Tag: sri lanka

Sinharaja Rainforest in Sri Lanka

Sinharaja Rainforest is a national park and a bio-diversity hotspot in Sri Lanka. It is of international significance and has been designated as a Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage site by UNESCO. It is a treasure of endemic species, including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds. The best of the Sri Lanka Hotels is the Aiken Spence Hotels, which is located close by to the Sinharaja Forest. Hiking and treking the Sinharaja is one of the main things to do in Bentota. Saman Villas Bentota is located in diverse areas around the island, ranging from the sprawling beaches to the beautiful hill country. From a cultural experience, a unique getaway to bask in the comfort of luxury service. The hotel offers a multitude of excursions and experience that are surely going to last a memory forever. The hotels will provide one with a sanctuary of romantic holiday retreat, a family getaway an even a relaxing Ayurvedic treatment. The hotels offer the best of the special rates and packages, for those who are seeking adventure in the Sinharaja Rainforest. Special excursions will be arranged by the hotel to suit each needs and wants of the customer.

Sinharaja Rainforest also has reptiles include the endemic green pit vipers and hump-nosed vipers and there are a large variety of amphibians, especially the tree frogs. The vegetation of Sinharaja may be described either as a tropical lowland rain forest or tropical wet evergreen forest. In addition, there are sub montane forests and sub montane grasslands. Fresh water habitats, rocky terrains and other associated eco systems contribute to the ecological diversity of this unique rain forest. There are 337 woody plant species in Sinharaja that includes 192 endemic species, 30 nationally threatened and 116 globally threatened species. One of the most enchanting displays of color to be found in Sinharaja rainforest, is the sight of mixed species foraging bird flocks, a phenomenon found in rain forests.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.Google+

 

Water falls in Sri Lanka as a location for film production

Undoubtedly one of nature’s most wonderful and beautiful creations, waterfalls across the world have stolen the hearts of nature enthusiasts. Even tourists who seek relaxation during their holidays often strive to find and witness such natural phenomenon. From the startlingly panoramic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, Africa and the Venezuelan Angel Falls, the highest waterfall in the world, to the world renowned Niagara Falls on the border between Canada and the United States of America to the picture perfect Plitvice Falls in Croatia, waterfalls have stunned many and many others continue to flock towards them. When in Sri Lanka, the grandeur of waterfalls is no less impressive and indeed, is more abundant. With the major rivers in the country commencing from the top of Piduruthalagala Mountain, the highest in the country, the waters find its way to the Indian Ocean through rivers, crevices and falls, creating panoramic sceneries that are sought after for many a purpose.

One such purpose is film production where companies that provide film location services Sri Lanka often use waterfalls as backdrops for local television dramas, advertisements and films. Companies such as  which engage in providing such services find Sri Lanka to be replete with locations that are ideal for many filmic purposes.

As the Central Highlands work its way towards the coastal belt, a high concentration of such waterfalls are found primarily in the Ratnapura, Kegalle and Nuwara Eliya districts and falls such as the Dehena Fall, Diyaluma Fall, Ramboda Fall and Devathura Fall have been witnessed, photographed and filmed over and over. Dodan Ella, located within travelling distance of the famed Bopath Ella, was the site of a film production named ‘Inspector Champa’. However, the reverse has already taken place where a waterfall has been named after a film such as Surathali Fall. When witnessing the splendour of the island’s waterfalls, it feels as though Sri Lanka is truly blessed and an exploration of the country is incomplete without making a visit to at least one iconic waterfall.

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+

Wildlife in Bundala National Park: serenity in the wild

On reaching Bundala National Park you will feel a sense calm as the park is less frequented, yet is a treasure trove of amazing wildlife. Located in the Hambantota district, the park is a four to five hour drive from Sri Lanka’s capital. The most rewarding experience for those who love nature is lodging that fuses well with its surroundings. Saraii Village, Sri Lanka compliments the nature amidst which it is constructed. Your search for an Eco Lodge, Sri Lanka would be a success only if you choose your accommodation in this uniquely designed hotel. Enjoy the rustic vibe of the hotel, by choosing to stay either in a tree house or a mud chalet. It is the ideal place to breathe in wildlife and commence your journey to Bundala National Park.

