Tuesday, July 21, 2015

WATERFALLS IN SRI LANKA



This is an island of waterfalls. Ribbons, sheets, whole avalanches of white water spilling over the edges of lush green hills are a staple of this country's central highlands. There are literally hundreds, perhaps thousands of these watery-wonders dotted around the hill-country and you can quite conceivably spend a life time chasing waterfalls. 

It's actually a rather common island-activity; whispers, rumours of a particularly isolated, pristine or hitherto unexplored cascade will have people scrambling into 4x4s, or clambering onto buses and tuks and trekking deep into the forested interior. 

However, so rich is this nation in this H20 based resource that the quest for a spectacular, steeply plunging stream need not take you too far off the beaten path. 

BAMBARAKANDA FALLS

Bambarakanda Waterfall, one of most beautiful waterfalls and the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka is located in Badulla district, Uva Province. It is 263 meters in height and it is recognized as the 299th highest waterfall in the world. Kalupahana is the nearest town to this waterfall. And this waterfall is formed by Kuda Oya which is beginning from Horton Plains above and Kuda Oya is a branch of the Walawe River.
The main route to get this beautiful location is from the A4 Colombo – Batticaloa highway, closer to Kalupahana.


Bambarakanda Waterfall is through the lush greenery and crossing a quaint bridge that shines over a cascading stream. Once you reached you can experience and enjoy the non-stop spray of icy water. And especially at the dry season, the rock pool at the base of this waterfall becomes a bather friendly one.It cascades in a torrent (especially in the wet season) from a rocky outcrop into a deep, basin-like pool. To the left of the fall, centuries of wind and rain have formed what is said to resemble two embracing lovers out of the rock.
And the sound of the water falls is noisy when it is in full swing and the high sprays of the water remind the cooling power of water too. Visitors can capture many breathtaking views of this beautiful waterfall. If anyone wants to have more adventurous, you can reach the top of this Bambarakanda Waterfall that accessible via a brisk and steep 05 km climb. If you reach to this top, it will be a great chance to view the scenery all around at the top of the Bambarakanda Waterfall and it will be uninterrupted views. And there is a good bathing pool at the top, which is formed by a smaller falls, prior to the mighty sheer drop of this waterfall. Therefore, Bambarakanda Waterfall is one of best travel destinations and a popular tourist attraction in Sri Lanka that anyone should not be missed to explore!

DUNHINDA FALLS

Dunhinda is considered to be one of the most enchanting falls in Sri Lanka and is in close proximity to Badulla town. The water resembles a thin cloud as it cascades 63m downwards into a large pool. The backdrop to the fall is known as ‘Dunhinda Adaviya’. ‘Dunhinda’ translates to ‘spraying/vapor waterfall’ – the word ‘dun’ means ‘gave/was given’, while ‘hinda’ means ‘evaporate’.
It was the first fall on the island where a fee was introduced to view it. This applies to both local and foreign visitors.
Dunhinda Falls is 5km from Badulla town and from the main highway it is a tortuous 1km walk. The Ella rest-house is 29km away.

DIYALUMA FALLS

Diyaluma Falls, the "Fall of Smoking Water" at 212 metres is the second tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka. The Diyaluma or Diya Haluma collects its water from the Poonagala Oya in the vicinity of Koslanda and Wellawaya. Located six miles from Koslanda and 13 miles from Wellawaya, its waters originate from the Mahakande Pass in Koslanda.

With an appearance and location which often make people believe that it is the highest waterfall in the isle, this lanky "Diyaluma" waterfall pours its way down and flows towards Kirindi Oya underneath a bridge on the highway from Beragala to Wellawaya.
The extent of water spilt downwards is so great during the rainy season that it makes amends for the monotonously undisturbed water trunk falling from head to foot with no intermediate cascade whatsoever. Its geographical location by one of the mostly used highways spanning the Hill Country to the plains speaks for its reputation not only here but in other parts of the world as well.
You can see this waterfall if you go just two kilometers from Koslanda on the road to Wellawaya
.

