankan breakfast but will need notice the night before. Another Boutique Sri Lanka favourite, and rarely found, is Pittu (coconut steamed rice) served savoury with fish curry or sweet with brown sugar and coconut milk. Coconut sugar pancakes are a must for those with a sweet tooth- a speciality at Kudakaliya.

Alternatively, a Western breakfast is always available- typically with eggs, toast and an abundance of tropical fruit.

Desserts are not common place in Sri Lanka but gourmet menus at Aditya or the Sun House will tempt you every day with some homemade mouth watering puddings. Cargills ice cream, Pineapple fritters or traditional Buffalo curd and Kithul treacle are more commonly found desserts but equally delicious.

Sri Lankans do have a sweet tooth though – Rasa Kavili, Jaggery (sugary sweets/fudges) and cashew nuts are a common treat.

Fruits: Common tropical fruits like Mango, Papaya, Rambutan, Pineapples and Bananas are in abundance. Other favourites which are seasonal or rare are Mangosteen, Wood apples, Durian (usually in jam). The freshest fruit can be enjoyed at Hideaway Villa or Paradise Farm both tucked away on private pineapple and fruit plantations.

Drinks

King Coconut juice (not to be confused with the baby hairy coconut) and mango/papaya juice is drunk daily by the locals and is brimming with goodness.

Bottled water is readily available within hotels and at supermarkets. At small roadside stalls ,check that the seal is unbroken as they have been known to refill bottles with boiled water. The local government water in hotel taps is fine for cleaning teeth and if boiled can be drunk or frozen as ice - best to check in.

Arrack is the local tipple. It is coconut based and tastes like a mild Brandy. Neat, it is extremely palatable but goes down more swiftly mixed with Coke / tonic or in a fruit cocktail. We would recommend Old arrack for a smoother flavour but there are a number of brands and types which you may wish to try out!

Toddy is the hard man’s tipple. Pure alcohol and a derivative of the Coconut palm. Our opinion is that it tastes of paraffin and brings back bad memories of Greek / Italian nights on Ouzo and Sambuca.

Quality International wines can be found in most of the hotels/villas that we have recommended but at a price. Local wine is not great.

The local beer is Lion or Three Coins, both have a cool flavour- but do excuse even the best trained barman for not being able to pour a decent pint!

In the finest hotels, tea is usually Lipton or Dilmah, what we Western folk take for granted as ‘just TEA’. Join tasting sessions and walk the estate trails at Ceylon Tea Trails. In local guesthouses and in small towns, the tea is of poor quality - unfortunately, all the best ‘tips’ get exported. The locals tend to drink it black and with sugar so do specify. Those looking for a good cup of coffee in Sri Lanka will be hard pushed unless they visit The Fortress or coffee enthusiasts at Ganga Garden.

Climate

2010-08-02T09:50:00.000-07:00

Tropical with distinct dry and wet seasons in different regions. Humidity is not as intense as Hong Kong / Singapore. There is always a sunny day somewhere so don’t be swayed by the large tour operators who promote November to March only. Colombo and low-lying coastal regions have a temperature of 25-29ºC all year round with humidity of 80%. In the hill country the temperature drops- Kandy averages 20ºC Nuwara Eliya 16ºC, with coolish nights. The sea maintains a constant 27ºC all year. There are two monsoons:

From May to June and October to mid November in the South West/South and from December to January in the North/East and South East.

There are magnificent, but rapid sunsets and virtually no twilight.

Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec

	Very hot. Ideal for sunbathing, diving and sunbathing
	Hot. Ideal for sightseeing. Occasional shower
	Unpredictable weather but fine for sightseeing and some sunbathing. Warm with showers mostly at night.
	Heavy monsoon rain in 70% of the island. Very hot and dry on East Coast

People

2010-08-02T09:48:00.000-07:00

Population : 19.2 million. Sinhalese 74%, primarily Buddhist, Tamils 18% predominantly Hindu, others Muslim, Vedda, Burgher, Malay, Chinese and European.

