by Travel Nomad | Jun 4, 2023 | Asia |
If you are looking for a unique and memorable experience in Sri Lanka, you should not miss visiting Dambulla Cave Temple, the most impressive cave temple in Asia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, because of its golden roof that shines in the sun.
Dambulla Cave Temple is located in the central province of Sri Lanka, about 160 km from Colombo. It is situated on a rocky hill, overlooking the plains and the Sigiriya rock fortress. The temple complex consists of five caves, each with its own history and significance.
History
The Dambulla Cave Temple was first built in the 1st century BC and has been expanded and renovated over the centuries. The temple is believed to have been a refuge for Buddhist monks during times of persecution. In the 16th century, the temple was renovated by King Wimaladharmasuriya I, who added a number of new statues and murals.
The caves date back to the 1st century BC when King Valagamba took refuge here after being driven out of his kingdom by invaders. He later returned to power and built the first cave temple as a gratitude to the monks who sheltered him. Since then, the caves have been expanded and decorated by various kings and rulers over the centuries.
Architecture
The Dambulla Cave Temple is carved into a large rock face that rises up to 160 feet (50 meters) above the ground. The five caves are arranged in a series of ascending levels and are connected by a series of staircases. The caves are decorated with statues, murals, and other artwork.
Artwork
The Dambulla Cave Temple is home to over 1,500 statues of Buddha, as well as murals depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life. The statues are made of a variety of materials, including stone, wood, and metal. The murals are painted on the walls of the caves and depict scenes from the Buddha’s life, as well as stories from Hindu mythology.
The caves contain over 150 Buddha statues, some of them over 14 meters long. They also feature paintings and frescoes that depict the life of Buddha and his previous incarnations. The caves are considered to be among the finest examples of ancient Buddhist art in the world.
Once you reach the caves, you can explore them at your own pace. Each cave has a different name and theme, such as the Cave of the Divine King, the Cave of the Great Kings, the Great New Monastery, the Western Temple, and the Second New Temple. You will be amazed by the variety and beauty of the statues and paintings in each cave.
You can also visit the Golden Temple Museum at the base of the hill, which displays artifacts and information about the history and culture of Dambulla Cave Temple. You can also see a large golden Buddha statue and a stupa outside the museum.
Dambulla Cave Temple is open daily from 7 am to 7 pm. The best time to visit is in the morning or evening when it is cooler and less crowded. You can spend about two hours exploring the caves and enjoying the scenery.
Dambulla Cave Temple is a must-see attraction for anyone who loves history, culture, and art. It is a place where you can witness the rich heritage and spirituality of Sri Lanka. It is also a place where you can marvel at the craftsmanship and creativity of ancient artists. It is a place that will leave you speechless and inspired.
Things to do at Dambulla Cave Temple
There are a number of things to do at Dambulla Cave Temple, including:
- Visit the caves: The main attraction of Dambulla Cave Temple is the five caves, which are home to over 1,500 statues of Buddha, as well as murals depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life.
- Take a guided tour: There are a number of guided tours available at the Temple, which can help you learn more about the history and significance of the temple.
- Offer alms to the monks: It is customary to offer alms to the monks at the Temple. You can do this by purchasing food from a local vendor and then offering it to the monks who are gathered in the temple courtyard.
- Meditate: The Temple is a peaceful place to meditate. You can find a quiet spot in the temple grounds and sit or lie down to meditate.
- Take in the views: From the top of the Dambulla Cave Temple, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Where to stay near Dambulla Cave Temple
There are a number of hotels and guesthouses located near Temple. These hotels offer a variety of accommodation options, including budget-friendly options and luxury hotels.
Tips for visiting Dambulla Cave Temple
Here are a few tips for visiting Dambulla Cave Temple:
- Dress modestly: When visiting Temple, it is important to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
- Remove your shoes: When entering the caves, you will be required to remove your shoes.
- Be respectful: Temple is a sacred place, so it is important to be respectful of the monks and other visitors.
- Take your time: There is a lot to see at Temple, so take your time and enjoy your visit.
by Travel Nomad | Jun 4, 2023 | Asia |
If you are looking for a scenic and historic destination in Sri Lanka, you might want to visit the Dondra Lighthouse, located on the southernmost tip of the island. This lighthouse is not only the tallest in Sri Lanka but also one of the tallest in South East Asia. It stands 49 meters (161 feet) high and has 196 steps to the top, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Indian Ocean. But how did this lighthouse come to be? Let’s take a look at its history and significance.
