Sri Lanka - TSI Holidays https://tsiholidays.com Wed, 09 Mar 2022 07:56:48 +0000 en-US hourly 1 UNIQUE SRI LANKA https://tsiholidays.com/tour/unique-sri-lanka/ Wed, 15 Apr 2015 11:08:40 +0000 http://www.tsiholidays.com/?post_type=tour&p=8318
Day Place Highlights
1 – 2 Dambulla/Habarana Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, Sigiriya Rock Fortress / Dambulla Cave Temple
3 – 4 Kandy Matale Spice Gardens – Half day city tour
5 Colombo City Tour

When To Go

Jan30%
Feb30%
Mar30%
Apr30%
May30%
Jun30%
Jul30%
Aug30%
Sep30%
Oct30%
Nov30%
Dec30%

Day 1: Arrive Colombo – Dambulla / Habarana

1Arrive Colombo and SIC Transfer to Dambulla / Habarana via Pinnawela. A visit to Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage en route to Dambulla / Habarana. Check in at the Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight stay at the Hotel.

Day 2: Sigiriya Rock Fortress + Dambulla Cave Temple

2Breakfast at hotel. A visit to Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave temple. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel.

Day 3: Dambulla / Habarana – Kandy

3Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Kandy from Dambulla / Harabana (04 hours – 105 KMs approx). A visit to Matale Spice Gardens en route to Kandy. Check-in at the Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel, Kandy.

Day 4: Kandy City Tour

4 (1)Breakfast at hotel. Half day city tour of Kandy. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel, Kandy.

Day 5: Kandy – Colombo

5Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Colombo from Kandy (125 KMs – 04 Hours approx). Check-in at Hotel. Rest of the day is at Leisure. Overnight stay at hotel, Colombo.

Day 6: Colombo City Tour and Departure

Breakfast at hotel. Proceed for your Half day city tour of Colombo. Departure transfer to Airport from Colombo for your onward flight.

Inclusions:

02 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast in Dambulla / Habarana
02 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast in Kandy
01 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast in Colombo
Half day city tours of Colombo , Nuwara Eliya and Kandy.
A visit to Turtle Hatchery, Madhu Ganga, Tea Estates, Tea Factories, Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Tooth Relic, Royal Botanical Gardens and Cultural Shows (Entrance fee is not included).
An air conditioned car with an English speaking Chauffeur guide

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SRI LANKA HIGHLIGHTS https://tsiholidays.com/tour/sri-lanka-highlights/ Wed, 15 Apr 2015 09:17:42 +0000 http://www.tsiholidays.com/?post_type=tour&p=8309
Day Place Highlights
1~2 Colombo Colombo City Tour
2~4 Bentota Bentota City Tour
5~5 Kandy Kandy City tour
6~7 Colombo Free

When To Go

Jan30%
Feb30%
Mar30%
Apr30%
May30%
Jun30%
Jul30%
Aug30%
Sep30%
Oct30%
Nov30%
Dec30%

Day 1: Arrive Colombo

1Arrive Colombo and transfer to your Hotel (Early Check-in is Not Guaranteed). Overnight at your hotel.

Day 2: Colombo City Tour

2Breakfast at hotel. Return SIC transfer for Colombo City and Shopping Tour. Overnight at your Hotel

Day 3: Colombo – Bentota

3Breakfast at hotel. Check-out and SIC transfer to Bentota. Arrive Bentota and SIC transfers to Hotel. Check-in. Day is free at leisure and overnight stay at your Hotel.

Day 4: Bentota City Tour

4Breakfast at hotel. Proceed for your Bentota City Tour. Overnight at your Hotel.

Day 5: Bentota – Kandy

5Breakfast at hotel. Proceed for your excursion to Kandy City tour via Pinnawela Elephant orphanage. Back to your hotel for an overnight at your Hotel.

Day 6: Kandy – Colombo

6Breakfast at hotel. Check-out and SIC transfer from Kandy to Colombo. Check-in to your Hotel. Your day is free at leisure. Overnight at your Hotel.

Day 7: Departure

Breakfast at hotel. Check Out of Hotel. SIC transfer to Colombo Airport for onward flight.