Religions: Buddhism, Hindu, Christian, Muslim

Language: Sinhala & Tamil. English is widely spoken in tourist resorts and Cities but you may have to resort to sign language off the beaten track.

Colombo & Kandy have many wealthy Burhgers, decendants of European and Sri Lankan parentage. They are extremely friendly and open with Europeans and proud of their mixed heritage. However, some can occasionally adopt a touch of “The Kumars” and disrespect their less privileged native neighbours. We would suggest that you extend words of encouragement and friendship to all Sri Lankans, which,in turn, will be appreciated and ensure an enhanced holiday experience.

Geography

2010-08-02T09:47:00.000-07:00

Sri Lanka is likened to a tear drop falling from the South East coast of India. From North to South it stretches 433km and is 244km wide, comparable to Ireland or Tasmania.

The central hill country rises a little South of centre and is surrounded by a coastal plain. The flat dry Northern plain extends up to the tip and ends in an archipelago of low, flat islands.

Adam’s Peak at 2243m is spectacular and offers outstanding sunsets, but Pidurutalagala (2524m) near Nuwara Eliya is the highest point.

Capital: Colombo. Population of 1.2 million and the political, economic, social and cultural centre.

When to go?

2010-08-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

When to go?

The general year-round temperature does not vary much. The two monsoons...

South West: May/June and October / November
North East: November to March

...are distinct, meaning there is always a sunny beach. For more weather details see the climate review. Global warming has affected Sri Lanka too and the weather patterns are unpredictable at times. Monsoons can be short heavy showers or light drizzle all day.

December to March is the busiest season, ie more crowded, more expensive and liveliest atmosphere. For diving here, the water is calm and clear during this period. The Central Highlands – walking, cycling, bird watching etc –are cool and mainly dry Dec-April.

July to September are perfect months for those who don’t like intense heat and humidity but enjoy the odd day sunbathing. After the Spring monsoon, the plant life and white water rafting are also at their best.

The South East Coast now offers good beaches, diving and surfing from May to September but tourism is only just regenerating, so costs are low.

If you are looking to escape Christmas and New Year at home, Sri Lanka is perfect and offers many celebratory parties on 25th and 31st. But it gets extremely busy and many of our hotels will take bookings a year in advance.

The North and east are currently affected by civil unrest and we do not take bookings in these regions although we have visited.

"holiday sri lanka"

2010-08-02T09:45:00.000-07:00

About Sri Lanka

Overview

Why go?

Sri Lanka has it all. You can have your dream holiday here whatever your requirements- wide soft palm-lined beaches for lazing, plantations to canoe or drive through, cool plains, lush forests, ancient temples, colourful festivals enhanced by smiling friendly people welcoming you.

Its compact size enables you to cover many experiences in a limited time and though an established tourist destination, remains largely unspoilt. Go now and beat the crowds.

We love Sri Lanka and have chosen to share with you the best and most beautiful hideouts for your holiday and help you explore your favourite places your way. If you are seeking gilt marbled banquet halls, buffet queues and 11am aerobics classes, then you should join the sun and fun all-inclusive packages, we can offer these but we always prefer to encourage travellers to explore the real Sri Lanka and boutique hotels.

Story of Sigiriya

2010-07-19T04:29:00.000-07:00

Nadhira Lawrence

The following story of Kasyapa as obtained from the documents of Ananda-Sthavira, translated by Senarath Paranavitana, differs from the story that many learned as school children; that King Datusena had been plastered alive to a wall by his son Kasyapa who later died in battle facing his brother Moggallana. Perhaps this is the story accepted until later documents and literary works suggested otherwise.
King Kasyapa was the man who dared to hold the dream of his father of building a palace in the sky, despite the many obstacles he faced. Kasyapa was unfortunately called a parricide, owing to the earlier legend and later by his famed epithet 'God-King'.

