Sri Lanka, a true gift of nature

Set in the Indian Ocean in South Asia, the tropical island nation of Sri Lanka has a history dating back to the birth of time. It is a place where the original soul of Buddhism still flourishes and where nature’s beauty remains abundant and unspoilt.

Few places in the world can offer the traveller such a remarkable combination of stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, captivating cultural heritage and unique experiences within such a compact location. Within a mere area of 65, 610 kilometres lie 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 1,330 kilometres of coastline - much of it pristine beach - 15 national parks showcasing an abundance of wildlife, nearly 500,000 acres of lush tea estates, 250 acres of botanical gardens, 350 waterfalls, 25,000 water bodies, to a culture that extends back to over 2,500 years.

This is an island of magical proportions, once known as Serendib, Taprobane, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, and Ceylon. Discover refreshingly Sri Lanka!

 

Profile

Climate and Seasons

In the lowlands the climate is typically tropical with an average temperature of 27ºC in Colombo. In the higher elevations it can be quite cool with temperatures going down to 16ºC at an altitude of nearly 2,000 metres. Bright, sunny warm days are the rule and are common even during the height of the monsoon - climatically Sri Lanka has no off season. The south west monsoon brings rain mainly from May to July to the western, southern and central regions of the island, while the north-east monsoon rains occur in the northern and eastern regions in December and January.

Language and Religion

Sinhala and Tamil are official languages in Sri Lanka. Sinhala, a language of Indo-Aryan origin is the language of the majority. English is widely spoken and understood. Place names and sign-boards on buses and trains are usually in all three languages. Sri Lanka is a land of religious freedom and tolerance. Wherever you travel you will come across a Buddhist Temple or Dagaba, a Hindu Kovil, a Christian Church or a Mosque, each with its own distinctive architecture. When visiting holy places please conform to the requirements as regards dress in order not to show disrespect.

Government

The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka is a free, independent and sovereign nation. A system of administration through provincial councils was introduced in 1988. Legislative power is exercised by Parliament, elected by universal franchise on a proportional representation basis. Executive power of the people, including defence, is exercised by the President, who is also elected by the people.

General Information

What to wear

Light cotton dresses and light weight suits. A wide-brimmed beach hat and sun glasses, comfortable shoes/sandals. In the hill country pullovers will be necessary. Visitors should be decently clad when visiting any place of worship. Beach wear is NOT suitable for temples and shrines. All visitors to Buddhist and Hindu temples are expected to be unshod and have their heads uncovered. Topless sunbathing is prohibited.

Currency

One Sri Lankan rupee is made up of 100 cents. Currency notes are in the denominations of Rs.10, Rs.20, Rs.50, Rs.100, Rs.200, Rs.500 and Rs. 1000. Coins are in the following denominations: 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents, 50 cents, one rupee, two rupees, five rupees and ten rupees.

Banking hours

National banking hours are from 0900 hrs. to 1500 hrs. on weekdays. Banking hours may be different at private banks. Further teller machines(ATM ) are operated throughout the day.
Related sites

Credit cards

Reputed credit and charge cards are widely accepted by shops in Sri Lanka. In some cases the shops may try to add a surcharge to the price of the merchandise purchased. This is not an acceptable practice and in such cases the card company should be contacted so that corrective action can be taken.These services are available at the Depature lounge and in Kandy and Colombo.

International Commercial Banks
People's Bank Bank of Ceylon
Deutsche Bank (Asia) Indian Bank State Bank of India
Standard Chartered Bank
Habib Bank Ltd Hatton National Bank Ltd.
Indian Overseas Bank Ltd
Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corporation Bank
Indosuez Bank of Credit & Commerce International (Overseas) Ltd.,
Citibank N.A.
ANZ Grindlays Bank
Algemene Bank Nederland N.V.
Bank of Oman Ltd
Union Bank of the Middle East Ltd
Commercial Bank of Ceylon Ltd
Habib Bank
AG Zurich Amro Bank
Amsterdam Rotterdam Bank N.V.
Middle East Bank
Overseas Trust Bank Ltd

Time difference

Sri Lanka standard time is 6 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

Voltage
230-240 volts 50 cycles A.C.

Holidays

In addition to Saturday and Sunday, the full moon day (Poya Day) of each month is a holiday in Sri Lanka. On Poya Days all places of entertainment are closed and no liquor is sold. Hotels make special arrangements for customers to order their liquor the day before Poya holiday.

Police

Special Tourist Police Units are available to assist our visitors.
Tourist Police Units

Tourist Police

Fort Police Station, Bank of Ceylon Mawatha, Fort, Colombo Tel: 433342
Galle Road, Moragalle, Beruwela
Ethukala, Negombo
Pushpadana Road, Kandy. Tel : 08-22222.
Sigiriya Village Hotel Road, Sigiriya Police Station,
National holiday Resort, Bentota. Tel: 03475022.
Police Station, Galle Road, Hikkaduwa. Tel : 0957222

Safety

To ensure the health and safety of all guests in Sri Lanka, every tourist hotel has to be equipped with equipment to manage illness and injury. To further ensure that safety standards are maintained, the Sri Lanka Tourist Board is equipping a fleet of ambulances that will be used to bring tourists from the hotel care centres to the closest large hospital or to the nearest point of evacuation if required. The Ceylon Tourist Board and the tourism sector in Sri Lanka are going to great lengths to ensure you enjoy a pleasant stay in Sri Lanka and if any unfortunate occurrence happens, the best health care available is on call at all times.

