Zahir F

Nawan Perahera Parade

Located on the banks the infamous Beira Lake lies the century old Gangarama temple in the heart of Colombo.

Structure and Architecture

The temple’s heterogenous blend of architecture, reverbs the Sri Lanka, India, Thailand , Burma, Indonesia and the China. The temple was built in 1885 by Venerable Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera during the British Colonial Era. It features the typical structures of most temples in Sri Lanka that includes the Viharaya (temple), the Chaithya  (Pagoda) the Bodhi tree (Boo Tree), the Vihara Mandiraya, the Seema malakaya (assembly hall for monks) and the Relic Chamber. The temple complex also houses a museum, Library and a vocational training Center.
nawam perahera

Festive Seasons

One of the most Grandeur Festivals celebrated by this temple is the Navam Perahera held on February dating back to 1979 when it first started its celebration. The festival pageant is one of its kind in terms of parades, decorated elephants with costumes and lights, traditional drummers, fire dancers, flute players, traditional performers, the sacred tooth relic and numerous Buddhist monks. The perahara takes place for 2 days especially with well lit and adorned tuskers carrying the Tooth Relic  This kaleidoscopic pageant attracts visitors from every corner of the world irrespective of religion and race to join and watch the celebration.

Make Sure you don’t miss out

  • The museum: One of attractions of the temple is the museum with artefacts and antiques that resonate the Buddhist culture and spirit. You will come across carvings, ivory and wooden carvings, ancient scripts, Statues of the Buddha, precious and random  trinkets and quite surprisingly vintage cars as well.
  • The Relic Chamber: This chamber houses the sacred relic of the Buddha. It also holds some of the ancient relics of the disciplines of Buddha received through donations from Bangladesh.
  • The Bodhiya: the bow tree that shades the place brings tranquillity and serenity to the place with its rustling leaves.
  • Neatly stacked Statues of Buddha
  • Replica Of Borobudur: This place is a replica of the largest Buddhist temple in the world situated in Java , Indonesia. The stupas and the Buddha Statues look similar to that of the Borobudur.
  • A Friendly Elephant: Do not get to close but you can see it playing with its chains swaying from side to side.
  • Beira Lake and Seema Malakaya: This place has been designed by the renowned architect of Sri Lanka, Geoffrey Bawa who is well known for designing several iconic structures in Sri Lanka such as The Parliament, University of Ruhuna and many other hotels as well. This is where the monks assemble located in the middle of the Beira Lake.
Things to Mind !

Opening Hours: 6 am to 10 pm.

Entrance Fee: Free but donations will be most  welcome

Dress Code: as most religious places, visitors are required to dress conservatively i.e. avoid shorts, sleeveless skinnies and head gears as well. A T-Shirt, denims and clothing covering the knees is most appropriate.

Photography: allowed free of cost.

Conclusion

Either being religious or not, the aura of the place emits serene vibe that will make you feel peaceful along with indulging in enjoyable recollection of reminisces of the antique and vintage collections and ancient architectural structure. Make sure not to miss out on all that’s mentioned above and keep your eyes open for more surprises.

When you visit the temple, make sure that you also explore the Beira Lake. To know more about places to visit in Colombo, Click Here to check out our posts.

How to reach

The tower is about 35 Km from the Bandaranaike International Airport and can take an hour to reach during busy hours. 

If you are stationed in Colombo, you can travel by bus and for a quick ride, hire a cab or a TukTuk for its much convenient. 

Gangaramaya Temple- The splendid temple by the lake Read More »

Arcade- Independence Square

 From an Asylum to Luxury Arcade

The Arcade – Independence Square is a spectrum of historic colonial era buildings given the touch of the modern refurbishments to preserve the past by the touch of the present. The structure is a manifestation of its kind that portrays its serenity through its while walls and green pastures during the day and flamboyance during the nights due to the striking illuminations.

Brief History

The building was historically known as the Jawatta Lunatic Asylum or the Cinnamon Gardens Asylum build during the late 19th century. Governor, Sir William Gregory decided to build an asylum to replace the existing facility in Borella during 1875 which was delays due to hullabaloos of location and design structure. Thereafter Sir James Longdon who was appointed as the new governor completed the structure by 1889 that had a capacity to hold atleast 400 patients. The building was a simple structure for the time with least ornamental decorations except for the tower that housed a clock at the forefront.