Inclusions:

03 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast in Colombo
02 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast in Bentota
01 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast in Kandy
Colombo City and Shopping tour
Bentota and Kandy City tour


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SRI LANKA – RAMAYANA TRAIL https://tsiholidays.com/tour/sri-lanka-ramayana-trail/ Wed, 15 Apr 2015 09:13:58 +0000 http://www.tsiholidays.com/?post_type=tour&p=8308
Day Place Highlights
1 Colombo Leisure
2~3 Kandy Munneswaram & Manavari Temples + Full Day Kandy City Tour
4 Nuwara Eliya Nuwara  Eliya Tour + Gayathri Peedam + Seetha Amman Temple
5 Colombo Colombo City Tour + Kelaniya Temple and Anjaneyar Temple

When To Go

Jan30%
Feb30%
Mar30%
Apr30%
May30%
Jun30%
Jul30%
Aug30%
Sep30%
Oct30%
Nov30%
Dec30%

Day 1: Arrive Colombo – Dambulla / Habarana

1Arrive Colombo and SIC Transfer to the Hotel. Check in at the Hotel. Rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight stay at the Hotel.

 

Day 2: Colombo – Kandy

2Breakfast at hotel. Check-out from the hotel & proceed to Chilaw to visit Munneswaram & Manavari temples.
Munneswaram – Lord Rama after his victorious battle left for Ayodhya in 1 of King Ravana’s Vimanas. He felt he was being followed by “Brahmahasthi Dosham” as he had killed King Ravana who was a Brahmin. He stopped the vimana at this juncture because he felt that this place the “Brahmahasthi Dosham” was not following him. He ascended from the Vimanas and asked God Shiva for a remedy. God Shiva blessed Lord Rama and advised him to installed 4 lingams at Manavari, Thirukoneshwaram, Thirukedishwaram and Rameshwaram in India and pray, as the only remedy to get rid of the “Brahmahasthi Dosham”.
Manavari – This is the 1st place where Lord Rama installed the Shiva Lingam and prayed after the end of the war with King Ravana. This Lingam is called Ramalingam because it was made by Lord Rama. Apart from this, the Lingam in Rameshwaram is the only Lingam in the world which is named after Lord Rama.
Proceed to Kandy. Visit Pinnawela elephant orphanage on the way.
Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage – set amongst the verdant hills of Kegalle is a unique orphanage, where the tiny tots weigh 60 kg or more. This is the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, the world’s first and only elephant orphanage established to feed, nurse and house young elephants lost or abandoned by their mothers. Other occupants are elephants displaced from their natural environs by development projects or those found wounded. Visitors could see the baby elephants being fed milk from gigantic feeding bottles or bathed in the river which flows nearby – an unforgettable sight! Established in 1975, by the Wildlife Department and National Zoological gardens which subsequently led to a breeding programme through which more than twenty five elephants have been born since 1984.

Check-in to the hotel. Overnight stay at Hotel, Kandy.

Day 3: Temple of tooth relic, Royal botanical garden & Cultural show

3Breakfast at hotel. Full day Kandy city tour with visits to Temple of tooth relic, Royal botanical garden & Cultural show.
Kandy – a lovely exotic city, the Hill Capital and last stronghold of the Sinhala Kings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which retains an aura of grandeur, time has not affected. Encircled by hills, with a tranquil lake in its centre, it is the site of the renowned temple that enshrines the Tooth Relic of the Buddha and the Royal Botanical gardens – home to one of the world’s best collections of Orchids. A cultural sanctuary where many legends, traditions and folklore are still lovingly kept alive, Kandy and its satellite villages are the centre of the islands handicraft industry (items of wood, brass & silver) exquisite silver or gold jewellery and precious gems of many varieties including the world’s best blue and star sapphires. The highlight of the city’s calendar is the Esala Perahera, when a replica of the casket enclosing the Tooth is taken in procession for ten glittering nights in July/August by exotically costumed dancers, drummers and approximately 100 Elephants.
Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel, Kandy.

