Thursday, 23 February 2023

Upper Diyaluma Waterfall

Many people know about this place when it is called 'Upper Diyaluma'. These days, this Upper Diyaluma and Diyaluma Falls are very popular. They are about 220m high. It belongs to the Uva province. Many people come here to enjoy the beauty of the falls because of the easy access to the top of the falls and the natural bathing pool. There are people who have heard but have not gone. The upper part of Diyaluma Falls is called by this name. It is about 30m high. This waterfall, which is very spectacular during the rainy season, falls in a triangular shape. By walking through the forest, Upper Diyaluma can reach the starting point.



Diyaluma falls is found at 14 kilometers from Wellawaya on Beragala road. There is a road on the right side with a uda diyaluma board after a few kilometers towards Koslanda.


Here is a very beautiful place. There are many bathing places around here. And the view here is very beautiful. The surrounding environment is dry at times. However, the climate is very mild.


There are many places where you can bathe in this section. You can even bathe in the pool where the water collects before the falls fall down. It has no depth. But when you go higher from there, the places you meet are deeper. Those who can't swim, don't take the risk. Therefore, the best thing is to bathe in a place where such people are not deep. Also, this is a place where you can do camping. It is best to take the necessary things with you.


Upper Diyaluma is a very high place, so you have to think a lot about safety. It is very dangerous to go to the edge of the rock there. If you slip or fall down, it's over. In the past, several accidents happened here due to such small mistakes. Also, you have to be careful about lighting fires here during the dry season. If there is an accidental fire, it will turn into a big fire in a matter of seconds. If that happens, great destruction can happen.



We all enjoy the beauty of the upper diyaluma and it is our duty to protect it. It is a responsibility to protect not only here but every tourist place you go to. If there is damage here, it will have a big impact on the waterfall. We must be responsible for all the people and animals that feed on this, so be sure to bring back everything you carrying and leave only footprints.

Saturday, 18 February 2023

Temple Trees in Sri Lanka

Temple Trees is a historic residence located in Colombo, Sri Lanka, which has served as the official residence of the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka since the country gained independence from British colonial rule in 1948. The building is a beautiful example of colonial architecture and has played a crucial role in Sri Lanka's history, serving as a venue for important political events and as a symbol of the country's sovereignty.



The history of Temple Trees dates back to early 19th century. Its ownership passed through several prominent British administrators and traders. It was owned between 1830 and 1834 by John Walbeoff of the British Civil Service, who headed the Cinnamon Department of Ceylon. Christopher Elliott M.D. the Principal Medical Officer in Ceylon bought the house in 1848. He was also the proprietor and editor of the 'Colombo Observer'. During the Matale Rebellion it was the focal point for the public campaign against the excesses of Governor Torrington. In 1856 it was sold to John Philip Green who named it "Temple Trees" in 1856 after the temple trees that grew around the bungalow. After the building changed hands several times and was eventually purchased by the government in 1948 to serve as the official residence of the Prime Minister.

The building is located on Kollupitiya, one of the busiest thoroughfares in Colombo, and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a high wall. The main entrance to the building is through a large gate, which leads to a long driveway flanked by towering trees. The house itself is a large, two-story colonial mansion with wide verandahs and an elegant facade.


The importance of Temple Trees lies not just in its architectural beauty but also in its historical significance. The building has been the site of numerous important political events and has played a crucial role in Sri Lanka's history. 

However, Temple Trees is perhaps most well-known for its association with the Sri Lankan Civil War, which lasted from 1983 to 2009. During this time, the building was heavily fortified and served as a military base for the Sri Lankan army. 

After the end of the civil war, Temple trees continues to function as the Prime Minister's official residence until today.


Temple Trees remains an important symbol of Sri Lanka's history and sovereignty. Its elegant architecture and lush gardens continue to attract visitors from all over the world, while its association with key political events makes it an important site for understanding Sri Lanka's complex history.


In addition to its political significance, Temple Trees is also a testament to the country's colonial past. The building's architecture reflects the influence of British colonialism on Sri Lanka's culture and society, while its location on Galle Road – a major artery of the British Empire – underscores the country's historical ties to Britain.



However, Temple trees is also an important reminder of the country's independence and efforts to forge a new identity as a sovereign nation. The building has been the site of countless political negotiations, protests, and speeches, all.

Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Complex

Ambuluwawa is a beautiful and picturesque Biodiversity Complex in the central province of Sri Lanka. This mountain range is located in the town of Gampola. The area is renowned for its picturesque scenery, natural beauty, and serene atmosphere that provide visitors with an experience they will never forget.