DEVON FALLS

Devon Waterfall is in Talawakele, Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka. It is located close to St. Clair’s Waterfall and some 06 km from Talawakele at the 20th km post along the Avissawella – Nuwara Eliya A7 Highway. Due to its unique formation, this waterfall is known as the “Veil of the Valley”. Devon Waterfall is 97 meters in height. The name of “Devon” derives to this waterfall from a pioneer English coffee planter called Devon. His plantation was situated nearby to this waterfall.
As mentioned above, the Avissawella – Nuwara Eliya A7 Highway is the best and accessible route to this waterfall. But if any visitor wants to do more adventurous thing, you can reach the top of the falls by turning left from Dimbula and taking the Dimbula – Nawalapitiya road. if any travelers wants to access this base, that traveler should access via a descent through lush Sri Lanka’s tea estates.the best view of this waterfall can be having from Dimbula, where a dedicated viewing platform has been established. The wide open space in front of the Devon Waterfall makes its look even more enormous and it is an attractive view.

There are another ways to enjoy the views of this beautiful waterfall. One is possible from the rail tracks closer to Watagoda, about 10 km from Talawakele. And the second way of viewing the beauty of this Devon Waterfall is from the hamlet of Midigama. While travelling by a train on the Kandy to Nuwata Eliya line, viewing this Devon’s beauty is the other way of enjoying this fascinating scenery and catching a glimpse of the impressive Devon Waterfall. Therefore, Devon Waterfall is one of main attractions in Sri Lanka and if anyone travels in the hill country, you should make a stop at this location (it is places at a convenient location) and should enjoy this magnificent gift of nature.

BOPATH ELLA FALLS

The name "Bopath Ella" has been given to the waterfall because of its shape. The water flows through a narrow gap in the rocks and then widens, forming the shape of a leaf of a "Bo" tree which is the Sinhalese name for sacred fig (Ficus religiosa). "Path" means leaves of a tree and "Ella" means waterfall. Virgin forests with a rich biodiversity surround the waterfall.
Bopath Ella waterfalls is Situated at Rathnapura and nearest waterfall to the Colombo city , within a travelling distance of 1 1/2hour by car. Kuruwita is closest town to the waterfall. .
Waterfalls is 30m height. Main water source for the waterfall is Kuru Ganga.
The waterfall has been used for bathing by ancient rulers of the country when they visited the nearby Maha Saman Devale in Ratnapura. 





ST. CLAIRES FALLS

This twin St. Clair’s waterfall cascades over three rock outcrops into a massive pool and it is most conveniently seen by travellers on Hatton – Talawakelle Road. This beautiful and popular fall is located among tea gardens, transmits a large volume of water, and is the widest waterfall in the country. The fall is sited over 500 metres away from the road, andone needs to walk down among tea bushes at a steep slope to reach it.


The proposed Upper Kotmale Hydro Power Project will affect the water resources of St Clair’s but for the benefit of the public a limited quantity of water will be released to prevent complete disappearance of the fall. Downstream to the main fall is a second waterfall of 50 m in height called Kuda Ella, which is best visible at the curve near 90 km post. At this point, though far, complete fall of St. Clair’s is visible including the last section that was partially hidden.
St. Clair's fall is billed as Sri Lanka's Niagara, or 'king of waterfalls' due to its outstanding beauty. It is 80m in height and at 50m wide, and consists of two segments, known as 'Big St. Clair' and 'Small St. Clair'. Created by the Kotmale River, a tributary of the Mahaweli River, it flows down a slope through an abandoned tea estate that covers hundreds of hectares. The main fall is located 3 kms from Talawakelle.



RAVANA FALLS

Ravana waterfalls is at Ella of Badulla district of Sri Lanka. Ravana falls is very high waterfalls and a lot of legend stories are hidden at this waterfalls. Ravana waterfalls is at between Ella and Wallawaya. There are 5km to Ravana waterfalls from Ella town. Ella is closest railway station to Ravana waterfalls. Ravana waterfalls is not a single waterfall. It is devided into several parts and drop down into rocks. There fore various beauties produced in flowing down. Near Ravana waterfall there is a bridge. On the bridge Ravana falls is seen beautifully. Butiques, Bar, Cafeterias and toilets are available in Ravana waterfalls. Some young trying to climb up the waterfall for visit the beauties of nature. But several accidents may be happened to them.

