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.
by Travel Nomad | May 1, 2023 | Asia |
If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable hiking experience in Sri Lanka, you should definitely visit the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. This is the largest and most important lowland rainforest in the country, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a biodiversity hotspot. It is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including many endemic and endangered species. In this blog, we will explore some of the best hiking trails and wildlife encounters in Sinharaja Forest Reserve.
The Sinharaja Forest Reserve covers an area of about 11,187 hectares and is located in the southwestern part of Sri Lanka. It is bordered by two rivers, the Koskulana Ganga in the north and the Gin Ganga in the south. The forest reserve has a complex topography, with elevations ranging from 200 to 1170 meters above sea level. The climate is humid and wet, with an average annual rainfall of about 3614 mm⁴.
The best way to explore the Sinharaja Forest Reserve is by hiking along its network of trails. There are several entry points to the forest reserve, such as Kudawa, Pitadeniya, Morning Side, and Lankagama. You can choose from different trails depending on your fitness level, time availability, and interests. Some of the most popular trails are:
- Kudawa Conservation Center to Sinhagala Peak: This is a moderate trail that takes about 4 hours to complete. It starts from the Kudawa Conservation Center, where you can get a guide and pay the entrance fee. The trail passes through dense forest, streams, and waterfalls, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Sinhagala Peak is the highest point in the forest reserve at 1170 meters above sea level³.
- Pitadeniya Conservation Center to Moulawella Peak: This is an easy trail that takes about 2 hours to complete. It starts from the Pitadeniya Conservation Center, where you can get a guide and pay the entrance fee. The trail passes through open grasslands, bamboo groves, and forest patches, and offers panoramic views of the forest reserve. The Moulawella Peak is one of the most scenic spots in the forest reserve at 760 meters above sea level³.
- Morning Side Trail: This is a challenging trail that takes about 6 hours to complete. It starts from the Morning Side Bungalow, which is located on the eastern boundary of the forest reserve. The trail passes through montane forest, cloud forest, and grasslands, and offers spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset. The trail also leads to several waterfalls, such as Pathan Oya Falls and Duwili Ella Falls³.
- Lankagama Trail: This is a moderate trail that takes about 3 hours to complete. It starts from the Lankagama Village, which is located on the southern boundary of the forest reserve. The trail passes through mixed forest, riverine forest, and wetlands, and offers diverse wildlife sightings. The trail also leads to several attractions, such as Brahmana Ella Falls, Gal Oruwa Ella Falls, Thattu Ella Falls, and Neluwa Dola Bridge³.
One of the main attractions of hiking in Sinharaja Forest Reserve is the wildlife encounters. The forest reserve hosts over 50% of Sri Lanka’s endemic species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies, and plants⁴. Some of the most notable wildlife species that you can spot in Sinharaja Forest Reserve are:
- Sri Lankan Leopard: This is the largest predator in Sri Lanka and one of the most elusive animals in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. It is estimated that there are only about 10 to 15 leopards living in the forest reserve⁴. They are mostly active at night and prefer to hunt deer, wild boar, monkeys, and rodents.
- Purple-faced Langur: This is an endemic monkey that lives only in Sri Lanka’s wet zone forests. It is one of the most common mammals in Sinharaja Forest Reserve and can be seen in large troops⁴. They are mostly herbivorous and feed on leaves, fruits, flowers, and seeds.
- Red-faced Malkoha: This is an endemic bird that belongs to the cuckoo family. It is one of the most colorful birds in Sinharaja Forest Reserve and can be recognized by its red face, blue eye-ring, green back, yellow belly, and long tail⁴. They are mostly insectivorous and feed on caterpillars, beetles
- Green Pit Viper: This is an endemic snake that lives only in Sri Lanka’s wet zone forests. It is one of the most venomous snakes in Sinharaja Forest Reserve and can be identified by its green coloration, triangular head
- Blue Magpie: This is an endemic bird that belongs to the crow family. It is one of the most beautiful birds in Sinharaja Forest Reserve and can be distinguished by its blue plumage
- Giant Squirrel: This is an endemic rodent that lives only in Sri Lanka’s wet zone forests. It is one of the largest squirrels in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Source:
(1) 7 of the best hikes in Sri Lanka – Lonely Planet. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-hikes-in-sri-lanka
(2) Sinharaja Forest Reserve. https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/405
(3) . https://bing.com/search?q=Sinharaja+Forest+Reserve+hiking+trails+wildlife
(4) Sinharaja Forest Reserve. https://www.sinharajaforestreserve.com/
(5) Sinharaja Rainforest Trail: 4 Reviews, Map – Gālla, Sri Lanka | AllTrails. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/sri-lanka/galla/sinharaja-rainforest-trail
by Travel Nomad | Mar 28, 2023 | Asia |
Nestled in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, Horton Plains National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and diverse wildlife. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers breathtaking views of misty mountains, rolling grasslands, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls. The park is spread over an area of 3,160 hectares and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. One of the best ways to explore this stunning park is by trekking through its scenic trails.
