Monday, October 26, 2009
Casinos
» Bally's Casino
No. 14 Dharmapala Mawatha,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Interested in a game of chance? If the answer is yes then Colombo has a plethora of casinos for you too lay down your chips and take the chance to walk away with loads of money, or just generally have a good time. Bally's Casino, is well-known for its lucky tables and great entertainment. An up market casino designed to reflect style and class, all you have to do is get lost in the world of roulette, black jack and professional poker, or just sit back and enjoy the live music and great food.
» Stardust Casino
No. 9, 15th Lane,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Stardust is a famous casino in Colombo, which has over 10 years of history, making it one of the oldest casinos in Sri Lanka. Stardust is also famous for its lucky tables and really good live entertainment. The food ranges from savoury short eats to full meals served buffet style. There is also the added advantage of being conveniently located close to the heart of Colombo - at No. 9, 15th Lane, Colombo 3 - surrounded by cafés, hotels, pubs and shopping malls.
» The Bellagio
No. 430, Duplication Road,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
The Bellagio is another up market casino, modernistic and outfitted with the latest equipment to ensure that your time spent will be an unforgettable experience. Like other casinos, The Bellagio spares no expense to ensure it has the finest entertainment and food, so guaranteeing you a great night out.
» M G M Casino
772, Galle Road, Colombo 04, Sri lanka.
No. 14 Dharmapala Mawatha,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Interested in a game of chance? If the answer is yes then Colombo has a plethora of casinos for you too lay down your chips and take the chance to walk away with loads of money, or just generally have a good time. Bally's Casino, is well-known for its lucky tables and great entertainment. An up market casino designed to reflect style and class, all you have to do is get lost in the world of roulette, black jack and professional poker, or just sit back and enjoy the live music and great food.
» Stardust Casino
No. 9, 15th Lane,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Stardust is a famous casino in Colombo, which has over 10 years of history, making it one of the oldest casinos in Sri Lanka. Stardust is also famous for its lucky tables and really good live entertainment. The food ranges from savoury short eats to full meals served buffet style. There is also the added advantage of being conveniently located close to the heart of Colombo - at No. 9, 15th Lane, Colombo 3 - surrounded by cafés, hotels, pubs and shopping malls.
» The Bellagio
No. 430, Duplication Road,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
The Bellagio is another up market casino, modernistic and outfitted with the latest equipment to ensure that your time spent will be an unforgettable experience. Like other casinos, The Bellagio spares no expense to ensure it has the finest entertainment and food, so guaranteeing you a great night out.
» M G M Casino
772, Galle Road, Colombo 04, Sri lanka.
Casinos
» Bally's Casino
No. 14 Dharmapala Mawatha,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Interested in a game of chance? If the answer is yes then Colombo has a plethora of casinos for you too lay down your chips and take the chance to walk away with loads of money, or just generally have a good time. Bally's Casino, is well-known for its lucky tables and great entertainment. An up market casino designed to reflect style and class, all you have to do is get lost in the world of roulette, black jack and professional poker, or just sit back and enjoy the live music and great food.
» Stardust Casino
No. 9, 15th Lane,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Stardust is a famous casino in Colombo, which has over 10 years of history, making it one of the oldest casinos in Sri Lanka. Stardust is also famous for its lucky tables and really good live entertainment. The food ranges from savoury short eats to full meals served buffet style. There is also the added advantage of being conveniently located close to the heart of Colombo - at No. 9, 15th Lane, Colombo 3 - surrounded by cafés, hotels, pubs and shopping malls.
» The Bellagio
No. 430, Duplication Road,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
The Bellagio is another up market casino, modernistic and outfitted with the latest equipment to ensure that your time spent will be an unforgettable experience. Like other casinos, The Bellagio spares no expense to ensure it has the finest entertainment and food, so guaranteeing you a great night out.
» M G M Casino
772, Galle Road, Colombo 04, Sri lanka.
No. 14 Dharmapala Mawatha,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Interested in a game of chance? If the answer is yes then Colombo has a plethora of casinos for you too lay down your chips and take the chance to walk away with loads of money, or just generally have a good time. Bally's Casino, is well-known for its lucky tables and great entertainment. An up market casino designed to reflect style and class, all you have to do is get lost in the world of roulette, black jack and professional poker, or just sit back and enjoy the live music and great food.
» Stardust Casino
No. 9, 15th Lane,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Stardust is a famous casino in Colombo, which has over 10 years of history, making it one of the oldest casinos in Sri Lanka. Stardust is also famous for its lucky tables and really good live entertainment. The food ranges from savoury short eats to full meals served buffet style. There is also the added advantage of being conveniently located close to the heart of Colombo - at No. 9, 15th Lane, Colombo 3 - surrounded by cafés, hotels, pubs and shopping malls.