The country's first multi-faith center is located in the Ambuluawa Biodiversity Complex. You will find a Buddhist stupa, a Christian church, a Hindu temple and a mosque here. These are important spiritual sites and is a popular destination for pilgrims who come to offer their prayers and seek blessings. The temple is also an excellent example of Sri Lankan architecture and features intricate carvings, beautiful murals, and impressive statues. Visitors can explore the temple and learn about the local culture and history.


The Ambuluwawa Biodiversity Center was inaugurated by Sri Lanka’s former Prime Minister, Dissanayake Mudiyanselage Jayaratne, popularly known as “Di Mu”, who was born near Gampola. For those going from Colombo, Ambuluwawa is situated 85 km from the capital city.


Another striking feature of Ambuluwawa is the impressive tower located at the top of the mountain. The Ambuluwawa Mountain stands approximately 3560 meters above sea level. The tower stands at a height of approximately 48 meters and the elderly and kids are not recommended to climb to the top of it. The mountain road runs along the serpentine surrounded by mountain landscapes, cliffs and unique plants, which cannot be found anywhere else. Interesting places to visit include three ponds, a sacred Bodhi tree, water Park, stone Park and garden of herbs.


The Ambuluwawa mountain is a popular destination for tourists who come from all over the world to experience the stunning landscapes and natural beauty. The area is rich in diverse flora and fauna, which adds to its unique character. The mountain range is home to a diverse array of plant species, including towering trees, shrubs, and a variety of flowers that come in different colors, sizes, and shapes.

The mountain range is a paradise for nature lovers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature. Visitors to Ambuluwawa can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. The mountain range provides the perfect backdrop for visitors to explore and admire the natural beauty of the area.


One of the most notable features of Ambuluwawa is the stunning view from the top of the mountain. From the summit, visitors can see the entire surrounding area, including the green mountains, lush valleys, and the small town of Gampola. The panoramic view is truly breathtaking, and visitors often feel overwhelmed by the natural beauty of the area. The view is particularly beautiful during the early morning and late afternoon when the sun's rays create a golden hue on the surrounding mountains.


In conclusion, the Ambuluwawa mountain range is a beautiful and picturesque area that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. The area is rich in natural beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and offers a range of activities that cater to all interests. The stunning view from the top of the mountain, the impressive tower, the beautiful temple, and the local cuisine and hospitality all combine to make Ambuluwawa a must-visit destination. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or someone who wants to escape the city and experience the beauty of nature, Ambuluwawa is the perfect destination.



Friday, 17 February 2023

Meemure's Traditional Village

Meemure is a small, remote village located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. It is situated within the Knuckles Mountain Range, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and known for its natural beauty and biodiversity.


Meemure is known for its unique culture and traditional way of life, which has been preserved over the years due to its isolation from the rest of the country. The village is home to a small community of people who still follow traditional customs and practices, such as using herbal medicines and building homes with natural materials.


The village is surrounded by lush forests and mountains, and there are many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and birdwatching. The village is also home to several waterfalls and natural pools, which provide a refreshing escape from the heat.


Visitors to Meemure can stay in traditional homestays and experience the village's unique way of life. However, it's important to note that the village is quite remote and can only be accessed by a rough road, so visitors should plan accordingly.



"Sooriya Arana" is a popular Sri Lankan children's movie that was filmed in Meemure. The movie tells the story of a young boy who lives in a remote village and dreams of becoming a cricketer. The beautiful natural surroundings of Meemure provided the perfect backdrop for the movie, and the village itself was featured prominently in several scenes.




The success of "Sooriya Arana" helped to bring more attention to Meemure and its unique culture and way of life. Since then, the village has become a popular destination for both local and international tourists who are looking to experience a more authentic side of Sri Lanka.


Meemure is a very special and unique place for several reasons.


Firstly, the village is located in a beautiful natural setting within the Knuckles Mountain Range, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area is known for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique flora and fauna.


Secondly, Meemure has managed to preserve its traditional way of life and customs over the years, even as the rest of Sri Lanka has become more modernized. Visitors to Meemure can experience a way of life that is very different from what they may be used to, including traditional practices such as herbal medicine and building homes with natural materials.


Thirdly, Meemure is a great place to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka's rural landscape and to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The village is very remote and surrounded by nature, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind.


Overall, Meemure is a special and unique destination that offers visitors the opportunity to experience a different side of Sri Lanka and to connect with nature and traditional culture in a beautiful setting.