Although the obvious being stated, the quality of the building in terms of materials, structure, and its elegant design was explicitly ornamental for a two storey building which lasted over a century with the least maintenance.

However, with time, due to the inability to cater to the enormous influx  of patients, another facility was constructed at Angoda to facilitate the transfer of all these patients to the new asylum.

Henceforth, the building has been through several institutions, occupied by the Public Administration Department, Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), the Auditor General’s Department and later the Government Analyst’s Department. Thereafter, the building was neglected bringing it to a standstill eerie asylum mansion.

Thereafter in 2012, through the agency of the Urban Redevelopment Project, the place was brought back to life with a glamorous and opulent structure and land scape with the help of the armed forces. Luxury was orchestrated through the use of new technology, lightings, flooring and fountains shopping complexes with various brands, modern eateries and so much more.

Shoppers Delight

On entering the locations, the Arcade greets with its pristine white colonial building with the green landscape that emits an aura of relaxation. Inside the building, one would still feel the presence of the old structure as if in a dimension between the old and the future due to the antique type lamp shades and furniture that envelopes one with the impression of the past and the modern lightings, glass doors and other amenities that emanate a futuristic dimension. 

For those who have a knack to spend for quality and brands names, this place is a shopper delight with some of the high-end brands stores housed within. One would find a range of products from watches and electronics to clothing, jewellery, handcraft, sports equipment and so much more.

Other thing to do 

Dine in-After the lounging within, you can pamper yourself with some fine dining too.

Watch a movie- Arcade- Independence Square also roofs the Ceylon Theatre’s Empire Cineplex for entertainment and adds to the number of ways one can enjoy at the Arcade.

Chill and Relax- If you are not the kind who wants to hang out in crowded malls, this place also has some interesting artefacts, sculptures, water fountains and green lawns & natural landscapes.

Glass top tanks with colourful ornamental fish

Arcade Independence Square

 

The Arcade – Independence Square without doubt is a splendid place in an immaculate location at the heart of Colombo, uniquely designed for getaways for people of all ages, entertainment, shopping, leisure, dining, all-in-one place. The portfolio of world-famous brands at the Arcade is a crowd puller along with its reminiscence of the old architecture. Be it day or night, the arcade has tonnes to offer to keep your body and soul occupied and mesmerised.

To know more about places to visit in Colombo, Click Here to check out our post.

How to reach

The tower is about 35 Km from the Bandaranaike International Airport and can take an hour to reach during busy hours. 

The location is easily accessible either by the local busses that frequent the place every 5 minutes or a cab too would be of ease.

Arcade- Independence Square| From Asylum to exquisite Arcade Read More »

Museum
The Independence

Located at the basement of the Independence Memorial Hall, Independence Square (formally Torrington Square) in the Cinnamon Gardens, one will be astonished to discover a museum at the basement.

Just as the National Museum, this museum is also maintained by the Department of National Museum. The museum honours the national heroes who played a major role in the country’s independence from the British Colonisation. The statues and pictures of patriots, political leaders, clergy as well as renowned authors can be seen here reviving the historical events and struggles the country had to face in the past.

Although the place is not famous and can be said to be mysteriously hidden and one hardly notices it. This museum with an ambience that does not attract many has a lot to offer in terms of knowledge. For those with a knack for history and politics, the museum has volumes to offer.

Things to Expect

  • A small fee is charged to enter the premise
  • Special permission needs to be taken to obtain pictures, hence you will be paying a negligible fee
  • Statues of Figure heads, Politicians, Religious leaders, freedom fighters, authors, etc.
To know more about places to visit in Colombo, Click Here to check out our posts.

How to reach

The museum is about 35 Km from the Bandaranaike International Airport and can take an hour to reach during busy hours. 

If you are stationed in Colombo, you can travel by bus and for a quick ride, hire a cab for its much convenient.

