Tag: sri lanka

Whale and Dolphin Watching, Mirissa

You scan the horizon, stretching into infinity. Morning has broken and the sounds of the sea are all around. The waves lap against the hull as you push deeper into the great azure that is the Indian Ocean. Suddenly up ahead you spot movement. A huge form, primordial like, slowly breaks to the surface as you watch with bated breath. Rising above just long enough for you to witness the sheer majesty and awe-inspiring size is the unforgettable sight of a blue whale, swimming wild and free in its ocean home. Whale watching in Mirissa, Sri Lanka certainly offers an amazing journey of discovery out to sea!

Mirissa can be found along the South Coast of the country and if you are in search of beach hotels in Sri Lanka along this stretch of shoreline, then consider options such as Citrus Waskaduwa. Plan an excursion from here to Mirissa Harbour where whale and dolphin watching trips begin early morning, generally between 6.30 – 7.00 am. The best time to spot whales is from November to April, with December to March being considered the peak period for sightings.

Your voyage out to sea can last anywhere from 3 to 5 hours and while there is no guarantee of seeing these magnificent marine mammals, it is an adventure nevertheless. Not as elusive as the whale are the different varieties of dolphins that inhabit these waters. Spinner and bottlenose dolphins are the most commonly seen varieties here. However the main draw are the whales be it blue, fin or sperm whales that have been spotted in the seas around Miriisa.

Make sure you bring along some suntan lotion, sun glasses and hats or caps because though it is relatively early morning, it can get quite hot. Also carry a pair of binoculars if you have one and it goes without saying to bring a camera or camcorder with you to capture that special moment when you see your first whale. Also have some sea sickness pills just in case; the constant rocking of the boat may test ‘landlubbers!’

 

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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Madu River Mangrives

Located within the Galle district of the Southern province of Sri Lanka, is the beautiful coastal town of Unawatuna, a major tourist attraction notorious for its pristine, unspoiled beaches. Many believe that the paradise mentioned the epic poem Ramayana is actually Unawatuna, due to the almost identical descriptions. For anyone visiting this magnificent locale, there are a wide variety of accommodation options available given its popularity as a tourist hot spot. One of the most elite of such locales is Cantaloupe Levels, a luxurious boutique hotel.

Although the beaches are always the spotlight of Unawatuna, there are many unique and special aspects of the coastal town that are constantly overlooked. The mangroves of Madu River contain a bounty of diverse ecological treasures just waiting to be discovered. The most popular way one can do so is through a Madu River boat ride, where one can completely immerse themselves in the tranquility and suspense of the Madu River. The suspense is due to the Madu River playing refuge to certain species of crocodile amongst its diverse portfolio of fauna. The Madu River is also highly popular by bird-watchers due to the one hundred plus exotic species of feather-bound creatures that inhabit its reaches. In addition to the ecological treasures, the river safari will also bestow upon anyone embarking on it, a first-hand glimpse of the River’s historical significance, where one can explore the dozens of islet that scatter the area. Most of these are home to local communities that have inhabited the land for generations, with most of them carrying out the traditional task of cinnamon peeling. One of the islets, the one known as ‘Koth Duwa’, is the site of an ancient Buddhist temple that dates back to the Ancient kings of Sri Lanka.

So hop aboard a boat and embark on an adventure along the Madu River where nature and history await.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Maduganga River Safari

Madu Ganga, a coastal wetland ecosystem and estuary located at Balapitiya, is a virgin mangrove forest in Sri Lanka. The best way to experience the beauty of this is by boat. This safari takes one through cool and shady mangrove caves, secluded islands, cinnamon plantations, ancient temples and plenty more. This river safari is the one of the best things to do in Bentota while staying at the beautiful Saman Villas hotel.

The river has around 64 islands, and is also a birdwatcher’s paradise and home to exotic bird species. As cruising along the river, one passes through thick mangrove vegetation, monkeys chilling on treetops, and giant water monitors weaving through the waters. Further upstream, kraal-fishing constructions made of bamboo, used for prawn fishing is plentiful. A collection of islets is found in this region, from tiny specks housing deserted shrines, to larger ones home to over 250 families connected to the mainland by a footbridge. One can see these inhabitants engaged in traditional cottage industries like fishing and cinnamon production.

