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  • Desirable and Elegant Sri Lanka

    Sri Lanka is both elegant and desirable 

    Imagine a place where pristine beaches meet lush mountains, where ancient temples stand alongside vibrant cities, and where every turn offers a new adventure. Welcome to Sri Lanka, a land that exudes elegance and beckons travellers with its timeless charm.

    Sri Lanka is a tapestry of colours, cultures, and landscapes. From the golden sands of its coastlines to the emerald-green tea plantations in its highlands, this island nation offers a diverse array of experiences that cater to every type of traveller. Picture yourself waking up to the sound of waves gently crashing on the shore, the warm sun kissing your skin as you prepare for a day of exploration. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking to surf the waves at Arugam Bay or a history buff eager to explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka has something for everyone.

    The island’s rich history and cultural heritage are palpable in every corner. Wander through the bustling streets of Colombo, where colonial-era buildings stand in harmony with modern skyscrapers. Visit the sacred city of Kandy, home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses one of Buddhism’s most revered relics. And don’t miss Sigiriya, the iconic rock fortress that offers breath taking views and a glimpse into the country’s regal past.

    Nature enthusiasts will find paradise in Sri Lanka’s diverse ecosystems. The country’s national parks, such as Yala and Udawalawe, are havens for wildlife, where you can spot leopards, elephants, and an array of exotic birds. The island’s lush rainforests, such as Sinharaja, are teeming with flora and fauna, offering a serene escape into nature’s embrace. And for those seeking a more relaxed experience, the tranquil waters of the Bentota River or the serene beaches of Mirissa provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.

    Sri Lanka’s culinary scene is another highlight that should not be missed. Savour the explosion of flavours in traditional Sri Lankan dishes, from the spicy kick of a classic curry to the delicate sweetness of tropical fruits. The country’s tea culture is equally enchanting, with a visit to a tea plantation offering a unique insight into the production of some of the world’s finest teas. Imagine sipping a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea while overlooking rolling hills blanketed in green – it’s an experience that’s both elegant and invigorating.

    The warmth and hospitality of the Sri Lankan people add to the island’s allure. Whether you’re staying in a luxury resort or a cozy guesthouse, you’ll be greeted with genuine smiles and a sense of welcome that makes you feel right at home. The locals are eager to share their culture, traditions, and stories, enriching your travel experience and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

    In every sense, Sri Lanka is a destination that embodies elegance and desirability. Its stunning landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming people come together to create an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural enrichment, or a bit of everything, Sri Lanka promises an experience that will captivate your heart and soul. So pack your bags, set your sights on this tropical gem, and prepare to be enchanted by the wonders of Sri Lanka. 

    What aspect of Sri Lanka excites you the most? Is there a particular place or experience you’re looking forward to?

     

     

  • Cinnamon Air

    Cinnamon Air

    Get ready for an exhilarating journey with Cinnamon Air! 

    Starting November 1st, Cinnamon Air is launching two new daily flights connecting the cultural gems of Kandy and Sigiriya with the stunning South Coast destinations of Koggala and Hambantota.

    Colombo Airport Ratmalana Air routes

    These flights will run until April 30, 2025, perfectly timed to welcome guests arriving from the cold of Europe for winter holiday in lovely Sri Lanka.

    Sri Lanka Cinnamon Air 2024 (9)

    Soaring across Sri Lanka in just 40 to 50 minutes, bypassing the long, winding roads and landing right in the heart of paradise. Whether you’re exploring the ancient wonders of the Cultural Triangle or the lush landscapes of the Central Hill Country, these flights offer a swift and luxurious passage to the serene South Coast.

    These routes are not just about convenience; they are crafted to meet the growing demand for efficient and upscale travel within Sri Lanka. Picture yourself gazing out of the large windows of a Cessna 208 aircraft, taking in panoramic views of lush forests, rolling hills, and pristine coastlines. And for an extra touch of adventure, the Kandy to South Coast route features an amphibian aircraft, taking off from water for a truly unique experience! 

    Cinnamon Air’s CEO, Sean Dwight, shares the excitement:

    “We are thrilled to launch this service, enhancing access to Sri Lanka’s top tourist spots and reinforcing our island’s image as a premier travel destination. We’ve noticed a shift in travel patterns, with tourists now favouring focused tours of key regions like the Cultural Triangle, Central Hill Country, and South Coast. Our new flights are designed to cater to these evolving needs, offering swift, comfortable, and scenic journeys.”

