Sri Lanka

Ayubowan!

Situated just off the southern tip of the Indian sub-continent, for millennia Sri Lanka has been regarded as special - a jewel in the Indian Ocean. Neither is the description "jewel" merely metaphoric. On the contrary, through one of its ancient names "Serendib", Sri Lanka gives rise to the English "serendipity", the happy ability to make joyous discoveries by accident. From time immemorial, the earth of Sri Lanka has yielded gems stones of exceptional quality, prized by all from the great Ming emperors of China to countless other merchants and traders, who have left their own distinctive marks upon the fabric of the country. Such material riches have a resonating echo in an island of outstanding and often wonderfully unspoilt natural beauty - from sparkling seas and endless miles of pristine beaches, to jungle environments rich in wildlife to spectacular mountain scenery. If nature has richly endowed Sri Lanka.

Man has complemented such natural endowments with layer upon layer of mythic, cultural, religious and architectural wonders and delights. From amongst these, just a few that may be cited are the mighty fortress rock of Sigiria, the magnificent archeological remains at Anuradhapura and the sublime Buddhist carvings to be found at Polonnaruwa. To all of this, add a graceful people, warm, hospitable and generous, a spicy and delectable indigenous cuisine and an entire spectrum of accommodation for the visitor from simple but clean small hostelries right up to five star hotels, and you have a heady mix calculated to intrigue, entertain, interest and captivate the visitor.

Sri Lanka Tourist Attractions

A Different Country – Sri Lanka

Official name:	Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
Government type:	republic
Location:	Latitude 50 55. To 90 50. North, longitude 790 42. To 810 52, 650km north of the equator
Dimensions:	430km north to south, 225km east to west
Coastline:	1,340km
Area:	65,525km
Currency (code):	Sri Lankan rupee (LKR)
Independence Date:	4th February 1948
Administrative capital:	Colombo
Commercial capital:	Colombo
Administrative divisions:	9 provinces; Central, North Central, North Eastern, North Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Uva, Western, Eastern Provinces
Climate:	Typically tropical, with a northeast monsoon (December to March) bringing unsettled weather to the north and east, and a southwest monsoon (June to October) bringing bad weather to the south and west
Terrain:	Mostly low, flat to rolling plain; mountains in south-central interior

National Emblem:

Sri Lanka used the British emblem when it was a British Crown Colony. We continued to use it even after gaining independence in 1948. According to the recommendations of a select committee appointed to devise a state emblem more suitable for Sri Lanka (Ceylon) we opted for a new State Emblem. It had a Lion with Sword in its right fore paw encircled with a Palapethi open petal design top. Below there was a strip carrying the country's name in Sinhala, Tamil and English. A new republican emblem was chosen after the country was declared a Republic on May 22, 1972. In addition to the lion with a sword and the Palapethi open petal design it portrays the Punkalasa, dhammachakka, sun, moon and two sheaves of paddy.

National Flag:

The National Flag recommended by the special committee was presented to Parliament by Mr. D.S. Senanayake on March 2nd, 1951 and adopted. It had two strips, one green and the other yellow. Each of these strips had to be equal to one seventh the size of the flag. Yellow with two panels; the smaller hoist-side panel has two equal vertical bands of green (hoist side) and orange; the other panel is a large dark red rectangle with a yellow lion holding a sword, and there is a yellow bo leaf in each corner; the yellow field appears as a border around the entire flag and extends between the two panels.

National Bird

Wali kukula or Ceylon Jungle fowl or Gallus Lafayetti Jungle fowl the National Bird of Sri Lanka is commonest in the National Parks and forests. A typical fowl strutting about and scratching the ground for food.

National Flower:

The Blue Water Lily (Nymphaea stellata). In February 1986 blue water lily was chosen as the National flower. Found all the part of Sri Lanka and grows in the shallow water. Petals arranged like a star and the flat round waterproof leaves are bright green. It's a symbol of purity and truth. It has a sweet fragrance and used for offering at Buddhist Temples and rituals for god Vishnu. Sigiriya frescoes of women holds these flowers in their hands. Seeds and the tubes used as a vegetable by villagers and also leave, stem and flowers used in herbal medicine and dried flowers used to make pillows and says it produces happy dreams.

National Dress:

Sri Lanka has no approved national dress, as there are three major communities call Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims live together. Though there is no approved national dress, Sri Lankan male consider long sleeved shirt without collars up to the knee and a white Sarong worn by male on occasions as the national dress and even the members of parliament including the President used to wear it. Though there are differences, people wear similar patterns on some occasions due to the influence from one another. There are regional differences too. Majority of middle class male wear trouser and the shirt. If it's an occasion, it becomes a full suit with a tie and a coat and it has been influenced by the western fashions and Females wear Sari (influenced from Indians), Osari (Female dress of Kandyan ladies), Frock or skirt and blouse etc. Kandyan male dress call Mul Anduma worn by bride grooms which is colorful and comes with lots of ornament such as dragger, Crown Royal shoes etc, in traditional type of weddings. Kings of Kandyan period used to wear this and presently worn by chieftains of the Temple of the tooth on occasions. Muslims wear Shirt, Sarong and Trousers sometimes with a cap and females cover the whole body on the advice of Kurana: The holly book of Allah.

National Tree

NA (iron wood) or (Mesua Ferrea) This rain forest tree grows to about 30 m high and indigenous to the lower wet Zone of Sri Lanka. Remarkable Features of NA is beautiful bright Red Leaves and finally matured in to a deep green. Timber has a very hardness and durability and used to make bridges in the early times. But now not allowed for timber due to its religious value. It's believed that the first visit of Buddha was to grove of a NA Tree at Miyanganaya and also the next Buddha (mithriya) will attain enlightenment under a NA tree. The flower of NA is also used in herbal medicine and preparation of perfumes, cosmetics and soaps. This was named as the National Tree in 1986.