There was a tunnel and cave system at Ravana falls in ancient time. Ravana ancient temple and Dova ancient temple are at closed to Ravana waterfalls and tunnel system might be connected each other well in Ancient era. King Walagamba was made by those two temples. Up side of the Ravana falls, There is another waterfall called Small Ravana waterfalls. Ravana waterfalls is identified as Bambaragama falls also.

BAKERS FALLS

Baker's waterfall is one of very beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka. This waterfalls is height about 22 meters.Main water source for the waterfall is Belihul Oya . It is very beautiful because in various corners we can see various sceneries. The waterfall like steps, In top side we can see a pool and this point fall divide more than thousand of parts and made beautiful scenery in middle of the fall. Below the middle of fall there has another waterfall. It also very beautiful. Include all things and fall become the most beautiful waterfall in Sri Lanka.

There has a tree which inside of Baker's Waterfall. It gives more valuable to fall. You can't take a photo without this tree. This fall is situate at Horton plains. If you travel to visit Worlds End via Horton plains don't miss to visit this place. 



RAMBODA FALLS


Ramboda waterfalls is situated at Ramboda of Nuwaraeliya district of Sri Lanka. Ramboda is at between Nuwaraeliya and Gampola towns. The height is about 109m and the 729th highest in the world.  There are about 27km to Ramboda from Gampola town. Ramboda waterfall is at downside of the main road and it cannot see from the main road. You should down to the main road at Ramboda bridge of Nuwaraeliya-Kandy main road and then you can visit the Ramboda waterfall. Ramboda waterfall is not a single waterfall and it has two staires. Up side of the main road of Ramboda place, There is a another waterfall. Most of tourist dismiss the waterfall and they visit up side waterfall and go away. But dont forget to visit Ramboda main waterfall at downside of the Ramboda of Nuwaraeliya Sri Lanka.
Near Ramboda waterfall there is the longest road tunnel of Sri Lanka. It is made in 2006 -2007 years and also you can visit the Kothmale Valley and Kothmala Mahaweli Pagoda as well.
 

BOMBURU FALLS

Bomburu Ella, also known as Perawella Falls, is a waterfall at Uva-Paranagama Divisional Secretariat of Sri Lanka. It is located near the border of Nuwara Eliya and Badulla districts, approximately 15 km from Welimada town. Bomburu Ella is the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka and consists of several small waterfalls grouped together. The source of the falls is a lake located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka.

You can visit Bomburu waterfall and visit potatoes lands and vegetable lands in Welimada. Bomburu Ella is not at closed to main road. It is situated at long distance from main road and you have to go on a foot to Bomburu waterfall. This waterfall is situated at between and border of Nuwaraeliya and Badulla districts. There is a valley at Nuwaraeliya district and water comes to falls.



LAXAPANA FALLS

Laxapana Waterfall, one of famous waterfalls in Sri Lanka is located in Maskeliya area in Nuwara Eliya District. It is 129 meters in height and it is the 08th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Maskeliya Oya forms this waterfall and Kelaniya River, which is close to the Kiriwan-Eliya village through the nearby Fairlawn Estate, is formed this Maskeliya Oya. And the nearest town of this location is Ginigathhena. Laxapana Waterfall is recorded as the 625th highest waterfall in the world and this waterfall is most connected with the two hydro power stations that share its name also.
The most famous way of getting this attractive location is that visitors should travel along the Avissawella – Nuwara Eliya road (A7) and should turn towards Norton Bridge after Ginigathhena which is the Sri Pada road through Nallathanni.this waterfall has an attractive surrounding. Many hidden caves natural tunnels which were used by early Sri Lanka’s inhabitants are contained at the surrounding mountains of this waterfall.

To relax and revive, the wide base of this waterfall is a good location which is offering plenty of flat rock pools. If anyone will visit this beautiful waterfall, they can views across the Maussakele and Dickoya reservations which are a spectacle of sheer natural beauty with rolling hills of different shades of green, dotting the landscape. And there is a huge flat rock formation on the top of this waterfall, that visitors can get there easily, but visitors must ask the direction by locals. In addition to that the white lace like waters fall down beautifully enveloping the base in a magical mist is the other most eye catching thing at the base of this waterfall. Therefore, Laxapana Waterfall is one of famous and beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka that should not be missed to explore!