Among the dry scrublands and lagoons, a multitude of animals find their home. However Bundala National Park is internationally recognized as a wintering ground for migratory water birds. Flocks of greater flamingos migrate to the park. These leggy beauties add splotches of blush pink to the landscape. The black-headed ibis, Eurasian spoonbill, Asian openbill and Grey heron are also among the hundred species of water birds that grace the park with their seasonal presence. In addition, the park is known to harbor approximately 197 species of birds. It is without doubt an earthly heaven for birdwatchers.

Roaming the park with grace is a handful of Asian elephants. Many other mammals stealthily disappear beneath the shrubbery. Leopards are rarely spotted yet are reportedly a notable presence in the park. The toque macaque, the common langur, the fishing cat and the rusty-spotted cat add to the beautiful collage of Bundala National Park.

Be on your guard as Mugger crocodiles and estuarine crocodiles bask in the sun with eager eyes on the park’s visitors. It is evident that the wildlife in Bundala National Park collectively contributes towards a tranquil exploration of the wild.

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. Google+

Enjoy a fly away experience on the sea with surfing

The golden beaches of Sri Lanka are not only breath taking but the island is a much sought after destination among surfers from the 1960s’. In the recent past Arugam Bay rose to its glory among surfers , however there are many other surfing points in the island some can be found in the Southern belt of the country. Ahangama is one such place away from the hustle and bustle compared to other surfer points.

The area has excellent accommodation options with some of the best holiday villas in Sri Lanka. A noteworthy holiday villa would be Mosvold Villa by Jetwing sitting in Ahangama, over looking the Indian ocean the villa has tastefully designed rooms and a crystal clear pool to take a perfect dip and unwind. Ahangama being a small coastal town is not short of accommodation options , such as guest houses, motels and other inns.

The Kabalana surf point is the primary surf point in Ahangama. The peak season for this would be January to February where waves can stand up to eight feet tall. A perfect spot for beginners , however the currents could get strong and it is advisable to always have advanced surfers at hand to help. The A framed reef break gives good power for surfing.

Other surfing points around Ahangama would be , Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, Weligama, Mirissa and on the east coast places such as Potuvil and Arugam Bay. Surfing tours are conducted by trained local professionals , who at all times ensure your safety and instruct you on the right place to be at.

Apart from surfing there are other water sports activities in the Southern Coast of Sri Lanka. One can also take a laid back approach and engage in a boat ride in one of the lagoons or rivers along the coast and take a trip into the mangroves , or enjoy bird watching.

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.

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Discover Birdlife at Yala

Fondly known by many epithets such as the Resplendent Isle, the island nation of Sri Lanka nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean is a haven for tropical and exotic birdlife and panoramic sceneries. Sri Lanka is home to around four hundred species of birds of which only around twenty are endemic to the island. The remainder is predominantly made up of migratory birds that travel to in search of a tropical climate, away from the harsh Scandinavian, European and Indian winters.

While a number of parks such as the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, the Biodhinala Sanctuary and Kumana National Park have been designated as official bird sanctuaries, other national parks such as the Wilpattu National Park, Wasgamua and Yala National Parks are also rich with flourishing bird communities. Visiting the Yala National Park is a must-do when in Sri Lanka and while a rich variety of Yala hotels are available, the national park can be accessed with ease from Cinnamon Wild Yala.

Also known as the Ruhunu National Park, Yala is a famous safari and wildlife destination for tourists and locals alike. Initially established 1938, Yala is home to an amazing variety of bird species as well as other animals. Visitors to Yala will be able to view the Black Necked Stork, the Malabar Pied, the Ceylon Grey Hornbill, the European Bea Eater, the Blue Faced Malkoha, the Yellow Fronted Pied, the Brown Capped Pygmy Woodpeckers, the Lesser Whistling Teal and the Green Bee Eater whose feathers create a camouflage effect as it fades into the greenish and brownish background of the park.