Day 4: Nuwara Eliya Tour

4Breakfast at hotel. Proceed to Nuwara Eliya. Visit Tea plantation, Tea factory and Mani Kattuther on the way.
Mani Kattuther – It is believed that after meeting Seetha Devi, Lord Hanuman rested on this hill top on his way back to Lord Rama with the happy news. An open temple with statues of Lord Rama, Seetha Devi, Laxman and Lord Hanuman stands at this location which is visited frequently by the locals.
Afternoon Nuwara Eliya city tour with visits to Gregory Lake, Gayathri peedam, Seetha amman temple.
Nuwara Eliya – Sri Lanka’s premier hill resort with a fine bracing mountain climate, Nuwara Eliya is also the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country, producing some of the world’s best tea. The mountain slopes and valleys are a carpet of velvety green tea plantations, interspersed with gushing streams and tumbling waterfalls. Red or green roofed plantation bungalows, English country style homes and hotels with lovely flower gardens, a fine 18 hole golf course and a racecourse gives Nuwara Eliya a decidedly British character.
Gayathri Peedam – It is believed to be the place from where King Ravana’s son Meghanath propitiated Lord Shiva with penance and poojas and in turn was granted with super natural powers. This is the 1st temple built for Gayathri Amman in Sri Lanka and the Shiva Lingam in this temple was brought from the holy river Narmada.
Seetha Amman temple – There is a stream by the side of the temple. It is believed that Seetha Devi bathed in this stream. It is interesting to note that foot prints akin to Lord Hanuman’s are found on the rocks along this river and some are of small size and some are of large size, which indicated the immense power of Lord Hanuman transforming himself into any size. Now there is a Temple dedicated to Lord Rama, Setha Devi, Laxman and Lord Hanuman.
Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at Hotel, Nuwara Eliya.

Day 5: Colombo

5Breakfast at hotel. Return to Colombo. Afternoon Colombo city tour with visits to Kelaniya temple and Anjaneyar temple.

Colombo – the trade and commercial capital has long been the traditional gateway to the Orient. Sri Lanka’s largest city, it is located on the west coast and draws together all the cultures, religions and influences of foreign lands into a pot-pourri of sounds, smells and a kaleidoscope of colour. The original traders and settlers – the Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch and the British have left in their wake churches and monuments, names and religions, costumes and food and smatterings of their languages which have been absorbed into the speech of the Sri Lankan. Today, Colombo is a fascinating city – a happy blend of east & west, past & present, with a charm of its own. A less known but amazingly true fact is that Colombo has a superb range of high quality restaurants serving food from all over the world and some of the best shopping opportunities in Asia. The main seaport of Sri Lanka is in Colombo & adjoining it, is Pettah, a local bazaar & trading area.
Other places of interest are the beautiful Buddhist temples, Hindu temples, mosques, the historic Wolfendhal church, (1749) residential areas where you find the stately homes of the affluent, the Colombo Museum, the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall, the New Parliament in Sri Jayewardenepura, the Folk Art Centre, Art Galleries, Parks, Independence Square, the Ceramic Corporation famous for its well-known brand “Noritake” and ODEL the renowned shopping centre, and MC.
Kelaniya – It is believed that Kelaniya is the place from where King Vibeeshana ruled after being crowned by Laxman. As Lord Rama was in exile for 14 years, could not take part in any coronation ceremony deputed his younget brother prince Luxman to crown Vibeeshana. Today in this very place a Buddhist shrine and a temple for king Vibeeshana exists. There are murals enshrined outside the Buddhist temple depicting the crowning of King Vibeeshana. Today temples for King Vibeeshana are found throughout Lanka and he is still considered as 1 of the 4 guarding deities of Sri Lanka. A painting of King Vibeeshana adorns the walls of new parliament. It is a fact that there is no temple for King Ravana where as many exists for King Vibeeshana. This goes on to prove that is stand towards Dharma and justice made him a god in Sri Lanka.
Panchamuga Anjaneyar Temple – A temple dedicated to Anjaner in Sri Lanka. The only temple in the world to have a chariot for Anjaneyar.

Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at hotel, Colombo.

Day 6: Departure

Breakfast at hotel. Departure transfer to Airport from Colombo for your onward flight.