Cruising along, one can visit the cultural landmark the Kothdoowa Raja Viharya. This ancient temple is on a beautiful setting on the river, where one can feed the friendly mountain squirrels that reside on the island, receive blessing from the head priest, take a tour of the temple and discover the 130 year old Bo tree.

The boat ride stops over at a floating fish farm where one have a can an extremely unique pedicure, where, hundreds of red tilapia fish in a small square begin to nibble at the feet when dipped in to the water. This fish nibbling can be quite relaxing.

There is also an island where cinnamon products are made. A small demonstration doneby a local shows how the cinnamon bark is peeled and processed. One can buy fresh cinnamon and cinnamon oil here.

Thus a Maduganga river safari can be an exhilarating experience while visiting Bentota.

Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.

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Snorkelling in Mirissa Beach Sri Lanka

Are you looking for the perfect island getaway, a place where turquoise-blue seas lap a shore fringed by tall coconut trees? If your answer is ‘yes’ then Sri Lanka is the place to be! Dubbed the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is truly an island paradise. Home to 1340 kilometres of coastline, Sri Lanka’s breathtaking beaches are a favourite local hangout, and one of the reasons tourists keep coming back!

Some of Sri Lanka’s most famous beaches lie a few kilometres to the south of the country’s commercial capital of Colombo and is a comfortable half day journey away from the bustling Colombo city. The journey to Sri Lanka’s South will take you through quaint coastal towns that is home to many beachside resorts and a hardworking fishing community. Visit the famous Mirissa beach which lies in Sri Lanka’s extreme south and be blown away by its beautiful surroundings overlooked by CASA Colombo Collection Mirissa. As many a Mirissa hotel and restaurant lie away from the beach, the crescent shaped Mirissa beach can be enjoyed in complete privacy. Witness the beautiful sunrise and stroll along the beach to watch fishing boats return to shore while an afternoon can be spent surfing or sipping on refreshing king coconut while reading a book under a shady coconut tree.

Come the Whale Watching season from November-April, Mirissa comes abuzz with excitement as excited locals descend to Mirissa for the many boat rides that take them on whale watching excursions. Here visitors are treated to the sight of Blue whales, Sperm whales and Bottlenose dolphins. However if you want to escape the crowds and discover the Island’s sea life on your own, the shallow, calm waters of the eastern Mirissa beach is ideal for snorkelling. Spend an afternoon snorkelling in the cool waters off Mirissa’s coast and admire abundant sea life including Bluefin tuna and Flying fish among beautiful corals and wandering turtles. It’s this along with breathtaking sunsets and a picture-perfect coastline that make Mirissa a vital part of Sri Lanka’s serendipity story!

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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Outdoor Activities in Waskaduwa

Located 37 Kilometres from Colombo, the wonderful beach resort town of Waskaduwa is a travellers getaway to a heavenly repose of tranquillity with its soft, golden sands. But Waskaduwa at the same time doesn’t fail to impress all those outdoor enthusiasts out there. So get ready to pump your adrenaline with Waskaduwa’s riveting outdoor activities.

Beaches are of course Waskaduwa’s crowning glory, so most of the top outdoor activities take place on these shimmering shores. Watersports such as Beach Volleyball, Water Polo, Deep Sea Fishing, Sea Safari Excursions, Diving/ PADI Certifications and Wind Surfing await to set your heart racing in Waskaduwa. But before you explore the great outdoors its essential that you first discover a great indoor accommodation to settle down in Waskaduwa, and Citrus Waskaduwa is one of the finest options you can find among beach hotels in Sri Lanka, as other than outstanding accommodation, the resort also offers outdoor activities such as beach volleyball, water aerobics and horse riding.

Venturing 15 minutes out of Waskaduwa, is Kalutara and the Kalu Ganga (Kalu River), where you can embark on an adventurous river safari. Traverse along serene Kalu River and let your eyes feast on stunning river scenes of mangrove forests that are home to exotic avian species, cheeky monkeys and humongous water monitors.

 

Shehera Fioni is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Catalina Forbes. Her content is based on many thrilling escapades offered to travellers across the world.