In addition to bird watching, when at the Yala Natoinal Park, visitors can also watch elephants in the wild, beautiful and colourful butterfly species as well as crocodiles and, if they are lucky, leopards. The Park is a wonderful natural getaway, both relaxing and awe-inspiring for any intrepid traveller.

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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Camping Sites in Sri Lanka

Known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean , Sri Lanka has more than its sandy beaches to offer , home to many world heritage sites , the Sinharaja Rain Forest is any nature lover’s paradise. Having many such national parks and flora and fauna endemic to the country , Sri Lanka is perfect for camping getaway.

There are many organisations that provide such camping excursions however one of the leading Production companies in Sri Lanka , Nkar Film Eye ,organizes camping tours across many locations in the island. They have been a popular choice among travelers.

The best way to experience nature would be to be a part of it, and camping is a perfect way to do so. Some of the most sought after locations for camping are the national parks , some of the camp sites are operated by the Wildlife Department, such as the Horton Plains National Park, Yala National Park , Udawalawe National Park , Wilpaththu National Park and Kumana National Park are the noteworthy options. However there are also camp sites available outside national parks are the summits of Namunukula , Soro Bora wewa, Ella Rock and Kalpitiya beach among others.

There is an option of picking staffed camp site where campers can help the staff with the running of the site or opt for a luxury camp experience. Many camping holidays also include adventure sports activities, safaris, nature trails , bird watching , white water rafting and many more.

Camping holidays can also allow any one visiting Sri Lanka to explore the country sides and the wild as well as visit some historically important sites. Those camping in and around the cultural triangle could find themselves in places such as Sigiriya , Dambulla rock temple , Anuradhapura , Polonnaruwa in no time.

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.

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Take a Bullock Cart Ride through the Village

Even with the rapid development witnessed by the 21st century, small villages in Sri Lanka remain largely untouched by the dramatic changes in transportation and lifestyle. A place where time seems to slow down and life becomes uncomplicated, most villages in the island scarcely witness fancy modes of transportation and stick to bullock carts to transport produce and other items from the fields to their homes or to the local village markets as they are cost efficient. A glimpse into this village lifestyle is a valuable insight tourists can obtain when staying at a Sigiriya hotel in the vicinity of the Habarana villages such as Chaaya Village Habarana. One such way, in addition to close proximity, is to indulge in a bullock cart ride through the village while a three wheeler, or in the more popular vernacular, a tuk tuk, would be the best way to explore the city.

A bullock cart ride is undeniably a very traditional mode of travel, but it is a modern way to explore the undisturbed village life in the rural areas. When travelling in a bullock cart, tourists will have the opportunity to travel through lush green paddy fields and observe the manner in which the villagers lead their daily lives. Since the roads are often mere footpaths, travelling by car would be highly uncomfortable, but the bullock cart traverses the well trodden country lanes with ease. The slow paced travel provides tourists with ample time and opportunity to witness the beauty and serenity of the village.

Exploring the nearby villages should also include a visit to a village house where tourists can have the opportunity to taste the delights of a ‘plain tea’ sweetened with a small piece of juggery. This coupled with an authentic Sri Lankan lunch of red rice and curry is bound to leave tourists yearning for the simple life.

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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Adventure Holiday Experience in Sri Lanka

Adventure tourism is one of the world’s most sought after tourist experiences, and in Sri Lanka ‘adventure’ takes many shapes and forms. An Adventure Holiday includes exploration and travel to remote and exotic destinations, engaging in physical activities, immersion in cultural exchanges and a relationship with nature. An action packed holiday in Sri Lanka is perfect for adventurous families with teenage children. There is an exciting mix of serious adventures including animal safaris, hiking, whale and dolphin watching, Hot air ballooning, canoeing, white water surfing , Elephant Safaris, Fishing, Camping, Biking, Trekking, Rock climbing and many more activities. There are many tour operators in Sri Lanka that will arrange packages to suit each and every traveler, the Walker Tours coordinates and arranges such Adventure Tours in Sri Lanka. Walkers Tours has been in the tourism industry for more than 45 years. Walker Tours offers the highest quality of services and has been awarded many prestigious awards from the tourism industry. There are many professionals who are trained to design impeccable and creative tour packages to suit any kind of traveler. There is a very large fleet of vehicles that are in disposal, and therefore they can accommodate any size group.