Inclusions:

02 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast in Colombo
02 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast in Nuwara Eliya
02 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast in Kandy
Half day city tours of Colombo, Nuwara Eliya and Kandy.
A visit to Ramayana sites mentioned above, Tea Estates, Tea Factories, Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, Temple of the Tooth Relic, Royal Botanical Gardens and Cultural Show. ( Entrance Fee is not included and it should be purchased directly by the guests)
An air conditioned car with an English speaking Chauffeur guide


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MALDIVES & SRILANKA https://tsiholidays.com/tour/maldives-srilanka/ Wed, 04 Mar 2015 11:40:35 +0000 http://www.tsiholidays.com/?post_type=tour&p=7704
Day Place Highlights
1~3 Maldives At leisure.
4~5 Dambulla Dambulla Cave Temple. Tour to Sigiriya & Ritigala
6 Kandy City Tour and Spice Garden in Kandy
7~8 Colombo City Tour in Colombo

When To Go

Jan30%
Feb30%
Mar30%
Apr30%
May30%
Jun30%
Jul30%
Aug30%
Sep30%
Oct30%
Nov30%
Dec30%

Day 1: Arrive Maldives

22Upon your arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Maldives . Day is free at Leisure to explore on your Own. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 2: Day is Free at leisure

11After breakfast at the hotel, Day is Free at Leisure. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 3: Day at Leisure

55After breakfast at the hotel, Day is Free at Leisure . Overnight at Hotel .

Day 4: Maldives – Colombo – Dambulla  ( Srilanka)

33Arrive to the airport and transfer to Dambulla / Habarana.
Check in at the hotel, Late afternoon visit Dambulla cave temple, Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel – Dambulla / Habarana.

Day 5: Visit to Sigiriya / Ritigala

66Breakfast at the hotel, Visit to Sigiriya or Ritigala, Overnight stay at the hotel – Dambulla / Habarana.

Day 6: Dambulla – Matale – Kandy

77Breakfast at the hotel,
Proceed to Kandy, enrooted do a spice tour at a spice garden, Check in at the hotel,
Evening do a city tour of Kandy, visit the temple of the tooth relic and witness the cultural performance. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight stay at the hotel – Kandy.

Day 7:Kandy – Colombo

44Breakfast at the hotel and Proceed to Colombo
Lunch at a restaurant,
Proceed on a city/shopping tour of Colombo, explore the night life in Colombo (Visit to a Casino in the city.)
Overnight stay at the hotel – Colombo

Day 8: Departure

After breakfast, check-out from the hotel. You will be transferred to the airport to board your flight back home.

 

Inclusions :

03 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast in Maldives

04 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast in Sri Lanka

All Transfers in Srilanka on Private vehicle

Airport Transfers in Maldives on Speed Boat


Send Enquiry – manageroutbound@tsimails.com


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city information https://tsiholidays.com/package/city-information-srilanka/ Fri, 31 Oct 2014 08:03:24 +0000 http://www.tsiholidays.com/?post_type=package&p=3033 Srilanka If you are looking for a tropical paradise to escape to during your holidays, Sri Lanka is surely the place for you. Home to some of the most beautiful locales, beaches and some of the most wonderful people on earth, Sri Lanka is truly a dream come true for any tourist. No wonder we […]

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Srilanka If you are looking for a tropical paradise to escape to during your holidays, Sri Lanka is surely the place for you. Home to some of the most beautiful locales, beaches and some of the most wonderful people on earth, Sri Lanka is truly a dream come true for any tourist. No wonder we can always find people digging for information on Sri Lanka to know it better. This tropical country, besides its rich and beautiful locales and picturesque beauty is also known for its rich history that never fails to mesmerize everyone. TSI Holidays offers tours to some of the most wonderful cities in Sri Lanka that abound in culture, tradition and of course, history. In fact, all the cities in Sri Lanka have their own distinct characters and specialties. Do book a tour to Sri Lanka on the next given opportunity and embark on a journey that would be one of the most fruitful and wonderful vacations of your life.

See the magical attractions of teardrop of India – tropical Sri Lanka that sparkles like a glowing stud on aqua Indian Ocean waters. Also referred to as “the pearl of the orient,” Sri Lanka spells magic, wonder, beauty and charm. Tour this tiny leisure island fragrant with frangipani gardens, exotic hotels and timeless magic with TSI Holidays tour packages.

Visit the attractions of Anuradhapura that served as the capital of the Sinhalese kingdom for more than 1500 years. See historic remains and enjoy splendorous trips to Mihintalle, Buddha Samadhi and Thuparama dagoba. Trek through enchanting tea gardens spread over rolling Kandy hills and travel to local attractions such as Asgiriya monastery, Degaldoruwa temple, the Tooth Relic Temple and more as you see the treasures of Sri Lanka cities with TSI Holidays packages.