National parks and nature reserves area:	8,000sq.km
Population:3	21,128,77
Population growth rate:	1.3%
Population Density:	309 people per sq km
Life Expectancy at Birth:	74 female,64 male
Literacy rate:	Female 87.9 Male 92.5
Ethnic groups:%	Sinhalese 73.8%, Sri Lankan Moors 7.2%, Indian Tamil 4.6%, Sri Lankan Tamil 3.9%, other 0.5%, unspecified 10
Languages:	Sinhala (official and national language) 74%, Tamil (national language) 18%, other 8%
Note:	English (a link language commonly) is used in government and spoken competently by about 10% of the population
Religion:	Buddhist 69.1%, Muslim 7.6%, Hindu 7.1%, Christian 6.2%, unspecified 10%
Time zone:	Sri Lanka Standard Time is five and a half hours ahead of GMT. (Allowance should be made for summer-time changes in Europe.)
International dialing:	+94
Electricity:	230. 240 volts, 50 cycles AC. If you travel with a laptop computer bring a stabilize
Economy:	Sri Lanka'd most dynamic sectors are food processing, textiles and apparel, food and beverages, port construction, telecommunications, and insurance and banking. In 2006, plantation crops made up only 15% of exports (90% in 1970), while textiles and garments accounted for more than 60%. About 800,000 Sri Lankans work abroad, 90% of them in the Middle East. They send home more than US$1 billion a year.
Labor force:	34.3% of the labor population is employed in agriculture, 25.3% in industry and 40.4% in services: 40.4% (30 June 2006 est.) The unemployment rate is 5.7% (2007 est.)
Agriculture & products:	Rice, sugarcane, grains, pulses, oilseed, spices, tea, rubber, coconuts, milk, eggs, hides, beef, fish
Industries:	Processing of rubber, tea, coconuts, tobacco and other agricultural commodities; telecommunications, insurance, banking; clothing, textiles; cement, petroleum refining.
Exports:	Textiles and apparel; tea and spices; diamonds, emeralds, rubies; coconut products, rubber manufactures, fish
Imports:	Main import commodities are textile fabrics, mineral products, petroleum, foodstuffs, and machinery and transportation equipment: $10.61 billion f.o.b. (2007 est.). Percentage of main commodities from main import partners: India 19.6%, China 10.5%, Singapore 8.8%, Iran 5.7%, Malaysia 5.1%, Hong Kong 4.2%, Japan 4.1% (2006)Gross Domestic Product (GDP):Purchasing power parity: $81.29 billion (2007 est.). Official exchange rate: $30.01 billion (2007 est.) Real growth rate: 6.3% (2007 est.) Per capita: $4,100 (2007 est.) composition by sector: Agriculture: 16.5% Industry: 26.9%
Gross National Product (GNP):	Sri Lanka is placed in 76th place in GNP figures of the world’s nations with $22.8 billion (2005)

10 Good Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka

1. Diversity
2. Different People
3. Cultural Heritage
4. Different Festivals Year Around
5. Wildlife
6. Different Adventure and Special Interest Sports
7. Finest Hotels
8. Different Delicious Food
9. Ayurveda & Spa
10. Different Shopping

Explore

What you can see and do?

Sri Lanka is known for its rich Buddhist culture and history and offers many places of religious and historic significance.

Anuradhapura

Founded in 457 BC by the mighty King Pandukhabaya, Anuradhapura is the ancient capital city in Sri Lanka. In its day, it was celebrated throughout Asia for the excellence of its architecture and the sophistication and execution of its temple art, the ingenuity and skill of its irrigation engineers and its military importance. It was through the kings of Anuradhapura, too that Buddhism was brought to Sri Lanka, from the court of the great Murya Emperor of India, Ashoka. Today. for many throughout Asia not just within Sri Lanka itself, the island is acknowledged as the heartland of Theravada Buddhism, said to be the purest and least elaborated expression of the Sage’s teachings.

Polonnaruwa

Like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa is another, if more recent, former capital of the country. Indeed, the history of Anuradhapura is much older and its ruins cover a greater expanse of land. Nevertheless, Polonnaruwa flourished more than a millennium ago. It is also better preserved than its near neighbour. Just north of the present day town, and 140 km north of Kandy, are the ruins of the ancient city.

These date from the late 10th century, when the Chola kings of southern India invaded Sri Lanka and conquered Anuradhapura. The invaders moved their capital to Polonnaruwa, strategically located for defence against attacks from the unconquered Sinhala kingdom of Ruhunu to the southeast. Today it boasts perhaps the finest examples of Buddhist sculpture in the country, which are also amongst the finest in the world. Of special note both for its devotional intensity and for supreme skill of its execution is the universally acclaimed "Reclining Buddha", in fact a representation of the dying moments of the great sage and teacher.

Extraordinarily delicate emotion and detail can be seen in the head and in the depression of the pillow created by its weight. A slight shortening of one foot as against the other denotes the moment of death. The work represents carving of supreme artistic refinement and, given that the medium is granite, of remarkable technical virtuosity as well.

Sigiriya

Making the most of Sigiriya requires a good head for heights, as the last part of the way to the top of this 200m plug of rock, fortified in the late 5th century AD, is a scramble over a series of shallow steps with a sheer drop on one side! Around the monolithic crag are the ramparts of the lower citadel, enclosing a complex of ruined miniature summer palaces and royal swimming pools.

The palace complex and cliff top citadel were built in around AD473-480 by Kasyapa, a patricidal usurper of the throne of Anuradhapura, as a bulwark against attack by his half-brother, Mogallana, the rightful heir to the throne. Midway up the stairway are the Sigiriya Damsels, the only secular art to have survived from the early Sinhalese kingdoms. The rock wall was graced by hundreds of sensuous and erotic paintings of skimpily clad court beauties, but only 22 have survived the ravages of time, weather and vandalism.


The palace buildings and bathing pools near the foot of the rock are complemented by palace buildings of some opulence at the summit as well as a large excavated swimming pool, in which it is said that some 500 concubines were able to besport themselves! Upon the return of Mogallana from exile in Tamil Nadu at the head of an invading army, Kasyapa eventually committed suicide after his elephant became waylaid in a swamp as a result of which his own troops absconded to his avenging half-brother. In passing, it is worth noting that views from the summit of the rock are spectacular.

Kandy

At 500m above sea level, Sri Lanka's second city has a climate that comes as a pleasantly cool contrast to hot and humid Colombo. Amid lush green fields and plantations - evidence of the region's well-watered fertility - the city stands within a loop of the Mahaweli River, one of the Sri Lanka's more substantial rivers, on the north shore of Kandy Lake, an artificial reservoir which was completed in 1807, during the reign of the last King of Kandy, Sri Wickramarajasinghe.

The Temple of the Tooth

Overlooking the north shore of Kandy Lake, in the centre of town, the Temple of the Tooth is a place of pilgrimage for millions of devout Buddhists from all over the island, and is regarded by Sri Lankans Buddhists as a unique treasure of their entire culture. Sri Lanka's premiers and presidents traditionally deliver their first post election speeches from its balcony, and lesser politicians too make thanksgiving visits to the Temple on being elected.

The tooth relic itself is claimed to have come to Sri Lanka some 1600 years ago, when a certain princess from southern India brought it to Anuradhapura, which was then the most powerful kingdom in Sri Lanka. As kings and kingdoms rose and fell, it finally ended up in Kandy around AD100. Over centuries, as the Sinhalese came under increasing pressure from invasion, it become more and more symbolic of Sri Lankan freedom and independence.