Independence Memorial Museum- The forgotten Protagonist and hidden treasures Read More »

In commemoration of the independence from the British and handing over and reinstatement of the Ceylonese government on 4th February 1948, the Independence Memorial also known as the Independence Commemoration Hall as the name depicts was built marking this historic event where it took place.

The opening of the 1st parliament by Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester occurred during this ceremony bringing new life and hope to the people of “Ceylon” as it was known at the time.

At present the monument hold the statue of Hon. Don Stephen Senanayake also known as the Father of the Nation. Currently the site is employed for religious and cultural events, independence / national day celebrations and many more. If lucky, one may be able to witness wedding photoshoots as well usually with the Bride and the Groom dressed in Sri Lankan traditional dress.

Structure of the Memorial Hall

The structure resembles the Royal Audience Hall from the Kandyan Era known as Magul Maduwa or Celebration Hall. The Architecture is similar to the ancient Sri Lanka with columns, beams and significant sculptures include the lion, the Punkala or pot of prosperity, statues etc.

At present, the Independence Memorial Hall is frequented as a recreational venue for joggers, students from universities close by, promenading couples and families as a getaway place for some quality time. The location in open 24/7 hence no entry timings and restrictions however, amorously canoodling couples, littering and graffiti is strictly policed and discouraged.

Usually what one would over look is the Independence Memorial Museum right below the monument at its basement. So make sure you do not miss out too. 

To know more about places to visit in Colombo, Click Here to check out our posts.

How to reach

The tower is about 35 Km from the Bandaranaike International Airport and can take an hour to reach during busy hours. 

During the evenings, the working crowd may visit the jogging paths for their routine exercises and the children with their games. 

Independence Square- Independence Memorial Hall Read More »

Brief History

Galle Face Green is a strip of beach along the Indian ocean in central Colombo stretching to approximately half a Kilometre. During the invasion of the Dutch, this strip was utilised as a strategic line for Cannon fire against the Portuguese. It was originally developed by the Dutch as a strategic line of cannon fire against the invading Portuguese, and stretched over a much larger area than what it is today. In 1859, Governor; Sir Henry George Ward constructed a promenade alongside the seashore to allow women and children to saunter and play within.

Recent Developments

At present, Galle Face Green is currently maintained by the Urban Development Authority (UDA) of Sri Lanka. The beach is a spectacle to view during sunset along this beautiful coast. At most times, this promenade is crowded by the locals who consider the beach a place to relax. The countless street food joints provide a wide array of food and is famous for the prawn fried Wada, crabs, Pineapple and mango pickled, fish BBQs, bread, fried meat and so much more to enrich your taste buds. 

As for the current developments, the Port city at the end of the strip is an extension of the land to the sea by the Government to host a business city with several luxurious amenities to facilitate foreign Investments and business entities in Sri Lanka. Especially during the windy seasons, this place is a go to location for kite lovers and has also hosted several events as well. On the opposite side of the coast, one would find the luxurious hotels such as Taj Samudra and Shangri-La facing the promenade. Anyone who visits this place will never be disappointed and will be a refreshing way to end a long day.

Things to do

The lovely coast is famous for its sunset and so much to do as well.

  • Foot/body baths ( The sea can be rough at times)
  • Watching the spectacle sunset
  • Listening to the gushing waves over the Cape Bridge
  • The Spicy street food culinary 
  • Kite flying
  • Picnic with family
  • Games such as football or volleyball etc

 

Time to Visit

The place is open to its visitors free of charge 24/7, hence one can visit it at anytime of the year. If you are a morning person and love the fresh morning breeze, going for a jog in by 6am will be the ideal choice with the least crowd. 

If you are winding up for the day and wish to spend some tranquil time listening to the sea, the evenings from 5pm would be ideal to sit at the ledge of the beach with your feet dangling with the wide ocean ahead at the orange sunset horizon.

During festive seasons and holidays, the place can get crowded with the local dwellers around, so if you are not in a mood to see large gatherings, then you should avoid such days if not everyday is a good day.

If you are a kite enthusiast, visiting during July to September  would give you the opportunity to witness a range of different types of kites of various sizes and also “go fly a kite yourself…” to experience the ultimate adventure and time pass.