Travel to Nuwara Eliya that lies about 2000 meters above the sea level. See the Rock Citadel and gardens of Sigiriya, Sri Lanka on your Sri Lanka cities tour with TSI Holidays tour packages. If you want to know more about the cities in Sri Lanka, you can visit the web links mentioned below.

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utilities https://tsiholidays.com/package/utilities-srilanka/ Fri, 31 Oct 2014 07:56:56 +0000 http://www.tsiholidays.com/?post_type=package&p=3032 Weather Unlike many other Asian destinations, Sri Lanka can lay genuine claim to being a year-round holiday destination. You just have to know which side of the island to focus on in any given month, and this is never more important than when planning your beach destination. Unquestionably, the starting point when planning your trip […]

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Weather

Unlike many other Asian destinations, Sri Lanka can lay genuine claim to being a year-round holiday destination. You just have to know which side of the island to focus on in any given month, and this is never more important than when planning your beach destination.

Unquestionably, the starting point when planning your trip in Sri Lanka is understanding the two monsoon seasons.
The south-western monsoon brings rain to the south-west of Sri Lanka between May and September, while the dry season in this region runs from December to March.
In the north and eastern coastal regions of the country, the weather is influenced by the north-eastern monsoon, which brings wind and rain between October and January, and dryer weather between May and September.
There is also an inter-monsoonal period during October and the first half of November, when rain and thunderstorms can occur across the island. This clears up as December nears, with conditions getting balmier by the day during the second half of November.
As with many South-East Asian destinations, the period from December to mid-April is considered the peak season for overall weather and therefore overall visitor numbers. Whilst there is good reason for this, there are equal benefits to travelling outside of this period, with the shoulder season often providing the best of both worlds; namely great weather and a lower visitor numbers.
Whilst planning any holiday around the seasons, it’s important to remember that the world’s weather has a funny habit of not sticking to script, and this is never truer than in Sri Lanka. You will often be blessed with clear blue skies in what should be rainy season, or with torrential downpours in the middle of the dry season. Therefore you would do well to consider a whole host of other elements (ie seasonal airfares,school holidays etc) in addition to the weather when making your plans.

In general when it does rain, it’s unusual for the rain to last all day, with downpours more often being short and sharp, often with a number of inches falling in just a matter of minutes. In extremes this can lead to localised flooding, which when severe can require last minute alternations to your travel plans…one of the highlights of travelling in Asia!

Relative humidity in Sri Lanka typically ranges from 60% – 90% and is generally higher in the south-west and mountainous areas, although it is also effected by seasonal patterns and rainfall. While Colombo can experience daytime humidity in excess of 70% all year round (rising to approximately 90% during the monsoon season), humidity in the Cultural Triangle drops as low as 60% during the monsoon month of March, and peaks at around 80% during the November and December rains. In the highlands, Kandy’s daytime humidity usually ranges between 70% and 80% throughout the year.

Click here to check weather information for cities in Sri Lanka

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Nuwara Eliya https://tsiholidays.com/city/nuwara-eliya/ Thu, 30 Oct 2014 08:11:35 +0000 http://www.tsiholidays.com/?post_type=city&p=3004

Nuwara Eliya is a wonderful hill resort in Sri Lanka that is situated 2000 meters above sea level. One of the main hill resorts of the country, Nuwara Eliya also boasts of being the very heart of Sri Lanka’s tea industry. Popularly referred to as “little England”, Nuwara Eliya was the favorite summer retreat of the European planters who made Sri Lanka their home during the 19th century. Everything about this pretty town is English complete with the English style bungalows and buildings that adorn the landscape.

Speaking of attractions, Nuwara Eliya has a lot to offer to tourists. Besides, its beauty and verdant surroundings, Nuwara Eliya is a great place for golfing, horse riding, boating, hiking and relaxing amidst nature. One can also visit the numerous tea factories that are open to visitors who can also buy samples at the tea outlets there.

As you explore this beautiful hill resort, you are transported to a realm where everything is at peace and calm pervades. This goes a great way in rejuvenating your senses, which just revel in the comfort offered by the natural surroundings and serenity at Nuwara Eliya.