The Design and Construction
The Dondra Lighthouse was designed by Sir James Nicholas Douglass, a renowned British engineer who also designed many other famous lighthouses around the world, such as the Eddystone Lighthouse in England and the Minot’s Ledge Light in Massachusetts. He was assisted by his son William Douglass, who was also an engineer and worked for the Imperial Lighthouse Service.
The construction of the lighthouse began in November 1887 and was completed in March 1890. All the building materials, including bricks and steel, were imported from England. The granite rock was supplied from quarries in Scotland and Cornwall. The lighthouse was built in an octagonal shape with a balcony and a lantern on top. It was painted white with yellow windows to contrast with the blue sky and sea.
The lighthouse cost £30,000 to build, which was paid for by dues collected at the Basses lighthouses, another pair of lighthouses located off the southeast coast of Sri Lanka. The Dondra Lighthouse was commissioned by the British government as part of their colonial administration and maritime safety.
The Lens and Light
One of the most remarkable features of the Dondra Lighthouse was its lens, which was a hyper-radiant Fresnel lens that became available at the end of the 19th century. This type of lens was very large and powerful, capable of producing a bright beam of light that could be seen from a long distance. The lens was made by Chance Brothers in England, who were famous for their glassworks and optical instruments.
The lens was mounted on a rotating mechanism that made it flash every five seconds. The light had a range of 28 nautical miles (52 km or 32 mi), making it one of the most visible lighthouses in the region. The light was powered by mains electricity, which was a rare and modern feature at that time.
The lens served its purpose for over a century until it was removed in 2020 and replaced by a static flashing LED light, which reduced the visibility range of the lighthouse considerably. The reason for this change was not clear, but some speculated that it was due to maintenance issues or security concerns.
The Location and Significance
The Dondra Lighthouse is situated on Dondra Head, which is also known as Devinuwara or City of Gods in Sinhala, or Thevanthurai or God’s Port in Tamil. This name reflects the cultural and religious importance of this place, which was once home to a magnificent temple complex dedicated to various Hindu and Buddhist deities.
The temple complex was built between the 5th and 7th centuries CE and was patronized by various Sinhalese and Tamil kings and pilgrims. It covered a vast area and had many shrines, statues, arches, and gates. It also had a central tower that was covered with gold and copper plates that reflected light and served as a landmark for sailors.
However, the temple complex was destroyed by the Portuguese invaders in the late 16th century, who also built a fort on the site. The ruins of the temple and the fort can still be seen today, along with some recovered artifacts that are displayed in a museum nearby.
The Dondra Lighthouse stands as a reminder of the rich history and heritage of this place, as well as a symbol of its resilience and beauty. It is also a popular tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the sunrise and sunset, as well as opportunities to see wildlife such as whales, dolphins, turtles, and birds.
If you are interested in visiting the Dondra Lighthouse, you can reach it by road from Matara city, which is about 6 km (3.7 mi) away. You can also take a train or bus to Matara and then hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to take you to the lighthouse. The lighthouse is open to the public from 9 am to 5 pm, and there is a small fee to enter. You can also find some hotels and guesthouses nearby if you want to stay overnight.
The Dondra Lighthouse is a must-see for anyone who loves history, culture, and nature. It is a place where you can learn about the past, enjoy the present, and hope for the future.
by Travel Nomad | Jun 3, 2023 | Asia |
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, also known as Royal Botanical Gardens, are one of the most popular attractions in Sri Lanka. Located about 5.5 km from the city of Kandy, they cover an area of 147 acres and contain more than 4000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees²³. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a photography enthusiast, you will find something to enjoy at these gardens. Here are some tips on how to spend a relaxing day at Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
Plan your visit
The gardens are open daily from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm. You can also hire a guide for an additional fee if you want to learn more about the plants and the history of the gardens. Alternatively, you can download the official app of the Department of National Botanic Gardens, which provides information and maps of the gardens.
The best time to visit the gardens is during the dry season, from December to April when the weather is pleasant and the flowers are in bloom. However, you can also enjoy the gardens during the rainy season, as they offer a refreshing escape from the heat and humidity.
Explore the gardens
The gardens are divided into several sections, each with its own theme and attractions. Some of the highlights include:
- The Orchid House: This is where you can admire a stunning collection of orchids, ranging from endemic species to exotic hybrids. The Orchid House also hosts an annual orchid show in February³.
- The Spice Garden: This is where you can learn about the spices that have shaped the history and culture of Sri Lanka. You can see cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, clove, pepper, and many other spices growing in their natural habitat.
- Palm Avenue: This is a majestic avenue lined with coconut palm trees that leads to the Great Lawn. The palm trees were planted in 1905 to commemorate the visit of Prince Albert Victor³.