The birth of a palace in the sky
King Datusena's reign saw 15 years of peace and prosperity in the land. He built the greatest tank in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Kalaveva, which he considered as all the wealth he ever possessed. King Datusena now wanted to be the 'Bodhirajaya' a title which the monarchs of Sri Lanka had held as protectors of Buddhism in Asia. How- ever, King Sri Kundya of Java had assumed this title and stubbornly held on to it even after Datusena sent word to him saying that it was illegal for another ruler other than a Sri Lankan to hold this title.

Disappointed, Datusena sought the advice of the Abbot of the Mahaviharaya, head of the 'Theravada' sect of Buddhism, who advised the king to practise the 'dasarajadharma' (ten royal virtues) which would enable him to acquire the status of a 'Chakravarti', which was higher than a Bodhirajaya. Datusena, being quite human was unable to practise it and found himself in a state of great mental distress, when he came into contact with a 'Maga Brahmana' or Magian Priest of Persian origin, a Christian who had come to the Royal Palace.

This priest was to play a very in- fluential role both in Datusena's and Kasyapa's lives. Datusena confided in this priest and he counselled the king saying that it was impossible for a human being to practise the ten royal virtues and that even the ancient Persian Kings had tried and failed. There- after, they had tried to obtain imperial status by observing the ritual of 'Parvataraja' or Mountain King. To achieve this, the king had to reside in a palace built on the summit of a rock and rule from there.

The Maga Brahmana suggested that funds for building such a palace could be obtained if all the people in the kingdom gave a gift according to their ability to the king on his birthday as a token of their allegiance. They calculated that if they do so for seven consecutive years they could obtain the funds needed for building the palace. Meanwhile, the intrigues within the palace of Datusena began to grow. Samgha his second queen desired the throne for her son Moggallana whereas Kasyapa too wanted the same. Abroad too, the acts of fate began to intrude upon the rule of Datusena. Simhavarman, Datusena's brother-in-law assumes the title of 'Parvataraja' in India and declares war on Datusena. He sends Datusena's sister's husband, Migara as general of the army to invade Sri Lanka. Simhavarman had purposely sent him at the head of a small army so he may be destroyed because he resented Migara and his wife converting to Christianity.

In the same way Datusena had decided that the only way to stop Kasyapa making a claim to the throne would be to have him destroyed because he had already decided to give the throne to Moggallana. Datusena sent Kasyapa to war against General Migara at the head of a small army. Kasyapa realized that his father wanted him dead and he made a pact with General Migara to stage a mock battle and to have Migara and his army surrender to him. Migara gave his allegiance to Datusena and promised to serve him.

The rivalry between the two brothers grew, when after this battle, Kasyapa claimed the title of 'Yuvaraja'. Datusena made no commitment and Kasyapa assumed that the title will be given to Moggallana and decided to leave Sri Lanka. In despair, he went to see his mother for one last time and told her that he'd rather live in exile than be subservient to his younger brother. He had worshipped at her feet and had sobbed saying, "This may be the last sight that I may have of my mother." She too had sobbed and blessed him saying "May thy paths be propitious."

Kasyapa was informed shortly by General Migara that Datusena had brought a charge of treason against him because he had reportedly conspired with Simhavarman of India. This, in fact, was a false piece of information deliberately given to mislead Kasyapa and make him flee the country so that the people can confirm that if he fled then he must indeed be guilty of treason. Kasyapa fled to Madras and sought refuge with his uncle Silatisyabodhi. After seven months he gathered an army and prepared to invade Sri Lanka. He landed at Chilaw and proceeded to the Kurunegala District where he set up camp near the village of Sri-Pura. Datusena ordered his troops to set up camp in the village itself, that is in the rear of Kasyapa's army, and thus he forfeited the claim to immunity when setting up camp because he was doing it at the rear of Kasyapa's army instead of in front. Datusena's army was thus attacked while they were setting up camp and they were badly defeated. Kasyapa had no idea that it was his father who was at the head of the army. He was under the misconception that it was Moggallana. Datusena not wanting to see the outcome of this battle, cut off his head with his own sword.