Less Visited Attractions in Kandy

Colombo

Colombo is essentially a colonial city, whose rise to pre-eminence did not start until the 19th century and the establishment of British power. Before that it was much less important town than Galle. The Capital, Colombo offered two easy routes into the Kandyan highlands.

Yapahuwa

Yapahuwa is a rock fortress turned into the 3rd Capital of Sri Lanka by King Bhuvanekabahu the 1st in the 13th Century AD after Polonnaruwa was captured and destroyed by the South Indian raiders. It's not a site visited often by tourists on a normal rout but is a place with much to see for the history and archeology enthusiasts. Yapahuwa is located off the Kurunegala - Anuradhapura Road, 46km north of Kurunegala.

Negombo

Negombo is 6 km north of the international airport. The principle resort on the west cost, Negombo is rather characterless town. The main tourist area is about 3 km north of the town itself witch is rather scruffy and contains little of genuine interest. The Portuguese originally built a fort on the head land guarding the lagoon in about 1600.Since the area was rich in spice and particularly the much priced. The area is very rich in marine life and although there is much evidence of a motorize fleet in the harbor; you can still see fishermen using catamarans and ancient outrigger canoes to bring up their catch onto beach everyday. The nearest reef is 3 km west of the beach hotel area with corals within 10-20m and the marine life includes barracuda, blue-ringed angels and unusual starfish. The town still has few remains from its period as a Dutch church, and the impassive gateway to the Fort.

Dambulla

The gateway to the northwest, and the first of its great sights is Dambulla, where one of Sri Lanka's finest cave temples stands - 150m outside the modern village, and 72km north of kandy on the outskirts of the dry zone. Within five large carverns - the largest some 50m deep and 6m in height, are sitting, standing and reclining buddha images by the dozen, as well as hindu gods; and each cave is decorated with murals are much more modern than the carvings, some of which are as much as 200 years old.

Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eleya witch site in a little valley is the heights town in Sri Lanka and a major hill resort. In 1846, when Samuel Backer first visited the semi-enclosed valley, surrounded by hills on the west and overlooked by Pidurutalagala, the island heights peak (2,524m, 8,281 ft), he singled it out as an ideal spot for a hill country retreat. 'The City of Light' was favorite hill station of the British. Some feel its charm has faded, but it retains some distinctive features.

Mihintale

Thirteen kilometers east of anuradhapura on the road to Trincomalee, Mihintale is of enormous spiritual significance to the Singhalese because it is where Buddhism originated in Sri Lanka. In 247 BC king Devanampiyatissa of Anuradhapura met Mahinda son of the indian Buddhist emperor Ashoka, while deer hunting around the hill at Mihintale, and was converted to Buddhism.

Kataragama

About 80km northeast of Hambantota, Kataragama is Sri Lanka's second most sacred place of pilgrimage, rivaling Adam's peak in its appeal to the devout. It's attracts Sri Lankan Muslims, buddhist and Hindus in july and August during the season of pilgrimages and festivals.

Trincomalee

Trincomalee is a natural deep-water harbor, on the north-east coast of Sri Lanka. On the east side of the town of Trincomalee, on a cliff known as Swami Rock stands one of the oldest Kevil (Hindu temple) in Sri Lanka. The present day Tirukonesvaram Kovil was rebuilt on the site of the Dakshana Kaila yam (temple of 100 pillars) - that was destroyed by the Portuguese in the 17th century. The restoration work was completed in the 1960's, and it is a "must see" site, for the visitors to Trincomalee. Friday evening Puja (offerings) services are especially colorful.

Kurunegala

Kurunegala is the royal capital for only half a century, starting with the reign of Buvanekabahu II (1293-1302) who was followed by Parakramabahu IV (1302-1326).There is little left of the Tooth relic temple save few stone steps and part of doorway.

Matale

This mid sized regional city at the heart of the island lies in a broad fertile valley at an elevation of 300m. The rock monastery caves are situated among rocks that have fallen from the mountains high above the valley. It's an extremely picturesque setting.

Galle

Galle is the most important town in the south and has retained much of its colonial atmosphere. The Portuguese. Dutch and British used the natural harbor as there main port until 1875 when reconstruction of break waters and the enlarged harbor made Colombo the island's major port. Its originals as a port go back well before the Portuguese. Allow a full day to see the old town enclosed within the fort which was declared a Worlds Heritage Site in 1988.

Pinnawela

Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage is the home for about 70 elephants, out of which many are baby elephants found, abandoned or orphaned in the wild. They are being cared, fed and trained by the wild life authorities. The best time to visit is during the feeding times, when one will have the opportunity of seeing the baby elephants being bottle-fed. Also could accompany the elephants to a river close-by and see the elephants having their daily bath.

Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is the island's most developed beach resort. It has a range of accommodation, good restaurants and pleasant cafe-lined beaches. There's good snorkeling at an attractive and easily accessible coral sanctuary, scuba diving at a number of wrecks in the bay, tours by glass-bottomed boats and pretty good surfing. It's a relaxed place, similar to many Asian beach resorts popular with Western travelers. There are also plenty of handicraft shops catering to tourist whims, a Buddhist temple, a nearby lake with abundant birdlife.

Adam's Peak

Adam's Peak is a 2,243 meters (7,359 ft) tall conical mountain located in central Sri Lanka. It is well-known for the Sri Pada "sacred footprint", a 1.8 m rock formation near the summit, in Buddhist tradition held to be the footprint of Buddha, in Hindu tradition that of Shiva and in Muslim tradition that of Adam.

Tours

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When to visit Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is a year round destination with an abundance of sunshine all year round. The average temperature is around 27⁰C – 30⁰C in most parts of Island. The temperature gradually drops as the land rises towards the hill country, with some parts of the highland as low as below 10⁰C. The island has two wet monsoon seasons; briefly between May and July in the south-west region and between December and January in the north-east. However, Sri Lanka has no off season per se as clear blue skied bright sunny days are the general rule even during the wet season. Sri Lanka is 5 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Median Time), 2 1/2hours behind Singapore and 4 1/2hours behind Australia EST (Eastern Standard Time).

Please Book in advance

The peak season is between December to March as many European travelers prefer the warm sunshine and the golden beaches of Sri Lanka. It is common that most popular hotels are overbooked due to the limited room inventory in the country especially along the coast (Beach Resorts) and in Kandy the Hill Capital of Sri Lanka. Apart from this period, the months of July & August could be also considered a peak period in Kandy due to the famous "Esala Perahera" which is a must to see for all travellers. Therefore, it is advisable to book in advance if you are planning a trip during the peak season.

What to pack?