To know more about places to visit in Colombo, Click Here to check out our post.

How to reach

From the Airport, Galle Face Green is just 36Km away and would take an hour to reach. The location is accessible by private cab, public transport busses or Auto rickshaw. 

Galle face Green- Best Promenade in Sri Lanka Read More »

Colombo Beira Lake

The Beira Lake is one of the well-known landmarks situated in the heart of Colombo having a history of over 500 years from the 16th Century during the invasion of the Portuguese to then Ceylon. For one who looks forward for a waver from the concrete jungle, this tranquil lake is a place of respite.

The Beira Lake inherited from the Portuguese during the Colonial Era of the Portuguese, still remains in the heart of Colombo bordered by the skyscrapers, government buildings, warehouses, Conventional centres and business tycoons of the city. It is said that the name Beira in Portuguese means “Bank or Edge of the Lake”.

A short History

The lake was initially constructed by the Portuguese as a moat for protection against the forces of the then kings who tried to drive the Portuguese invasion away but failed to do so. Thereafter the Dutch built their strong point in the port strengthening their defences within followed by the British who then cleansed the lake of all its perils such as crocodiles to utilise it for recreational purposes such as rowing and Yachting. The lake also became a means of transportation due to its well-connected network to other cities.

Lake of the Modern Era

To this day, many schools practice their sports such as rowing on the Lake. With a maximum length of 1.5 Km, the lake is home to Colombo Rowing Club for over 140 years.

Needless to mention, the spectacular view of the high-rise buildings portrayed at the horizon and the railroad passing above connecting canals, the location is a package that includes adventure, picnics, religious harmony, romance, peace of mind, workouts and for those who wish for some “Me time” the tranquillity of the lake will divert your attention away from the stress and buzz of the city.

You may also be able to witness photography of marriage couples by the lake either in the Seema Malakaya temple or close to the Gangarama temple. The bride will be dressed in the traditional Osariya whilst the groom in the Nilame Costume.   

The lake is home to some very mysterious birds such as Cormorants, Egrets, Herons, Painted Storks, ducks, the abundantly nestled big spot-billed Pelicans and many more. Therefore, you do not have to head deep into the wilderness to watch beautiful birds but cherish the beauty of the lake being an audience to its kaleidoscopic mortal ornamental.

Things to do

Some of the noteworthy attractions in and around this lake are:

  • Seema Malakaya Meditation Centre
  • Gangaramaya Temple floating atop the waters
  • 8˚ on the Lake- A massive floating luxury eatery by Cinnamon Lakeside
  • Suspension Bridge to the Garden Island
  • Lovers’ Island- A small garden island in the middle of the lake connected by the suspension bridge
  • Eateries
  • Shopping bazars and boutiques
  • Jogging track
  • Boat/Swan Rides
  • Dutch Museum
  • Lotus Tower

Either if you have just landed in Sri Lanka or are about to bid farewell to this pearl, this place a ideal for a warmup ahead of your journey within the country or a warm down to wrap-up all those nostalgic memories that have been engraved for life.

Entrance Fee

There is no entrance fee to the lake although the prices of the rides and activities will depend. The lake is open from 7am until 6pm to the public.

To know more about places to visit in Colombo, Click Here to check out our post.

How to reach

From the Airport, the lake is about an hour’s journey for 35Km away and besides if one is to stay in Colombo itself especially due to luxurious hotels around the place, the access to this lake is much easier and may be at walking distance.

Contact us for more details

Beira Lake- Tranquillity Nestled in Colombo Read More »

Colombo Lotus Tower

Visible from most places around Colombo is the high rise and the tallest skyscraper- The Lotus Tower. In Sinhala, it is known as “Nelum Kuluna” “නෙලුම් කුලුන” as it translates to the English name. The tower stands at a height of 350 meters / 1,150 feet occupying the place of the 11th tallest tower in Asia and the 19th tallest tower in the world. The tower was build with the intention of Television and Radio Transmission hence improving the service with the least environmental impact and Carbon Footprints. 