Thus Datusena's reign came to a tragic end, indirectly caused by his first born. He died without the impe- rial title of 'Parvataraja'. Kasyapa, stricken, paid last respects to his father and ordered that a stupa be built at the site where he was cremated.

Kasyapa takes over the sovereignty
After this battle Kasyapa marched to Anuradhapura and took over the reins of power without any opposition. He magnanimously offered friendship and the title of Regent to Moggallana who turned it down and fled abroad with his mother. Kasyapa tried to intercept them but he was too late. Returning from Batticaloa, he camped for the night at Habarana. Rising at dawn he had seen in the southern direction a solitary mass of rock looming high over the horizon. He had inquired about this rock and was told that it was called Aksa-paravata and that his father had begun to build a palace on its summit. He had climbed the rock from the northern side with a few others and observing the outline of the construction had said that it was too large and that it would be difficult to remain at the summit right throughout the year and ordered a small edifice to be built there. Kasyapa employed a Sinhalese architect named Sena Lal to execute his designs for Sigiri.

Raising funds for building Sigiriya
On the advice of the Maga Brahmana, Kasyapa issued and regulated a gold coinage. For this to be accepted by overseas merchants he was told to proclaim himself as 'Kuvera' or God of Wealth. Further- more, if the merchants were to accept him as Kuvera, he had to reside and administer his kingdom from a palace on the summit of a rock. Though the Abbot of the Abhayagiri Viharaya had accepted his new imperial status, the Abbot of the Mahaviharaya who was not consulted by Kasyapa before embarking on this new venture, chastised him saying, "Kuvera was the chief of the 'Yakksa' or demons and it would take a long time for a Yakksa to acquire human status again." Proclaiming himself Kuvera, Kasyapa earned the animosity not only of the Mahaviharaya but also of other overseas rulers.

Kasyapa also established free ports to attract more merchants to the ports of Sri Lanka. By this, other trading nations too suffered. Ship chose to sail to Suvarnapura (Palewbang) from India, even after the Maharaja too issued a gold coinage. Angered by the loss of trade for his nation, he summoned Kasyapa's brother Moggallana and told him that he would sponsor an army to fight his brother if he promised, in the event he succeeded to defeat Kasyapa to discontinue the use of a gold coinage and abandon Sigiri and rule once more from Anuradhapura. Moggallana agreed to do this.

An ancient description of Sigiri
An ancient Sinhalese guide book called the 'Sihigiri Vihara' found in the library of the Maharaja at Suvarnapura describes this rock and its palace in great detail. It describes the edifice constructed at the summit to have been made only for the use of a couple. No one was allowed to climb there other than King Kasyapa and his Queen. This edifice is described as a mansion with several landscaped gardens and a beautiful pond called Dharani with aquatic flowers. It was always full of water even in the dry season as a mechanism conducted water there.

It also gives a wonderful description of the lion figure. The forepart of a lion had been there but now only the massive paws exist. The rock above the lion figure had painted images of Kasyapa and his father. The plateau in front of the lion figure was known as the plateau of Red Arsenic.

This guide book also mentions the gallery and its protective mirror wall whose shining surface was obtained by the use of some mineral which only Sri Lanka possessed at that time.

Above the gallery were the beautiful frescos or 'Sigiri Apsaras' painted in the form of cloud damsels and Lightning Princesses.

The western and southern slopes were divided into terraces with dwelling places for the maids, members of the body-guard and concubines of Kasyapa, supposedly 500. On the western slope there had been two flights of stairs to climb the Sigiri rock, one which passed a cave which was believed to have been a shrine for the goddess Abhrasthita (Aphrodite). A figurine had been discovered there in the time of King Parakramabahu.

There had also been a theatre with seats carved on to the rock. Tradition says that many ancient Sinhalese plays were first performed here during Kasyapa's reign.

A cave below a boulder of stone which has the appearance of the hood of a cobra, had the paintings of Kas-yapa's biography which were eventually erased by his brother Moggallana.

There had also been fountains for the use of the harem. According to legend, Kasyapa used to watch them bathing from his mansion. There had also been a pavilion where these damsels used to leave their clothes before bathing and sometimes dried themselves there naked.