Sri Lanka has a tropical country and cotton clothes are the most ideal to wear and of course your bathing suits are a must if you are visiting the beaches. Sun tan lotion could be very handy as it can be very hot sometimes. If you are visiting the cultural and religious sites, it is a must that you wear appropriate clothing. Gents are required to wear trousers to cover their knees or a "sarong" with a shirt or T-shirt. Ladies should ideally wear decent attire such as a trouser or a skirt to cover the knees and a blouse or t-shirt. It may not be advisable for ladies to wear deep necked or a sleeveless top.

Organizing your trip

If you are interested in booking a Round Trip programme, the flight times is an important component when making the maximum use of your stay. Habarana is a central point when visiting cultural sites such as Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, and Dambulla and is approximately 3 hrs away from the Airport.

Most travellers prefer to drive up to Habarana directly from the airport when they arrive in the morning. Most European and Middle East carriers arrive early morning to Sri Lanka which is ideal for most travellers. Overnight stays close to the airport or in Colombo is considered practical for late evening arrivals.

How about Visa's?

It is not a huge problem to obtain a visa to visit Sri Lanka as many nationals are granted a visit visa on arrival valid for 30 days.

Please visit official web site for more information.

Last Minute Offers

01st May to 31st Oct 2013

• 08 Nights - 09 Days tour / Two Persons Sharing a Double Superior Room with BREAKFAST & DINNER plus a car, fuel with an English speaking chauffeur.

Just for US$ 960

• 01 night at Cinnamon Lodge or Chaaya Village (Sigiriya)
• 01 night at Cinnamon Citadel (Kandy)
• 01 night at Heritance Tea Factory (Nuwara Eliya)
• 01 night at Cinnamon Wild (Yala)
• 01 night at Chaaya Tranz (Hikkaduwa)

Terms & conditions apply.

• 03 nights offer at Cinnamon & Chaaya Hotels for Two Persons Sharing a Double Superior Room with BREAKFAST & DINNER

• 03 Nights at Cinnamon Lodge: US$ 360 plus land transfer rate
• 03 Nights at Chaaya Village: US$ 270 plus land transfer rate
• 03 Nights at Cinnamon Citadel: US$ 360 plus land transfer rate
• 03 Nights at Cinnamon Wild: US$ 420 plus land transfer rate
• 03 Nights at Chaaya Tranz: US$ 270 plus land transfer rate

Terms & conditions apply.

05 Nights Special Offer

01st May to 31st Oct 2013

Bentota Beach - BENTOTA

• US$ 600 for Two Persons Sharing a Double Standard Room with BREAKFAST & DINNER

Cinnamon Bay - BERUWALA

• US$ 625 for Two Persons Sharing a Double Superior Room with BREAKFAST & DINNER

Chaaya Tranz - HIKKADUWA

• US$ 450 for Two Persons Sharing a Double Superior Room with BREAKFAST & DINNER

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Golfing Srilanka

Terms & conditions apply.

Wild

National parks and camping in Sri Lanka constitute a wonderful mix for the more adventurous tourist, whether young or older. It offers an ideal way to experience the great outdoors and especially to observe wildlife at close quarters in safety, although sometimes the proximity of the wildlife can be astonishing and even a little unnerving.

Elephants

Elephant is the star of Sri Lanka's wild life and the largest land animal in the island. Among the two verities of African elephants (elephas coxenda) and Indian elephants (elephas maximize), in Sri Lanka you find Indian elephants and considered to be intelligent than their African counterparts hence domesticated. Although there have been about 36000 elephants with the start of this century it has reduced up to about 2000 due to pouching. According to the recent records about 2000 of them scattered all over the country in small pockets and about 500 of them are domesticated.From September, towards the end of the dry season, most water sources have disappeared. The Minneriya tank, however, retains water throughout the parched months, so there are elephant gatherings here every year at this time, the number of these gentle, charismatic giants sometimes exceeding 300. To see so many together - playing, eating, swimming, looking for mates is nothing but breathtaking. Minneriya, which became a sanctuary in 1938 and declared a national park in August 1997, is in the Polonnaruwa district in the North Central Province. It is 182km from Colombo on the main road to Polonnaruwa and 9km from Habarana, well-known for some of its hotels. Since it was first opened to visitors in 1998, Minneriya has been mostly visited for its elephants, some known to come from the surrounding national parks of Wasgomuwa, Somawathie, Maduru Oya and the Galoya sanctuary.

Yala (Ruhuna) National Park

Situated 309 km. south of Colombo, Yala is approximately 1,259 sq.km. in extent and is located in the southeastern 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 specialty here is the large numbers of elephants.

Wilpattu National Park

This is located 26 km north of Puttalam (approximately 180 km north of Colombo) spanning from the northwest coast inland towards the ancient capital of Anuradhapura (50 km to the east of the park). Covering an impressive 425 sq miles, the park is Sri Lanka's largest, and having reopened in March, 2010 it is just a matter of time before it becomes a popular eco-tourism destination. Wilpattu is a fairly thick dry zone jungle interspersed with a number of flood plain lakes banked with delicate white sands. It boasts an impressive variety of flora in huge expanses of forest, and varied wildlife, including deer, elephants, wild boar, sloth bears and leopards.

Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park is mainly consist of 4 brackish lagoons, salt pans, marshes, thorny scrub lands, sand dunes, dry mixed ever green forests and dry grass lands. Park provides the shelter for Elephant, Spotted Dear, Wild Boar, Black napped hare, Grey & Ruddy mongoose, toque macaque, Grey Langur & porcupine, jackal and fishing & Rusty Spotted cats. This park is also well known for sightings of estuarine crocodile and mugger crocodile. The main attraction of the Bundala is the birdlife, especially waders. There are both resident and migratory species. Greater Flamingo, Spot-billed Pelican, Lesser Adjutant and Black-necked Stork are among the large birds. Large flocks of terns, gulls, sand-pipers, snipes, teals, cormorants, egrets and many more water birds are commonly seen.

Sinharaja Rain Forest – World Heritage Site

Sri Lanka's most important rainforest; has tall trees growing in close proximity, but winding paths make it easy to walk along the forest floor. It is inhabited by water monitors, torque macaques, leopards, giant squirrels, purple-faced leaf monkeys and leeches. Bird life includes Ceylon Spur fowl, Ceylon Jungle fowl, Ceylon Wood Pigeon, Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot, Layard's Parakeet, Red-faced Malkoha, Green-billed Coucal, Chestnut-backed Owlet, Ceylon Grey Hornbill, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Ceylon Small Barbet, Black–capped Bulbul, Spotted-winged Thrush, Brown-capped Babbler, Orange-billed Babbler, Ashy-headed Laughing-Thrush, Ceylon Blue Magpie, Ceylon White-headed Starling, Ceylon Hill Munia, Ceylon Hill Myna, Malabar Trogon, Black Bulbul, Indian Scimitar Babbler, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, Green Imperial Pigeon, Velvet-fronted Nuthatch and Yellow-browned Bulbul. Sinharaja Forest is a unique, low land rain forest comprising about 11,187 hectares, spreading across several administrative districts. It is one of the least disturbed and biologically unique forests in Sri Lanka.