Tourists can visit the elephant orphanage in Pinnawala, which is a breeding ground for wild elephants. Currently there are about 87 elephants and is known as the largest herd of elephants in the world, that are living under human supervision. Whale watching can also be done in Mirissa, and there are many chances to see sperm whales, dolphins and blue whales. Tourists can also take part in many water sports that are offered around beaches in the island. Sri Lanka Windsurfing is also a popular water sport among the foreign tourists who visit the palm fringed pristine beaches of Sri Lanka. The action of paddling a canoe with the intention of recreation, sport or even transportation is called ‘Canoeing’ .With over 103 rivers, lagoons, interconnected canals and reservoirs, Sri Lanka provides its visitors a remarkable setting for canoeing.

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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Boating in the Muthurajawela Marsh

Ceylon has undergone some diverse political and economic changes during the last four centuries due to colonisation. While the Portuguese controlled the coastal belt and handed them over to the Dutch in the late 17th century, the Dutch sought to establish their own legal system in the island. Subsequent to the British conquering the island and bringing the entirety of Ceylon under their control in 1815, the political, economic, social and cultural aspects of the island were significantly influenced leading to the development of the tourism industry in Sri Lanka from the latter part of the 20th century. With the development of the economy and infrastructure, Negombo hotels are greatly sought after due to their location and the easy access from the airport facilitated by the highway. While accommodation is available for almost all budgets, for a high-end luxurious stay, opt for Heritance Negombo.

In Negombo, there are a myriad of attractions and activities that would enthral a newcomer to Sri Lanka ranging from the intricate Dutch canal systems and the energetic local bazaars to the Negombo Beach and the Muthurajawela Marsh. The Marsh itself is quite extensive and covers around six thousand hectares including the Negombo Lagoon. Therefore, Muthurajawela is home to a diverse eco-system that sustains a myriad of wild species ranging from water birds and butterflies to crocodiles and pythons.

A boat ride through the Marsh would also allow tourists to see a number of native fish species including some which are endangered, as well as the Star Tortoise. The natural surroundings of the Marsh, particularly due to the lofty flora, provide the area with canopies and a sense of being in a forest. Given this diversity and the breathtaking natural beauty, a boat ride through the Marsh is an activity one should not miss out on when in Negombo.

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+

Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage

The Island of Sri Lanka is blessed with many wonderful attractions, foremost is the elephant population. Recognising the importance of preserving these magnificent creatures the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage is a refuge and nursery for several adult and baby elephants. Located in Kegalle which is just over a 2 hour drive from the capital Colombo, a visit to the orphanage is one of the thrills to be enjoyed when you book one of the Sri Lanka Holiday Packages on offer. In terms of excellent service and comprehensive customer care you may want to consider Sunshine Travels & Tours.

This tour operator promises you a wide variety of travel adventures around the island paradise of Sri Lanka. Choose a tour package covering the verdant wildlife parks or set-off on a great adventure white water rafting, mountain climbing or trekking the beautiful rainforests of Sri Lanka. The possibilities are endless be it a honeymoon escapade, visit of the cultural triangle, stay around the up-country tea gardens or soaking up the sun around the magnificent coasts; this travel agency promises to deliver. Expect excellent service the assistance of expert tour guides when you book any tour.

Established in 1975 the Pinnawela Orphanage as of 2011 was home to 88 elephants some of which are the 3rd generation to be born here. Animal lovers will love the experience, make it in time for the animals daily bath and you are in for a treat; as the giants do put up quite an impressive show as they bathe, play and enjoy the cooling waters of the river.

Baby elephants are bottle fed at scheduled times, again check and get there in time for some hands on experience of feeding the lovable calf’s, you can walk around the vast sanctuary and watch the bull elephants at work or get up close and personal with the gentler cow elephants.

Remember to take along your cameras and leave time to browse the many souvenir shops displaying lovely mementos of the gentle mammals.

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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