» The Bellagio
No. 430, Duplication Road,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
The Bellagio is another up market casino, modernistic and outfitted with the latest equipment to ensure that your time spent will be an unforgettable experience. Like other casinos, The Bellagio spares no expense to ensure it has the finest entertainment and food, so guaranteeing you a great night out.
» M G M Casino
772, Galle Road, Colombo 04, Sri lanka.
Cafes, Lounges & Bars
» Bradman Bar - Cricket Club Café
34, Queens Road, Off Duplication Road,
Colombo 02, Sri lanka.
Tel: 250 1384
The most popular theme bar in town. The ambience breathes cricket with memorabilia, videos, and framed international shirts and is popular with cricket lovers and non-cricket clients alike. The prices of drinks and western-style bar food are reasonable and of a consistently high standard. A particularly attractive proposition for those yearning for their favourite pub back home.
» Cheers
Colombo Plaza, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 2437437
Another new addition having replaced the exclusive Colombo Club. Housed downstairs, the wood-panelled bar-cum-restaurant would not look out of place in the House of Commons. Very popular with the expatriate crowd. Also boasts an all-day fried breakfast and popular Sunday Carvery. Has an excellent pool table and a full-size snooker table.
» Bistro Latino
Duplication Road, Colombo 05, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 2580063
A small Mexican bar off Duplication Road, close to Rhythm and Blues. A must-visit for salsa dancers. Offers free dance classes for diners on Tue, Fri and Sat. Great Margaritas. Friendly and fun atmosphere.
» Blue Leopard, Harbour Room
Grand Oriental Hotel 2, York Street, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 320391-3
» Aquamarine Bar
Intercontinental Hotel 48, Janadhipathi Mw, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 421221
» Karaoke Lounge, Lobby Bar
Galadari Hotel 64, Lotus Road, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 544544
» Cyclone
29, Maitland Crescent, Colombo 07, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 075 378017,8
» Clany's - Pub & Restaurant
29, Maitland Crescent, Colombo 07, Sri Lanka.
If 21st century styling and large screens are not your forte, and you want a more traditional pub with live bands, then Clancy's is the place for you. Clancy's is located at No. 29 Maitland Crescent, Colombo 7, and is as typical as bars and pubs get. Great prices, bands playing sing-a-long songs and crowds of people having a really great time is probably the best way to sum up Colombo's classic pub. But pubs aren't the only entertainment that Colombo has to offer. If you're the sort of person who likes to shake a leg and dance the night away then Colombo has got just the thing for you.
» Don Stanley's
42, Navam Mw., Colombo 02, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 074 719192,3
» Echelon Pub, Karaoke Bar , Thorana Lounge
Colombo Hilton - 2, Sir Chittambalam A. Gardiner Mw, Colombo 02, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 544644
» Lobby Bar
Taj Samudra Hotel 25, Galle face Centre Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 446622
» White Horse
2 Navam Mawatha, Colombo 02, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 2304922
The White Horse has a long history. The new re-located White Horse has a more modern feel but the clientele remains young and lively, fuelled by inexpensive drinks and the excitement of a long night out. Gets very busy over the weekend when the crowd spills out onto the street. Quiet and moody during the week – ideal for a private beer.
» Inn on the Green
Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 2239440
A traditional English bar, leased from the Galle Face Hotel, Inn On The Green offers the only draught bitter in town as well as an impressive selection of imported beers. Walkers crisps also make a surprise appearance, but they burn a hole in your pocket. Despite being themed as an ‘English Pub’ it has avoided becoming a haven for expatriate bores and is well-worth a visit. The food has less to commend it.
34, Queens Road, Off Duplication Road,
Colombo 02, Sri lanka.
Tel: 250 1384
The most popular theme bar in town. The ambience breathes cricket with memorabilia, videos, and framed international shirts and is popular with cricket lovers and non-cricket clients alike. The prices of drinks and western-style bar food are reasonable and of a consistently high standard. A particularly attractive proposition for those yearning for their favourite pub back home.
» Cheers
Colombo Plaza, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 2437437
Another new addition having replaced the exclusive Colombo Club. Housed downstairs, the wood-panelled bar-cum-restaurant would not look out of place in the House of Commons. Very popular with the expatriate crowd. Also boasts an all-day fried breakfast and popular Sunday Carvery. Has an excellent pool table and a full-size snooker table.