Wasgamuwa National Park

Park consists of rive–ring forest, dry mixed evergreen forest, grasslands and wetlands. As park is almost surrounded by Mahaweli & Amban Rivers, rive-ring forest area is fairly large. Wasgamuwa is famous as an elephant habitat. These elephants are known to be less habituated to people and are more wildish. Other than elephant, leopard, sloth bear, sambhur, spotted and barking deer, wild boar and wild buffalo are also found here. Torque Macaque, Purple face leaf monkey and nocturnal slender Loris is also found in the park. Lesser Adjutant, Wooly necked stork, open bill, painted stork, Racket tailed Drongo, Yellow fronted barbet, Sri Lanka Jungle fowl & Spur fowl are among the over 100 species of birds found within the park.

Habarana

Habarana is famous among tourists and locals alike because of the safari rides to the nearby Habarana national park which has a huge population of Elephants. And unlike in most natural parks in Sri Lanka Elephants here are not that used to humans so if you are looking for some excitement like being attacked by the elephants this is the place to be.

Udawalawe National Park

It was established in 1972 with an area of 30,800 hectares. This park is a home for herds of Elephants. There are approximately between 300-400 Elephants living in the park. Besides Elephants you could also come across Deer, Samber, Hornbills, Peafowl and various other mammals and birds.

Kaudulla National Park

A park designed with the elephant in mind, Kaudulla provides a measure of protection not just for that single species, but for a host of others be they scaled or feathered, leafy or hairy. It is an important piece in the region's conservation puzzle, slotting into an existing network of parks and protected areas planned with the hope that they can allow Sri Lanka's bountiful natural heritage to not just survive, but flourish, now and in the days ahead.

Pristine

Notwithstanding the terrible events of 26 December 2004, the beaches of Sri Lanka stand comparison with any in the world. Many, especially on the west coast, were largely unaffected by the tsunami and, with respect to the equally many in other locations that were struck, great strides have been made during the intervening period to restore environments to their former beauty. The island is blessed with literally hundreds of kilometres of pristine beaches, many throbbing with traditional life and colour. Watching fishermen tend to their boats in the morning or just enjoying a sunset with coconut trees silhouetted against a glowing ocean have a life enhancing quality that has to be experienced to be fully appreciated

Different Beaches Sri Lanka

Notwithstanding the terrible events of 26 December 2004, the beaches of Sri Lanka stand comparison with any in the world. Many, especially on the west coast, were largely unaffected by the tsunami and, with respect to the equally many in other locations that were struck, great strides have been made during the intervening period to restore environments to their former beauty. The island is blessed with literally hundreds of kilometers of pristine beaches, many throbbing with traditional life and color. Watching fishermen tend to their boats in the morning or just enjoying a sunset with coconut trees silhouetted against a glowing ocean have a life enhancing quality that has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. Where beaches are concerned you will be spoilt for picking in Sri Lanka. Beaches totaling 1,340km fringe the island, from the long-established tourist destinations of the southern coast, to the vast beaches of the Deep South, and the less-visited expanses of the north and east. No matter what time of the year, you can discover a beach that is in season and just waiting to welcome you to its warm sands.

Where beaches are concerned you will be spoilt for picking in Sri Lanka. Beaches totaling 1,340km fringe the island, from the long-established tourist destinations of the southern coast, to the vast beaches of the Deep South, and the less-visited expanses of the north and east. No matter what time of the year, you can discover a beach that is in season and just waiting to welcome you to its warm sands. West Coast Beaches (north to south)

Negombo Beach (35km north of Colombo)

Negombo, "The Village of Honey", is Sri Lanka's oldest beach town, just 6km from Bandaranaike International Airport and therefore popular for stays on arrival or before departure from the island. Negombo is now one of the island’s most vital fishing ports. The catamaran-type fishing craft, called oruwa, fitted with their large sails, characterize Negombo. On their return from fishing their trademark creamy-brown sails dot the horizon, becoming bigger as they make their way to the shore. You can even organize to go out in one or, at least inspect its meticulous and clever design.

Negombo is a centre for Roman Catholicism (its nickname is "Little Rome") and so the town is dominated by beautiful shrines and churches. The biggest is the impressive, candy-colored church of St Mary's, built over a period of 50 years from 1874, which exhibits some amazing ceiling painting.

The waterways surrounding Negombo offer the opportunity to explore the area. The Dutch Canal - also called the Hamilton Canal - runs south to Colombo and north to Puttalam. It was designed especially to transport spices such as cinnamon. You can enjoy peaceful boat trips observing local life and appreciating the wildlife as you sashay by.

The Negombo Lagoon - a great expanse of water usually visible from your plane window as you land or take off - is famed for the quality of its prawns and crab. It joins the Indian Ocean to the north, and to the south weaves into the estuaries and waterways of the Muthurajawela Marsh - a mangrove-studded wetland 15km south of Negombo that makes for a great expedition.

Mount Lavinia Beach

(12km south of Colombo) Mount Lavinia is a suburb of Colombo that possesses the nearest beach to the city centre, and is hence especially convenient for those who are confined to Colombo for part or all of their stay. The beach is adjacent to a headland that juts into the Indian Ocean, atop which is the famous colonial-era Mount Lavinia Hotel. Considering its proximity to the hustle and bustle of Colombo the beach is pleasant enough, and enjoys a quiet atmosphere. There are several beachside restaurants and bars. The sea is usually safe for swimming, but can be rough and you need to be wary of the strong undercurrents typical of this seashore.

Kalutara Beach

(42km south of Colombo) Kalutara is the first town outside the Colombo conurbation as you travel south on the coastal Galle Road. When you approach the town from Colombo the striking Stupa of Gangatilaka Vihara, Kalutara's dominant landmark, looms as you traverse a bridge that spans Sri Lanka's fourth largest river, the Kalu Ganga ("black river") - from which the town gets its name - before it enters the sea. North of this bridge, all the way to Wadduwa (8km), extends a fine catamaran-scattered beach, often deserted, which is ideal for quick dips and long sunset strolls North Coast Beaches

Nilaveli & Uppuveli

(280 km north-east of Colombo) The bordering beaches of Nilaveli and Uppuveli north of Trincomalee, together 6km in length, are the most favored by visitors to the region. Nilaveli, particularly, has one of the finest beaches in Sri Lanka - the expansive stretches of the island's typical soft white sand are an ideal location for swimming and sunbathing. From here you can hire a boat to take you to nearby Pigeon Island - so-called because it is home to the rare Blue Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) - which is good for diving and snorkeling.