Ananda-Sthavira in his essay 'The two sons of Datusena' says that "King Kasyapa brought honour to the Sinhala Kingdom. Though the mercantile undertakings initiated by King Kasyspa were discontinued by King Maudgalyana, they were again started and continued by Sinhala Kings after King Maudgalyana. Vast wealth accrued to the Sinhala Kingdom through these mercantile undertakings."

Kasyapa also renovated the ancient monastery named Isirimana (sometimes called Vessagiri) and bequeathed it to the Mahaviharaya, even though he himself was an adherent of the Mahayana doctrines. The Mahavihara was endlessly opposed to Kasyapa not only because he had proclaimed himself as Kuvera but also because he followed the 'Mahayana' sect and not the 'Theravada' sect.

The role of Moggallana in King Kasyapa's death
The son of the Maga Brahmana and Kasyapa fell out and after the death of his father, he left the palace and went abroad. There he conspired with Kasyapa's brother Moggallana. The Maga Brahmana (Jr) obtained a promise from Moggallana that if he ever assassinated Kasyapa, then he must convert to Christianity. He returned to Sigiriya and told General Migara about Moggallana's promise. He then told Migara that his sister, the wife of Kasyapa must be the one to kill him. Migara's sister agreed to kill Kasyapa if she was assured of never being accused of his murder.

She had then persuaded Kasyapa to climb to the summit where they were to spend the night alone together. In the night the king's attendants were summoned by her and was told that the king was ill. They carried Kasyapa down to the plateau of Red Arsenic where the physician proclaimed him dead. The queen may have poisoned him.

Ananda-Sthavira in his narrative says that "There was a great commotion at the city of Simhagiri on the death of King Kasyapa." Kasyapa passed away after 18 years on the throne, in the palace in the sky that he had built. In his book of verse titled "The Sigiriyan King" (1973) V. Ariyaratnam makes the following to be the dying words of the God-King Kasyapa.

"Oh Sigiri, my sanctuary in the sky."
After the king's death the commander-in-chief of the garrison at Sigiri, General Sulaksmana, installed the son of Kasyapa, Datusena, on the throne and administered his kingdom in his name. Eventually this General was defeated in battle by Moggallana. He died like Kasyapa's father by beheading himself. Moggallana seized Sigiri and abandoned it as the capital. He later administered the kingdom from Anuradhapura, as in keeping with the promise made to the Maharaja of Suvarnapura. Moggallana later married Kasyapa's widow. Kasyapa's son fled to India, where he died in exile.

The tales surrounding King Kasyapa have been passed from generation to generation and still have the power to instill respect and admiration. Perhaps this is why Sigiriya is such a major tourist attraction right throughout the year. If you ever climb Sigiriya you will definitely see at least one young mother cuddling an infant or a toddler to her and scaling the steep climb to the top. Maybe these young mothers hope to instill the essence of Kasyapa into the lives of their young children by showing them the greatest monument to his memory the remnants of his palace in the sky.

Sri Lanka Nature Distinct Locations

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Where ever you travel in Sri Lanka, You will find some distinct locations of great nature and ecological as well as cultural interest.

On Colombo - Kandy Road

Kajugama, Ambepussa, Aranayaka, Utuwankanda, Kadugannawa Pass, Batalegala Mountain (Bible Rock), Hantana Mountains, Peradeniya

Kandy- Nuwaraeliya - Talawakale - Kandy

Peradeniya, Ambuluwawa - Gampola, Kotmale Reservior, Ramboda Pass, Ramboda Ella, Garandi Ella, Pidurutalagala, Pundaluoya, Watagoda, Hatton, Sri pada, Devon falls. St Clair Falls, Labukale Falls, Ginigathhena Pass, Nawalapitiya

Nuwaraeliya - Colombo

Hotain plains, St Clair Falls, Hatton Pass, Kaleni River, Ginigathena pass, Kitulgala, Awissawella, Hanwella