» Bistro Latino
Duplication Road, Colombo 05, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 2580063
A small Mexican bar off Duplication Road, close to Rhythm and Blues. A must-visit for salsa dancers. Offers free dance classes for diners on Tue, Fri and Sat. Great Margaritas. Friendly and fun atmosphere.
» Blue Leopard, Harbour Room
Grand Oriental Hotel 2, York Street, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 320391-3
» Aquamarine Bar
Intercontinental Hotel 48, Janadhipathi Mw, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 421221
» Karaoke Lounge, Lobby Bar
Galadari Hotel 64, Lotus Road, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 544544
» Cyclone
29, Maitland Crescent, Colombo 07, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 075 378017,8
» Clany's - Pub & Restaurant
29, Maitland Crescent, Colombo 07, Sri Lanka.
If 21st century styling and large screens are not your forte, and you want a more traditional pub with live bands, then Clancy's is the place for you. Clancy's is located at No. 29 Maitland Crescent, Colombo 7, and is as typical as bars and pubs get. Great prices, bands playing sing-a-long songs and crowds of people having a really great time is probably the best way to sum up Colombo's classic pub. But pubs aren't the only entertainment that Colombo has to offer. If you're the sort of person who likes to shake a leg and dance the night away then Colombo has got just the thing for you.
» Don Stanley's
42, Navam Mw., Colombo 02, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 074 719192,3
» Echelon Pub, Karaoke Bar , Thorana Lounge
Colombo Hilton - 2, Sir Chittambalam A. Gardiner Mw, Colombo 02, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 544644
» Lobby Bar
Taj Samudra Hotel 25, Galle face Centre Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 446622
» White Horse
2 Navam Mawatha, Colombo 02, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 2304922
The White Horse has a long history. The new re-located White Horse has a more modern feel but the clientele remains young and lively, fuelled by inexpensive drinks and the excitement of a long night out. Gets very busy over the weekend when the crowd spills out onto the street. Quiet and moody during the week – ideal for a private beer.
» Inn on the Green
Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 2239440
A traditional English bar, leased from the Galle Face Hotel, Inn On The Green offers the only draught bitter in town as well as an impressive selection of imported beers. Walkers crisps also make a surprise appearance, but they burn a hole in your pocket. Despite being themed as an ‘English Pub’ it has avoided becoming a haven for expatriate bores and is well-worth a visit. The food has less to commend it.
Night Clubs & Discos
» Blue Elephant
Colombo Hilton - 2, Sir Chittambalam A. Gardiner Mw,
Colombo 02, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 544644
The Blue Elephant at the Colombo Hilton is one of Colombo's premier nightclubs, with the latest music, latest lighting and great bar. From RnB to hardcore dance, the Blue Elephant will play you any tune you want to hear - and guarantee you a night of fun and excitement. For the more retro crowd, The Hut at the Mount Lavinia Hotel is the perfect place. The Hut is one of the oldest nightclubs and is famous for playing the best in retro music and has a beautiful view of the beach and the Indian Ocean beyond.
» Mawby's Clillout Pub
No 112, New Buller's Road,
Colombo 05, Sri Lanka.
Mawby's is the latest addition to Colombo's evergrowing pub culture. It has a country and western theme. This is a chilled out pub and cafe designed with a 21st century feel but definitely not minimalist. In addition to the usual well-stocked bar, the pub also features a large screen where you can watch some of the greatest musicians and artistes in concert. And if you're the sort of person who worships comfort, then you'll be glad to know that Hippos has the comfiest sofas in town.
» Zanzi Bar
No.42, Sir Mohammed Macan Markar Mawatha,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Zanzi Bar, situated on the fourth floor of No.42, Sir Mohammed Macan Markar Mawatha, Colombo 3, next to the Holiday Inn, is one of Colombo's newest up market bars. It has a great 21st century minimalist ambience and a wellstocked bar, which will cater to whatever you might desire. On the third floor of the same building is Glow which regularly features a wide variety of live bands, international DJ's and theme nights, making sure that every time you go there it will be a totally new experience.
» Glow Bar
3rd Floor, Automobile Association Building,
42A, Sir Mohamed Marcan Marker Mawatha, Colombo 3. Sri Lanka.
Tel: 4714666
Sri Lanka’s trendiest bar, packed over the weekend with Sri Lanka’s Under 30’s party crowd. A place to see and be seen. But despite being lively you can still make conversation. A modern, minimalist design. Arrive early if you want a seat. Friendly staff and reasonable prices. Regular theme nights and happy hour is from 6 pm to 7 pm.