Trincomalee

(257km north-east of Colombo) Trincomalee, or "Trinco" the popular abbreviated form, has a history extending well beyond its Portuguese, Dutch, British and even French occupations. In early times Trincomalee was known as Gokanna and its harbor was recognized very early on as a momentous one by the kings of that period. Visitors to Trinco are effortlessly enraptured by the region's quiet beaches that it makes it difficult to think about anything other than lazing in the sand, swimming, water-sports such as diving, or going on a whale-watching expedition. Nevertheless, as with most places in Sri Lanka, a little exploration can uncover any digit of treasures. East Coast Beaches

Arugam Bay Beach

(315km east of Colombo) Arugam village is situated in the bay of the same name on one of the nicest stretches of the south east coast with many miles of pristine beaches; it was once occupied by the Dutch as a military post and had a small mud fort. For the past quarter-century, but, it has been seasonally occupied by multinational surfers attracted by the waves and discerning travellers who appreciate the splendor of its isolation. During May to October, which is dry season on the east coast, the bay becomes safe for swimming, and best for surfing. There are some beautiful coral reefs and an unbelievable number of tropical fish to be seen in and around the area where the best snorkeling, on a calm day, is on the southern tip of the bay.

South Coast Beaches

Bentota Beach

(62km south of Colombo) Bentota combines a number of package resorts plus an excellent selection of up market hotels and the National Tourist Resort, which comprises a shopping centre, post office and a market. The city has long been a tourist haven, for in the 19th century, when Galle was the island's main port, those scheduled to Colombo in stagecoaches stopped here at the rest-house (long gone) and indulged in local oysters. Bentota is Sri Lanka's water-sports centre. The ocean here is calm and an excellent diving location. The beach divides into two, the north end comprising a spit of land - dubbed "Paradise Island" - dividing the waves of the Indian Ocean from the still waters of the Bentota Lagoon, while the more pleasing southern end comprises an attractive swathe of wide sandy beach where some of the island’s best up market hotels are located. Amazingly, although Bentota is one of the island’s most popular resorts, the beach is relatively quiet.

Hikkaduwa Beach (98km south of Colombo)

There is only one town that can swank of some of the best surfing waves in Sri Lanka, a long stretch of beach packed with restaurants serving fresh seafood, an equally long stretch of souvenir shops for the serious shopper, and guesthouses and hotels galore, from the cheap and cheerful to star-class. The name of the place is Hikkaduwa, and there is no other resort on the island like it.

The best period for surfing is November to April, as it is for diving and snorkeling, for the visibility is good. There are a number of excellent wreck dives, including the Shell-owned SS Conch, the world's first oil tanker, sunk in 1903. The Hikkaduwa Maritime Sanctuary, established in 1988, ensures the underwater world is accessible to all whether they can dive or not. Snorkeling in the shallow waters 200m off shore is possible, and although the corals are dead in places you still come across a number of brightly-colored fish as you float a few meters above. The less adventurous can forever take a glass-bottomed boat ride, though this is environmentally open to discussion.

Unawatuna Beach

(140 km south-east of Colombo)Unawatuna is a fishing village set apart with a beautiful sandy bay fringed with palm trees. Science-fiction author Arthur C Clarke was so enchanted by the "exquisite arc of beach," that he once made it his second home. To many visitors, Unawatuna is simply Sri Lanka's best, a view endorsed by the Discovery Channel, which has rated the beach one of the ten best in the world.

Weligama Beach

Weligama possesses an extensive, all-embracing bay that welcomes long frothing rollers which spill onto the barrel-chest of a beach. An afternoon stroll the length of the bay to enjoy the panoramic vista while taking in the buzz of fishing activity is very enjoyable. The eastern end is a considered place to be at sunset, the place the bay where the waves roll in to provide great opportunity for surfers. This is where the bulk of guesthouses are situated. At the western end, with islands just offshore, the water in season is incredibly still, calm and as blue as a Sri Lankan sapphire. (143km south-east of Colombo)

Mirissa Beach

Five kilometers from Weligama, at the extremity of Weligama Bay, lays the relaxed, picturesque and isolated bay of Mirissa. The beach is measured to be one of the prettiest in Sri Lanka. Once a much sought-after hideaway, the last few years have seen a boost in visitors and some development, though nothing to the extent of spoiling its charm. Formerly a fisheries harbor, Mirissa features a wide stretch of golden sand fringed by palm trees and rolling surf.

Tangalle

(195km south-east of Colombo) On approaching Tangalle, the initial aspect to attract the gaze of the traveler is the intensely blue bays, which once harbored Dutch and British ships. No longer do foreign sailors linger there, but foreign tourists do, for it is measured one of the best bathing places in Sri Lanka. Even tea planters from the hills travel south to laze in the warm waters. Ten kilometers to the east, at Rekawa, is a turtle nesting site run by the Turtle Conservation Project (TCP). TCP pays villagers to protect turtle eggs laid on the beach. November to April and full moon days are the best time to go and watch turtles laying eggs.

Diving & snorkeling

Sri Lankan diving is divided into two basic seasons: one for the east coast and one for the west. You dive on the side of the island that's not directly exposed to the prevailing monsoon. For example, from late November to early March, when the northeast monsoon is blowing, diving conditions are best on the west coast.

Conversely, from March to September, during the southwest monsoon, the east coast has calm seas. The further south you go on either coast, the shorter the season

Thrills

Water Falls

A papal legate six centuries ago wrote that "From Ceylon to Paradise, according to native legend, is forty miles; there, however, may be heard the sound of the fountains of Paradise." For those unable to enter Paradise itself, its near neighbour has enough diversity of landscape, people and culture to make one forgive Eve's transgression.

A papal legate six centuries ago wrote that "From Ceylon to Paradise, according to native legend, is forty miles; there, however, may be heard the sound of the fountains of Paradise." For those unable to enter Paradise itself, its near neighbour has enough diversity of landscape, people and culture to make one forgive Eve's transgression.The island is blessed with 103 rivers and streams radiating from the central hills, rushing down rocky precipices forming a number of roaring waterfalls of various shapes and heights, all ending up losing the momentum at the Indian Ocean.

You can see some of the most picturesque waterfalls, out of which only a few can be viewed with ease, where as the others can only be seen by incisive thick forests and tea plantations.

Water-Based adventure and leisure activities

White-Water-Rafting

There is no better or more thrilling way to ascertain Sri Lanka's magnificent scenery than white-water rafting down majestic rivers.

Kithulgala rafting

Roughly 80km from Colombo on the A7 - the road to Nuwara Eliya - is Kitulgala, a amusing town whose name is derived from the kitul tree, vast numbers of which grow in the area. Kitulgala had a brush with fame when it was chosen as the location for David Lean's 1957 epic, Bridge on the River Kwai.