- The Great Lawn: This is a spacious lawn surrounded by flower beds and trees. It is a perfect spot for picnics, relaxing, or playing games.
- The Giant Javan Fig Tree: This is one of the most impressive sights in the gardens. It is a huge fig tree that covers an area of 1600 square meters with its aerial roots and branches⁴. It is estimated to be over 140 years old³.
- The Suspension Bridge: This is a bridge that crosses the Mahaweli River, which encircles the gardens. It offers a scenic view of the river and the surrounding hills.
Enjoy other activities
Besides exploring the gardens, you can also enjoy other activities such as:
- Visiting the National Herbarium: This is where you can see a collection of over 200,000 dried plant specimens from Sri Lanka and other countries². It is also a research center for botany and conservation.
- Shopping at the souvenir shop: This is where you can buy souvenirs such as books, postcards, seeds, plants, and handicrafts made from natural materials.
- Dining at the cafeteria: This is where you can have a snack or a meal while enjoying the view of the gardens. The cafeteria serves local and international dishes at reasonable prices.
Conclusion
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are a must-see destination for anyone visiting Sri Lanka. They offer a rich diversity of plants, a fascinating history, and a serene atmosphere. You can easily spend a whole day at these gardens and still not see everything they have to offer. So make sure you include them in your itinerary and enjoy a relaxing day at Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
by Travel Nomad | May 21, 2023 | Asia |
If you are planning to visit the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka, you should not miss the opportunity to explore the Sigiriya Museum as well. The museum is located near the main ticketing booth and is included in your entrance fee to the rock fortress. It is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day².
The Sigiriya Museum is a treasure trove of information and artifacts that reveal the rich cultural, technological, and archaeological value of Sigiriya. It showcases the results of over three decades of archaeological research on the site, dating back to prehistoric times up to the 10th-century CE³.
The museum is designed to blend with the natural environment and to reflect the sophisticated architecture of Sigiriya itself. It has three floors that correspond to the levels of the rock fortress: the lower city, the middle city, and the upper palace³. To enter the museum, you have to walk through a brick tunnel that resembles the archway of the Sigiriya citadel³.
The first floor of the museum displays exhibits related to the prehistoric and protohistoric transformation of Sigiriya, as well as the early and later Buddhist monasteries that existed on the site before and after the royal period. You can see tools, pottery, coins, sculptures, and a human skeleton that were unearthed during excavations³.
The second floor of the museum focuses on the royal city and the golden age of Sigiriya when King Kasyapa (477-495 CE) built his magnificent palace on top of the rock. You can learn about the urban planning, water systems, garden design, art, and architecture of Sigiriya through models, drawings, photographs and information panels. You can also admire replicas of the famous Sigiriya frescoes and graffiti that adorn the rock walls³.
The third floor of the museum covers the courtly and monastic life and foreign trade of Sigiriya after King Kasyapa’s death. You can see ceramics, coins, and sculptures that were imported from India, China, the Gulf, and the Roman Empire, as well as courtly items that reflect the lifestyle of the elite³.
The Sigiriya Museum is a must-see destination for anyone who wants to learn more about the history and culture of Sri Lanka. It offers a comprehensive and engaging overview of Sigiriya’s past and present, as well as its connection with the local community and sustainable tourism. It is also a great way to prepare yourself for climbing the rock fortress or to refresh your memory after descending from it.
Here are some tips for visiting the Sigiriya Museum:
- Plan to spend at least an hour or two at the museum to fully appreciate its exhibits.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as you will have to climb stairs and walk through terraces.
- Bring a bottle of water and a hat or an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun or rain.
- Respect the rules of the museum: photography is prohibited inside, as well as touching or damaging any artifacts.
- Enjoy your visit and share your experience with others!
Works Cited:
(1) Sigiriya Museum. https://sigiriyatourism.com/
(2) Sigiriya Museum – Central Cultural Fund. https://www.ccf.gov.lk/destinations/sigiriya-museum/
(3) Sigiriya Museum | Attractions in Sigiriya | Love Sri Lanka. https://www.lovesrilanka.org/sigiriya-museum/
by Travel Nomad | May 21, 2023 | Asia |
Unawatuna is a popular beach destination in Sri Lanka, famous for its golden sand, turquoise water, and palm-fringed shore. But did you know that Unawatuna also has some amazing underwater attractions that you can explore with just a mask, snorkel, and fins? Snorkeling is a fun and easy way to discover the vibrant marine life and coral reefs that lie beneath the surface of the Indian Ocean. In this blog post, we will share with you some tips and tricks on how to enjoy the best snorkeling in Unawatuna Beach.