Nuwaraeliya - Bandarawela - Haputale - Udawalawe - Hambantota

Hakgala Pass, Welimada Pass, Galkanda, Fox Hill, Diyatalawa, Haputale Pass, Beragala, Udawalawe

Bandarawela - Thanamalwila - Yala

Ella, Rawana Ella, Debara Ara, Handapangala, Tanamalwila Kirindi Oya, Udawalawa

Yala - Hanbantota, Matara, Galle, Colombo

Kirinda, Bundala, Tangalla, Polhena, Weligama, Unawatuna, Galle, Hikkaduwa, Bentota, Kalutara, Bolgoda

Kandy Dambulla Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa

Alu vihara, Nalanda, Knuckels Mountains, Kandalama, Habarana, Ritigala, Minneriya, Giritale, Polonnaruwa

Kandy - Mahiyangana via Raja Mawatha

Degaldoruwa, Victoriya Reservior, Hunasgiri Mountain, Madugoda pass, 18 Bends
Kandy Mahiyangana via Randenigala

Raja Mawatha, Victoria, Randenigala, Rantambe Reserviors, Minipe, Mamahiyangana

Mahiyanganana - Polonaruwa

Maduraoya, Kuda Sigiriya, Dimbulagala, Aralaganwila, Manampitiya

Dambulla - Trincomalee - Nilaweli

Habarana, Kantale, Trincomalee, Nilaweli

Dambulla - Batticaloa - Potuwil

Polonnaruwa, Passikudah, Kalkudah, Batticaloa, Oluvil, Arugambay, Lahugala

Colombo- Kurunagala - Dambulla

Ambepussa, Ahugala, Arankale, Ridi Viharaya, Dambadeniya, Dambulla

Anuradhapura-Puttlam - Chilaw - Colombo

Vijithapura, Willpattu, Chilaw, Madampe, Negambo

Colombo - Ratnapura - Haputale - Beragala - Embilipitiya

Hanwella, Awissawella, Ratnapura, pallmadulla, Balangoda, Pambahinna, Haputale, Beragala, Sankapala

Colombo - Rakwana - Deniyaya

Ingiriya, Kiriella, Kalawana, Weddagala, Rakwana Pass, Suriyakanda, Deniyaya

Bandarawela - Badulla - Monaragala - Ampara, Batticaloa

Demodara, Badulla, Dunhinda, Bibile, Monaragala, Galoya, Inginiyagala

Sri Lanka Elephants

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Sri Lankan elephants known as Aliya or Etaha (tusker) by local people are the most loved animal by Sri Lankans. The have a fascinating behavior to watch and has a great National value as a tourist attraction. There are many National parks around the country to see elephants. Pinnawala established and Udawalawe the worlds first elephant orphanages which take care of baby elephants who lost their way or injured in the jungle. The travelers to Sri Lanka enjoy Watching and Photographing and riding on the elephants, Going on Elephant back Safaris in Jungle and Elephant Parades in Festivals.

Although there have been about 36000 elephants with the start of this century it has reduced up to about 2000 due to porching. according to the recent records about 2000 of them scattered all over the country in small pockets and about 500 of them are domesticated.

Sri Lanka Nature locations map

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Welcome to Ambewela Sri Lanka

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About Ambewela
Ambewela is at the border of Nuwaraeliya district and 15km from Nuwaraeliya town. Acessing roots of Ambewela from Nuwaraeliya is via Lindula junction. From Nuwaraeliya to Ambewela pass the several places such as Ruwaneliya, Mipilimana and Kandeela. Kandeela is a reservior at Mipilimana and some identified it s Mipilimana lake.

Ruwaneliya and Mipilimana famous for rest houses and SLBC rest bungalow is at Mipilimana place. New Zealand and Ambewela farms are at closed to Ambewela and spray dried milk powder factory also at Ambewela.

There is a railway station of Ambewela and it is at between Parakumpura and Pattipola railway stations. Pattipola is highest railway station of Sri Lanka. There is a school, post office, railway station, butiques, cafeterias, milk bar, liquor bar are at Ambewela.