You can join the boulder-strewn and picturesque Kelani Ganga (river) above Kitulgala and navigate name-chilling rapids such as Killer Falls and Head Chopper. The higher-grade rapids of the Sitawaka Ganga and the icy depths of the elevated Kotmale Ganga between Hatton and Nuwara Eliya provide experienced rafters with more of a challenge, while both black-water rafting carried out in the night three days prior to or after a full moon (poya) day. And white-water kayaking, lend an even more thrilling angle to the sport!

Canoeing & Kayaking

Among 103 rivers and a wealth of lagoons, reservoirs, swamps and ancient canals, opportunities to explore the island's aquatic treasures by canoe and kayak are endless. Such trips also afford interaction with nature as magnificent scenery filled with wildlife dominates the horizon. Moreover, you can gain a privileged insight into rural Sri Lankan life by observing villagers going about their daily activities.

As of leisurely trips of a few hours to more breathtaking journeys of a few days, both canoeing and kayaking opportunities are available for every skill level. The Kalu Ganga, which flows from the hill country to the west shore, offers one of the most enchanting journeys. The scenery changes spectacularly from highlands tea, jungle and rubber plantations to serene palms, plains and paddy before finally reaching the well-known Gangatilaka Vihara (temple) in Kalutara.

Waterskiing-Banana boating-Jet skiing

Waterskiing, banana boating and jet skiing can also be enjoyed in the tranquil water of the Bentota River and these fun tricks offer stimulation for all ages and any skill level. Trincomalee on the east shore offers a fantastic substitute for windsurfers when the south-west monsoon brings strong winds and bumpy seas.

Birding

Birds lovers

The miraculous great quantity of over 482 varieties of birds in Sri Lanka is attributable to the tropical climate and wide range of natural habitats, from mountains to lowlands to dry plains and lush forests. On a point of intellectual argument, there are either 26 endemic birds in Sri Lanka, largely confined to the rainforests of the hill zone.

The winter migrants come from distant Siberia and Western Europe. The reservoirs attract vast number of water birds. The forests attract many other species. There are many birds' sanctuaries across the little island 270 km by 140 km in size.

Kumana is situated in east Coast, Bundala, Kalamatiya are is in the southern coast, Sinharaja Rain Forest, Udawatta Kale, Bellanwila, Muthurajawela, Minneriya, Kitulgala and Minipe are other important Bird watching locations. In additions you can see birds through out the country in pockets of forests, lakes, lagoons and river sides during your travel.

The best time of year for sightings is November-April, mostly February and March, after the migrants (198 species) have arrived.

Best time of day for observation is early morning, except for the people-friendly "Townies", like the black house crows, common mynah, sunbirds, parakeets, etc.
For the 'birder' the choice sites are the forests of Sinharaja and Horton Plains. For family pleasure the National Parks of Yala, Bundala and Uda Walawe are more easily accessible.

Ayurveda

An ancient Secret, a Modern Luxury......

Sri Lanka is a kingdom of rich heritage, one of which is its indigenous method of Medicine, which has been practiced by the people since time immemorial. The Ayurveda system of medicine from North India, the Siddha system of medicine from South India and the Unani system of medicine of Arabs enriched with contributions from the traditional system of medication called Desheeya Chikitsa is popularly known as the Indigenous system of medicine in Sri Lanka.

Ayurveda Treatments

Ayurveda treatment is intended to gather the toxins in definite parts of the body and then expel these substances from the body. Once the body is purified it is ready to be given and benefit from the rejuvenation process, which can lead to eternal good health.

Are you overworked & stressed out? Need to re-energize your batteries?
Then take a look at Ayurveda health programs.
Recommended Ayurvedic Resorts and Spas in Sri Lanka

01) Nooit Gedacht Ayurveda Resort, Unawatuna, Sri Lanka - visit now

The Ayurveda Health Resort Nooit Gedacht is located inside an old colonial residence which was built in 1735 for the Dutch commander of Point De Galle.

02) Nature Lanka Ayurveda Health Resort, Tangalle, Sri Lanka -visit now

A premiere Ayurveda Health Resort located on Sri Lanka's beautiful south coast. Eco Village, Dodanduwa, Sri Lanka

Eco Village is the fulfillment of a father’s tribute to a heroic son. It is synonymous with nature and for those who are familiar with the concept of eco-tourism; this is one of the right places to visit. The world renowned "Island Hermitage" founded by the European scholar and monk Venerable Nyanatiloka nearly 10 decades ago can be seen at a distance. The peaceful atmosphere and outstanding scenic beauty of Dodanduwa lagoon, as well as its surroundings have their own charm even today.

The concept of Eco Village has been praised in several international travel books. The serenity that pervades at Eco Village makes it an ideal location and most sought after venue for romantic weddings, meetings, seminars and other private functions. Friendly service and excellent food make it a venue suitable for any occasion.

X Eco Village has limited, but different types of accommodation facilities. They are simple, cozy and elegantly designed to suit individual tastes and needs.

Spice Sri Lanka

As you head towards the central hills you will find clusters of shops on the Kandy Road that specialize in selling many different items - cane, brassware and leather among them. In addition, visit a spice garden to purchase cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, mace, black pepper and turmeric. Wander through the fragrant groves and you will be amazed by the superior quality of fresh spices compared to those on your supermarket shelf.





Variety is the spice of life, the variety of spices hand-reared and harvested alongside Kandy-Matale road must be Sri Lanka's immortal soul. Here you'll find in abundance the great scents, tastes and medicines that made and make Sri Lanka famous. Stroll around the fragrant greenery and through the cardamom groves in the shade of huge tropical trees and give your sense of smell a new lease on life. Sniff, see and learn about nutmeg, pepper, cloves, curry, cinnamon and many others at Matale, and experience the great riches of Sri Lanka’s cuisine and traditional Ayurveda therapy.

Ceylon tea

Ceylon tea from Sri Lanka, acclaimed as the best teas in the world has its inherent unique characteristics and reputation running through more than a century. The influence of climatic conditions of its plantation imparts to the product a variety of flavors and aromas, synonymous with quality. Tea Museum at Hantane, Kandy: The Hantane tea factory is located three miles from Kandy. The ground accommodates heavy machinery; the first floor occupies some examples in the withering process. Library and the Audio-visual presentations in the second floor whilst the sales outlets are found in the third floor. The fourth floor is to be converted to a deluxe restaurant.

Amazon Teas

A prominent tea exporter Amazon is synonymous with quality and creative packaging. The company has been keeping up with the changes in the tea market in the last few years and moving its standards upward to meet the customer expectations by incorporating a pure, unparalleled collection of natural tea with superior taste and elegantly designed packaging. The product range created by Amazon Teas varies from authentic black teas to green and herbal teas. Packed according to the highest standards, a tantalizing multitude of choices are available to satisfy even the most discerning tastes.