Where to snorkel in Unawatuna Beach
There are two main spots for snorkeling in Unawatuna Beach: Unawatuna Bay and Jungle Bay¹². Both of them offer different experiences and sights, so you can choose according to your preference and skill level.
Unawatuna Bay
Unawatuna Bay is the main beach area of Unawatuna, where you can find many hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is also where you can access the Unawatuna Rocks, which are located about five minutes by boat from the shore¹. The rocks are home to a variety of fish, corals, and other marine creatures, as well as a small shipwreck that you can explore¹. The water depth here ranges from 3 to 10 meters, so it is suitable for beginners and intermediate snorkelers¹.
Jungle Bay
Jungle Bay is a secluded beach that lies at the foot of the Rumassala Mountain, about half an hour by boat from Unawatuna Bay¹. It is named after the lush green forest that surrounds it, creating a natural and serene atmosphere. The bay has a very shallow entry point, which makes it ideal for snorkeling from the shore or from the boat¹. You can expect to see colorful corals, sponges, sea stars, anemones, and many kinds of fish here². The water depth here is less than 5 meters, so it is perfect for beginners and families with children¹.
How to snorkel in Unawatuna Beach
Snorkeling in Unawatuna Beach is not difficult, but it does require some preparation and safety precautions. Here are some things you should do before and during your snorkeling adventure:
- Rent or bring your own snorkeling gear. You can find many places that offer snorkeling equipment for rent in Unawatuna Beach, such as hotels, dive centers, and shops. Alternatively, you can bring your own mask, snorkel, and fins if you have them. Make sure they fit well and are comfortable to use.
- Book a boat tour or hire a guide. If you want to snorkel at Unawatuna Rocks or Jungle Bay, you will need to take a boat ride from Unawatuna Bay. You can book a boat tour with one of the local operators or hire a guide who can take you there. They will also provide you with safety instructions and tips on where to see the best marine life.
- Check the weather and water conditions. The best time to snorkel in Unawatuna Beach is from October to April when the weather is dry and sunny and the water is calm and clear¹. Avoid snorkeling during the monsoon season (May to September), when the water can be rough and murky. Also, check the tide chart and avoid snorkeling during low tide, when the water level can be too shallow and expose the corals.
- Wear sunscreen and protective clothing. The sun can be very strong in Sri Lanka, especially during midday. To prevent sunburns and skin damage, apply sunscreen generously on your exposed skin and reapply after every hour. You can also wear a rash guard, a hat, or a bandana to protect your head, neck, and shoulders from the sun. Avoid wearing jewelry or shiny objects that can attract unwanted attention from fish.
- Respect the marine environment. Snorkeling is a great way to appreciate the beauty of nature, but it also comes with a responsibility to protect it. Do not touch, feed or harass any marine animals or plants. Do not step on or break any corals. Do not litter or leave any trash behind. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing other snorkelers or swimmers.
What to expect from snorkeling in Unawatuna Beach
Snorkeling in Unawatuna Beach can be an unforgettable experience that will enrich your holiday in Sri Lanka. You can expect to see some of these amazing marine creatures during your snorkeling trip:
- Fish: There are hundreds of species of fish that inhabit the waters around Unawatuna Beach, ranging from small and colorful ones like clownfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, and parrotfish, to larger and more impressive ones like barracuda, tuna, trevally, and snapper.
- Corals: The coral reefs around Unawatuna Beach are not as extensive as those in other parts of Sri Lanka, but they are still worth seeing for their diversity and beauty. You can find hard corals like brain coral, table coral, and staghorn coral, as well as soft corals like sea fans, sea whips, and sea pens.
- Other marine life: Besides fish and corals, you can also encounter other fascinating marine life forms while snorkeling in Unawatuna Beach. Some of them are sea turtles, rays, octopus, squid, cuttlefish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, and nudibranchs.
Conclusion
Snorkeling in Unawatuna Beach is one of the best ways to enjoy your vacation in Sri Lanka. It is a fun and easy activity that anyone can do with minimal equipment and preparation. It will also give you a chance to witness the amazing underwater world that lies beneath the surface of the Indian Ocean. So what are you waiting for? Grab your mask, snorkel, and fins, and get ready for an adventure!
by Travel Nomad | May 20, 2023 | Asia |
Arugam Bay is one of the most famous surf destinations in Sri Lanka and for a good reason. It offers a variety of waves for all levels of surfers, from mellow point breaks to hollow reefs. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can find your perfect wave in Arugam Bay.
But how do you surf like a pro in Arugam Bay? Here are some tips and tricks to help you improve your skills and enjoy the best of this surf paradise.