Postal Information

For information on postal rates contact hotel front desk or No.4, Inquiries Counter, General Post Office, Janadhipathi Mawatha, Colombo 1. (oppostie the President's House), Post Restante - Tel. 326203, For times of arrival and despatch of foreign mail - Tel: 692273. The General Post Office is open day and night for the sale of stamps and for local calls. Business hours are from 0830 hrs. to 1630 hrs. Certain businesses are open on Saturdays till 1300 hrs.

Maps

Large scale maps of the island are available at the Survey Department, Map Sales Branch, Kirula Road, Narahenpita, Tel : 585111/585112-6 and Maps Sales Centre, York Street, Colombo 1. Tel: 435328 or at leading bookshops.

Sports

Sri Lanka is a nation of sportsmen. Many clubs offer temporary membership to visitors and some of the games include Cricket, Tennis, Swimming, Golf, Canoeing, Rowing, Rafting, Diving and Windsurfing. Other water based recreational facilities for Water Skiing, Sailing, Boating, Fishing, Yachting and Coastal Cruising are available in most beach resorts.
 

Flora and Fauna

The mountains and the southwestern part of the country, known as the "wet zone", receive ample rainfall at an average of 2,500 mm (98 in). Most of the east, southeast, and northern parts of the country comprise the "dry zone", which receives between 1,200 mm (47 in) and 1,900 mm (75 in) of rain annually. Much of the rain in these areas falls from October to January; during the rest of the year there is very little precipitation. The arid northwest and southeast coasts receive the least amount of rain at 600mm (24 in) to 1,200 mm (47 in) per year.

Varieties of flowering acacias are well adapted to the arid conditions and flourish on the Jaffna Peninsula. Among the trees of the dry-land forests, are some valuable species such as satinwood, ebony, ironwood, mahogany and teak. In the wet zone, the dominant vegetation of the lowlands is a tropical evergreen forest, with tall trees, broad foliage, and a dense undergrowth of vines and creepers. Subtropical evergreen forests resembling those of temperate climates flourish in the higher altitudes. Forests at one time covered nearly the entire island, but by the late 20th century lands classified as forests and forest reserves covered around ? of the land.

The Yala National Park in the southeast protects herds of elephant, deer, and peacocks, and the Wilpattu National Park in the northwest preserves the habitats of many water birds, such as storks, pelicans, ibis, and spoonbills. During the Mahaweli Ganga Program of the 1970s and 1980s in northern Sri Lanka, the government set aside four areas of land totalling 1,900 km2 (730 sq mi) as national parks. The island has four biosphere reserves, Bundala Hurulu Forest Reserve, the Kanneliya-Dediyagala-Nakiyadeniya and Sinharaja.
The national flower of Sri Lanka is the Nymphaea stellata (Sinhalese Nil Mahanel), the national tree is the Ironwood (Sinhalese Na), and the national bird is the Sri Lanka Junglefowl, which is endemic to the country.

National Parks / Sanctuaries

Animal Sanctuaries

The animals to be seen in Sri Lanka's national parks include elephant, leopard, sloth bear, sambhur, deer and monkeys, wild buffalo, wild boar (pig), porcupine, ant-eater, civet cat, jackal, mongoose, loris (unique to sri Lanka) several varieties of lizards, squirrels, reptiles and amphibians. Each park however has its own specialities.

Yala (Ruhuna) National Park

Situated 309 km. south of Colombo, Yala is approximately 1,259 sq.km. in extent and is located in the south eastern corner of the island. Its northern boundaries border on the Lahugala Elephant Sanctuary and it has the added bonus of a scenic ocean frontage. The terrain is varied flat plains alternating with rocky outcrops. The vegetation ranges from open parkland to dense jungle. Water holes, small lakes, lagoons and streams provide water for the animals and birds. The speciality here is the large numbers of elephants.

Gal Oya National Park

Situated at Inginiyagala, the Gal Oya National Park is 314 km. from Colombo and is most renowned for its elephant population.

Uda Walawe National Park

Situated 170 km. South East of Colombo the Uda Walawe National Park is approximately 30,821 hectares in extent. This Park which lies within the Ratnapura and Monaragala Districts acts as the catchment to the Uda Walawe Reservoir and is located in the Dry Zone. This Park comprises grasslands and thorn scrubs and many valuable species of trees are found within it. Large herds of Elephants and Deer species such as spotted Deer, Sambhur, Barking deer and Langur, Wild Boar, Water Buffalo, Jackal are some of the prominent wild animals found in this Park and a variety of avifauna is seen.

Wasgamuwa National Park

Situated approximately 200 km. away from Colombo, the Wasgamuwa National Park lies within the Polonnaruwa and Matale Districts and have the Mahaweli river and Amban river as its eastern and western boundaries. Tropical intermediate dry mixed evergreen forest predominates its environment.

Horton Plains National Park

The Horton Plains National Park is the only National Park situated in the Hill Country and falls within the Nuwara Eliya district and is 200 km. away from Colombo. Panoramic scenic beauty of the Hill Country could be witnessed within the Park. The famous `Worlds End' is a major attraction within the Park. Endemic slender loris and endemic purple monkey are among the important animal species that could be seen in addition to sambhur, a member of the cat family etc. There are some endemic avifauna also found within this Park.

Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park is the latest addition to the National Parks and is situated 260 km. away from Colombo. All species of waterbirds resident in the country and the migrant birds inhabit this Park.