If you are in Colombo, this place is a big yes and a must visit. The tower should not be mistaken to be just a Signal transmission tower, but also houses banquet halls, shopping malls, hotels and restaurants, auditoriums and much more. The main catch is the revolving restaurant at the top which provides a scenic view of Colombo whilst rotations 360 degrees in an hour and a half.

Structure

The Tower in the shape of a Lotus Flower has a green stalk which is the tower and the bud of the flower at the top with its pink and yellow shaded petals. The Lotus signifies the purity of culture and development within the country. The base of the lotus tower is entrance of the tower which holds 9 floors taking the shape of two lopsided trapezoids. The Tower house is where most of the fun things to do are above which is the antennas for the broadcasting purposes. 

Things to do

Some of the thing you can expect to enjoy here are:

  • Revolving Restaurant
  • Shopping complex and mall
  • Observation Deck
  • Lotus suite
  • Theatres  and auditoriums
  • Telecommunications museum
  • Other recreational centres, restaurants and leisure activities

The tower is open through out the year and can be enjoyed at anytime. Hence make sure to make it part of the bucket list while in Colombo.

Since the Lotus tower is open though out  the year 24 / 7 / 365 days of the year for the tourists you can enjoy it at anytime. On special religious festivals such as Thai Pongal, Diwali, Christmas , Sinhala Tamil New year,  Eid and also the new years eve the tower is decorated signifying these celebrations. So with out further ado, grab your cameras and head to the tower to enjoy the spectrum of Colombo.

Entrance fee

The entrance fee will amount to USD 20 for foreigners.

To know more about places to visit in Colombo, Click Here to check out our post.

How to Reach

The tower is about 32 Km from the Bandaranaike International Airport and can take an hour to reach during busy times. 

If you are stationed in Colombo, you can by ride on an omnibus and for a quick ride, hire a cab for its much convenient.

Contact us to Discover more

Colombo Lotus Tower/ Nelum Kuluna Read More »

Overview

For an enthusiast of History, the Colombo National Museum is the perfect place to start off from. Located about an hour from the Airport, In the heart of Colombo 7, lies this magnificent Italian Architectural Structure. The museum is known to be the largest in the country being home to over 100,000 exhibits within its thick walls.

Landscape and artefacts

Housed in a two-storied building, the museum has a vast land scape of a lush green lawn shaded by towering banyan trees, which adds to the beauty of the place. To welcome you into the museum, a fourth-century Buddha Statue is placed at the entrance lobby.

The captivating walk within will drive you through the history of Ceylon encountering  different types of art, carvings, swords, guns and other paraphernalia from the colonial period. You will also find 19th-century reproductions of English paintings of Sri Lanka and a collection of antique demon masks staring down at you. One of its most prominent exhibitions showcases the throne of Sri Vikrama Rajasinha, the last king to rule over Sri Lanka from a monarchy that lasted for over 2300 years.

The museum is managed by the Department of National Museum, a ministerial department under the decree of the Sri Lankan government for its running and maintenance.

History of National Museum Colombo

The building housing all of these artefacts itself holds a historic value that dates back to the 19th century. The construction of the museum was carried out by Arasi Marikar Wapchie Marikar  who was descended from the Sheikh Fareed family who arrived in Ceylon in 1060AD). Being a Renowned Architect and a Mason of British Ceylon, his infamous architectural and building skills are portrayed by several prominent structures that still stand to this day such as General Post Office in Colombo, the Clock Tower, Victoria Arcade, Colombo Customs, Old Town Hall in Pettah, Zahira College building and many more. In January 1877, the Colombo Museum was declared open to the public by Governor Gregory.

Entrance fees

An entrance fee of Rs 1000 is charged for adults and Rs 500 kids.

To know more about places to visit in Colombo, Click Here to check out our post.

How to Reach

 

From the Airport, the museum is just 30Km away and would take an hour to the max to reach. The Museum opens at 9am until 5pm except of Public Holidays and Fridays.

COLOMBO NATIONAL MUSEUM Read More »

Author: Zahir F

Colombo

Setting Foot in to Sri Lanka, the first place to experience is the Bandaranayake International Airport located in the Colombo District. Colombo is the commercial Capital of the beautiful Island where most of the Hustle and Bustle takes place. 