Choose the right spot
Arugam Bay has several surf spots to choose from, each with its own characteristics and challenges. The main spot, also known as Surf Point or Main Point, is a long right-hand point break that breaks over sand and rocks. It has a fast and hollow section at the start, followed by a long and playful wall that offers multiple maneuvers. It is suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers, and it can get crowded during the peak season (May to October).
If you are looking for a more relaxed and beginner-friendly spot, you can head to Whiskey Point, about 10 km north of Arugam Bay. This spot has a gentle right-hand wave that breaks off a boulder point. It is ideal for learning and improving your surfing, as it is less crowded and more forgiving than the main spot.
Another option for beginners and intermediate surfers is Peanut Farm, about 12 km south of Arugam Bay. This spot has two waves: a mellow right-hander that breaks over sand, and a faster left-hander that breaks over reef. Both waves are fun and consistent, and offer a nice view of the surrounding nature.
For more advanced surfers who are looking for a challenge, there are some spots that require a longer drive or a boat ride, such as Pottuvil Point, Crocodile Rock, Elephant Rock, and Okanda. These spots are more exposed to the swell and the wind and can produce powerful and barreling waves. They are also less crowded and more scenic than the main spot.
Choose the right board
The type of board you use can make a big difference in your surfing performance and enjoyment. Depending on the spot, the conditions, and your level of surfing, you might want to choose a different board.
For the main spot, you will need a board that can handle the speed and power of the wave. A shortboard or a fish board would be ideal, as they are maneuverable and responsive. You can also use a funboard or a hybrid board if you want more stability and paddle power.
For Whiskey Point and Peanut Farm, you can use a board that is more suitable for smaller and softer waves. A longboard or a mini-mal would be perfect, as they are easy to paddle and catch waves with. You can also use a soft-top board if you are a beginner or want to have some fun.
For the more advanced spots, you will need a board that can handle the steepness and hollowness of the wave. A shortboard or a step-up board would be recommended, as they are fast and precise. You can also use a gun board if the waves are really big and heavy.
Choose the right time
The best time to surf in Arugam Bay is during the dry season, from May to October. This is when the southwest monsoon brings consistent swells from the Indian Ocean to the east coast of Sri Lanka. The waves are usually bigger and cleaner during this period, and the wind is offshore or light.
The best time of the day to surf in Arugam Bay is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This is when the tide is low or mid, which makes the waves more hollow and less mushy. It is also when the wind is calm or offshore, which makes the waves more smooth and glassy.
The best time of the month to surf in Arugam Bay is around the full moon or the new moon. This is when the tide range is higher, which creates more variation in the waves. It also affects the currents and the sandbanks, which can change the shape and quality of the waves.
Follow the etiquette
Surfing is not only a sport but also a culture that has its own rules and etiquette. If you want to surf like a pro in Arugam Bay, you need to respect these rules and other surfers. Here are some basic etiquette tips to follow:
- Don’t drop in: Dropping in means taking off on a wave that someone else is already riding or has priority on. This is considered rude and dangerous, as it can cause collisions and injuries. To avoid dropping in, always check if someone else is on the wave before you paddle for it.
- Don’t snake: Snaking means paddling around someone else to get closer to the peak of the wave and gain priority. This is considered cheating and disrespectful, as it shows that you don’t respect the line-up order. To avoid snaking, always wait your turn, and don’t cut in front of other surfers.
- Don’t hog: Hogging means taking too many waves or not letting other surfers have their share of waves. This is considered greedy and selfish, as it shows that you don’t care about other surfers’ enjoyment. To avoid hogging, always share the waves and let other surfers have their chance.
- Don’t litter: Littering means leaving trash or waste on the beach or in the water. This is considered harmful and irresponsible, as it pollutes the environment and endangers wildlife. To avoid littering, always take your trash with you or dispose of it properly.
- Don’t be rude: Being rude means being aggressive, arrogant, or disrespectful towards other surfers or locals. This is considered unacceptable and unnecessary, as it creates bad vibes and conflicts. To avoid being rude, always be friendly, polite, and humble.
Have fun
The most important tip to surf like a pro in Arugam Bay is to have fun. Surfing is supposed to be an enjoyable activity that makes you happy and relaxed. Don’t take it too seriously or stress yourself out over it. Just enjoy the waves, the scenery, and the company of other surfers.
Arugam Bay is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to have fun surfing. It has something for everyone: from beginners to experts; from mellow point breaks to hollow reefs; from laid-back vibes to lively nightlife.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your board and head to Arugam Bay!