Bird Sanctuaries

The sanctuaries at Kumana 312 km. from Colombo, Wirawila 261 km. Bundala 259 km. and Kalametiya 224 km. are all lagoon locations in Sri Lanka's extreme south eastern coast. The Giant's Tank in the north western corner of the island is a huge ancient irrigation reservoir of 3,800 hectares. The coastal sanctuaries are exotically picturesque with combinations of lagoon, swamp, river, jungle, lake and plain. Large flocks can be found here of both resident and migrant aquatic birds. The highland sanctuaries at Udawattakele 118 km. from Colombo and the Peak Wilderness 141 km. are quieter but equally picturesque with wooded hills and secluded streams and have the added bonus of rare flora such as our unique Wesak Orchid as well as numerous species of rare butterflies. The Udawattakele Sanctuary is in the suburbs of Kandy, our picturesque and fascinating hill capital. The Peak Wilderness is situated on the slopes of Adam's Peak (Sri Pada), Sri Lanka's sacred mountain.

National Zoological Gardens

Situated 11 km. from the Fort, the Zoo has a fine collection of animals, birds, reptiles and fish from all over the world. The aquarium is the only one of its kind in Asia and displays over 500 varieties of aquatic life. Also walk in through Aviary, Reptilium, Butterfly Park. There are daily elephant performance at 5.15 p.m. Open daily between 8.00 a.m. and 6.00 p.m. Entrance fees : Rs 90/- per adult and Rs.45/- per child.

Elephant Orphanage

An orphanage for elephants has been set up by the department of National Zoological Gardens, at Pinnawela, 90 km. from Colombo. It was established in 1975 and several animals brought here at the inception are now mature enough for breeding, which is the ultimate aim of the institution. Entrance fees : Rs.200. Pinnawala elephant orphanage has largest captive herd in the world The Pinnawala elephant orphanage has not only got the largest captive herd of elephants in the entire world but it also has become the most successful elephant breeding centre, according to reports. The elephant orphanage was established in 1995 with seven orphans today has a population of sixty two. The elephant orphanage now boasts of its sixteenth birth and the second generation of births in captivity. It has become a major tourist attraction because of its uniqueness. This is an ideal site for photography, research and education on elephants as the visitor is able to observe a large herd comprised of week old babies to sixty year olds.

A state of the art zoo is under construction at Pinnawala which will be open to the public by 2003. The Department of National Zoological Gardens now maintains two farms at Pallekelle and Gonapola to meet a part of its food requirements for animals.

Botanic Gardens

Sri Lanka has three beautiful Botanic Gardens - Peradeniya at an elevation of 488 metres, Hakgala at an elevation of 1,680 metres and Henarathgoda in the low country.

Iron Wood Forest

National Iron Wood Forest is a unique forest in Sri Lanka where the Iron Wood (Mesua ferara) trees dominate the vegetation of the 238 acres of forest.  It is said that during King Dappula IV’s period (8th century AD) this Iron Wood forest was created and the remaining trees are the shoots of that forest. Hence it is considered the oldest man made forest in Sri Lanka.According to botanists this is the only Iron Wood forest in the dry zone with wet zone vegetation. Among the many streams that meander through the forest, one stream intriguingly disappear out of sight only to emerge as a great fresh water fountain 500 metres away.

Pink Quartz Mountain

The main topographical feature of the forest is the Pink Quartz mountain with seven peaks. The height of the mountain is 1070 ft above sea level. Geographers believe that it was formed 4,000 million year ago and it is the only mountain of this kind in Sri Lanka.

History

The island of Sinhaladwipa, as it was known throughout most of history, means ‘Island of the Sinhalese’, where a group of Indo-European origin who moved south through India in the 6th century BC.

One of the most important events in Sri Lanka history is the arrival of Buddhism in the 3rd century BC, due to the support of Emperor Asoka, remaining to this day a stronghold of the earliest form of Buddhism, known as Theravada. The Sinhalese claim to have the tooth of Buddha himself, having been introduced in Sri Lanka from India hidden in the long, dark hair of a princess. Anuradhapura was the capital city, and became, thus, the first Buddhist center of Sri Lanka.

In the first millennium of the Christian era, Tamil raiders from India are successfully resisted, but Anuradhapura is progressively abandoned in favor of Polonnaruwa, further to the south.

In the 12th century Tamil rulers finally establish a permanent presence in Sri Lanka. Three centuries later, there are two Buddhist kingdoms, one based in Kandy and the other at Kotte.

In 1505 the Portuguese arrive at Colombo. The king enables them to trade in Sri Lankas’s crop of cinnamon. Then, they obtain permission to build a fort, from which they take control of the entire southern territory.

The Dutch offer the king to help him drive out the Portuguese. They capture Colombo in 1656, after a six-month siege. But both Portuguese and Dutch are unable to hold the Sinhalese royal house at Kandi, which retains a measure of independence.

The British captures the island in 1795 and expand rather aggressively, threatening the existence of the Kindom of Kandy. Finally, in 1815 the Kandyan Convention is signed between Kandyan headmen and the British, by which the old system is allowed to continue, but with their power very diminished and Buddhism placed on an equal footing with other religions.

Ceylon, as it is known under British rule, becomes an independent member of the Commonwealth in 1948. The Sinhalese-Tamil difficulties are exacerbated, a fact that the rule of the Bandaranaikes, Solomon first and his widow Sirimavo Bandaranaike after, cannot revert.

In 1971 a Sinhalese Marxist insurrection breaks out, which is quickly eradicated. Then the government makes sweeping changes, a new Constitution is promulgated and the country is given the name of Sri Lanka, which means ‘resplendent land’. It becomes a sovereign state one year later.

