Located at the southern tip of India, Sri Lanka is an exquisite, pear-shaped island afloat in the Indian Ocean. Miles of palm-fringed beaches encircle a surprisingly diverse landscape of dense jungle and mountain highlands. It is home to a people rich in history and cultural traditions, and presents the traveller with many unique opportunities.
A 20 year civil war has kept the west at a distance – however a cease-fire established in February 2002 is still successfully in place, creating peace and a sense of hope amongst this gentle Buddhist nation.
Largely off the tourist trail, Sri Lanka remains a charming and unspoilt Asian destination. And there is no better time to visit than NOW!
A number of airlines and travel agents provide packages to Sri Lanka. Geoff and Jamie chose to travel with:
Travel Considerations
Colombo
The island capital, Colombo is a chaotic Asian metropolis. Geoff spent his time at the Pettah, the central market district, while Jamie paid his respects at the magnificent Kelaniya Temple.
The South-West Coast
This region is the most established tourist district on the island, and features a seemingly endless stretch of palm-fringed beaches. While in the area, Geoff and Jamie stopped at Bentota, visiting the wonderful private estate of Geoffrey Bawa, and spending the evening at The Triton, a hotel designed by this great architect.
Location: in Ahungalla, 9 64041 triton@slt.lk
Web: asiatours.net/srilanka/hotels/triton.html
Their next port of call was the historic harbour town of Galle. Geoff made an early morning trip to the bustling fish markets, while Jamie spent the afternoon discovering the unique European architecture of the old quarter.
Their final destination on this coastline was the superb bite-size retreat, Taprobane Island. Located just off the coast of Welligama, it offers an unusual alternative to hotel accommodation.
Booking details: web: www.thesunhouse.com
The Hill Country
Nuwara Eliya and the surrounding central mountain region is what is known locally as ‘the hill country’ and is the heart of the Sri Lanka’s tea industry. Geoff and Jamie spent a day on a tea plantation and visited Dambatenne, the magnificent historical estate of Sir Thomas Lipton, located outside the tiny township of Haputale.
Kandy and Surrounds
Kandy, located at the centre of the island, is Sri Lanka’s historic capital, and considered to be the most beautiful city in the country. Colonial architecture, antique bazaars and numerous Buddhist temples attract locals and foreigners alike.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Located 30 kms outside Kandy in the town of Kegalle. It is the world’s only elephant orphanage, and is a must-do destination on anyone’s itinerary!
Open: daily from 8.30-5.45, requires a small entrance fee. Don’t miss the feeding and river bathing sessions.
Phone: 35 65284
Ranweli Spice Garden
Geoff and Jamie enjoyed a terrific afternoon at this unusual garden. Located in the quiet community of Matale, you can pick up a wonderful selection of fresh spices to take home.
Open: daily, with free entry
Address: 99 Kaudupelella, Matale
Phone: 66 47339
The Cultural Triangle
Located in the central northern plains of the island, this area is recognised as the ancient precinct of Sri Lanka, and showcases the remains of several significant early kingdoms. With many archeological sites to discover, Geoff and Jamie chose to visit:
Sigiriya Rock
Rising 200 metres above the ground, this colossal rock fortress is well on the way to being classified as the 8th wonder of the world. With the ruins of a palace on top, and an expanse of elaborate water gardens surrounding its base, it should definitely feature on every traveller’s Sri Lankan itinerary.
Sigiriya Rock is open daily from 7am-4pm, and requires an entry fee. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to climb.
Polonnaruwa
Literally a ghost town, Polunnaruwa features the ruins of an extensive 12th century kingdom. One of the most significant structures of this archeological site is the Gal Vihare, a collection of 3 enormous Buddha statues carved into a granite rock face.
The ancient precinct of Polonnaruwa is open daily, and requires an entry fee. While exploring this fascinating region, Geoff and Jamie stayed at the unique jungle resort of Kandalama, another Geoffrey Bawa masterpiece.
Address: Kandalama Road, Dambulla.
Phone: 722 23475
Web: asiatours.net/srilanka/hotels/kandalama.html
‘Malu Abuthiyal’ Fish Curry
Fish curry, a Sri Lankan staple, is a general term for an enormous range of fish dishes that are eaten on the island. Religion, province and season all influence the local cuisine. This is a curry typical of the south-western coastal region, and is often prepared over an open fire in traditional clay pots.
Ingredients
Method
This recipe will serve 4-6 portions
Ingredients
Method
1. Soak the shrimp in water for 15 mins minutes, and drain excess.
2. Pound or blend to a fine consistency
3. Add all remaining ingredients and mix well
Serve as an accompaniment to curry, particularly fish dishes.