ABERDEEN FALLS

Aberdeen falls is relatively accessible 15 minute drive from the popular Norton Bridge, or the Masekeliya road and a strenuous but not exhausting climb down some well maintained stone-cut stairs will bring you to a stunning, night-blue pool into which tumbles a 100 meter cataract of white froth and foam,
It's a rather amazing spot, surrounded by thick mountain forest and sheer granite rock - the pool is crystal clear and calm enough that swimming (unless you're inebriated) is reasonably safe. A raised stone and sand bank right next to the cascade means that if you paddle over a few meters of dark, deep water you'll find yourself able to stand - on a natural ledge at the edge of waterfall's cascade. You're basically walking on water, feet from the pounding flow of one of the country's highest falls- an immediate highlight to any day.
While it's incredibly beautiful it's still not on the major waterfall trail so you stand a good chance of having it to yourself even on a weekend. a bonus for lowers even on a weekend. 



ELGIN FALLS


Elgin waterfalls is at Ambewela place of Nuwaraeliya district of Sri Lanka. It's listed in main waterfalls of Sri Lanka.It is 25 meters in height. Elgin is at closed to Elgin estate of Nanuoya. Most famous viewing point of Elgin waterfalls is at railway between Parakumpura and Ambewela. Elgin waterfalls is at 3km from Ambewela railway station and closed to railway quarters of Ambewela. There is a big railway tunnel is at closed to Elgin waterfalls. Elgin is not a single waterfall. It has several steps. Elgin waterfalls is at jungle place of the Ambewela area. 

If you like to visit Elgin waterfalls. First you have to come Ambewela via Nuwaraliya or Welimada.





THUDUGALA ELLA FALLS

The Thudugala Ella Falls is located in the Thudugala Estate in Thudugala village at Kalutara District, Sri Lanka.It is 8 meters in height. Once owned by a British national, a derelict bungalow still remains. There is a natural swimming pool surrounded by Ketala plants and a giant pus creeper (fern) that has spread to cover an area of a hectare.  Also within the Thudugala Forest Reserve, there are many species of birds. These include the migrant bird ‘Yellow Magta’, with its colourful plumage and yellow underbelly, and ‘Dicaeum Erythornynchos’, the smallest bird in Sri Lanka.
This waterfall is a popular bathing place for locals. A interesting feature here is that a tunnel runs under the waterfall and comes out on top at a side to it.
The route to the waterfall starts from Katukurunda Junction off the Galle Road; 5 miles (8.0 km) from there on Matugama Road to Thudugala junction and from there 8 miles (12.9 km) to the waterfall.
It is said that there are number of waterfalls along this stream specially a beautiful fall called Sita Ella. Location unknown.
When traveling from Thudugala junction, you will come to another junction called “Ellagāwa (Near the waterfall) Junction” with a signboard of a rubber plantation so you can easily recognize it. From there, if you want to go to the waterfall and its natural bathing places, you will have to take the left road which runs over a small bridge nearby. The right road will lead you only to an artificially created bathing place which is said to be muddy but used to lure visters to small hotel nearby. The left road will take you to the delapdated house of the British owner and from there you need to walk along the river in the estate to reach the Thudugala Ella waterfall and its beautiful bathing pools.

