Tag: sri lanka

Hot Air Ballooning in Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

Google+

Nature Watch in Habarana

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

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

Discover the Wild Life in Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wild Life Holidays to Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

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

Google+

Wildlife Adventures in Habarana

The Habarana town serves as a base for Sigiriya and safaris to Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks. There’s a fast-expanding range of accommodation in the surrounding area including lots of new luxury hotels, the Chaaya Village Habarana is the most luxury Sigirya hotel, which offers excellent service and quality and offers amazing views of the Sigiriya rock that can be enjoyed from the rooms at the hotel. Guests can enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan experience, with an authentic dining experience and guests relax and rejuvenate at the Ayuruvedha spa at the hotel, which will be a haven for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Located in the district of Matale, between Polnnaruwa and Habarana, 225 km away from Colombo, Wasgamuwa is the best place to observe Elephants. The nearest large town is Polonnaruwa, 10 km from the northern boundary. The best time to enjoy the sight of large herds is during November to May. In the rest of the year the elephants tend to migrate to nearby Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks. Other wildlife includes Purple faced langur monkeys, wild boar, sambar and spotted deer and buffalo. Transport links are excellent: Habarana has the nearest train station to both Dambulla and Sigiriya and sits on a busy crossroads. Elephant rides around the tank can be arranged for a price of US$20 to US$30 per person per hour. In the creek near town you can watch mahouts scrubbing down their elephants; guides and most locals can point the way.

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

Google+

Attractive Mirissa Beach and its adventures

 

 

This beachside town was put on the map by the local marine life, in recent years locals and tourists have been making their way to the south in the hope of seeing blue whales in their natural environment. A two hour drive from Colombo, by way of the Southern Expressway, will take you down to the white sandy beaches of Mirissa Hotels are dotted all along the coast but where you choose to stay can be the difference between a good vacation and a great one. So why not treat yourself? The CASA Colombo Collection Mirissa is the very essence of luxury and it is located right on the beachfront. You can wake up to the sound of the sea, enjoy the freshest seafood and enjoy sweeping views of the Indian Ocean without ever having to leave your hotel room.

If you do decide to venture out, take a stroll along the beach at dawn to see fishermen coming in with the catch of the day. Watch as the local fishing community comes alive and buyers from all over the south arrive to take their pick. Other early morning activities include the famed whale watching boat rides. Several local companies offer whale watching so take a moment to look up a reliable one that not only charges a reasonable price but also provides life jackets and is considerate of the delicate marine ecosystems. Spinner, spotted, bottle-nose and striped dolphins are often seen in the waters surrounding Mirissa and if you are lucky you may even see a blue whale. If a boat ride has weakened your sea legs, unwind at a local spa or explore the town and its quaint little souvenir shops. However if you want to take a closer look at life in the tropical waters or enjoy some spirited water sports take a ten minute drive to Weligama where you will find surf and diving schools.

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

Google+

Sinharaja Rainforest in Sri Lanka

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

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

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

 

Water falls in Sri Lanka as a location for film production

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

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

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

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

Wildlife in Bundala National Park: serenity in the wild

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy a fly away experience on the sea with surfing

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

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

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

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

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

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

Google+