Speaking of golf, the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club is surely the best of its kind in Sri Lanka. At a walking distance from the town center, the club is truly the prime attraction in Nuwara Eliya besides the tea estates. Don’t forget to visit some of the beautiful cascading wonders located near Nuwara Eliya. The Laksapana Falls is the most famous of them all. In fact, the famous Nuwara Eliya beer is brewed from the water of the stream.

Accommodation is not a problem in Nuwara Eliya because it offers a number of resorts, hotels and lodges to visitors. However it is advisable that you make your bookings well in advance if you visit Nuwara Eliya during the peak season, which falls between March to May.

Shopping in Nuwara Eliya
For shopping, Nuwara Eliya’s shopping scene features traditional local retailers selling locally produced goods rather than branded or imported products. Visitors hoping to take home some of the world’s finest tea will not be disappointed by the variety on offer with plenty of small shops selling locally grown blends and, of course, the factories themselves having their own retail sections.

Trekking and Hiking in Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya offers some excellent opportunities to test your endurance over a varying selection of terrain. The Horton Plains National Park is the obvious place to head for trekking, with established routes and English-speaking guides with a good knowledge of the area available for hire. Pidurutalagala, the country’s highest mountain, can also be hiked up. While the peak is off limits, it’s possible to reach points as high as 7,000 feet from the base.

Labookelle Tea Centre
The Labookelle tea center on Kandy road offers guided toursLabookelle Tea Centre of the factory free of charge and also runs a sales outlet and a restaurant on site.

Galway’s Land Bird Sanctuary
Galway Land Bird SanctuaryA beautiful land area covering an extent of 57.6 hectares of land in Nuwara Eliya had been gazetted as a Bird sanctuary in the year 1938. This bird sanctuary attracts about 20 species of very rare foreign birds and about 30 species of Sri Lankan birds. Most of the endemic bird species as well as migrant bird species could be seen at this sanctuary. In addition to the birds this park has valuable tree species of both foreign and local.

Gregory Lake
Gregory LakeLake Gregory is one of the significant tourist attractions in Nuwara Eliya. It was built by the Governor William Gregory during 1872 – 1877 periods by utilizing the water from the Nanuoya which runs across the town. It is about 91.2 hectares in extent. It was said to be used for water sports and for re-recreational activities during the British rule. Gregory Lake

A boat yard now allows visitors to go boating and rowing.

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Anuradhapura https://tsiholidays.com/city/anuradhapura/ Thu, 30 Oct 2014 08:10:56 +0000 http://www.tsiholidays.com/?post_type=city&p=3003

The ancient capital of the Sinhalese kings of Ceylon, Anuradhapura is mainly famous for its extensive Buddhist ruins and status as an important Buddhist pilgrimage center. In fact, this ancient city was the first kingdom to be established in Sri Lanka. Founded in the 5th century BC, Anuradhapura was a flourishing city and was among the 10 largest cities in the sub continent. As Buddhism made its foray into Sri Lanka, a number of Buddhist structures and monastery complexes came up in Anuradhapura. Some of these structures still exist today and revoke the old glory of the city.

The Jetavanaramaya dagoba in Anuradhapura is still the highest brick structure in the world. The present Anuradhapura has been built over the ruins of the old city and is a major attraction for international and domestic tourists alike. It is home to the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, the oldest historical tree in the world that is 2300 years old. Today, there are many things to see in Anuradhapura like the several colossal stupas, a temple entirely hewn from rock and the Brazen Palace.

The most appealing thing about Anuradhapura is its ancient charm that is still discernable amidst its extensive ruins. A tour around this wonderful place really transports you back in time and offers you a wealth of knowledge. So appealing is this ancient charm that it makes you go back again and again to Anuradhapura and lose yourself in the old grandeur of the place.

A visit to Anuradhapura would truly be an experience to remember. In fact, it is impossible to put its charismatic appeal in words. So, why don’t you set out to discover this wonderful place yourself and gain an experience to remember for a lifetime?

Ruwanwelisaya
The Ruwanwelisaya is a stupa in Sri Lanka, considered a marvel for its architectural qualities and sacred to many Buddhists all over the world. It was built by King Dutugemunu c. 140 B.C., who became lord of all Sri Lanka after a war in which the Chola King Elara, was defeated. It is also known as Mahathupa, Swarnamali Chaitya, Suvarnamali Mahaceti (in Pali) and Rathnamali Dagaba.