Guard stone at Thuparama

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Thuparama Temple
Thuparama is considered to be the oldest dagoba in Sri Lanka and is believed to enshrine the collar bone relic of Lord Buddha.

The guard stones like these are generally found in pairs at the entrance to temples, palaces and other revered sites.

Aukana Buddha

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The 13 meter high statue carved out of solid granite, goes back to the 5th century, to the reign of King Dathusena. (about 50km south of Anuradhapura)

On a rainy day, it is said, that one can see droplets of water falling off the tip of the statue's nose hitting the ground exactly between the toes.- a testament to the architectural accuracy of the sculptor. The brick enclosure around and above was built recently to protect it from weather.

On Colombo - Kandy Road
	Kajugama, Ambepussa, Aranayaka, Utuwankanda, Kadugannawa Pass, Batalegala Mountain (Bible Rock), Hantana Mountains, Peradeniya

Kandy- Nuwaraeliya - Talawakale - Kandy
	Peradeniya, Ambuluwawa - Gampola, Kotmale Reservior, Ramboda Pass, Ramboda Ella, Garandi Ella, Pidurutalagala, Pundaluoya, Watagoda, Hatton, Sri pada, Devon falls. St Clair Falls, Labukale Falls, Ginigathhena Pass, Nawalapitiya

Nuwaraeliya - Colombo
	Hotain plains, St Clair Falls, Hatton Pass, Kaleni River, Ginigathena pass, Kitulgala, Awissawella, Hanwella

Nuwaraeliya - Bandarawela - Haputale - Udawalawe - Hambantota
	Hakgala Pass, Welimada Pass, Galkanda, Fox Hill, Diyatalawa, Haputale Pass, Beragala, Udawalawe

Bandarawela - Thanamalwila - Yala
	Ella, Rawana Ella, Debara Ara, Handapangala, Tanamalwila Kirindi Oya, Udawalawa

Yala - Hanbantota, Matara, Galle, Colombo
	Kirinda, Bundala, Tangalla, Polhena, Weligama, Unawatuna, Galle, Hikkaduwa, Bentota, Kalutara, Bolgoda

Kandy Dambulla Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa
	Alu vihara, Nalanda, Knuckels Mountains, Kandalama, Habarana, Ritigala, Minneriya, Giritale, Polonnaruwa

Kandy - Mahiyangana via Raja Mawatha
	Degaldoruwa, Victoriya Reservior, Hunasgiri Mountain, Madugoda pass, 18 Bends
Kandy Mahiyangana via Randenigala
	Raja Mawatha, Victoria, Randenigala, Rantambe Reserviors, Minipe, Mamahiyangana

Mahiyanganana - Polonaruwa
	Maduraoya, Kuda Sigiriya, Dimbulagala, Aralaganwila, Manampitiya

Dambulla - Trincomalee - Nilaweli
	Habarana, Kantale, Trincomalee, Nilaweli

Dambulla - Batticaloa - Potuwil
	Polonnaruwa, Passikudah, Kalkudah, Batticaloa, Oluvil, Arugambay, Lahugala

Colombo- Kurunagala - Dambulla
	Ambepussa, Ahugala, Arankale, Ridi Viharaya, Dambadeniya, Dambulla

Anuradhapura-Puttlam - Chilaw - Colombo
	Vijithapura, Willpattu, Chilaw, Madampe, Negambo

Colombo - Ratnapura - Haputale - Beragala - Embilipitiya
	Hanwella, Awissawella, Ratnapura, pallmadulla, Balangoda, Pambahinna, Haputale, Beragala, Sankapala

Colombo - Rakwana - Deniyaya
	Ingiriya, Kiriella, Kalawana, Weddagala, Rakwana Pass, Suriyakanda, Deniyaya

Bandarawela - Badulla - Monaragala - Ampara, Batticaloa
	Demodara, Badulla, Dunhinda, Bibile, Monaragala, Galoya, Inginiyagala