» Blue Leopard, Harbour Room
Grand Oriental Hotel 2, York Street, Colombo 01
Tel: 320391-3
» The Library
Trans Asia Hotel, 155 Sir Chittampalam Gardiner Mawatha,
Colombo 02, Sri lanka.
Tel: 2544200.
The Library offers class and style. The Library is exactly that – a library by day and a club at night. It is not as hysterical and frantic as the Blue Elephant. Entrance is only for house guests or members, but tourists can often sneak in. It is relatively quieter than the other clubs and the atmosphere, music, food and drinks are of a very high standard.
» The Hut
Mount Lavinia Hotel, 102, Hotel Road,
Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 271 5221-7.
Formerly known as the Little Hut, The Hut was revitalised in 2003. The Hut offers 70’s reggae, 80’s disco, and the 90’s techno sounds. A live band sets the moods on Fridays and Saturdays from 9.00 pm to 4.00 am, while DJs take the stage through Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, 9.00 pm to 2.00 am. An entrance fee of Rs.1000 is charged per couple but it does include two drinks of your choice. The bar also provides a range of snacks and there are cosy booths if you just want to relax and enjoy your drink.
» My Kind of Place
Taj Samudra Hotel 25, Galle Face Centre Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 446622
» The Boom
Galadari Hotel 64, Lotus Road, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 544544
» Underground
Intercontinental Hotel 48, Janadhipathi Mw, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 421221
» Rhythm & Blues
No. 19/1, Daisy Villa Avenue,
Colombo 04, Sri Lanka.
A classic style pub and a great bar and great menu along with live bands cranking out blues, rock and the occasional love ballad make Rhythm & Blues a great place for the shedding of the day's work load, kicking back and relaxing with an ice cold beer and a good game of pool.
Colombo Hilton - 2, Sir Chittambalam A. Gardiner Mw,
Colombo 02, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 544644
The Blue Elephant at the Colombo Hilton is one of Colombo's premier nightclubs, with the latest music, latest lighting and great bar. From RnB to hardcore dance, the Blue Elephant will play you any tune you want to hear - and guarantee you a night of fun and excitement. For the more retro crowd, The Hut at the Mount Lavinia Hotel is the perfect place. The Hut is one of the oldest nightclubs and is famous for playing the best in retro music and has a beautiful view of the beach and the Indian Ocean beyond.
» Mawby's Clillout Pub
No 112, New Buller's Road,
Colombo 05, Sri Lanka.
Mawby's is the latest addition to Colombo's evergrowing pub culture. It has a country and western theme. This is a chilled out pub and cafe designed with a 21st century feel but definitely not minimalist. In addition to the usual well-stocked bar, the pub also features a large screen where you can watch some of the greatest musicians and artistes in concert. And if you're the sort of person who worships comfort, then you'll be glad to know that Hippos has the comfiest sofas in town.
» Zanzi Bar
No.42, Sir Mohammed Macan Markar Mawatha,
Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Zanzi Bar, situated on the fourth floor of No.42, Sir Mohammed Macan Markar Mawatha, Colombo 3, next to the Holiday Inn, is one of Colombo's newest up market bars. It has a great 21st century minimalist ambience and a wellstocked bar, which will cater to whatever you might desire. On the third floor of the same building is Glow which regularly features a wide variety of live bands, international DJ's and theme nights, making sure that every time you go there it will be a totally new experience.
» Glow Bar
3rd Floor, Automobile Association Building,
42A, Sir Mohamed Marcan Marker Mawatha, Colombo 3. Sri Lanka.
Tel: 4714666
Sri Lanka’s trendiest bar, packed over the weekend with Sri Lanka’s Under 30’s party crowd. A place to see and be seen. But despite being lively you can still make conversation. A modern, minimalist design. Arrive early if you want a seat. Friendly staff and reasonable prices. Regular theme nights and happy hour is from 6 pm to 7 pm.
» Blue Leopard, Harbour Room
Grand Oriental Hotel 2, York Street, Colombo 01
Tel: 320391-3
» The Library
Trans Asia Hotel, 155 Sir Chittampalam Gardiner Mawatha,
Colombo 02, Sri lanka.
Tel: 2544200.
The Library offers class and style. The Library is exactly that – a library by day and a club at night. It is not as hysterical and frantic as the Blue Elephant. Entrance is only for house guests or members, but tourists can often sneak in. It is relatively quieter than the other clubs and the atmosphere, music, food and drinks are of a very high standard.
» The Hut
Mount Lavinia Hotel, 102, Hotel Road,
Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 271 5221-7.