Thursday, 16 February 2023

Kandalama Hotel


Kandalama hotel, located in the Dambulla of Sri Lanka, is a luxurious property built by the famous Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa. The hotel was constructed on a hillside, overlooking the beautiful Kandalama Lake and the lush green forests that surround it. Kandalama is known for its stunning architecture, eco-friendliness, and top-notch amenities. In this article, we will delve into the rich history of Kandalama hotel, explore its unique features, and discover why it is considered one of the best hotels in Sri Lanka.



History of Kandalama Hotel

The construction of Kandalama hotel began in the late 1990s and took four years to complete. The project was initiated by the Aitken Spence Group, a leading hospitality and tourism company in Sri Lanka. The group commissioned the renowned architect, Geoffrey Bawa, to design and build the hotel. Bawa was known for his unique style of architecture that blended traditional Sri Lankan design with modern elements. His designs were heavily influenced by the natural surroundings of the building site, and he always aimed to create structures that harmonized with their environment.


The construction of Kandalama hotel was a challenging task, mainly because of its location on a steep hillside. The hotel was built on a terraced slope, which required extensive excavation and grading work to create a flat surface for the building. Additionally, the site was prone to soil erosion and landslides, which required the engineers to implement several soil stabilization techniques to ensure the safety and stability of the structure.


Despite these challenges, Kandalama hotel was completed in 1995 and quickly gained international recognition for its unique architecture and eco-friendly features. The hotel has won several awards over the years



Architecture and Design

The architecture of Kandalama hotel is a testament to Geoffrey Bawa's unique design philosophy. The building features a series of interlinked pavilions that are arranged in a staggered fashion along the hillside. The pavilions are connected by open-air walkways and courtyards, creating a sense of fluidity and interconnectedness between the different parts of the building.


The design of Kandalama hotel is heavily influenced by the natural surroundings of the site. The building is designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, with its walls, roofs, and floors made from locally sourced materials such as wood, stone, and clay tiles. The use of natural materials gives the building a warm, earthy feel that is in harmony with its surroundings.



One of the most distinctive features of Kandalama hotel is its green roof. The hotel's flat roofs are covered with a layer of soil and vegetation, creating a living garden that helps to regulate the temperature and reduce the heat island effect. The green roof also provides habitat for birds and other wildlife, further enhancing the hotel's eco-friendly credentials.


The interior design of Kandalama hotel is equally impressive. The rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly decorated, with wooden floors, high ceilings, and large windows that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The furniture and fixtures are made from high-quality materials and are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.


Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness

Kandalama hotel is one of the most eco-friendly hotels in Sri Lanka, with a strong focus on sustainability and environmental conservation. The hotel's design and construction were guided by the principles of sustainable architecture, with an emphasis on using local materials and minimizing waste.


The green roof is one of the most visible symbols of the hotel's commitment to sustainability. The roof helps to reduce the hotel's energy consumption by regulating the temperature inside the building. It also helps to reduce the hotel's carbon footprint by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Yahangala Camping Peak

Yahangala is another mountain peak belonging to the Knuckles range and it is located on the south-eastern slope of the Knuckles. This mountain is called Yahangala because it looks like a bed. This mountain top belongs to the Udadumbara Divisional Secretariat of the Kandy District of Sri Lanka.


Yahangala is a popular hiking destination for locals and tourists alike. The hike to Yahangala is an incredible experience that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys. In this article, we will discuss the various aspects of the Yahangala hike and what makes it an unforgettable experience.


If you want to visit Yahangala, you should first come to Kandy city or Mahiyangana city. If you are traveling from Kandy, you should take a Udadumbara or Mahiangana bus and get off at Udadumbara. The journey is about 45 km and takes about one and a half hours. The distance from Mahiyangana to Udadumbara is about 30km. From Udadumbara town you have to travel secondly to Kalugala village. Every hour a bus runs to Kalugala from there and the distance between Udadumbara and Kalugala is about 12km. On this journey, you will come across two more spectacular waterfall chains, namely Talagune Falls and Gerandi Falls. This road running through the fields is also very beautiful.


According to the legend of Yahangala, the god Gale Bandara is sitting in this rock. Another legend about Yahangala is that the unconscious body of King Ravana is buried inside Yahangala. As the Rama Ravana war was fought between Lakegala and Rahessa, it is assumed that the body of King Ravana was buried inside Yahangala. In the meaning of the word, Yahangala is a mountain that can be clearly seen from a distance as a bed. Today, the mountain range is a place of pilgrimage for many Sri Lankans, who come pay to their respects.


