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!
by Travel Nomad | May 1, 2023 | Asia |
If you are looking for a scenic and relaxing road trip in Sri Lanka, you should consider visiting Tawalantenne. This is a small town in the Central Province, surrounded by lush green tea plantations and breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. Tawalantenne is an ideal destination for nature lovers, tea enthusiasts, and photographers who want to experience the beauty and culture of Sri Lanka’s tea country. In this blog, we will tell you how to get to Tawalantenne, what to see and do there, and where to stay and eat.
The easiest way to get to Tawalantenne is by car or by hiring a taxi or a driver. The town is located about 150 kilometers from Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, and about 50 kilometers from Nuwara Eliya, the most popular hill station in the country. The drive to Tawalantenne takes about 4 to 5 hours from Colombo and about 1.5 hours from Nuwara Eliya, depending on the traffic and road conditions¹.
The drive to Tawalantenne is a scenic one, as you pass through winding roads, rolling hills, and verdant tea estates. You can stop along the way to admire the views, take photos, and visit some of the attractions that are on the route. Some of the places that you can visit on your way to Tawalantenne are:
- Kitulgala: This is a small town on the banks of the Kelani River, famous for its white-water rafting and adventure activities. You can also visit the location where the Oscar-winning movie The Bridge on the River Kwai was filmed in 1957².
- Devon Falls: This is a spectacular waterfall that plunges 97 meters into a gorge. You can view the waterfall from a roadside viewpoint or hike down to the base for a closer look².
- St. Clair’s Falls: This is one of the widest and most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka, with two cascades of 80 meters and 50 meters. The waterfall is named after a nearby tea estate and is also known as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka”³.
- Blue Field Tea Factory: This is one of the oldest and most well-preserved tea factories in Sri Lanka, dating back to 1921. You can take a guided tour of the factory and learn about the history and process of tea production. You can also sample and buy some of the finest Ceylon tea at the factory outlet⁴.
Once you reach Tawalantenne, you will be greeted by a charming and peaceful town that offers a glimpse into the life and culture of Sri Lanka’s tea country. Some of the things that you can see and do in Tawalantenne are:
- Hike through the tea plantations: The best way to enjoy the beauty of Tawalantenne is by hiking through its vast and verdant tea plantations. You can walk along the trails that crisscross the plantations and admire the views of the mountains and valleys. You can also interact with the local tea pluckers and learn about their work and lifestyle¹.
- Visit Sri Baktha Hanuman Temple: This is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god who helped Lord Rama in his quest to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana. According to legend, Lord Hanuman landed on this spot while searching for Sita in Sri Lanka. The temple features a 16-meter-high statue of Lord Hanuman and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape¹.
- Enjoy a picnic at Ramboda Waterfall: This is another stunning waterfall that drops 109 meters into a pool. You can view the waterfall from a bridge or hike down to the pool for a refreshing dip. You can also enjoy a picnic at the nearby park that has benches, tables, and playgrounds¹.
Tawalantenne has a range of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. You can choose from hotels, guest houses, bungalows, cottages, or campsites. Some of the best places to stay in Tawalantenne are:
- The View at Glenloch: This is a cozy and comfortable hotel that offers spacious rooms with balconies overlooking the tea plantations. The hotel also has a restaurant, a bar, a garden, and free Wi-Fi¹.
- Oak Ray Tea Bush Ramboda: This is a luxury hotel that offers elegant rooms with modern amenities and views of the Ramboda Waterfall. The hotel also has a restaurant, a spa, an outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi¹.
- Sicily Nature Resort: This is a nature resort that offers rustic cottages with private bathrooms and balconies facing
the forest. The resort also has a restaurant, a barbecue area, a bonfire pit, and free Wi-Fi¹.
Tawalantenne has a few dining options that serve local and international cuisine. You can enjoy delicious dishes made with fresh ingredients and spices at these places:
- Chill Cafe: This is a cozy cafe that serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, and snacks. You can try their sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, pastas, salads, soups, cakes, and ice creams¹.
- Tea Bush Ramboda: This is a restaurant that serves Asian, Sri Lankan, and international cuisine. You can try their rice and curry dishes
- Blue Field Tea Restaurant: This is a restaurant that serves Sri Lankan cuisine with vegetarian
and vegan options. You can try their hoppers
by Travel Nomad | May 1, 2023 | Asia |
If you are a wildlife lover and a photography enthusiast, you should not miss visiting the Udawalawe National Park in Sri Lanka. This is one of the best places in the country to see and capture the majestic elephants, as well as many other animals and birds, in their natural habitat. In this blog, we will tell you everything you need to know about Udawalawe National Park, including its history, wildlife, the best time to visit, and how to plan your safari adventure.