Although the city is a commercial hub, there still lies a side of history, beaches, traditional escapes, religious sites modern structures and last but not least, the Food galas and street treats. Some of the interesting places to enjoy whilst in Colombo will be the Galle Face Beach, Lotus Tower, National Museum of Sri Lanka, Old Dutch Hospital, Red Mosque, Gangaramaya Temple, Seema Malakaya 

COLOMBO NATIONAL MUSEUM

For an enthusiast of History, the Colombo National Museum is the perfect place to start off from. Located about an hour from the Airport, In the heart of Colombo 7, lies this magnificent Italian Architectural Structure. The museum is known to be the largest in the country being home to over 100,000 exhibits within its thick walls.

The captivating walk within will drive you through the history of Ceylon encountering  different types of art, carvings, swords, guns and other paraphernalia from the colonial period. You will also find 19th-century reproductions of English paintings of Sri Lanka and a collection of antique demon masks staring down at you.

The museum is managed by the Department of National Museum, a ministerial department created by the Sri Lankan government specifically for its maintenance.

 

Colombo Lotus Tower/ Nelum Kuluna

Visible from most places around Colombo is the high rise and the tallest skyscraper- The Lotus Tower. In Sinhala, it is known as “Nelum Kuluna” as it translates to the English name. The tower stands at a height of 350 meters / 1,150 feet occupying the place of the 11th tallest tower in Asia and the 19th tallest tower in the world. The tower was build with the intention of Television and Radio Transmission hence improving the service with the least environmental impact and Carbon Footprints. 

If you are in Colombo, this place is a big yes and a must visit. The tower should not be mistaken to be just a Signal transmission tower, but also houses banquet halls, shopping malls, hotels and restaurants, auditoriums and much more. The main catch is the revolving restaurant at the top which provides a scenic view of Colombo whilst rotations 360 degrees in an hour and a half.

The tower is open through out the year and can be enjoyed at anytime. Hence make sure to make it part of the bucket list while in Colombo. During festive seasons make sure to check out the decorations inside and out with a cultural aura to mesmerise your eyes.

BEIRA LAKE

The Beira Lake is one of the well-known landmarks situated in the heart of Colombo having a history of over 500 years from the 16th Century during the invasion of the Portuguese to then Ceylon. For one who looks forward for a waver from the concrete jungle, this tranquil lake is a place of respite.

The Beira Lake inherited from the Portuguese during the Colonial Era of the Portuguese, still remains in the heart of Colombo bordered by the skyscrapers, government buildings, warehouses, Conventional centres and business tycoons of the city. It is said that the name Beira in Portuguese means “Bank or Edge of the Lake”.

Either if you have just landed in Sri Lanka or are about to bid farewell to this pearl, this place a ideal for a warmup ahead of your journey within the country or a warm down to wrap-up all those nostalgic memories that have been engraved for life.

GALLE FACE GREEN

Galle Face Green is a strip of beach along the Indian ocean in central Colombo stretching to approximately half a Kilometre. During the invasion of the Dutch, this strip was utilised as a strategic line for Cannon fire against the Portuguese. After the British colonised Ceylon, in 1859, Sir Henry George Ward, it was originally developed by the Dutch as a strategic line of cannon fire against the invading Portuguese, and stretched over a much larger area than what it is today. In 1859, Governor; Sir Henry George Ward constructed a promenade alongside the seashore to allow women and children to saunter and play within.

At present, Galle Face Green is currently maintained by the Urban Development Authority (UDA) of Sri Lanka. The beach is a spectacle to view the sunset along this beautiful coast. Most of the time, this promenade is crowded by the locals who consider the beach a place to relax. The countless street food joints provide a wide array of food and is famous for the prawn fried wada, crabs, pineapple & mango pickled, fish BBQs, bread, fried meat and so much more to enrich your taste buds. 