    Sri Lanka Cinnamon Air 2024 (3)

    Cinnamon Air is not just expanding its network but also making Sri Lanka’s incredible diversity more accessible. Every journey promises to be a memorable experience, elevating the tourism experience in Sri Lanka to new heights.

    So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the best of Sri Lanka with Cinnamon Air’s new flights—where every moment is a breath taking adventure – Sri Lanka awaits your arrival !

    The Cessna 208 is a versatile and rugged utility aircraft, renowned for its reliability and flexibility. Here are some key highlights:

    General Overview

    • Type: Utility aircraft
    • Manufacturer: Cessna (a brand of Textron Aviation)
    • First Flight: December 9, 1982
    • Introduction: 1984
    • Primary Users: FedEx Feeder, Brazilian Air Force, Afghan Air Force, Colombian Aerospace Force

    Design and Features

    • Engine: Powered by a single Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A turboprop engine.
    • Configuration: High-wing braced cabin monoplane.
    • Capacity: Typically seats nine passengers in its unpressurized cabin, with room for two crew members.
    • Landing Gear: Fixed tricycle landing gear, with options for floats or skis for amphibious operations.

    Performance

    • Maximum Range: Approximately 1,070 nautical miles.
    • Maximum Cruise Speed: Around 186 knots.
    • Useful Load: Up to 3,305 pounds.

    Usage

    The Cessna 208 Caravan is widely used for various missions, including:

    • Commuter Airlines: Ideal for short regional flights.
    • Air Cargo: Especially popular with FedEx for its Cargomaster variant.
    • Skydiving: Known for its reliability and capacity.

    Unique Features

    • Amphibious Capabilities: Some models, like the Caravan Amphibian, can take off and land on water, adding to its versatility.
    • Large Windows: Provide passengers with stunning views of the landscapes below, making it a favourite for scenic flights.

    The Cessna 208 continues to be a workhorse in aviation, appreciated for its robust performance and adaptability in various environments. Whether for commercial, cargo, or special missions, it remains a trusted aircraft in the aviation community.

    Sri Lanka Cinnamon Air 2024 (3)

  • Sri Lanka Tourism Industry

    Sri Lanka Tourism Industry

    Sri Lanka tourism industry directly employs around 11% of the island’s workforce.

    The sector has around 500,000 direct employees and supports up to another 400,000 indirect workers.

    With family and dependants, this equates for upwards of 1 million people or 1 in 22 of the population.

    Of course there are many other people that benefit from tourism, such as the shops, hotels and tour operators.

     

     

  • Drive on the left or right

    The curious phenomenon of left-hand traffic has intrigued people around the world.

    Let’s delve into the historical reasons behind this intriguing quirk:

    1. Ancient Origins:

      • Archaeological evidence suggests that ancient Romans may have driven their carts and chariots on the left side of the road. This practice carried over into parts of medieval Europe.
      • While the exact reasons are not entirely certain, one theory proposes that safety played a role. Since most people are right-handed, driving or riding on the left allowed them to wield a weapon with their dominant hand if they encountered an enemy.

    2. Feudal Societies and Swordsmen:

      • In the past, almost everyone travelled on the left side of the road. Feudal societies found this sensible due to safety concerns.
      • Right-handed swordsmen preferred to keep to the left, ensuring their right arm was closer to an opponent and their scabbard (worn on the left) didn’t hit others.

    3. Mounting Horses and Wagons:

      • Mounting a horse from the left side was easier for right-handed individuals (who wore swords on the left).
      • In the late 1700s, teamsters in France and the United States drove wagons pulled by horses. These wagons lacked a driver’s seat, so drivers sat on the left rear horse. They wanted others to pass on the left to avoid collisions.

    4. France vs. Britain:

      • France favoured right-hand travel as early as the 18th century, while Britain adopted left-hand traffic.
      • These driving styles were exported to their respective colonies. Former British territories like Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and India still drive on the left.