Souvenirs

Trade and Shopping Sri Lanka

Another souvenir of southern Sri Lanka is a batik garment or wall-hanging. The art of batik-making was imported from Indonesia by the Dutch in the 16th century. Since then, the craft has developed a distinctive Sri Lankan flavor, a charming character of its own. Batik is made using pure, natural fibers such as cotton, linen or silk. The fabric is waxed and dyed to create intricate patterns or scenes.

Batik workshops in Sri Lanka

1.Baba Batik factory
2.Gunatilake Batik factory

Gems & Jewelry

Watch out for the jewelry shops. Around 800BC the Romans incorporated rubies obtained from the island in their jewelry. Later on the islanders realized that they were missing out on the value addition of gems, so they became some of the finest jewelers in the world.

There are various Gem & Jewellery workshops which have been recognized & approved by the National Gem & Jewellery Authority of Sri Lanka. They sell precious & Semi precious Gem stones such as finest Blue, Yellow, White & Green Sapphires, Rubies, and Star Sapphires & Cat's eyes etc.

Handicrafts

The woodwork takes pride of place with many intricately carved figurines, plaques and trays; while brass, silver and mixed metal is used to make beautiful mirrors, picture frames, letter openers and serviette rings. There's also leather-work like wallets, purses and belts, and reed-work like mats, food baskets, and shopping bags that are enchanting in their simplicity. In addition, check out the elegant wall-hangings that are made in Dumbara near Kandy.

Traditional Masks in Sri Lanka

The traditional masks are carved from light Balsa like Kaduru wood (Nux vomica). Kaduru trees grow in the marshy lands bordering paddy fields. The wood is smoke dried for a week in preparation. The hand carved & hand painted masks in traditional dance dramas are vibrant & colorful. The colourful & vibrant naga raksha (Cobra demon) mask of the Raksha Kolama (Demon dance), consist of a ferocious face with bulging, popping & staring eyes, a bloodthirsty carnivorous tongue lolling out of wide mouth armoured & armed to the hilt with set of fanglike teeth, & all topped by a set of cobra hoods.

We are

The Thaprobana-Different Discovery has been family owned and operated by two young brothers since November, 2003. We do not have a hundred years long history, a pretentious company name, or a postmodern synthetic office. Our team is made up of honest, outspoken people who do not over promise, do not use smoke and mirrors and do not speak in cringe-worthy public relation language. We speak with passion, belief and understanding behind us.

In 2009, we incorporated as a partnership business firm and, we have newly partnered with C&C Travel in Copenhagen, Denmark as an International Strategic Business Conglomerate.

Now, our small family business has progressively expanded into a travel agency, tour operator and a destination management company which mainly focus on business & leisure travel.

1. Different Discovery is our inbound tour operator
2. Discovery Holidays is our outbound travel arm
3. C&C Travel Sri Lanka is our Investment & Destination Management Company.

We are specializing in designing and offering individualized itineraries both to sites of world renown as well to locations within the island, which may be less well known, but which is nevertheless of great interest. In no small part, the attraction may also be precisely because they are often not on the usual "tourist" itineraries. Intrinsic interest may lie in:

1. their archeological and historical uniqueness
2. their religious significance
3. the splendor of their scenery
4. their ecological importance

Or, quite simply, may be down to the fact that they are unusual and exquisite locations in which to "chill out", relax, and restore the batteries.
Clearly this represents just a fraction of the many tasks that we are involved in.

Although a small team, our aim is to provide the very best service to our clients. We are delighted that there are so many people who are happy to endorse our efforts and indeed our success.

Our Team

Discovery Team comprises a small group of innovative travel and hotel personnel with experience both within the country as well as overseas. Team members pride themselves on their competence as "tourist orientated professionals". Of equal importance, however, is a strong sense of responsibility for conservation and for the cultural integrity of their island and its communities. Team members all speak English competently as a second language, travel regularly, and are thereby able to keep abreast of changing demands within the tailor–made tours sector. As all Different Discovery team members have a personal interest in many of the activities on offer, clients can expect a service which is well informed and highly personal. Dinesh Gunaratna (Big Brother)
Root to Leaves, Dinesh is a regular traveler and keen to explore novelty and simplicity in traveling. He has been conducting personally guided tours throughout the island for more than seventeen years. He is thoroughly familiar with the geography of Sri Lanka, its sites of unique interest as well as its finest locations for relaxation and holidaying. He has specialized in Hospitality and Tourism Management. Dinesh supervises all the operational aspects of the business and is the main person in charge of overall sales and operations of this company. He loves travelling Black’s Beach–San Diego, CA, but his wife.....















Our Dreiving and Guiding Force
Our well experienced chauffeur guide team is an asset to our team as they are always service–minded and honest. Their target is to deliver the best service and delight our guests with remarkable holiday experience. We are eager to see a complaint on them!!!
Overseas Representation
We are newly started to promote our tour packages in selected countries. Now our clients can directly connect with our international representatives online for more information and bookings.


Lucky Martinez: Paris
lucky.fr@toursrilanka.info
A Social Sciences diplomat from Sri Lanka with a special interest in community, cultural and conservation tourism. He volunteers in an INGO in Paris since 2011. He has been promoting our tailor-made tour packages to his patrons, and local neighborhood during his leisure.

Rushan Dilupa: Dortmund
rushan.de@toursrilanka.info
Rushan, a young Sri Lankan national living in Germany since 2001, is very passionate about tourism in Sri Lanka and his all-round knowledge on many aspects of Sri Lanka is quite a creditable asset. He is fluent in the German Language and is promoting our tour packages to his friends and patrons during his free time.

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Contact

We are located just 06 minutes drive from Colombo International Airport.

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Sri Lanka

"Discovery Travel House"
No. 67, Big City, Yatiyana, Minuwangoda-11550, Sri Lanka.
Phone No:+94112251222  Fax: +94112265688

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Singapore

Shame Wijesooriya
+6582287476

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Indonesia

Lucky Fernando
Perum Kotawisata, Vancover, UB 3/22 RW 12, Kelurahan Limus Nunggal, Kecamaan Cilengsi, Kabupajen Bogor, Indonesia.
+6281287685502

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Denmark

C&C Travel House
Kobenhavn, Gothersgade 8L, 1123 Kobenhavn K.
Tlf.: 33 15 33 22, Man, tir, tor, fre: 9-18, Onsdag: 10-18, Lordag: 10.30-15.3

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Australia

Viraj Alahakoan,
267 Beechboro Road, Morley 6062, Perth WA.
+61416694110

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United Kingdom

Chandana Fernando
chandana@toursrilanka.info
+447557416180

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