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The Kandy Esala Perahara

One of the most popular cities of Sri Lanka is the historic city of Kandy. Considered to be the capital of the island’s Hill Country, Kandy was the seat of the last king of Sri Lanka and is also home to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Known for its amazing scenery, ancient buildings & structures, and rich history and culture, the city of Kandy is a must visit destination. If you are in search of accommodation while looking for things to do in Kandy, consider staying at the luxurious Earl’s Regent Kandy which is an ideal starting point to your adventures.

One of the most famous processions held in Sri Lanka is the Kandy Esala Perahara. It is easily the grandest religious procession in the island and is rich in history, while being one of the iconic symbols of Buddhist culture in Sri Lanka. Taking place either in the month of July or August, this perahara (procession) is organized to honour and pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. The perahara is elaborate and grand and is one of the best ways to experience Sri Lankan culture.

Although the Sacred Tooth Relic was in Sri Lanka for many centuries, the procession was inaugurated by King Kirthi Sri Rajasingha in the 18th Century. From this point onward, the perahara has been one of the most popular processions in the island. The procession involves the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha being placed within a golden casket and mounted on the back of an elaborately decorated tusker that is taken in procession. The procession involves a plethora of traditional dancers, fire breathers, jugglers, musicians, and many elephants adorning elaborate decorations and colourful paraphernalia. The elephant carrying the Sacred Tooth Relic casket, however, is the highlight of the entire spectacle. Following the main procession, there are four other smaller perahara’s to honour the four guardian ‘Gods’; Vishnu, Katharagama, Natha, and Patthini.
The pageantry, grandeur and enchantment of the Kandy Esala Perahara is therefore a must witness event in Sri Lanka.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+

Hot Air Ballooning in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of South Asia’s most vibrant tourist destinations. Located just south of India, this beautiful tropical island nation boasts a rich heritage and colorful and diverse cultures. With its splendid beaches, world-renowned archeological landmarks, scenic mountain ranges and forests, and thriving ecosystem, Sri Lanka offers its visitors an exciting and unforgettable experience. A great travel agency that will help you plan your visit to Sri Lanka as well as find out details about exciting things to do in like go on a hot air balloon Sri Lanka is Nkar Travel House.

There are many ways to discover the beauty and wonders of Sri Lanka, but few are comparable to discovering Sri Lanka while on a hot air balloon. Sri Lanka is a great location for hot air ballooning, and the experience of witnessing the island’s mesmerizing beauty 2,500 feet above the ground is one which is becoming increasing sought after. Flying over luscious paddy fields, thick and green rainforests, sparkling rivers, and some of Sri Lanka’s historical locations is sure to be an experience that you are sure to cherish for a life time.

Hot air balloons, using gas powered flames to keep the balloon afloat and the wind to travel, are perhaps one of the best ways of exploring vast areas. After taking off and beginning to drift with the wind, the hot air balloon is rather stable, giving its passengers the opportunity to settle in and observe the sights and scenery below. Hot air ballooning over Sri Lanka will give you the opportunity of witnessing the bountiful natural resources of the island, as you can witness the many luscious forests, sprawling plantations and fields, and its many water-bodies. You can even witness flocks of birds flying along your side, or herds of wild buffalo, elephants, and deer as they feed. Most hot air balloon tours also fly through Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, giving a bird’s eye view of archeological landmarks in Anuradhapura, Kandy, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya.

Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.