The Jetavanaramaya
The Jetavanaramaya is a stupa, located in the ruins of Jetavana Monastery in the sacred world heritage city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. King Mahasena (273–301 AD) initiated the construction of the stupa following the destruction of Mahavihara. His son Maghavanna I completed the construction of the stupa. A part of a sash or belt tied by the Buddha is believed to be the relic that is enshrined here.

Loha Prasada – The Brazen Palace
Loha Prasada – The Brazen PalaceA roof of copper over this primordial skyscraper bestowed upon it, its name. This work of Duttha Gamini is known to have burned down only 15 years after its building; which leads to the surmise that it was largely a wooden structure.

The 1,600 pillars (40 x 40) that now mark the site are historically ascribed to king Parakrama Bahu the Great (1153—1186 A.D.) of Polonnaruwa. The original building was of 9 graded stories and is said to have had one thousand rooms.

The Thuparama Dagaba
Thuparama DagabaThe Thuparama was the first Buddhist building at Anuradhapura. It was built by King Devanampiya Tissa to enshrine the Buddha’s collar bone. Originally of the “paddy heap” shape, its present “bell” shape dates to reconstruction in the 1840s. The graceful monolithic pillars surrounding it once upheld a circular roof making the shrine a Vata Dage (Circular—Relic—house) a characteristically Sinhala architectural feature.

The Samadhi Buddha
Samadhi StatueSamadhi is a state of deep meditation, and the Lord Buddha is represented in this position after gaining enlightenment. This 4th Century AD statue of the Buddha in meditative pose is acknowledged worldwide as a masterpiece. The Indian Nationalist leader, Nehru, derived strength from contemplating his statue, during his imprisonment by the British.

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Bentota https://tsiholidays.com/city/bentota/ Thu, 30 Oct 2014 08:10:23 +0000 http://www.tsiholidays.com/?post_type=city&p=3002

Mainly known for its wonderful resorts and spicy food, Bentota is not among the popularly frequented places in Sri Lanka. However, it is fast making its presence felt on the tourist’s map and is on its way to become one of the most popular tourist spots in Sri Lanka. Located 65 km away from Colombo, Bentota is a place you must visit if you want solitude mixed with natural beauty.

Home to a couple of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka, Bentota is truly a delightful place to be in. Besides, the city also has a number of water sporting facilities that attract tourists who want their share of fun along with the detachment Bentota offers.

Speaking of tourist attractions, Bentota has a lot to offer to its visitors. From a number of festivals to shopping, Bentota is truly a tourist’s delight. The artifacts and handicrafts on offer at the many stalls/shops at Bentota are appreciated worldwide and would serve as great gifts to carry back home. Another important attraction at Bentota is the Yala Wildlife Park that offers some exciting safaris to tourists. Enjoy water sports, explore the beautiful coral reefs or tour the historical sights that would be a nice way to spend time at Bentota. Don’t forget to try out the local food at Bentota that would just delight your taste buds.

On the whole, Bentota is truly a wonderful place to visit during your Sri Lanka tour. Do drop in at this magical city the next time you visit Sri Lanka and enjoy a vacation that would be perfect in every sense.

Brief Garden
the house and garden of renowned Sri Lankan landscape architect, Bevis Bawa, the older brother of architect Geoffrey Bawa. Established in 1929 on the grounds of a former rubber plantation Bawa continued to develop the property until his death in 1992.

Buddhist Temple, Kande Viharaya
The Kande Viharaya temple has a long history, dating back to 1734 and continues to this day to be an important link in the Buddhist cultural and religious activities of Sri Lanka. Observe devotees dressed in white as they flock the temple grounds daily.

Kanneliya
Kanneliya, covering an extent of 10,140 hectares, is a forest complex located in southern Sri Lanka which was designated as an important biosphere reserve in 2004 by UNESCO. Excluding the Sinharaja rain forest, Kanneliya is acknowledged as the only remaining rainforest in Sri Lanka. Identified as one of the richest areas in terms of flora, in the whole of South Asia, the forest reserve is located approximately 35 Kilometers northwest of the city of Galle. Kanneliya is a must visit for nature lovers.