GALBODA ELLA FALLS

The Galboda waterfall is a one hour walking distance from the Galboda railway station. It is 30 metres in height, beautiful due to the high rainfall received to the catchment area throughout the year.(the closest town is Watawala, where the highest annual rainfall in the country is received). Therefore, unlike other waterfalls, travellers are advised to visit Galboda waterfall in August, the dry season, because the natural water pool is safe for bathing. Until you pass “Inguruoya”, the railway station before Galboda, the climate is quite good. But when the train reaches Galboda, passing two tunnels; the climate changes to heavy showers. Galboda is a small village inbetween Watawala and Nawalapitiya.
The main access to the village is the railway track and the first glimpse to the waterfall could be had from here. The annual rainfall here exceeds 4500mm. Sixty percent of the rain comes from the south-west monsoon (the dry season is January to February).
At certain times of the year, the water cascades in two streams. Growing in the surrounding woodland is a rare species of orchid and the vicinity is home to a wide variety of wildlife. Among them are 12 species of reptiles and four are only found in Sri Lanka. The upper section of the fall is unique in its biodiversity, thus it is of paramount importance to limit any potential danger to the area. The name of the fall, (Galboda means ‘fall adjoining the stone’) is said to be derived from the large boulder situated at its foot, though another theory is that the water here is heavier(Gal meaning heavier) than anywhere else on the island.

RATNA ELLA FALLS

Rathna Ella is a waterfall within the Vicoria, Randenigala and Rantambe sanctuary. It has a height of 101 meters and is the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Rathna Ella Is the highest waterfall in Kandy district and the 10th highest in Sri Lanka.
The route to the Rathna Ella, lies along few villages between the Hunasgiriya mountain range and a dense jungle filled with wildlife. The walk along the villages will give you amazing scenes of far mountains and paddy fields. There is also an adventurous hike to the top of the waterfall. Only experienced hikers should attempt this hike.
The name Rathna Ella means ‘a field of gems’. According to the legends there have been seven vessels filled with gems and valuables hidden deep in the waterfall. Five of them have already been found. And villagers believe that any attempt to find the other two will bring bad luck and death to the people looking for them.
Swimming in the pool under the waterfall is extremely dangerous, as Rathna Ella has a 101 m fall, and the pool is believed to be very deep.Also Only experience hikers should try the hike to the top.





Monday, July 20, 2015

The UNESCO new world heritage sites

The UNESCO World Heritage Site program began in 1978 with just twelve sites; last week, UNESCO inscribed 24 new sites into the World Heritage List, bringing the total to 1,031. From 2,000-year-old structures in Israel to the stunningly modern Botanic Gardens in the heart of Singapore, the list spans the globe to include both cultural and natural properties. Of the 24 newcomers, we’ve highlighted ten of our favorites, all of which are accessible to travelers and belong on your bucket list.

CHAMPAGNE HILLSIDES, HOUSES, AND CELLARS, FRANCE

Known for its excellent wine production since the Middle Ages, Champagne distinguished itself in the seventeenth century with the introduction of sparkling wine. Benedictine monks at the Abbey of Saint-Hilaire are credited with the first bottling of sparkling wine in 1531, though Dom Perignon is most often associated with the creation of champagne and was instrumental in its production and quality control. The UNESCO listing includes historic vineyards in the Champagne province and the Avenue de Champagne and Fort Chabrol in Epernay, all of which show the highly refined process of Champagne production.

SAN ANTONIO MISSIONS, TEXAS


The five Spanish mission complexes in the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park date back to the early eighteenth century and were founded by Franciscan missionaries as a means of glorifying the Spanish crown in New Spain. Evidence of Catholic and Coahuiltecan cultures are both evident in the missions, which combine traditional Catholic symbolism with nature-inspired designs drawn from the local environment. The missions run along a twenty-three-mile stretch abutting the San Antonio River, a twenty-minute drive from the downtown area.

PAR FORCE HUNTING LANDSCAPE IN NORTH ZEALAND, DENMARK


In the eastern portion of Denmark sit some of the country’s largest hunting forests, specifically designed and landscaped for the benefit of hunters. Danish kings and their courts heavily utilized the area during the Middle Ages through the sixteenth century, practicing par force hunting, a style of equestrian hunting using hounds to track an animal’s scent. The grid pattern helped huntsmen more easily spot animals in the area, which also houses numerous lodges and other Baroque structures and landscape designs.

BAEKJE HISTORIC AREAS, SOUTH KOREA



The Baekje Kingdom dominated the southwestern portion of the Korean peninsula for almost 700 years, during which it reached its zenith in the fourth century. Defeated by the Tang Dynasty in 660, the Baekje legacy lives on in the remaining structures in the recently designated UNESCO site in the mountains of western Korea. The listing contains eight sites, including the Gongsanseong fortress, several royal tombs, the royal palace, and the Naseong city wall, which surrounded the capital city of Sabi. Built during the later period of the Baekje Kingdom, the property shows the convergence of Korean, Chinese, and Japanese cultural and artistic influences.