    5. The Rise of Automobiles:

      • Car manufacturer Henry Ford mass-produced the Model T with a left-positioned steering wheel, leading to right-hand traffic in the United States.
      • Left-hand traffic remains the norm in Britain, its former colonies, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, and other nations.
      • However, many countries switched to the right to align with neighbour’s, including Canada in the 1920s and Sweden in 1967.

    So, whether you’re driving on the left or the right, it’s all rooted in fascinating historical contexts.

    About a 35% of the world population drives on the left, and the countries that do are mostly old British colonies. This strange quirk perplexes the rest of the world, but there is a perfectly good reason. Click here for a world map and a full list of all countries of the world and the side of the road on which they drive. Right-handed knights preferred to keep to the left in order to have their right arm nearer to an opponent Right-handed knights preferred to keep to the left in order to have their right arm nearer to an opponent In the past, almost everybody travelled on the left side of the road because that was the most sensible option for feudal, violent societies. Since most people are right-handed, swordsmen preferred to keep to the left in order to have their right arm nearer to an opponent and their scabbard further from him. Moreover, it reduced the chance of the scabbard (worn on the left) hitting other people. Furthermore, a right-handed person finds it easier to mount a horse from the left side of the horse, and it would be very difficult to do otherwise if wearing a sword (which would be worn on the left). It is safer to mount and dismount towards the side of the road, rather than in the middle of traffic, so if one mounts on the left, then the horse should be ridden on the left side of the road. In the late 1700s, however, teamsters in France and the United States began hauling farm products in big wagons pulled by several pairs of horses. These wagons had no driver’s seat; instead the driver sat on the left rear horse, so he could keep his right arm free to lash the team. Since he was sitting on the left, he naturally wanted everybody to pass on the left so he could look down and make sure he kept clear of the oncoming wagon’s wheels. Therefore he kept to the right side of the road. In Russia, in 1709, the Danish envoy under Tsar Peter the Great noted the widespread custom for traffic in Russia to pass on the right, but it was only in 1752 that Empress Elizabeth (Elizaveta Petrovna) officially issued an edict for traffic to keep to the right. In addition, the French Revolution of 1789 gave a huge impetus to right-hand travel in Europe. The fact is, before the Revolution, the aristocracy travelled on the left of the road, forcing the peasantry over to the right, but after the storming of the Bastille and the subsequent events, aristocrats preferred to keep a low profile and joined the peasants on the right. An official keep-right rule was introduced in Paris in 1794, more or less parallel to Denmark, where driving on the right had been made compulsory in 1793. French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte (1812)French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte (1812) Later, Napoleon’s conquests spread the new rightism to the Low Countries (Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg), Switzerland, Germany, Poland and many parts of Spain and Italy. The states that had resisted Napoleon kept left – Britain, the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Portugal. This European division, between the left- and right-hand nations would remain fixed for more than 100 years, until after the First World War.

  • Colombo Postal Areas Numbers

    Colombo Postal Areas Numbers with names

    Colombo 1 Fort
    Colombo 2 Slave Island, Union Place
    Colombo 3 Kollupitiya
    Colombo 4 Bambalapitiya
    Colombo 5 Havelock Town, Kirulapone, Kirulapone North, Narahenpita
    Colombo 6 Wellawatte, Pamankada
    Colombo 7 Cinnamon Gardens
    Colombo 8 Borella
    Colombo 9 Dematagoda
    Colombo 10 Maradana, Panchikawatte
    Colombo 11 Pettah
    Colombo 12 Hulftsdorp
    Colombo 13 Kotahena, Bloemendhal
    Colombo 14 Grandpass
    Colombo 15 Modara/Mutwal, Mattakkuliya, Madampitiya

  • Sri Lanka Useful Phrases

    Sinhala is one of the country’s two official languages, along with Tamil. If you must choose to learn only one before your trip to Sri Lanka, it should be Sinhala as most people speak that.

    With an alphabet comprised of 52 letters that don’t correspond at all to our latin alphabet,

    Just knowing how to say “hello”, “ayuboan” in Sinhala and “vanakkan” in Tamil, you will please your hosts, who will appreciate your having made the effort.

    Learning how to count can also be worthwhile, especially as it’s fairly easy – up to 6 !

    Some English
    About 15% of the population speak English to some level or other. This is the case for most of the people who come into contact with tourists. So you are in luck!