Sirimavo Bandaranaike is finally defeated at the hands of the UNP in 1977. Prime Minister JR Jayawardene iss successful in luring back foreign investment and introduces a new constitution which includes some concessions to the Tamils, like promoting their language to the status of national language in Tamil majority areas. Nevertheless, terrorism worsens and riots become frequent. Tamil diaspora is inevitable.

In 1987, in an attempt to keep the peace, Jayawardene strucks a deal with India, but it suits no-one. Jayawardene is replaced by Ranasinghe Premadasa, the first leader from a common background. He removes the Indian peacekeepers, but war between the Liberation of Tamil Eelam and the Government begins again. The economy cripples. Finally, the rebellion subsides, leaving behind 60,000 people killed. 

In may 1991 Rajiv Ghandi is assassinated by an LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) suicide bomber. It is believed to have been in retaliation for his consent to Jayawardene’s 1987 request for help in the conflict. Although Tamils and Sinhalese want peace, extremists on both sides press with war. President Premadasa is killed in 1993 and the LTTE, suspected.

Next year a coalition of parties led by Chandrika Bandaranaike Kamaratunga wins the parliamentary elections, but conflict continues and she is targeted by a suicide bomber and results seriously injured, but she wins the next elections in a narrow victory. The cease fire comes after the 2001 elections, but peace talks do not succeed until May 2009, leaving the conditions of Tamil economic and ethnic exclusion that inspired the LTTE still as challenges to be acknowledged.
 

Places of interest

Hill Country

KANDY

Sri Lanka's hill capital, stronghold of the Sinhala Kings, is our most beautiful town. It is 488 metres above sea level and next to Colombo is Sri Lanka's most visited place. The focal point of the town is, without doubt, the golden roofed Dalada Maligawa where the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha is enshrined. Major restoration work is in progress here by the UNESCO - aided Central Cultural Fund. The highlight of the year is the Esala Perahera, when a replica of the relic casket is taken in procession accompanied by exotically costumed dancers, drummers and about 80 to 100 elephants during ten glittering nights in July/August. Visit Kalapuraya in the beautiful Dumbara valley 8 km. from Kandy, where descendants of the ancient craftsmen still create items of rare elegance in metal and wood. There are many shrines and temples in and around Kandy, where you will see rare paintings, frescoes, wood and stone carvings. Don't miss the Peradeniya Gardens begun as a pleasure garden by a Sinhala King, with its amazing variety of trees, plants and flowers. Kandy is an exciting place for shopping with souvenirs in wood, copper, silver, brass, ebony and bronze. Ceramics, lacquer work, handlooms, batiks, jewellery and rush and reed-ware can also be purchased.

NUWARA ELIYA

Set in the heart of the tea-country, this beautiful town is where the British succeeded in creating an English countryside with homes in styles from Georgian to Queen Anne. Well-kept lawns with hedges, an Anglican church and the famous golf course and beautiful parks give the place an air of nostalgia. Situated at 1890 metres above sea level, the air here is cool and fresh - a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of Colombo. Close to Nuwara Eliya are Horton Plains, Sri Lanka's highest and most isolated plateau. Nature lovers will revel in this wide, patna grass covered plain, the haunt of many wild yet harmless animals and the home of many species of birds. Bridle paths will take you to the precipice known as World's End - a sheer drop of 1050 metres. Acres and acres of tea with its lush green foliage extend miles across the hills and no visit to the hill country is complete without a visit to a tea estate and the chance to purchase some of the world's finest flavoured tea - our major export crop.

RATNAPURA

Sri Lanka's `City of Gems' and the centre of its gemming industry. The gems found include sapphire, ruby, cat's eye, alexandrite, topaz, amethyst, aquamarine, tourmaline, garnet and zircon. Visits to gem mines may be arranged through travel agents. Gem collections can be seen at the National Museum, Ratnapura and a number of private museums, rubber and tea estates and scenic landscape are found in plenty.

Ancient Cities

ANURADHAPURA

Sri Lanka's first capital, founded in the 5th century B.C. is situated 206 km. from Colombo. Attractions worth seeing are:- The Sacred Bo Tree, Abhayagiri Dagaba, Jetavanaramaya, Brazen Palace, Thuparama Dagaba, Samadhi Buddha, Kuttam Pokuna and Mirisavati Dagaba.

MIHINTALE

Situated 11 km. east of Anuradhapura is Mihintale, regarded as the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The rock is dotted with shrines and rock dwellings. A grand stairway of 1840 steps made of granite slabs, 5 metres wide, leads to the summit with its splendid view of the surrounding countryside.

POLONNARUWA

The island's medieval capital (11th to 13th century A.D.) is situated 216 km. from Colombo and rose to fame after the decline of Anuradhapura. The largest of the man made reservoirs, the huge Parakrama Samudra, is larger in size than the Colombo harbour. See also the ruins of the King's Council Chamber, the Royal Citadel, the Kumara Pokuna, Royal Pavilion, the Vatadage Relic House lavished with moonstones, guardstones and sculptured railing, Kiri Vehera - the best preserved of all Sri Lanka's un-restored dagabas; Gal Vihare - the most impresive sculptures are the colossal Buddha images carved on the face of a granite boulder. The recumbent Buddha measures 14 metres and the standing figure is 7 metres in height.

SIGIRIYA

This rock fortress was built by king Kasyapa in the 5th century A.D. and was a royal citadel for more than 18 years. In a sheltered pocket, approached by a spiral stairway, are the famous frescoes. The summit of the rock, with an area of nearly one hectare was the site of the palace, the outer wall of which was built on the very brink of the precipice. The UNESCO - sponsored Central Cultural Fund has restored Sigiriya's 5th century Water Gardens to their former glory.