BLUE AND JOHN CROW MOUNTAINS, JAMAICA


Northeast of Kingston, the rugged terrain inBlue and John Crow Mountains National Parkholds both cultural and natural significance. During European colonization, the area provided refuge for the indigenous Taino people, who sought to avoid enslavement, as well as runaway African slaves. A complex system of trails, hideouts, and settlements was established in the mountains to avoid capture, with the area providing a fertile landscape for survival. Additionally, the park is famous for its biodiversity and is home to rare butterflies and threatened species of birds, snakes, and small mammals.

EPHESUS, TURKEY



The home of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Ephesus provides a window into the early days with its Hellenistic and Roman settlements. Though little remains of the famous temple today, the area still houses several important structures, including the Library of Celsus, built in the second century A.D., and the Great Theatre, which sat 25,000 spectators in its heyday. Its coastal location made Ephesus an important port city, and though it was severely damaged by the Goths during a raid in 268, vestiges of many of its largest buildings remain.

 SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS, SINGAPORE


Sir Stamford Raffles can be credited with the founding of the Singapore Botanic Gardens when he began an experiment to test viable agricultural development in 1822. Thirty-seven years later, the Gardens were transformed into their modern state, with Kew-trained botanists employed to transform the space into an English-style masterpiece. Since then, theSingapore Botanic Gardens have become one of the leading botanical gardens in the world, dotted with notable features like the eighty-year-old Bandstand gazebo, a small rainforest, and the National Orchid Garden, which houses 3,000 species of pure and hybrid orchids.

NECROPOLIS OF BET SHE’ARIM: A LANDMARK OF JEWISH RENEWAL, ISRAEL


An area controlled at various points by the Romans, Byzantines, and Arabs, Bet She’arimhas been the site of prosperous towns since the first century B.C. The necropolis was founded on the site nearly 2,000 years ago, notably as the burial site of Rabbi Judah the Patriarch who is credited with Jewish renewal after 135 A.D. The site comprises a series of limestone caves and tombs carved into the southern foothills of Lower Galilee. Greek, Aramaic, and Hebrew inscriptions and artwork adorn the walls of the necropolis, located sixty miles north of Tel Aviv.

AQUEDUCT OF PADRE TEMBLEQUE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM, MEXICO


Roman hydraulics technology and Mesoamerican construction techniques converge in this complex canal system on the Central Mexican Plateau. The project was initiated by a Franciscan friar, Padre Tembleque, in 1553 and was completed seventeen years later with 126 arches. Canals, distribution tanks, and arcaded bridges carry water for twenty-eight miles through the plateau and over the highest single-level arcade ever constructed in an aqueduct. The channel begins in the town of Zempoala and culminates in Otumba to the northwest.

ARAB-NORMAN PALERMO AND THE CATHEDRAL CHURCHES OF CEFALU AND MONREALE, ITALY


Following a collapse in Byzantine leadership, Palermo was taken over by a Muslim conquest in 831 A.D. and controlled as an emirate until 1072. History repeated itself, and a Norman conquest took control of the island after dynastic squabbles destabilized the Muslim government. During this time, extensive construction saw Sicily flourish as one of the wealthiest states in Europe, and evidence of both Norman and Arab influences remain today. Under the UNESCO listing, two palaces, three churches, three cathedrals, and a bridge have been recognized for their preservation of Western, Islamic, and Byzantine cultures.



Friday, July 17, 2015

TRAVEL TIPS TO VISIT SRI LANKA




Sri Lanka is the most beautiful island in the Indian Ocean called as tourist’s paradise, is a splendid Island of waterfalls, rainforest, diverse wildlife and endless beaches. It’s famed for its ancient Buddhist ruins, including the 5th-century citadel Sigiriya, with its palace and frescoes, and the sacred city of Anuradhapura. Its flavorful cuisine reflects its history as maritime hub and cultural melting pot.