Maduganga River Safari
Cruise through the mangroves and a host of little islands along a river resplendent with natural beauty. Boat rides and lagoon fishing can be easily arranged for your enjoyment.The Maduganga wetland is considered to be one of the last remaining tracts of pristine mangrove forests in Sri Lanka and nature lovers should set aside some time for a visit.

The post Bentota first appeared on TSI Holidays.

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Colombo https://tsiholidays.com/city/colombo/ Thu, 30 Oct 2014 08:09:45 +0000 http://www.tsiholidays.com/?post_type=city&p=3001

The beautiful city of Colombo is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka besides being the lagest city in the country. The literal meaning of Colombo can be interpreted as a “harbor with leafy mango trees”. One of the most colorful places you can visit in Sri Lanka, Colombo is truly a treat to the senses.

Anywhere you go in Colombo, the jest for life can easily be discerned in the friendly people who are more than eager to provide you with all information you need. In fact, just a simple tour around this nerve center of Sri Lanka can be an amazing experience. Besides, the city has a number of attractions for visitors that include National Museum, the Art Gallery, the numerous mosques and the Buddhist and Hindu temples that date back to the ancient and medieval times. Besides, you can also visit the Ford district in Colombo that boasts of being the largest business center in Sri Lanka. Numerous shops, airline offices, stores, the Central Bank and the World Trade Center Twin Towers make up this hub. There are some attractions nearby like the clock tower, the lighthouse and the president’s residence.

Colombo has other attractions like the Fort, Pettah, Dehiwala Zoo, Cinnamon Gardens, Slave Island, Mount Lavina and so on. Colombo is also a great place to shop for jewelry and leather products. Besides, the city also has a vibrant nightlife with numerous pubs, discos and clubs doting the landscape of the city.

Colombo has much more to it than the attractions listed above. In fact, a visit to this bustling city can be a truly novel experience. We have listed some of the attractions for you. The only thing that remains for you to do is to come to this wonderful city and discover the rest of them.

Performing arts
Colombo has several performing arts centers which are popular for their musical and theatrical performances. The most famous performing arts centers are the Lionel Wendt Theatre, the Elphinstone, and Tower Hall, all of which have a very rich history and made for western style productions. The Navarangahala found in the city is the country’s first national theatre designed and build for Asian and local style musical and theatrical productions.

Museums and art collections
The National Museum of Colombo, established on 1 January 1877 during the tenure of the British Colonial Governor Sir William Henry Gregory, is in the Cinnamon Gardens area. The museum houses the crown jewels and throne of the last king of the kingdom of Kandy, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha.

There is also the Colombo Dutch Museum detailing the Dutch colonial history of the country. Colombo does not boast a very big art gallery. There is a small collection of Sri Lankan masterpieces at the Art Gallery in Green Path; next to it is the Natural History Museum.

Sports
Undoubtedly the most popular sport in Sri Lanka is cricket. The country emerged as champions of the 1996 Cricket World Cup and became runners up in 2007 and 2011. In the ICC World Twenty20 they became runners up in 2009 and 2012 and winners in 2014. The sport is played in parks, playgrounds, beaches and even in the streets. Colombo is the home for two of the country’s most popular international cricket stadiums, Sinhalese Sports Club’s cricket stadium and R. Premadasa Stadium.

Gangaramaya Temple
Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most important temples in Colombo, Sri Lanka, being a mix of modern architecture and cultural essence.

Viharamahadevi Park
The Viharamahadevi Park (formerly Victoria Park) is a public park located in Colombo, next to the National Museum in Sri Lanka. It is the oldest and largest park of the Port of Colombo. Situated in front of the colonial-style Town Hall building, the park is named after Queen Viharamahadevi, the mother of King Dutugamunu. The park was built during the British rule of Sri Lanka, and was originally named “Victoria Park” after Queen Victoria. The park features include a huge Buddha statue and a series of water fountains. It also includes a mini zoo, a children’s play area and a BAC Jet Provost.

National Museum of Colombo
National Museum of Colombo, also known as the Sri Lanka National Museum is one of two museums in Colombo. It is the largest museum in Sri Lanka. It is maintained by the Department of National Museum of the central government. The museum holds contains a collections of much importance to Sri Lanka such as the regalia of the country, including the throne and crown of the Kandyan monarchs as well as many other exhibits telling the story of ancient Sri Lanka.

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