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Nature Watch in Habarana

Sri Lanka is known around the world for its palm tree lined beaches and warm tropical waters. The heart of the country however boasts vistas of a different kind. Mountains, rocky outcrops and lush greenery are a stark contrast to the coastal areas. Habarana is located in the district of Anuradhapura which is part of the North Central Province. Chaaya Village Habarana offers a real feel for the land and maintains a close to nature setting with cottage type accommodation that is styled on the thatched roof huts found in the surrounding areas.
Habarana is located at the heart of Sri Lanka’s ‘Cultural Triangle’. It is a convenient base for exploring the historical cities of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla and Sigiriya. Hotel accommodation is also easy enough to find. Minneriya National Park is located close by and having a more tranquil setting than some of the other parks in the country, it is perfect for observing the local fauna. The park surrounds the Minneriya tank which is frequented by sambar, deer, leopard, sloth bear and birds such as jungle fowl, grey herons, white pelican, grey hornbills and more. It is also a good place to spot large gatherings of Asian elephants.
Habarana and the surrounding towns, in general, are brimming with picturesque scenery: lakes, reservoirs, colossal trees, sweeping open spaces and more. You can book a guide and a vehicle to visit Minneriya or Kaudulla Park, explore the village shops on foot or go on a bird watching excursion. Cycling, hiking and boat tours can also be arranged through the hotel concierge or a tour company. The historic sites in Polonnaruwa are woven around waterways; the ancient palace in Sigiriya is built on an imposing, natural rock while the cave temple in Dambulla is built making use of a natural rock formation.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Discover the Wild Life in Sri Lanka

Being an island in the Indian Ocean Sri Lanka is known world over for its natural beauty and the beaches that wash the shores of the island. However this tropical island is also home to countless number of wild life. Having one of the UNESCO world heritage site declared rain forest it’s no surprise for the abundance of the flora and fauna in the country. Some of the famous national parks in the country include , Yala , Udawalawe , Wilpaththu , Kumana among others.

Yala is a key sanctuary in the south and remains a popular spot to catch a glimpse of leopards. With its popularity rising there has been a significant expansion of hotels in yala Sri Lanka. One that remains in the forefront is The Secret Hotels set among the thick tropical forests the surroundings of the hotel is home to many exotic species. The hotel is a perfect place to make the most of Yala.

Among some of the fascinating facts about Yala , the national park has the highest leopard population in the world. The second most visited national park in Sri Lanka Yala has thousands of visitors every year.

Sri Lanka has one of the highest endemism in the world , most species of flora and fauna are endemic to the country. Sri Lanka also boasts of the highest elephant concentration density in the world , and Habarana secondary forest take credit for this.

The reason for the wild array of wild life in Sri Lanka can be attributed to the difference in altitude in the country. From sea level elevations rise upto 2500m. The country remains home to many species that are endemic , however in the recent past there has been expansion of human population which resulted in loss of habitat and as a result the reduction of habitat.

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world. Google+

Wild Life Holidays to Sri Lanka

Lying in the shape of a teardrop in the Indian Ocean is a tiny miracle of an island called Sri Lanka. Though small in size this little island is a mighty land that boasts a spectacular array of rich history, culture and of course Wildlife. You might not believe it when you hear that this country, which just a little bit bigger than the US state of West Virginia, is home to a staggering 123 species of mammals, 173 species of reptiles, 227 species of birds, 93 species of freshwater fish, 119 species of amphibians and whole lot of other species! So what are you waiting for? Book a tour operator like the prestigious Walkers Tours Sri Lanka and set out on a range of wildlife Sri Lanka holidays and meet some of our most interesting and fascinating subspecies in the lush jungles of Sri Lanka.

So after you packed your bags and arrived in the Garden of Eden where to go you ask? First journey to the Land of Lakes, the Wilpattu National Park, located in the North West of the island. The unique feature about this park is what gives it its name, Willus- natural, sand rimmed water basins sprawled throughout the park. Among the many creatures you can see here, the highlight will be the magnificent Asian elephant, the fuzzy sloth bear, the ferocious mugger crocodile, and the majestic Sri Lankan Leopard. Yala National Park, the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka, is another prominent wildlife park of Sri Lanka. Located in the southeast of the island, the park has similar residents as Wilpattu but with one of the highest leopard densities in the world.

Bird lovers will love the Kumana National Park that houses the Kumana Bird Sanctuary. Nestled within the park are roughly about 255 species of birds. During April and July tens of thousands of birds migrate to the Kumana swamp area. Another park in Sri Lanka famous for bird watching is the Bundala National Park situated in the Southern Province.

Other Wildlife Park to trails through in Sri Lanka includes the Minneriya National Park-where the great Elephant Gathering takes place, Udawalawe and Wasgamuwa. For a different (and colder) wildlife experience in Sri Lanka, travel to the hill country to the Horton Plains where montane grassland and cloud forest house the giant sambar deer and grizzled giant squirrels among other creatures.

Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.

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