Whenever you visit Sri Lanka these tips will help you a lot.
When to Visit
The peak season is between December to March as many European travelers prefer the warm sunshine and the golden beaches 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 travelers.
However, Sri Lanka has no off season per as clear blue skied bright sunny days are the general rule even during the wet season.

Visa & Customs
When you need to obtain a Sri Lanka visit visa, this won’t be a huge problem as many nationals are granted a visit visa on arrival valid for 30 days.
However, please visit Sri Lanka Immigration for more information and to check if you are required to obtain a visa prior to arrival.
Visitors to Sri Lanka bringing in more than US$10,000 should declare the amount to the Customs on arrival. You may be required to open your baggage for inspection when your departure to Refrain from carrying prohibited or restricted goods. Certain types of animal products, antiques and gold are not allowed to be taken out of the country.
Please visit for more information: Sri Lanka Customs

Time
Sri Lanka Standard Time is five and a half hours ahead of GMT.

Currency/Money Exchange
The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee. Currency notes are in 10s, 20s, 50s, 100s, 200s, 500s, 1000s,2000s and 5000s. Make sure you have plenty of lower denomination notes (Rs50, Rs100, Rs500), especially when travelling and you need to buy small items, fruit, and eat cheap meals, because change is often hard to come by apart from at hotels and big shops. 
Foreign currency and Traveller’s Cheques may be changed at any hotel, although commercial banks offer better rates. Converting Sri Lankan rupees back to a selected foreign denomination could be done at the airport bank which is open 24 hours of the day. Please retain your money changing receipts.

Credit Cards
Most hotels, restaurants and shopping centers accept most international credit cards. No surcharge is required for their use. Cash advances may be acquired against credit cards at certain bank ATMs. Most widely accepted cards are American Express, Visa and MasterCard.
Banks are generally open from 9.00am to 1.00pm from Monday to Friday. Some city banks close at 3.00pm, while others offer night banking facilities and some are open on Saturday mornings. Generally banks are closed on Saturdays, Sundays, all public holidays. ATMs are most found adjoining bank branches island-wide. 

Shops
Most shops open at 10.00am and close at 6.00pm. Shops are usually closed on Sundays and Full moon (Poya) days. 24 hour/7days open shops are located in most of City areas. Please note that the full moon poya day has religious significance for Buddhists and alcohol is not served in hotels, bars and public recreational areas on this day.

Where to Stay
Usually all visitors to Sri Lanka travel by air; flights arrive at the Bandaranaike International Airport, 35 km north of Colombo, and 6 km of Negombo. Sri Lanka has an excellent range of accommodation facilities to suit all budgets from luxury hotels to low budget accommodations.



You will find best Hotels in Colombo in Here: Hotels in Colombo

It is common that most popular hotels are overbooked due to the limited room inventory in the country.
Therefore, it is advisable to book in advance if you are planning a trip during the peak season.

Food & Drinks
Your hotel will provide you safe and high quality food. Sri Lankan ‘Ceylon’ tea is prepared as in the West and coffee too. There are a huge variety of bottled soft drinks, including well-known international brands. Thambili ( king coconut water )is a safe and refreshing option. Local beer and spirits are widely available. Drink plenty of water during the day to avoid dehydration.

 Water
Tap water is not safe to drink, Filtered, mineral and bottled drinking water is available at most retail shops. There are now many brands available, mostly using spring water from the highlands of the island.

   Transport

There are various modes of travel that can be used Public transport like local buses, trains , AC buses . For buses and trains the rates are fixed and you can travel around easily. Also you can use Budget taxi, Three-Wheeler (tuk-tuk) for a reasonable rate.
you can use private vehicle with a driver or without driver. But Its best to leave any driving in the hands of experts.For short trips, hotels can arrange a car and driver between two points but for a longer stay it is better to engage the services of a driver who will travel with you.