The trail to Yahangala is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, but it can be steep and challenging in certain sections. The hike starts with a gradual ascent through a lush forest, and as you climb higher, the forest becomes thinner, and the views become more spectacular. The trail is lined with a variety of trees and you are likely to spot a variety of bird species and animals along the way.

After about an hour of hiking, you will reach a small waterfall, where you can take a break and enjoy the cool water. The waterfall is surrounded by boulders and rocks, which makes it an ideal spot for a picnic. From the waterfall, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging, and you will need to use your hands and feet to climb over rocks and boulders.


As you approach the summit of Yahangala, the trail becomes steeper and more exposed, and you will need to navigate a series of narrow ledges and rocky outcrops. However, the stunning views from the make all worth it. From the top of Yahangala, you can see miles of rolling hills and valleys, as well as other mountain ranges in the distance. The view is especially stunning at sunrise or sunset, when the sky is painted with hues of orange and pink.


After climbing to the top of Yahangala, the nearby Kehelpot Deruwe rock was seen very beautifully and the mountains like Meemure Lakegala, Gerandigala, Meda Mahanuwara Kanda, Dumbana Gala and villages like Udagal Debokka, Udaththawa can be seen. On a clear day you can see Mahaweli Ganga flowing to Dehiattakandi, Rathkinda and Ulhitiya reservoirs and Sorabora lake.

Wednesday, 15 February 2023

Hotel Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka

Mount Lavinia Hotel is a historic hotel located in the city of Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka. The hotel was built in the 1800s and has since become a landmark in the area, attracting visitors from around the world. The hotel is known for its beautiful location, elegant architecture, and exceptional service. In this article, we will explore the various attractions of Mount Lavinia Hotel.


Location

The first attraction of Mount Lavinia Hotel is its location. The hotel is situated on a beautiful beach, which offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. The beach is known for its pristine waters, soft sand, and stunning sunsets. The location of the hotel makes it an ideal spot for those who want to relax in a peaceful and tranquil environment.


History

The history of Mount Lavinia Hotel is another attraction that draws visitors. The hotel has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 1800s. The hotel was originally built as the residence of Sir Thomas Maitland, the British Governor of Ceylon. The hotel's history includes a romantic story about the Governor falling in love with a local dancer, which led to the construction of the hotel.


Architecture

The architecture of Mount Lavinia Hotel is another attraction that draws visitors. The hotel was built in the colonial style, with a fusion of Victorian and Sri Lankan elements. The hotel is a perfect blend of elegance, sophistication, and luxury. The hotel's design incorporates traditional Sri Lankan elements such as terracotta roof tiles, ornate wooden balconies, and polished teak floors.


Rooms

The hotel's rooms are another attraction that draws visitors. The hotel has a range of rooms to suit different needs and budgets. The rooms are elegantly designed and come with all the amenities you would expect from a luxury hotel. The rooms are spacious, air-conditioned, and offer stunning views of the ocean or the hotel's lush gardens.




Restaurants and Bars

Hotel Mount Lavinia has several restaurants and bars offering a wide range of culinary experiences. The hotel's main restaurant, The Governors, is known for its delicious Sri Lankan cuisine. This restaurant is named so to symbolize the story of the British governor who was in charge of the administration of this area at that time fell in love with a local dancer. The restaurant has a beautiful ambience and offers stunning views of the ocean.



The hotel's other restaurants include The Terrace, which offers a range of international cuisine, and The Seafood Cove, which serves some of the freshest seafood in the area. The hotel also has several bars, including the Lighthouse Bar, which is situated on the hotel's rooftop and offers breathtaking views of the ocean.


Spa

The hotel's spa is another attraction that draws visitors. The spa offers a range of treatments that are designed to help guests relax and rejuvenate. The spa uses natural ingredients, such as herbs and spices, to create a relaxing and calming environment. The spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body scrubs.


Events and Weddings

Mount Lavinia Hotel is a popular venue for events and weddings. The hotel has several event spaces, including a ballroom and a beachside pavilion. The hotel's event spaces are elegantly designed and can accommodate up to 500 guests. The hotel also offers a range of wedding packages, which include catering, decorations, and other services.


Conclusion

Mount Lavinia Hotel is a popular destination for visitors who want to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of Sri Lanka. The hotel offers a range of attractions, including a stunning location, elegant architecture, luxurious rooms, delicious cuisine, a spa, and a fascinating history. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a relaxing family vacation, Mount Lavinia Hotel has something for everyone.

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