The Udawalawe National Park was established in 1972 as a sanctuary for the wildlife displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir. The park covers an area of about 308 square kilometers and is located in the south-central part of Sri Lanka. It is bordered by the Udawalawe Reservoir in the north and the Walawe River in the south.
The Udawalawe National Park is famous for its large population of elephants, which is estimated to be around 600 to 700 individuals. The park offers an excellent opportunity to see these gentle giants up close, as they roam freely in the open grasslands, forests, and wetlands. You can also spot other mammals, such as water buffalo, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild boar, mongoose, jackal, leopard, and sloth bear¹.
The park is also a paradise for birdwatchers, as it hosts over 180 species of birds, both resident and migratory. Some of the most notable birds that you can see in Udawalawe National Park are the Sri Lankan junglefowl, peacock, painted stork, black-headed ibis, grey heron, crested serpent eagle, changeable hawk eagle, white-bellied sea eagle, brown fish owl, Malabar pied hornbill, and red-faced malkoha¹.
The best time to visit Udawalawe National Park is from January to March, when the weather is dry and sunny, and the water levels are low. This makes it easier to spot the wildlife congregating around the water sources. However, you can visit the park all year round, as it does not have a distinct wet or dry season. The park is open from 6 am to 6 pm every day².
There are two main entrances to the park: one near the Udawalawe Reservoir and another near the Elephant Transit Home. The Elephant Transit Home is a rehabilitation center for orphaned and injured elephants that are released back into the wild when they are ready. You can visit the center and watch the feeding sessions of the baby elephants at 9 am, 12 pm, 3 pm, and 6 pm every day².
Abundant Wildlife
The Udawalawe National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife that can be spotted throughout the year. The park has over 600 elephants, which are the main attraction for most visitors. The park also has a significant population of leopards, which are notoriously difficult to spot in the wild. Other animals that can be found in the park include sloth bears, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boar, and various species of primates. The park is also home to over 200 species of birds, making it a great place for birdwatching and wildlife photography.
The Best Place to Photograph Elephants
Udawalawe National Park is undoubtedly one of the best places to photograph elephants in the wild. The park has a large population of elephants, and they can be spotted throughout the year. Unlike some other parks in Sri Lanka, Udawalawe is relatively flat, making it easier to spot elephants from a distance. The park also has several watering holes, which are popular gathering spots for elephants. This provides an excellent opportunity for photographers to capture images of elephants in their natural habitat, drinking and bathing in the water.
Unique Photo Opportunities
Udawalawe National Park offers unique photo opportunities that cannot be found anywhere else. One such opportunity is the chance to capture images of elephants and other animals in their natural habitat. The park has a variety of landscapes, including grasslands, scrublands, and forests, which provide a diverse range of backgrounds for wildlife photography. Another unique opportunity is the chance to capture images of animals interacting with each other. For example, elephants can be seen playing, feeding, and socializing with each other, providing photographers with a variety of interesting photo opportunities.
Photography-Friendly Environment
Udawalawe National Park is a photography-friendly environment, with many of the safari jeeps equipped with beanbag camera mounts. This makes it easier for photographers to capture steady shots while on the move. The park also has several designated areas where visitors can get out of the jeeps and take photos, providing a better vantage point for capturing wildlife images. Additionally, the park’s guides are knowledgeable about wildlife and photography, and they can provide helpful tips and advice on how to capture the best images.
A Learning Experience
Udawalawe National Park is not just a place to capture great wildlife images; it is also a learning experience. The park’s guides are knowledgeable about the animals and their behavior, and they can provide interesting insights into the park’s wildlife. Photographers can learn about the animals’ habits and behaviors, which can help them capture better images. Additionally, the park offers a unique opportunity to learn about conservation and the efforts being made to protect Sri Lanka’s wildlife.
The Udawalawe National Park is a wildlife paradise for photographers and a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and animals. You will be amazed by the diversity and beauty of the wildlife that you will encounter in this park. Make sure you bring your camera and a telephoto zoom lens to capture some stunning shots of the elephants and other creatures that call this park their home.