Formerly known as the Little Hut, The Hut was revitalised in 2003. The Hut offers 70’s reggae, 80’s disco, and the 90’s techno sounds. A live band sets the moods on Fridays and Saturdays from 9.00 pm to 4.00 am, while DJs take the stage through Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, 9.00 pm to 2.00 am. An entrance fee of Rs.1000 is charged per couple but it does include two drinks of your choice. The bar also provides a range of snacks and there are cosy booths if you just want to relax and enjoy your drink.
» My Kind of Place
Taj Samudra Hotel 25, Galle Face Centre Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 446622
» The Boom
Galadari Hotel 64, Lotus Road, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 544544
» Underground
Intercontinental Hotel 48, Janadhipathi Mw, Colombo 01, Sri Lanka.
Tel: 421221
» Rhythm & Blues
No. 19/1, Daisy Villa Avenue,
Colombo 04, Sri Lanka.
A classic style pub and a great bar and great menu along with live bands cranking out blues, rock and the occasional love ballad make Rhythm & Blues a great place for the shedding of the day's work load, kicking back and relaxing with an ice cold beer and a good game of pool.
Night Life - Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Up to a few years ago, Colombo was lacking in a variety of nightlife. Recently however, a rash of nightspots has popped up in a short space of time giving everyone who likes to indulge in such activities, more options. Although there are several nightclubs and bars catering to young adults, those with live bands (mostly of excellent standard), are very popular with a more mature clientele.
A wide choice of excellent restaurants can be found in Colombo and a few other places, serving a range of cuisines. Don't forget to try out the street-side joints where you will often find some of the tastiest food.
One of the biggest revolutions in Colombo's nightlife is the emergence of a Pub Culture, so coupled with Sri Lanka's reputation for being a hospitable place, engaging in a pub-crawl is sure to fill your night with great memories and new friends.
Colombo is an intriguing city with something for everyone, a place constantly changing, reinventing itself and moving forward as well as keeping some of its old lustre. One thing is for sure, you can never get bored in Colombo with so much to see and do.
Although no Las Vegas, there is plenty of nightlife in Colombo. Many casinos, or otherwise also called clubs here, scream for your attention with flashing neon lights. The clubs offer gamblers roulette, baccarat, poker, blackjack, and other games to try their luck as well as complimentary food and drinks, and sometimes music with live bands playing. Entrance is only for those over 18 years and some clubs offer entrance only for foreigners. Be dressed in smart casual for instant admission.
A wide choice of excellent restaurants can be found in Colombo and a few other places, serving a range of cuisines. Don't forget to try out the street-side joints where you will often find some of the tastiest food.
One of the biggest revolutions in Colombo's nightlife is the emergence of a Pub Culture, so coupled with Sri Lanka's reputation for being a hospitable place, engaging in a pub-crawl is sure to fill your night with great memories and new friends.
Colombo is an intriguing city with something for everyone, a place constantly changing, reinventing itself and moving forward as well as keeping some of its old lustre. One thing is for sure, you can never get bored in Colombo with so much to see and do.
Although no Las Vegas, there is plenty of nightlife in Colombo. Many casinos, or otherwise also called clubs here, scream for your attention with flashing neon lights. The clubs offer gamblers roulette, baccarat, poker, blackjack, and other games to try their luck as well as complimentary food and drinks, and sometimes music with live bands playing. Entrance is only for those over 18 years and some clubs offer entrance only for foreigners. Be dressed in smart casual for instant admission.
Hotels related to Golfing
Hotels related to Golfing
Golfing, Sri Lanka.
Golf there are three 18 hole golf courses in Sri Lanka at present. While three of them are over 100 years old the third is a just a couple of years old. Green fees are among the cheapest any one could imagine.
Sri Lanka is an ideal golfing holiday destination for those coming from the nearby cities such as Dubai, Hong Kong and Singapore. Sri Lanka is not often considered a golfing destination and after this trip you will realise what a well kept secret it is. The courses are world class and include Victoria, a course voted ‘Best in Asia 2005’. All the courses offer a different challenge and unique golfing experience. However there are further options available to suit various budgets and tastes.
Sri Lanka is an ideal golfing holiday destination for those coming from the nearby cities such as Dubai, Hong Kong and Singapore. Sri Lanka is not often considered a golfing destination and after this trip you will realise what a well kept secret it is. The courses are world class and include Victoria, a course voted ‘Best in Asia 2005’. All the courses offer a different challenge and unique golfing experience. However there are further options available to suit various budgets and tastes.