    Using simple English, you will be understood most places that you go. Sri Lankans are generally very welcoming. They love to chat with visitors and practice their English.

    Basic expressions / Common Words

    Good morning / Good evening  Ayubowan / Suba rathiyak way va
    How are you?  Kohomada sahpa sah neepa ?
    Fine, (thank you), and you? Sanee-penn innava, (istouti)
    I understand / I don’t understand Maṭa taeraenavaā / Mata thayrennay nehe
    Sorry Samaāva
    Goodbye Ayubowan
    Welcome Paiḷaigaænaīmae
    Thank you (very much)  Bohoma istouti
    Excuse me Maṭa samaāvaenana / karauṇaākara
    My name is… Magae nama…
    What is your name? Oyage nama mokakdha
    No thank you  Néhé istouti
    Yes / No     Ovou / Néhé
    You’re welcome  Oyaāva saādarayaena paiḷaigananavaā

     

    Commerce
    How much is it?     Kyede ?
    It is very cheap         Eya laābha taiyaenanae
    It is too expensive!     Milavedi !
    Can you lower the price?          Oba aḍau mailaka haækai
    I would like to buy … this one!      Mama mailadaī gaænaīmaṭa avaśaya
    I like it / I don’t like it    Mama ādarae / mama vaaira
    Money    Sallii  / Maudala
    I’m just looking around.      Mama haeāyananae

    Transportation
    I would like to go to … Maṭa yanana kaæmatai…
    Plane    Gauvana yaānayaka
    Boat    Baeāṭaṭau
    Train     Daumaraiya
    Taxi     Taækasai
    Bus      Basa
    I would like to rent …    Mama kaulaiyaṭa gaænaīmaṭa avaśaya…
    Motorbike    Yataurau paædai
    Car     Maeāṭara ratha
    Bike     Bayaisaikalayaka

     

    Directions
    Where is …? / How can I get to …?     Kaeāhaeda… ? / gaænaīmaṭa ākaāraya… ?
    Bank    Baæṁkau
    Train station     Daumaraiya sathaānaya
    Centre     Nagara madhayayae
    Hotel    Haeāṭala
    Hospital     Raeāhalae
    Is it close / far?      Samaīpa / daura ?
    Straight ahead        Haraiyaṭama idairaiyaena
    Left / Right        Vama / ayaitaiya
    North / South / East / West      Utaurau / dakauṇau / ya / kaeāhaeda

     

    Numberssieben, acht, neun, zehn

    one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten

    Eka, deka, tuna, hatara, paha, haya, hata, ata, navaya, dahaya

    twenty, thirty, forty, fifty, sixty Vaisai, taisa, hataḷaisa, panahaka, haæṭa
    seventy, eighty, ninety Haætataǣ, asaū, anaū
    One hundred Siya

    Hours/Dates and days

    Dienstag, Mittwoch, Donnerstag, Freitag, Samstag, Sonntag
    What time is it?     Vaelaāva kaīyada ?
    When?      Kavadaā da ?
    Yesterday   Iyae
    Today (morning/midday/evening)       Ada (ada udaǣsana / dahavala / savasa)
    Tomorrow   Haeṭa

    Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday

    Sandaudaa, angaharauvaadaa, badaadaa, barahasapatainadaa, saikauraadaa, saenasauraadaa, iraidaa

    I am here on vacation    Maā naivaāḍauvaeya /saṁcaāraka
    I am here for business     Mama vaaeda sandahaa maa maehai / vayaapaara samcaaraya

    Food
    I am hungry / I am thirsty           Maṭa baḍagainaiyai /maṭa taibahayai
    Enjoy     Oyaagae ahaara vaela rasavaindainana
    Cheers!     Palavaenai haetauva !
    It was delicious    Eya itaā rasaya !
    What can you recommend?    Oba maeānavaāda raekamadaārau karananae ?
    I am vegeterian    Mama nairamaāṁśa vaemai
    Not spicy please      Kauḷau baḍau taeārava
    It’s too hot    E sandahaa baeahaea unausauma !
    I am allergic     Maṭa āsaātamaikayai
    Sea food    Mauhaudau āhaāra
    Peanuts    Raṭakajau
    Gluten Galaūṭana
    I would like… Mama kaæmataiyai
    Water Jalaya
    Tee / Coffee Tae / kaeāpai
    Beer / Wine Baiyara / vayaina
    The bill, please Maīṭa amatarava, karauṇaākara
    Health / Emergency / Security
    Usa Cinghalais
    I need to see a doctor. Mama daeāsatara balanana ōnae
    Call an ambulance / Call 911 Vaedayavarayaekau amatanana / gailana ratha
    Where is the hospital? raeāhala yanau ?
    I do not feel very good Sanee-pa na-tha
    It hurts here Mama maetana karadara
    Where can I find the restrooms? Adaāḷa vaæsaikaiḷai kaeāhaeda ?
    Help! Udava !
    Police Paealaisa
    Danger Anataura
    I’m lost Mama ataramaṁ vaelaā