DAMBULLA

Like Sigiriya, Dambulla is a vast isolated rock mass and it was here that King Valagam Bahu took refuge in the 1st century B.C. He later turned the caves into a rock temple. Some of the frescoes are over 2,000 years old and there is a colossal figure of the recumbent Buddha carved out of the living rock, some 14 metre long.

YAPAHUWA

An ancient fortress and capital built in the year 1301, approximately 145 km. from Colombo, Yapahuwa is a rock rising to a height of 90 metres. Many traces of the ancient battle defences can still be seen, while an ornamental stairway remains its biggest showpiece.

ALUVIHARA

26 km. from Kandy is the Matale district. An ancient rock temple of great significance in the history of Buddhism. The Buddhist canon and its commentaries, which were till then handed down orally, were written for the first time at Aluvihara Temple.

Colombo

Sri Lanka's capital upto recent times, Colombo, is a fascinating city, not only for a comfortable blend of east and west, but also for a cosy mixture of the past and present. It is still the commercial centre of the country. Situated 34 km. from the International Airport, Colombo has been a flourishing seaport for centuries. Today the bustle of the harbour mingles with the activity of its busy commercial, banking and shopping areas. The original trading settlers - the Portuguese, Dutch and the British have all left in their wake churches and monuments, names and religions, costumes and food and smatterings of their languages which have been absorbed into the speech of the Sri Lankans. Colombo, with its population of over half a million is divided into fifteen zones.

While in Colombo attractions worth seeing are:- Buddhists temples, Hindu temples, Mosques, Christian churches, Parliament building, Parks, Zoo, Museums and Art Galleries. A half day tour covering 40 km. and including visits to a Buddhist Temple, Hindu Temple, the Zoo and the residential areas will cost around US $ 18 for a car with a chauffeur guide.

Beaches

North Coast:

JAFFNA - 398 km. from Colombo, Jaffna has an austere kind of beauty that is vastly different from the rest of the island. Its virgin beaches and coraline coast, off shore islets, and the peninsula's very distinctive way of life can be an enigmatic experience for the individual traveller. Not to be missed are the sand dunes of Manalkadu - a miniscule desert whose sheer wildness will impress you. Casuarina Beach is situated at Karainagar and there are good beaches also at Santhakulam and Thondaimannar.

West Coast:

NEGOMBO - A characteristic fishing town 37km. north of Colombo, it is a mere 6 km. from the International Airport. Set amid lush groves of coconut palms, it breathes the spirit of the sea. Negombo is a gourmet's paradise with sea food in plenty. Old world fishing craft like the outrigger canoe and the catamaran bring seer, skipjack, herring and mullet, pomfret and amber - jack while lobster and prawns are caught in the lagoon.

MOUNT LAVINIA - Just 12 km. south of Colombo, Mount Lavinia is an immediate city suburb and the beach is one of the better known even in colonial times. It lies alongside a wind swept headland jutting into the waters of the Indian Ocean. The sand is the softest and the waves calm and clear. The Governor's House built in 1805 by Sir Thomas Maitland, now forms part of the famous Mount Lavinia Hotel.

BERUWELA - 56 km. south of Colombo, Beruwela marks the beginning of a 130 km. stretch of beach where resort development has taken immense strides in the past few years. Good bathing may be had in the bay all year round.

BENTOTA - 62 km. south of Colombo, the Bentota Resort Complex is a romantic rendezvous of river and sea with several hotels, railway station, post office, shopping arcade, cafeteria and an open air theatre showing folk and mask dancing with clusters of palms overlooking everything.

AMBALANGODA - A half hour's drive from Bentota is Ambalangoda, home of devil dancing and mask making.

HIKKADUWA - 98 km. south of Colombo, Hikkaduwa is the place for underwater delight. Site of the famed coral gardens; hire a glass bottomed boat or goggles and flippers and explore the fantasies under your feet. Don't purchase or encourage sale of corals.

GALLE - 116 km. south of Colombo, is the most important southern town with an old-world charm. Believed to be the 'Tarshish' of the Bible, its natural harbour was a famous fort in days gone by. Famous for its Dutch fort, lace making, ebony carving and gem polishing.

WELIGAMA - 27 km. from Galle with its picturesque bay, and an off shore islet where a French Count built his dream house, Weligama is where you will see the famous stilt fishermen.

East Coast:

TRINCOMALEE - 257 km. from Colombo, Trincomalee is the ideal refuge for the beach addict, with its fine natural harbour and excellent beaches.

NILAVELI - 14 km. from Trincomalee, Nilaveli was the venue for the 1985 International Funboard Championships. All water sports are available here including fishing and sea angling. Whale watching in the sanctuary is a speciality.

ARUGAM BAY - 314 km. from Colombo, a most beautiful bay with good surfing. The East coast offers infinite possibilities for all kinds of water sports and underwater photography. The many ship-wrecks of the coast are a tempting challenge to the diver.