As for the current developments, the Port city at the end of the strip is an extension of the land to the sea by the Government to host a business city with several other amenities. Especially during the windy seasons, this place is a go to location for kite lovers and has also hosted several events as well. On the opposite side of the coast, one would find the luxurious hotels such as Taj Samudra and Shangri-La facing the promenade. Anyone who visits this place will never be disappointed and will be a refreshing way to end a long day.

Viharamadevi Park

The Park formally known as Victoria Park, is said to be the oldest and largest park situated in Colombo being reason for the lush greenery amidst a concrete jungle. The part is situated in Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo 7 once known for the lush spices and cinnamon during the colonial times however now the name remains as the only evidence of such spices in the area.

The park dates back to 1866 during the British Colonial times when the park was created  as a place for recreational activities for residents of Colombo named after HRH Queen Victoria as Victoria Gardens. The park was also used as a ground for Cricket Tournaments  after which during the World war II, it proudly hosted the 17 brigade of the British and the Australian army.

The park is lit on pathways with street lights at every corner too and fountain lights to add to the beauty during nights.  Since the park is open 24/7 from all corners and has a stunning view of the sites around, if one is to avoid the blazing heat of the sun, the night retreat will reward you with a pleasant surprise too.

Independence Square

The Independence Square formally known as Torrington Square located in Cinnamon Gardens is home to Several national monuments. The place is calm and tranquil for relaxation with a huge lawn with path ways for those dawn and dusk jogging enthusiasts. Along side one can witness other structures of historic precedence such as the Independence Memorial Hall, Independence Memorial Museum, The Arcade, and so much more.

Independence Memorial Hall

In commemoration of the independence from the British and handing over and reinstatement of the Ceylonese government on 4th Feb 1948, the Independence Memorial also known as the Independence Commemoration Hall as the name depicts was built marking this historic event where it took place.

The opening of the 1st parliament by Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester occurred during this ceremony bringing new life and hope to the people of Ceylon as it was known at the time.

At present the monument hold the statue of Hon. Don Stephen Senanayake also known as the Father of the Nation. Currently, the site is employed for religious and cultural events, independence / national day celebrations and other special occasions as well. The site also at times can be seen used for wedding photoshoots to add to the extra spice of the marriage.

To know more about Independence Memorial Hall Click Here

Arcade- Independence Square

The Arcade – Independence Square is a spectrum of historic colonial era buildings given the touch of the modern refurbishments to preserve the past by the touch of the present. The structure is a manifestation of its kind that portrays its serenity through its while walls and green pastures during the day and flamboyance during the nights due to the striking illuminations.

Having a history of being an Asylum for Lunatics during the reign of the British, the building there after has been  used for several other purposes such as Public Administration Department, Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC), the Auditor General’s Department and later the Government Analyst’s Department. Thereafter, the building was neglected bringing it to a standstill eerie asylum mansion. However, in 2014, the building was refurbished and given its present looks that currently attract multitude of the populace just to witness this attraction especially at nights.

The Arcade – Independence Square without doubt is a splendid place in an immaculate location at the heart of Colombo, uniquely designed for getaways, entertainment, shopping, leisure, dining, all-in-one place. The portfolio of world-famous brands at the Arcade is a crowd puller along with its reminiscence of the old architecture. Be it day or night, the arcade has tonnes to offer to keep your body and soul occupied and mesmerised.

To know more about The Arcade Click Here

Independence Memorial Museum

Located at the basement of the Independence Memorial Hall, Independence Square (formally Torrington Square) in the Cinnamon Gardens, one will be astonished to discover a museum at the basement.

Although the place is not famous and can be said to be mysterious hidden so that one hardly notices it, this museum with an ambience that does not attract many has a lot to offer in terms of knowledge. For those with a knack for history and politics, the museum has volumes to offer.

To know more about Independence Memorial Museum Click Here

Gangaramaya Temple

Located on the banks the infamous Beira Lake lies the century old Gangarama temple in the heart of Colombo. The Temple has a history that dates back to more than a century built during the reign of the British Colony. It was built by the by Venerable Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka in 1885 and is currently an religious, educational and museum complex.