    Have a nice day ! Sauba davasaka !

  • Sriyangani Dhanapala

    Sriyangani Dhanapala

    Sriyangani Dhanapala: Pioneering Excellence at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts

    Sriyangani’s appointment as Resort Manager at Cinnamon Bentota Beach, Sri Lanka, is more than just a career milestone; it’s a source of inspiration for women in hospitality. By breaking traditional gender barriers, she’s encouraging more women to step into leadership roles in this dynamic industry.

    Introducing an extraordinary trailblazer: Sriyangani Dhanapala, the first female Resort Manager and one of the brightest stars in the constellation of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts. 

    In just eight years, Sriyangani’s dedication and hard work saw her rise to leadership roles, including Director of Brand Development for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and Assistant Vice President at the John Keells Group.

    In her new role at Cinnamon Bentota Beach Hotel she’ll be overseeing all operations, ensuring top-notch service, enhancing guest satisfaction, and driving the resort’s growth and innovation.

    Sriyangani’s appointment is more than just a career milestone; it’s a source of inspiration for women in hospitality. By breaking traditional gender barriers, she’s encouraging more women to step into leadership roles in this dynamic industry. Her journey showcases the incredible possibilities that come from dedication and hard work, serving as a powerful role model for aspiring female professionals everywhere, but especially within the hospitality industry.

    A Vibrant Leadership Journey

    Cinnamon Bentota Beach: That’s where Sriyangani has taken the helm, infusing every sun-kissed corner with her boundless energy and unwavering commitment to excellence. As Resort Manager, she orchestrates a symphony of hospitality, ensuring that guests experience nothing short of magic during their stay.

    From Marketing to Operations: Sriyangani’s journey began over a decade ago. She cut her teeth in Brand Marketing at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, where she wove marketing campaigns, dissected strategic insights, and dreamed big. But her heart yearned for more—a deeper connection with guests. So, she dove into operations, focusing on Brand Quality Assurance and Development. The guest experience became her canvas, and she painted it with meticulous care.

    Breaking Barriers, Inspiring Futures

    So, congratulations and best wishes to Sriyangani Dhanapala—the woman who reminds us that passion, perseverance, and a sprinkle of cosmic magic can turn dreams into constellations. 

  • poya

    poya

    Poya Days 2024, 2025 and 2026

    Poya Day is the name for any holiday in Sri Lanka that is held to mark a full moon.

     
    Year Date Day Holiday
    2024 25 Jan Thu Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day
    23 Feb Fri Navam Full Moon Poya Day
    24 Mar Sun Madin Full Moon Poya Day
    23 Apr Tue Bak Full Moon Poya Day
    23 May Thu Vesak Full Moon Poya Day
    24 May Fri Day following Vesak Full Moon Poya Day
    21 Jun Fri Poson Full Moon Poya Day
    20 Jul Sat Esala Full Moon Poya Day
    19 Aug Mon Nikini Full Moon Poya Day
    17 Sep Tue Binara Full Moon Poya Day
    17 Oct Thu Vap Full Moon Poya Day
    15 Nov Fri Ill Full Moon Poya Day
    14 Dec Sat Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day
    2025 13 Jan Mon Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day
    12 Feb Wed Navam Full Moon Poya Day
    13 Mar Thu Madin Full Moon Poya Day
    12 Apr Sat Bak Full Moon Poya Day
    12 May Mon Vesak Full Moon Poya Day
    13 May Tue Day following Vesak Full Moon Poya Day
    10 Jun Tue Poson Full Moon Poya Day
    10 Jul Thu Esala Full Moon Poya Day
    8 Aug Fri Nikini Full Moon Poya Day
    7 Sep Sun Binara Full Moon Poya Day
    6 Oct Mon Vap Full Moon Poya Day
    5 Nov Wed Ill Full Moon Poya Day
    4 Dec Thu Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day
    2026 2 Jan Fri Duruthu Full Moon Poya Day
    1 Feb Sun Navam Full Moon Poya Day
    3 Mar Tue Madin Full Moon Poya Day
    1 Apr Wed Bak Full Moon Poya Day
    1 May Fri Vesak Full Moon Poya Day
    2 May Sat Day following Vesak Full Moon Poya Day
    30 May Sat Adhi Vesak Full Moon Poya Day
    29 Jun Mon Poson Full Moon Poya Day
    29 Jul Wed Esala Full Moon Poya Day
    27 Aug Thu Nikini Full Moon Poya Day
    26 Sep Sat Binara Full Moon Poya Day
    25 Oct Sun Vap Full Moon Poya Day
    24 Nov Tue Ill Full Moon Poya Day
    23 Dec Wed Unduvap Full Moon Poya Day
     