Hotels related to Botanical Gardens
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The Royal Botanic Gardens at Peradeniya (109 km. from Colombo) The Gardens date back to the Kandyan kingdom, when they were used as royal pleasure grounds. However, it was soon after the British seized the Kandyan Kingdom that they were established in 1821. The Gardens are elegantly landscaped over 150 hectares of beautifully undulating grounds. Within this large loop of the meandering Mahaweli Ganga is a spectacular display of more than 400 species of indigenous tropical flora and exotic plants Hakgala Botanic Gardens After the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, Hakgala, 10km (6 miles) south of Nuwara Eliya, is the second most important garden in Sri Lanka. Though on a smaller scale than those at Peradeniya, Hakgala's plantations of roses, shrubs, ferns and montage woodland are delightfully located, with scenic views. Above the gardens, a forest trail leads into virginwoodland - the home of a troop of purple-faced leaf monkeys, a species endemic to Sri Lanka, and to endemic bird species including the Sri Lanka white-eye, Sri Lanka wood pigeon, and Sri Lanka whistling thrush. Open daily from07:30 to 17:00. Henarathgoda Botanic Gardens Henarathgoda Botanical garden is situated in close proximity to Gampaha Municipality opened in 1876. It is surrounded by beautiful paddy fields, a man-made green environment, secondary forest & a beautiful water streams. This garden carries historically link to the evolution of Sri Lankan Economy. The first imported rubber tree to Sri Lanka was first planted in this garden and it is visible there. The garden has a fairly big collection of tropical flower plants with eye-catching landscaping properly designed and many shrubs, bushes and beautiful trees could. The garden is famous destination for youngsters. Viharamahadevi Park
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Botanical Gardens, Sri Lanka.
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Sri Lanka (shopping)
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Elephant Orphanage
The Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, established in 1975, commenced with seven orphans. Today some of these orphans enjoy the fortune of seeing their grandchildren born in the same location. The original objective of establishing the orphanage inclined more towards tourism, but is soon became a conservation and educational centre. With the help of local and foreign elephant experts, Pinnawela started a scientific captive-breeding programme for elephants.
The free movement of the herd enhanced the chances for respective individuals of both sexes to get together and mate. The nearby river played a dominant role in this regard, and in 1984, the first baby elephant of Pinnawela was born.
Before the arrival of the British in 1815 an estimated 30,000 elephants lived on the island. In the 1960s, the elephant population was close to extinction. This prompted the Sri Lankan government to found an orphanage for elephants that had lost their mothers or herds. Today, their number is around 3,000.
The success story of Pinnawela has drawn the attention of scientists from all over the world. A considerable number of books and research articles on Pinnawela have been published in several languages. The members of the Pinnawela herd have been filmed, videoed and photographed thousands of times by professionals, and millions of times by amateurs. The message of conservation from Pinnawela has been passed on to thousands, if not millions of people, after their visit to the orphanage.
Pinnawela, about 80 km northeast of Colombo, is regarded as the biggest herd of captive elephants in the world. Among the elephants is one that lost a foot when it stepped on a mine. Another is blind and is totally reliant on humans. The elephant herd in Pinnawela makes the journey to the river twice a day to bathe under the eyes of the tourists. For a few Sri Lankan rupees they are allowed to touch the animals. The sound of cameras clicking increases everytime one of the young elephant babies splashes about in the water. But anyone who wants to take a picture of the babies feeding in the orphanage has to pay extra for the privilege.
Some 110 people are employed to care for the herd feeding them with leaves from palm trees. About 14,000 kg of food are needed every day. The Pinnawela elephant orphanage is financed by the government and by charging visitors to see the animals.
The free movement of the herd enhanced the chances for respective individuals of both sexes to get together and mate. The nearby river played a dominant role in this regard, and in 1984, the first baby elephant of Pinnawela was born.
Before the arrival of the British in 1815 an estimated 30,000 elephants lived on the island. In the 1960s, the elephant population was close to extinction. This prompted the Sri Lankan government to found an orphanage for elephants that had lost their mothers or herds. Today, their number is around 3,000.
The success story of Pinnawela has drawn the attention of scientists from all over the world. A considerable number of books and research articles on Pinnawela have been published in several languages. The members of the Pinnawela herd have been filmed, videoed and photographed thousands of times by professionals, and millions of times by amateurs. The message of conservation from Pinnawela has been passed on to thousands, if not millions of people, after their visit to the orphanage.