Museums and Art Galleries

National Museum, Colombo

Situated in Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha, Colombo 7. The first public Museum to be established in Sri Lanka (1877). Best known for its collection of antiques and objects d'art displaying the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. It includes the national treasures and art facts from all parts of the island. A section of the first floor houses the Puppetry and Children's Museum. It also houses a library with a collection of about 500,000 books including very valuable and rare ones and more than 4,000 ancient palm leaf manuscripts. Open daily from 0900 hrs to 1700 hrs except on Fridays when it is closed to the public for cleaning. Admission : Adults Rs.55. Children Rs.30. Tel.694366

National Museum of Natural History

Situated in the same premises as the Cultural Museum described above. Also, accessible from Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha, Colombo 7. Displays the Natural Heritage of Sri Lanka. The fauna i.e. the mammals and the birds are displayed in dioramas. There are sections on Applied Botany, Geology and Fossils and the Natural Environment. In the Discovery Room one finds the mounted skeleton of an elephant and a scale model in relief showing the topography of a part of Sri Lanka. Open daily from 0900 hrs to 1700 hrs. Admission : Adults Rs.35. Children Rs.20 Tel: 691399

The Dutch Period Museum

The old `Dutch House' on Prince Street, Pettah (Colombo 11) which houses this museum was built in the latter part of the 17th century and was initially the residence of Count August Carl Van Ranzow along with five other houses of the elite. Today, the sides of the street are choc-a-block with boutiques and stores of moslem traders. The restoration of this building commenced in 1977 and was completed in 1981. This museum was opened to the public in 1982. This building embodies the unique architectural features of a colonial Dutch town house. The museum while displaying the Dutch legacy with the artefacts viz. furniture, ceramics, coins, arms etc. portrays facets of contemporary life and culture. Open daily except Fridays from 0900 Hrs. to - 1700 Hrs. Admission. Adults Rs.50. Children Rs.25. Tel: 448466

Kandy

Situated behind the Temple of the Tooth, in a building of historical and architectural interest. The collections are all of the Kandyan Period (17th - 18th Century). Open daily from 0900 Hr. - 1700 Hrs. Admission: Adults Rs.55. Children 30. Tel: 08-223867

Ratnapura

The National Museum of Ratnapura is housed in the famous Ehelapola Walawwa on the Colombo Road in Ratnapura. The museum displays to a great extent the prehistory of Sri Lanka. Ratnapura being famous for gems, the process of gem-mining is displayed through a model. Some of the artefacts displayed here, reflect the unique arts & culture of the Sabaragamuwa Province. Open daily except Fridays from 0900 Hrs - 1700 Hrs. Admission : Adults Rs.30 Children Rs.15. Tel: 045-2451

Anuradhapura

The Folk Museum is in the sacred city close to the Archaeological Museum and has a collection of artefacts illustrative of the rural life of the North Central Province. Open daily except Thursdays & Fridays from 0900 Hrs - 1700 Hrs. Admission : Adults Rs.30. Children Rs.15. Tel: 025-2589

Galle

Within the Fort of Galle in a Dutch Colonial building in Church Street is the Cultural Museum adjoining the New Oriental Hotel.The artefacts reflect the art and culture of the Southern Province. Open daily except Mondays from 0900 Hrs - 1700 Hrs. Admission Adults Rs.30. Children Rs.15. Tel: 09-32051

The National Maritime Museum, Galle

Located within the Fort of Galle in a colonial Dutch ware-house with imposing pillars. This museum displays the fauna & flora of the sea and the environment. Artefacts consist of preserved material and scale models of whales and fishes. Generally, all the resources of the sea are covered in this Museum.
It also shows in diorama form with life size models, the traditional methods of fishing. Some artefacts of under water archaeology are on display. An interesting experiment is the `walk-into-the sea' diorama, showing the natural coral beds, sea grass beds and deep sea fishes. Finally, one leaves the museum seeing the causes of sea pollution, coast erosion and methods used to combat these problems. Open daily from 0900 Hrs - 1700 Hrs Admission : Adults Rs.50. Children Rs.25.

Weera Puran Appu Museum

Housed at Weera Puran Appu Vidyalaya, New Galle Road, Moratuwa. This museum exhibits items in relation to the life and times of this great hero who fought the British against unfair levy of taxes and injustice and laid down his life in defence of the country.

Bandaranaike Museum

Housed in the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7, the museum contains photographs, objects and documents portraying the life and times of the late Prime Minister, S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike. Visitors can listen to recordings of some of his famous speeches. Open daily except Mondays and full moon days from 0900 Hrs. to 1600 Hrs. For special arrangements contact: Curator, Bandaranaike Museum, Tel: 691139

Archaeological Museums

The Archaeological Department has established Archaeological Site Museums in Anuradhapura (ancient city). Isurumuniya, Mihintale, Veheragala, Vavuniya, Jaffna, Sigiriya, Kandy, Dedigama, Yapahuwa, Panduwasnuwara, Kotte, Matara (Star-Fort), Deegavapiya and Kataragama. Tourists may visit these museums free of charge but taking photographs is not allowed unless a permit is obtained from the Director General of Dept. of Archaeology, Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha, Colombo 7. Notably, pemits are necessary to photograph monuments at certain Archaeological sites. Archaelogical museums are open daily from 0800 hrs to 1700 hrs but closed on Tuesdays and some of them will be close on public holidays too.

Art Galleries

The Art Gallery at Dr. Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha, Colombo 7, caters largely to the conservative taste in painting.

The Lionel Wendt Art Gallery at Guildford Crescent, Colombo 7, displays contemporary paintings. Kalagaraya, the permanent art gallery of the Alliance Francaise de Colombo, can be found at 54, Ward Place, Colombo 7, and displays a representative collection of contemporary art.The Sapumal Foundation Gallery at 32/4, Barnes Place, Colombo 7, open on Thursdays Fridays and Saturdays between 1000 hrs. - 1300 hrs. displays and sells Sri Lankan paintings from 1920 onwards.
Permits Required
It should be noted that tourists who visit the Archaeological sites currently under the Cultural Triangle's Archaeological programme should obtain tickets from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, 255, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7. Tel: 508594
These tickets provide admission to and permission to photograph all Cultural Triangle's archaeological sites and monuments. Further details on this are available from the Central Cultural Fund Office, 212, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 7. Tel : 500732, 587912.