    There are around a dozen Poya Days every year, in conformity with the Buddhist lunar calendar and moon-phase marking system.

    70 percent of Sri Lankans are Buddhist, most of the population celebrates each Poya Day as of religious significance. It is often a day when all religions are together.

     

    The fact that the moon is largest and brightest when it is full is the rationale behind full moons being occasions for celebration. In Sinhalese, “poya” is derived from a word meaning “fast day,” which explains why many Buddhists go to temple and fast during Poya. Alchohol is not sold during poya. 

    On Poya Days, Sri Lankan workers are legally guaranteed a paid off-work day, unless they are paid time and a half by their employer during Poya Day hours. Most businesses will be closed, and alcoholic beverages and meat are not allowed to be sold until the Poya is over.

    Each full moon, and each corresponding Poya Day, has its own name and specific events it is meant to commemorate. These will be events related to Buddha and Buddhism.

    Some of the key events remembered on Poya Days include:

    Buddha’s birthday

    Buddha’s enlightenment

    Buddha’s sending out of 60 disciples as missionaries

    Also personal visits Buddha made to Sri Lanka, the bringing of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Mahinda, and the first Buddhist Council held after Buddha’s death.

    Things to experience in Sri Lanka on the various Poya Days:

    • If in Sri Lanka for the Vesak Poya Day, which is the single-most important of all the Poya Days, you will see the streets crowded with people and colourful lights and decorations on every hand. In memory of the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha, you will see alms houses lining the roads and food stalls with authentic Sri Lankan dishes and desserts there as well.
    • For the August Poya Day, visit Kandy in the centre of the island. there, the “Esala Festival” will be in full swing. You will see fire-walking, extreme acts of “penance,” gigantic cultural parades, dancers and musicians, and some truly amazing domesticated elephants.
    • For any Poya Day, visit the Temple of the Tooth, which purportedly contains a tooth of the Buddha himself. The possessor of the tooth of Buddha was once thought to give authority to govern the kingdom that Kandy was the centre of, and the royal palace of Kandy is next to the temple.
    • Visit the Sri Mahabodhi Temple in Anuradhapura, where you can see a bodhi tree thought to be directly derived from the bodhi tree in India under which Buddha was first enlightened.

    “Bodhi” is a word meaning “enlightenment,” but the tree itself is a kind of a fig tree. Every Buddhist temple has a bodhi tree planted by it, but only a few claim to have a tree from a sapling of the “original” bodhi tree. Bodhi trees have heart-shaped leaves and are represented in much Buddhist artwork as well.

    In Sri Lanka while the moon is full, you will notice that a day of celebration ensues. Some of these Poya Days are large and bring in celebrants from other religions besides Buddhism.

  • beaches

    Sri Lanka has some of the most amazing beaches in the world

    Sri Lanka, a gorgeous island country, has plenty of natural beauty. For those who are unaware, Sri Lanka is made up of several islands. When someone mentions “island,” what comes to mind first? Obviously beaches. That is the very thing for which Sri Lanka is renowned. Travelers from all over the world come to experience Sri Lanka’s best beaches.