Health & Medical Facilities

Before you visit Sri Lanka it is advisable to take the following vaccinations, particularly if you plan a long trip or intend visiting remote areas unless you are coming from a yellow fever or cholera area. (Cholera is not considered a serious risk in Sri lanka.):
Typhoid (monovalent), Polio, Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies

In addition children should be protected against:
diphtheria, whooping cough, mumps, measles, rubella
The risk of malaria exists throughout the whole country apart from the districts of Colombo, Kalutara and Nuwara Eliya. Once again, vaccinations are essential. Minor health problems can always be treated by doctors with practices in the resorts and elsewhere in the country.

Electricity
220 Volts/50 Hz Ac. If you travel with a laptop computer bring a stabilizer. Two and three pin plugs are used mostly.

Language & Communication 

Sinhala and Tamil are the two official languages in Sri Lanka. Most people have some knowledge of English, and signboards are often in English.

International Direct Dialling (IDD), facilities are available at all city hotels, resorts, post offices and telecommunication centers. Also Free internet and Wifi facilities are available at most public places in city areas.
Places to visit
·         Colombo- Bustling port with colonial history
·         Kandy- (Tooth Temple, Elephants, Botanical Garden)
·         Nuwara Eliya- (Waterfalls, Gardens, Golf)
·         Yala National Park-(Safaris, parks, leopards, camping,Elephants, wild life)
·         Negambo-(Beaches, Lagoon, Canals, Nightlife, Scuba diving)
·         Bentota- (Beach, Surface water sports, turtles, surfing, seafood)
·         Hikkaduwa-(Beach, Surfing, Scuba diving, turtles, nightlife)
·         Dambulla(Golden Temple, caves, Elephants)
·         Trincomalee/ Batticloa -(Beaches, Seaside resorts, temple, scuba diving, whales)
·         Minnerya national Park-( Safaris, parks, leopards,Elephants, wild life)
·         Jaffna-(Temple, Clock Tower, Beaches)
·         Unawatuna-(Beaches, Kingfisher, Gardens, scuba diving)
·         Polonnaruwa-(Temple, History, palace, architecture )
·         Anuradhapura(Temple, History, Buddhism, Ancient Heritage)
·         Kalutara-(Beaches, Temple), Beruwala-(Beaches)
·         Udawalawa National Park-( Safaris, parks, leopards, camping,Elephants)
·         Habarana(Elephants, Safaris, Parks, Temple)
·         Dehiwala-Mt. Lavinia(Zoos, Beaches, Nightlife)
·         Wilpattu Natinal park(Safaris, parks, leopards, camping, safari lodge)
·         Kalpitiya ( Kite surfing, Dolphins, Beach, Whale watching, wind surfing)
·         Badulla/Bandarawela-(Waterfalls, History, Backpacking, Temple, Nature)
·         Horton Plains(Backpacking, Leopords, Hiking, Parks, waterfalls)
·         Ratnapura(Museums, Mining, Architecture, Gems)
·         Kitulgala-(Rafting, adventure, rivers,forests, bird watching)
·         Sinharaja Forest Reserve-(Rainforest, safaris, reptiles,camping)

      Weather in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a year round destination with an abundance of sunshine all year round. The average temperature is around 27°C – 30°C 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 10°C. 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.

What to wear
Sri Lanka is 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. but you will need light woollens for the hills and waterproof clothing or an umbrella.

Modest dress for women is advisable especially when visiting the cultural and religious sites.

Photography
Sri Lanka is a photographer’s delight. However, permits are required before you can take photos at certain sites. There are some important restrictions that apply to photography regarding Buddhist imagery. When you visit a temple or other religious site, remember that photography should not be carried out in a manner causing disrespect. For instance, it is strictly forbidden to be photographed in front of or beside any statues and murals. Note that flash photography can damage old murals.
Tourists who wish to visit and or photograph the principal ancient monuments in Sri Lanka are required to purchase a ticket from the Central Cultural Fund


Public & Safety
You may sometimes be overwhelmed by crowds of people in public places (railway stations, markets, bus stands, temples or simply busy streets). Some people will try to show you a hotel and sell you things. Taxis and three - wheelers are often there when you do not need them.

In general the threats to personal security for travelers in Sri Lanka are less concern. Therefore it is advised not to travel alone especially after dark. The island including the North and East is safe to visit. If you have anything stolen, report it to the tourist Police, Contact tel Number + 94 11 2382209