Transportation

Although Sri Lanka is small in size travelling around the island can be frustrating and time consuming. The country’s narrow roads, congested with pedestrians, cyclists and trishaws make travelling difficult. However, once you leave the hustle and bustle of Colombo, you can enjoy many scenic drives around the coastal line or in the hill country. Sri Lanka is beautiful and even though small in size offers visitors many travel options.
Now it's possible to do a city tour of Colombo as well.

Air

Charter flights can be arranged to any destination in Sri Lanka through Deccan Aviation Lanka.
Deccan Aviation Lanka is a six year old helicopter and charter aircraft operator based in Sri Lanka. The company is authorized to operate both helicopters and fixed wing aircraft in the country.Today Deccan is the airline of choice for business or leisure travelers who place a premium on service, comfort and safety. 
The company comply with health and safety standards of major global tour operators and NGOs such as TUI, Kuoni, UN WFP, ICRC, etc

•Airport to resort transfers
•Corporate transfers
•Mutiple site visits
•Aerial advertising
•Wedding and Honeymoon transfers
•Regional tranfers by private aircraft
•Short duration scenic flights

Rail

Trains connect Colombo with all tourist towns, but first-class carriages, air conditioning and dining cars are available on only a few. New fast services operate on the principal routes, including an intercity express service between Colombo and Kandy, otherwise journeys are fairly leisurely.
The Viceroy Express is the only passenger steam train still in operation in Sri Lanka. Every journey is hauled by a vintage, British locomotive, at least 50 years old. For details contact J.F. Tours and Travels (Ceylon) Ltd, Tel: 2587996, 2589402.

Road

Traffic drives on the left. Flashing lights mean that the driver is asserting right of way. Avoid remote areas and travelling at night.

1. Bus:
An extensive network of services to most parts of the Island is afforded with reasonable quality by the Sri Lanka Central Transport Board (tel: (11) 258 1120; website: www.transport.gov.lk). Private bus drivers are paid according to the number of passengers and can often drive rather dangerously.
Long distance services are operated from Colombo at the Pettah Central Bus Depot. There are two services, one operated by the Sri Lanka Transport Board and the other operated by private bus companies. The private bus station is located close to the Central Depot. Most of the buses have air-conditioning. Buses to the coastal towns depart every ½ an hour while Kandy is every 15 minutes.
 
2. Taxi:
These have yellow tops and red and white plates. In Colombo, taxis are metered but it is advisable to agree a rate before setting off. Drivers expect a 10% tip.

Brand New -Tourist friendly Tuktuks – Hotline 077 2297028 1st Km - Rs. 50/- and after that Rs. 30/-

3. Trishaws (Tuktuks):
Ideal for short journeys within towns and cities, and for short excursions, the country’s many trishaws would be happy to offer you a ride. The vehicles are mainly Indian-made Bajaj rickshaws. Most trishaws are not metered. Always agree on a fare beforehand. Most drivers offer a decent fare, charging approximately Rs. 50 per kilometre.

4. Car hires:
This is available from several international agencies. Air-conditioned minibuses are also available. Motorised rickshaws are also readily available for hire in towns and villages. Chauffeur-driven cars are less expensive and recommended.

Regulations/Documentation

Most roads are tarred, with a 56kph (35mph) speed limit in built-up areas and 75kph (45mph) outside towns. The minimum age for driving a car is 18.
In order to avoid bureaucratic formalities in Sri Lanka, an International Driving Permit should be obtained before departure. If not, a temporary licence to drive is obtainable on presentation of a valid national driving licence. This must be endorsed at the AA office in Colombo. (www.motortraffic.gov.lk)

Getting Around Towns and Cities

The Central Transport Board provides intensive urban bus operations in Colombo, where there are also private buses and minibuses. Fares are generally collected by conductors. Services are often crowded.

Conference / Incentive Facilities

Sri Lanka offers a variety of venues with excellent facilities that meet the most stringent standards for any conference or meeting for up to 2000 delegates. Today Sri Lanka is reputedly Asia's latest destination for MICE tourism.

BMICH is one of the premiere conference venues in Sri Lanka. Hall accommodation for 1,500 delegates, simultaneous interpretation in 7 languages and comprehensive secretarial, recording, documentation, communication and otherinfra- structures.The rapid increase of speciality restaurants has upgraded Colombo's dining-out opportunities. Major advances in shopping facilities - both duty free goods and handicrafts/gems have also added to Sri Lanka's conference and incentive tour potential.
 

Entertainment

Theatre - Sinhala and Western plays and Sinhala translations of Western plays are staged frequently at popular theatres. They hold musical and traditional dance performances in addition to dramatic productions.

Cinema - Colombo has several excellent air-conditioned cinemas which screen British, American, Continental, East European and Sinhala films. Hindi and Tamil films are also shown more or less exclusively in a few cinemas. Check the daily morning newspapers for details of current attractions.

Night Clubs - Most large hotels have night clubs which provide dinner, dancing and occasional floor shows.

Cultural Shows

“Devil” Dancing and the famous Kandyan dances are regularly performed at several venues. Check with hotel receptions and the daily newspapers for details. Daily performance in Kandy from 5.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. At:
1.- Lake Club
2.- Awanhala
3.- Y.M.B.A.

Shopping

Sri Lanka offers an interesting and existing array of items for shoppers. Gems, Finished Garments, Batiks, Tea and Handicrafts are popular shopping itineraries among the tourists. Handlooms fabric materials, leather products, furniture, reproduction of antiques, jewellery and ceramic are also popular with visitors of fine taste who appreciate the very best.