    Bentota Beach

    Bentota Beach is characterized by a long ribbon of golden sands and palm trees, which perfectly capture its beauty. Since Bentota Beach is only two hours drive from Colombo, it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka for families. Above all, this beach in Sri Lanka is praised for being an enjoyable and sunny place for both residents and visitors.

    Arugam Bay

    The moon-shaped curl of golden sands and palm trees along the coastline are only a few beautiful things on this beach. Arugam Bay is renowned as one of Sri Lanka’s top surfing beaches. As a result, rookie surfers compete in international surfing events every year.

    Unawatuna

    Renowned for its calm blue water, Unawatuna is among Sri Lanka’s top beaches. The beach’s distinguishing feature is the possibility of seeing a whale shark if luck favors you.

    Mirissa Beach

    Go no farther than Mirissa Beach if you want to enjoy the clean and well-maintained beaches on Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Its broad swathe of sand in front of thick palm trees thickets makes it appealing to tourists.

    Dickwella

    Many newlywed couples visit Dickwella, home to some of the finest resorts, to enjoy their honeymoon. With the most serene atmosphere, this is one of Sri Lanka’s top beach locations.

  • Sri Lanka top three must visit destinations for summer 2024 according to Forbes

    Sri Lanka once again in top three must visit destinations for summer 2024 according to Forbes

     

    Sri Lanka a Gem of a Travel Island 2024

    As the world opens its arms to travel once again, Sri Lanka emerges as a beacon of hope and beauty, beckoning travellers from across the globe for a perfect tropical island adventure.

    Named by Forbes as one of the top three must-visit destinations for summer 2024, Sri Lanka is not just a country, it’s an island that promises to captivate your senses and rejuvenate your spirit.

    A Blend of Surf, Serenity, and Soulful Retreats

    Wake up to the sound of waves gently caressing the shore, the air infused with the scent of frangipani and the invigorating sea breeze. This is the daily serenade at Sri Lanka’s pristine beaches, which are a surfer’s paradise and a sun-seeker’s dream. But there’s more to this island than just its enchanting sun bathing beaches and clean surf.

    Sri Lanka is a sanctuary for wellness, with centres like Kalukanda House and Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort offering a harmonious blend of luxury and tranquillity. Here, you can indulge in yoga, reiki, and breathwork, surrounded by the island’s natural splendour. It’s akin to Bali before the crowds, where the wellness culture thrives amidst untouched beauty.

    A Safari of a Lifetime

    For the nature enthusiasts, Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of biodiversity. With 22 national parks, the island is a living tapestry of flora and fauna. Embark on a safari and find yourself in the company of majestic elephants roaming in nature, wild animals in natural habitat and even the rare sighting of a sloth bear or a leopard. Each encounter is a reminder of the planet’s wonders and Sri Lanka’s role as a custodian of these natural marvels.

    Trekking Through History and Nature

    The Pekoe Trail, a testament to Sri Lanka’s commitment to eco-tourism, offers a 186-mile journey through the heart of the Central Highlands. As you traverse local villages, tea plantations, and holy shrines, you’re not just walking; you’re connecting with the soul of the island and its people.

    A Call for Conscious Travel

    Sri Lanka’s arms are wide open, inviting the world to explore its riches. While other destinations grapple with over-tourism, Sri Lanka stands as a haven that cherishes each visitor. The country’s tourism authority is actively promoting the island, ensuring that your visit not only enriches your life but also supports the local communities.

    An Investment in Happiness

    Colonials would come to Sri Lanka for the world famous cinnamon and exotic spices. These days Sri Lanka is visited to enjoy your life and refresh the soul. The people of Sri Lanka appreciate tourists and   you’re placing your hand in theirs, helping to uplift the spirits and livelihoods of its warm-hearted people who are building a natural tourist haven.

    The Future Shines Bright

    With its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and heartfelt hospitality, Sri Lanka is again poised to become the jewel of summer 2024 for another year running.

    The island naturally perfect for tourism

    Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, Sri Lanka offers a mosaic of experiences that are as diverse as they are memorable.

    So pack your bags, set your sights on Sri Lanka, and prepare for a journey that will leave an indelible mark on your heart. The island awaits, ready to share its stories, its smiles, and its splendour with you. Welcome to Sri Lanka – where every visit is a step is another step towards paradise.