Its architecture resonates to that of the culture of Indonesia, China, Burma and Thailand. That being said the temple is a striking replica of Borobudur temple in Indonesia. Another special event of the temple that draws many tourists as well as locals is the traditional Nawam Perahera with its grandeur festive pageant illuminating the nights with the colours of light, fire and the traditional music.   

The temple itself is a calm and serene destination open to any as long as one is dressed respectively and respects its sanctity. The place is full of surprises so feel free to explore and do not hesitate to speak to the locals to know about the culture of the country and the historic significance of the place and items. 

Welcome to Colombo- Things to do; and Places to Visit Read More »

Yala National Park

 

Leopard of Yala

Yala National Park, situated on the Southern Eastern Coast of Sri Lanka covering about 979 square kilometers of Land. Yala was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, and, along with Wilpattu being one of the first two National Parks in Sri Lanka, having been designated in 1938.

Yala is designated as one of the 70 Important Bird Areas (IBAs) in Sri Lanka consisting of 215 bird species of which 7 are endemic to Sri Lanka. The mammals consist of 44 species with the Leopard known to be the one of the highest populated place on the planet. Leopard spotting is the great draw card of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife sanctuary, since Yala National Park has around 30 of the normally secretive cats roaming around the park.

Driving around the bumpy rust-colour tracks through dry lowland plains, past jungle, lush wetlands, you may see families of elephants, vast herds of sambar deer, languor and toque monkeys, Sri Lankan sloth bears in the Palu trees, buffalo wallowing in mud puddles, crocodiles sunbathing on the riverbanks, wild pigs running around, and more. That was just the tip of the ice berg in a nut shell but there definitely is a lot more to expect. The park makes for fabulous twitching territory, with bird lovers able to spot around 220 different species of birds inhabiting or visiting the park.

 

 

Source: Yala National Park website

Yala is home to an endemic species of Leopards named Panthera Pardus Kotiya. The place is not just an animal lovers paradise but also filled with history that marvel through culture and a tell tale of lost civilizations to take home. just around the 5th Century AB, the Monastic settlement of Sithulpawwa, is said to have housed 12,000 inhabitants making it an important pilgrim site. The restored rock Temple, among a series of well-preserved ancient temples offers a glimpse into a glittering past. What is today a pristine wildlife kingdom, Yala was home to a thriving civilization, dating back to the glory days of Sri Lankan Kings. Hundreds of tanks, most in dilapidated state today, are testimony to an agri-based civilization that the country thrived on. The enormous tanks now provide a lifeline to the animal kingdom, especially during dry season. The sea hugs the park at coast along accompanied with gushing winds giving the visitors a refreshing aura. Guests are allowed to stretch around and use the public lavatory at the point. One can also see the remnants of the devastation caused by the tragic Tsunami in 2004.

Rules of the park

Visitors should take some precautionary measures for safety of oneself as well as the others therefore the park management has a set of guidelines and rules to follow. Guns, knives, and other potential weapons as well as matches, lighters, drugs, cigarettes, alcohol and anything that can harm the nature are strictly prohibited. Having illegal items in your vehicle or in your person can land you in jail.

  • Feeding animals is strictly prohibited.
  • Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited within the park.
  • Avoid food with strong odour as it attracts wild animals.
  • Do not liter the park and avoid taking polythene.
  • Carrying soil, stones, feathers or any other item from the park is strictly prohibited.
  • Remaining in the park after dark is strictly prohibited.
  • Avoid using mobile devices as animals have sensitive audibility and whitch off the flash light when taking pictures.

Timings to visit

As per the Yala National Park Website, the best period of the year to visit is from June to September although at other times of the year too animals are visible due to dry conditions. Timings of the park is from 6 am to 6pm.

” AN ANIMAL’S EYES HAVE THE POWER TO SPEAK A GREAT LANGUAGE “

MARTIN BUBER

The park is packed with adventure and also has bungalows within, where visitors can stay for up to 3 nights. At the vicinity, Jungle Cabins, boat houses and tree houses are no exceptions to this and for those with a bucket list to spend a romantic night if not an adventurous morning amidst the jungle, please feel free to contact us and we will help you with a nostalgic memory that you would write in golden ink.

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