Pinnawela, about 80 km northeast of Colombo, is regarded as the biggest herd of captive elephants in the world. Among the elephants is one that lost a foot when it stepped on a mine. Another is blind and is totally reliant on humans. The elephant herd in Pinnawela makes the journey to the river twice a day to bathe under the eyes of the tourists. For a few Sri Lankan rupees they are allowed to touch the animals. The sound of cameras clicking increases everytime one of the young elephant babies splashes about in the water. But anyone who wants to take a picture of the babies feeding in the orphanage has to pay extra for the privilege.
Some 110 people are employed to care for the herd feeding them with leaves from palm trees. About 14,000 kg of food are needed every day. The Pinnawela elephant orphanage is financed by the government and by charging visitors to see the animals.
Wind Surfing
Sri Lanka is blessed with the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, which lap the entire 1,585 kilometres of the coastline. This, together with the two seasonal monsoons that hit each side of the island at different times of the year, means that water sports such as Windsurfing can be indulged in at any time.
Windsurfing began in America sometime in the early 70s after the discovery that a mast located on a swivelling pivot could be used to steer a small sailing craft by using body weight instead of a rudder. The first boards made their way to Sri Lanka in the late 70s, when a group of Swedish holidaymakers decided to try to bring them along on vacation. After this more and more tourists started bringing boards, some of which were intentionally left behind. It was these boards that west coast locals used to learn the sport for themselves.
In 1984, windsurfing was introduced as an official event at the Los Angeles Olympics. The year after, 1985, Nilaveli, on the east coast of Sri Lanka, was the location of the International Funboard Championships. An Austrian, Peter Pock, is credited with the development of the sport in Sri Lanka. He started a surfing school in Negombo and a surf centre and boat testing facility in Hambantota.
The west coast of Sri Lanka is popular for windsurfing, the unofficial capital being Bentota, which is situated 65 kilometres south of Colombo. It is a convenient place to try your hand at catching the wind and waves. What makes Bentota a natural choice for windsurfing – and indeed other water sports - is the fact that apart from an excellent beach, there is also the calm waters of the Bentota Ganga (river). Slow moving as it nears the coast, the river is an ideal place for the novice windsurfer.
There are many water sports centres at Bentota offering windsurfing facilities, such as the hiring of boards and sails. The Club Intersport and Sunshine Watersports Centre are the main ones. The latter is the only VDWS-certified surf school in the island, providing the training and professional certification of windsurfers. Incidentally, VDWS is the main windsurfing training facility in the world.
Sunshine Watersports Centre is run by Sri Lanka’s top windsurfer, Thushal Gunawardene, together with his brothers. Thushal was ranked among the top 10 at the World Windsurfing Championships of 1992, so having such expertise at hand is a big help when it comes to getting to grips with the sport.
First-timers can initially practice on the river and, once they have mastered the art of tacking and jibing, move to the sea. A comprehensive training course costs Rs 8,500 – including equipment - and gives you 6 hours of windsurfing. Equipment alone can be hired for Rs 1,000 an hour. There is a 20% discount for residents.
Equipment at Bentota is of a high standard. Moreover, boards to suit every particular experience level and need are readily available. There is even a fleet of Mistral One design – the official Olympic competition board and sail setup – but most visitors would have more use for the many funboards available. Gear from North Sails is available, too, as the company has a sail-making factory right here in Sri Lanka.
The best time for windsurfing on the west coast is between November and April. It’s sunny and the water and wind conditions are good. After April the monsoon hits and the seas can be very rough. These conditions are more suitable for experienced windsurfers. On the east coast the best winds are during July and August. They tend to be on the strong side, but other than that conditions are excellent.
Along both the west and east coasts there are several great beaches for windsurfing, but sadly these suffer from a lack of proper facilities. Hambantota and Tangalle in the south are particularly good, but only if you have your own equipment. You can, however, arrange with a water sport centre in Bentota to provide the equipment at an alternate windsurfing location.
A variation of windsurfing catching on fast in the island is kite boarding. For this sport smaller boards are used with the surfer attached by a harness to a large kite. The speeds achieved are similar to that of windsurfing, the difference being the massive jumps that are possible.
The possibilities of windsurfing in Sri Lanka are not just limited to the coastline. There are many tanks and lakes in the interior that have the potential of making the sport island wide. This concept was recently tried out with the inaugural Inland Windsurfing Championships being held in Dambulla.
Windsurfing began in America sometime in the early 70s after the discovery that a mast located on a swivelling pivot could be used to steer a small sailing craft by using body weight instead of a rudder. The first boards made their way to Sri Lanka in the late 70s, when a group of Swedish holidaymakers decided to try to bring them along on vacation. After this more and more tourists started bringing boards, some of which were intentionally left behind. It was these boards that west coast locals used to learn the sport for themselves.