Handlooms - Once thriving handloom industry is now slowly picking up with many upto date designs suitable for modern living. These include shirting, saris and especially upholstery materials.

Furniture - Most popular furniture among the tourists is the Dutch and British era reproductions.

Gems - Ratnapura has been the main source of gems for many centuries and most of the Country's gem dealers are located in this town. Most gem cutting centers also offers gems to be set into jewellary by the visitors. Gems are also available at jewellary shops around the country. The Gem Exchange in Colombo houses many Gem dealers and a government valuation service.

Tea - As the producer of the world's finest teas there are many tea sales centers at most tourist destinations around the country and at main shopping centers in Colombo.

Calendar of events

• January - January’s events are a celebration of literature, the creative arts and traditional Buddhist rituals. At the end of January, poets, writers, artists and architects from the world over will converge to the historic 17C Galle Fort for the celebration of writing, photography, music, ecology, architecture and cuisine at the annual Galle Literary Festival. Meanwhile, during full-moon in January, the ancient Kelaniya Buddhist temple just minutes away from the island’s capital.

• February - Excitement builds up as Sri Lanka gets ready to co-host the Cricket World Cup 2011 with several matches played in Colombo and Hambantota during the months of February and March. In the Kandyan capital, the much awaited Donald Steele Golf Tournament is held in February in the picturesque Victoria Golf and Country Resort. More excitement is unveiled on the streets of Colombo in February with the Navam Perehara that takes place on full-moon day. A treat for children and adults alike, this perehara show cases all the traditional dance forms including mask dancers, Kandyan and Kavadi dancers, drummers and glittering elephants.

• March - School cricket in Sri Lanka is very popular and many of the annual `big’ matches are held in March of these the annual Royal Thomian cricket match is much anticipated and is good fun for both players and spectators. The annual hot air balloon festival also takes place in Colombo during March. Participants from around the world attend this festival.

• April - April is a holiday month in Sri Lanka where the Sinhalese and Tamil communities celebrate the dawning of the New Year. It’s a time when families get together to conduct traditional rituals, religious ceremonies, offer thanks for a good rice harvest, an wish peace and prosperity to all for the coming new year. Celebrations and traditional rituals are best seen in the rural areas. Colombo empties out during this time when most escape to the cooler hills or the sandy beaches. In anticipation of the holiday rush, Nuwara Eliya – the upcountry hill station, spruces itself up and various activities ranging from golf tournaments, motor cross races, and flower shows are all held.

• May - On Vesak full-moon Poya day in May, Buddhists all over the world venerate the life of Lord Buddha – his birth, enlightenment and passing away. Homes, villages and cities in Sri Lanka are lit up in serene splendor with oil lamps, intricate hand made lanterns, and colourful Pandals depicting the life story of Lord Buddha are erected across the island. May is also the beginning of the surfing period in Arugam Bay in the southeast. Listed as one of ten top surf spots in the world, Arugam Bay is a popular youthful haunt for surfers and holiday makers.

• June - During the full-moon poya day of June, Buddhists celebrate Poson when the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka by Mahinda, is remembered. Thousands of pilgrims and devotees flock to Buddhist shrines across the country to pay homage to the Buddha, Dhamma (Buddha’s teachings) and the Sangha (the Buddhist monks). Mihintale where Buddhism originated on the island in 247 BC is takes on a serene air during this period with thousands of pilgrims lighting incense and oil lamps in honour of Buddha.

• July - During the dry season from July to October, water becomes scares in the north central province and wild elephants from all around migrate to Minneriya National Park’s large Minneriya reservoir. Coined as ‘The Gathering’, herds of over 300 elephants can be seen by the Minneriya water tank. The sacred jungle shrine of Kataragama comes alive during the month of July when the Esala Perehara is held for two weeks in honour of God Skandha, the warrior god of Kataragama.

• August - During the month of August, Kandy dazzles for two weeks with the sounds and lights of the Kandy Perehara – a magnificent procession where the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha is majestically paraded on elephant back along the streets of Kandy. This ritual, which has been taking place for hundreds of years, is an experience of a lifetime.

• September - Those who are fortunate enough to visit the Minneriya National Park during the dry season in September will witness an intriguing site when hundreds of elephants make their way from the surrounding north central province jungle areas to the Minneriya lake in search of food and water. Huge heard of elephants, sometimes numbering upto 300, converge together within a few square kilometers of the Lake – an amazing sight to see.

• October - The beautiful Victoria Golf & Country Resort’s accolades speak for themselves: ‘Best Course in Asia 2005’ Asian Golf monthly ranked in ‘Top 100 Most Beautiful courses in the World,’ by Golfers Digest. Set in the spectacular Kandyan hill country, this Donald Steel designed course is a true test of all your golfing ability. 

• November - With the beginning of the season, the North West coastal town of Kalpitiya is a must for Whale and Dolphin spotting. Sightings of huge pods of upto two thousand Spinner Dolphins have been reported during the season. These Dolphins often swim along side the boats and frolic in the seas - a thrilling site for children and adults alike. Alankuda Beach, a popular eco-resort, is well equipped with safety vests and boats to take guests out to sea.

• December - The more secluded southern coast and the North West coast are ideal for Whale and Dolphin spotting during the season in December to April. Large pods of Dolphins can be spotted few miles offshore. Those who are lucky might also experience the sighting of a gigantic Blue Whale swimming in the deep seas. December also marks the beginning of the pilgrimage season when devotees climb the sacred Adam’s Peak.