The park’s main attraction is the World’s End, a sheer cliff that drops 880 meters to the valley below, offering an awe-inspiring view of the surrounding landscape. The trail leading up to the World’s End is a 4-kilometer trek, and the view from the cliff is simply stunning. On clear days, you can see all the way to the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
The trek to the World’s End starts at the park’s entrance, and the trail is well-marked and easy to follow. The hike is not too strenuous, but it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as there are no shops or facilities along the way. The trail winds through dense forests, rolling hills, and grasslands, and you will encounter a variety of flora and fauna along the way.
One of the unique features of Horton Plains is its cloud forests. These forests are found at high altitudes and are characterized by a thick cover of mist and clouds. The cloud forests of Horton Plains are home to several endemic species, including the purple-faced langur, the Sri Lankan leopard, and the Horton Plains slender loris.
Another highlight of the trek is Baker’s Falls, a stunning waterfall that cascades down a steep cliff into a pool below. The waterfall is located about 2 kilometers from the park entrance, and the trail leading up to it is a gentle downhill walk through the forest. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation, and the cool spray from the water is a refreshing break from the heat.
The trek through Horton Plains is also an excellent opportunity to spot some of Sri Lanka’s unique bird species. The park is home to over 100 species of birds, including several endemic species like the Sri Lanka blue magpie, the Sri Lanka bush warbler, and the dull-blue flycatcher. The best time to spot these birds is in the early morning, so it’s advisable to start the trek early.
As you trek through Horton Plains, you will also encounter several grasslands and open meadows. These areas are home to several species of deer, including the Sambar and the Sri Lankan axis deer. The grasslands are also an excellent spot to catch a glimpse of some of the park’s smaller mammals, like the mongoose and the purple-faced langur.
The best time to visit Horton Plains is from December to April when the weather is dry and the skies are clear. During the monsoon season, which runs from May to September, the park is often shrouded in mist and rain, which can make trekking difficult. The park is closed on Mondays and on Sri Lankan public holidays.
In conclusion, trekking through the scenic trails of Horton Plains National Park is an unforgettable experience that offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s unique natural heritage. The trek is suitable for all fitness levels and is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Sri Lanka. So pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to embark on a journey through one of the most beautiful national parks in the world.
by Travel Nomad | Mar 27, 2023 | Asia |
Sri Lanka is a beautiful island nation that is steeped in history and culture. One of the most important historical sites in Sri Lanka is Anuradhapura. This ancient city was the capital of Sri Lanka from the 4th century BCE until the 11th century CE. Anuradhapura is known for its magnificent temples, stupas, and other religious monuments. It is also home to the sacred Bodhi tree, which is one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world. In this blog, we will explore Anuradhapura and the Bodhi tree in more detail.
The History of Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura was founded in the 4th century BCE by King Pandukabhaya. The city grew in importance and became the capital of Sri Lanka. It was also a major center of Buddhism, and many temples and stupas were built in the city.
Anuradhapura was invaded and destroyed several times over the centuries. However, it was always rebuilt and continued to be an important religious and cultural center. In the 11th century CE, the capital was moved to Polonnaruwa, and Anuradhapura was abandoned. It was rediscovered in the 19th century and has since been restored as a major historical site.
Exploring Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura is a sprawling city with many important historical sites. The most famous of these is the Sri Maha Bodhi, which we will explore in more detail later. However, there are many other temples and stupas worth visiting in Anuradhapura.
One of the most impressive sites in Anuradhapura is the Ruwanwelisaya stupa. This massive stupa was built in the 2nd century BCE and is one of the largest in Sri Lanka. It is surrounded by a wall with beautiful carvings and is said to contain relics of the Buddha.
Another important site is the Jetavanarama stupa. This stupa was built in the 3rd century CE and is even larger than the Ruwanwelisaya stupa. It is also surrounded by a wall with carvings, and there are many smaller stupas and temples in the area.
The Abhayagiri Monastery is another important site in Anuradhapura. This monastery was built in the 1st century BCE and was one of the largest monasteries in the world at the time. It was a major center of learning and was home to thousands of monks.
There are many other temples and stupas to explore in Anuradhapura, and it is worth taking the time to visit as many as possible. The city is also home to many beautiful parks and lakes, making it a pleasant place to spend a day or two.