In 1984, windsurfing was introduced as an official event at the Los Angeles Olympics. The year after, 1985, Nilaveli, on the east coast of Sri Lanka, was the location of the International Funboard Championships. An Austrian, Peter Pock, is credited with the development of the sport in Sri Lanka. He started a surfing school in Negombo and a surf centre and boat testing facility in Hambantota.
The west coast of Sri Lanka is popular for windsurfing, the unofficial capital being Bentota, which is situated 65 kilometres south of Colombo. It is a convenient place to try your hand at catching the wind and waves. What makes Bentota a natural choice for windsurfing – and indeed other water sports - is the fact that apart from an excellent beach, there is also the calm waters of the Bentota Ganga (river). Slow moving as it nears the coast, the river is an ideal place for the novice windsurfer.
There are many water sports centres at Bentota offering windsurfing facilities, such as the hiring of boards and sails. The Club Intersport and Sunshine Watersports Centre are the main ones. The latter is the only VDWS-certified surf school in the island, providing the training and professional certification of windsurfers. Incidentally, VDWS is the main windsurfing training facility in the world.
Sunshine Watersports Centre is run by Sri Lanka’s top windsurfer, Thushal Gunawardene, together with his brothers. Thushal was ranked among the top 10 at the World Windsurfing Championships of 1992, so having such expertise at hand is a big help when it comes to getting to grips with the sport.
First-timers can initially practice on the river and, once they have mastered the art of tacking and jibing, move to the sea. A comprehensive training course costs Rs 8,500 – including equipment - and gives you 6 hours of windsurfing. Equipment alone can be hired for Rs 1,000 an hour. There is a 20% discount for residents.
Equipment at Bentota is of a high standard. Moreover, boards to suit every particular experience level and need are readily available. There is even a fleet of Mistral One design – the official Olympic competition board and sail setup – but most visitors would have more use for the many funboards available. Gear from North Sails is available, too, as the company has a sail-making factory right here in Sri Lanka.
The best time for windsurfing on the west coast is between November and April. It’s sunny and the water and wind conditions are good. After April the monsoon hits and the seas can be very rough. These conditions are more suitable for experienced windsurfers. On the east coast the best winds are during July and August. They tend to be on the strong side, but other than that conditions are excellent.
Along both the west and east coasts there are several great beaches for windsurfing, but sadly these suffer from a lack of proper facilities. Hambantota and Tangalle in the south are particularly good, but only if you have your own equipment. You can, however, arrange with a water sport centre in Bentota to provide the equipment at an alternate windsurfing location.
A variation of windsurfing catching on fast in the island is kite boarding. For this sport smaller boards are used with the surfer attached by a harness to a large kite. The speeds achieved are similar to that of windsurfing, the difference being the massive jumps that are possible.
The possibilities of windsurfing in Sri Lanka are not just limited to the coastline. There are many tanks and lakes in the interior that have the potential of making the sport island wide. This concept was recently tried out with the inaugural Inland Windsurfing Championships being held in Dambulla.
» Wind Surfing in Trincomalee
Wind Surfing in Trincomalee | |
» Wind Surfing in Arugam Bay
Wind Surfing in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka | |
» Wind Surfing in Kaluthara
Wind Surfing in Kaluthara, Sri Lanka | |
» Surfing in Arugam Bay
Surfing in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka |
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Dance 2
Sabaragamuwa danceThe dances are usually performed in Ratnapura, relating to the worshipping of God Saman much revered by local people.
According to the legend, the origins of the Kandiyan dance lie in an exorcism ritual known as the Kohomba Kankariya, which was originally performed by Indian shamans who came to the island of Sri Lanka.
Low Country DanceDances in low country is highly ritualistic. This form of dance is performed to appease evil spirits which cause sickness. The dancers wear masks depicting many characters varied in forms of bird, demons, reptiles, etc.
MASK Dance - Low country showing the killing by the Gurula (a bird) of a cobra. This is usually performed to drive away evil spirits and is still being used as a method of psychiatric treatment.
The Kandyan DanceThe Kandyan Dance is traditionally performed to percussion only. The most common drum is the Geta Beraya, which is only used in Kandyan Dance. To assist the dancer to keep rhythm a small pair of cymbals knows as the Thalampota is also used. The Vannam's however have lyrics that are sung in tune with the movements of the dancer. These lyrics sing about the virtues of the animal that the Vanna is depicting.
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