The Sri Maha Bodhi
The Sri Maha Bodhi is the most important site in Anuradhapura and is one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world. The Bodhi tree is said to be a descendant of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. The tree was brought to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE by Sanghamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka.
The Sri Maha Bodhi is located in the Mahamewna Gardens, which is a beautiful park with many other important historical sites. The tree is surrounded by a wall, and there is a small shrine nearby where visitors can make offerings and pray.
The Sri Maha Bodhi is a deeply spiritual and peaceful place. Many Buddhists visit the site to meditate and reflect. It is also a popular tourist destination, and visitors from all over the world come to see the sacred Bodhi tree.
When visiting the Sri Maha Bodhi, it is important to show respect for the sacred nature of the site. Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the area around the Bodhi tree. It is also important to be quiet and respectful, as many people come to the site to meditate and pray.
There are many rituals associated with the Sri Maha Bodhi. One of the most important is the lighting of oil lamps. Visitors can purchase small lamps and oil from vendors near the site and light them as an offering to the Buddha. This creates a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere around the Bodhi tree, especially in the evening.
Another important ritual is the offering of flowers. Visitors can purchase lotus flowers or other offerings from vendors and place them around the Bodhi tree as a symbol of respect and devotion.
The Sri Maha Bodhi is a deeply spiritual and meaningful site for Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike. It is a place of great beauty and tranquility, and a visit to Anuradhapura is not complete without experiencing the sacred Bodhi tree.
Conclusion
Anuradhapura is a fascinating historical site that is well worth a visit. It is a testament to the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka, and the many temples and stupas in the city are awe-inspiring. The Sri Maha Bodhi is a particularly important site, and visitors should take the time to experience the beauty and spirituality of this sacred tree.
A visit to Anuradhapura is a journey through time and a chance to connect with the deep spiritual roots of Sri Lanka. It is a reminder of the importance of respect for culture and tradition, and a testament to the enduring power of faith and devotion.
by Travel Nomad | Mar 11, 2023 | Asia |
Ulpotha, located in the heart of Sri Lanka, is a hidden gem that is renowned for its Ayurvedic wellness retreats. The retreats are designed to help guests heal both their body and mind, using traditional Ayurvedic practices and treatments. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what makes Ulpotha such a special destination for those seeking wellness, and what guests can expect from a stay at one of its Ayurvedic retreats.
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of healing that focuses on achieving a balance between the body, mind, and spirit. It uses a variety of techniques, including herbal remedies, massage, and meditation, to help promote healing and wellness.
Ayurvedic Wellness Retreats in Ulpotha
Ulpotha is a serene, peaceful destination that is perfect for those seeking to escape the stress of daily life and focus on their wellness. The retreats offered at Ulpotha are designed to help guests achieve a state of balance and harmony through the use of Ayurvedic practices and treatments.
Each retreat is tailored to the individual needs of the guest, with personalized consultations and treatments to help address specific health concerns. Guests can expect to receive a combination of massage, herbal remedies, yoga, and meditation, as well as nutritional counseling and lifestyle advice.
Accommodations
The accommodations at Ulpotha are simple but comfortable, with a range of options to suit different needs and budgets. Guests can choose from rustic mud huts, cozy cottages, or luxurious villas, each with its own unique charm.
The retreats at Ulpotha are designed to be immersive, with guests encouraged to disconnect from technology and focus on their wellness. There is no Wi-Fi or electricity in the rooms, which helps to create a peaceful, meditative atmosphere.
Activities
In addition to the Ayurvedic treatments, guests at Ulpotha can also participate in a variety of activities designed to promote wellness and relaxation. These may include:
- Yoga: Ulpotha is renowned for its yoga classes, which are held in a beautiful, open-air shala surrounded by lush greenery.
- Meditation: Guests can participate in daily meditation sessions, led by experienced teachers who help guide them in developing a regular meditation practice.
- Nature walks: Ulpotha is located in a stunning natural setting, and guests are encouraged to explore the surrounding forests, hills, and lakes.
- Cooking classes: Guests can learn how to prepare healthy, Ayurvedic meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Ayurvedic workshops: Ulpotha hosts regular workshops on Ayurvedic practices and philosophy, giving guests the opportunity to deepen their understanding of this ancient healing system.
Conclusion
Ulpotha is a magical destination that offers a truly unique wellness experience. Its Ayurvedic retreats are designed to help guests achieve balance and harmony in both body and mind, using traditional practices and treatments. Whether you are seeking to address specific health concerns or simply looking to recharge and relax, a stay at Ulpotha is sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated and renewed.
