Destinations Archives - Mahaweli Tours & Holidays

The Natural Gems and Gemological Museum

The Natural Gems and Gemological Museum nestled in Kandy, Sri Lanka, offers a captivating journey into the country’s rich geological and gemological heritage. Located just 9.8 kilometers from the heart of Kandy, this museum is a treasure trove of rare minerals and fossils, showcasing the unique natural wonders that Sri Lanka has to offer.

As you step into the museum, you’ll be greeted by a fascinating array of rare minerals, some of which are found exclusively in Sri Lanka. From dazzling gemstones to ancient fossils dating back to the Cambrian era, the exhibits provide a glimpse into the geological marvels that have shaped the island’s landscape over millions of years.

One of the highlights of the museum is its focus on gemstone formation and mining techniques unique to Sri Lanka. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the intricate process of gemstone formation and extraction, gaining insights into why Sri Lankan gems are renowned for their exceptional quality and brilliance.

Practical details for your visit to The Natural Gems and Gemological Museum:

Location: The museum is conveniently situated at 530 Colombo Road, Kandy 20442, Sri Lanka.
Operating hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, allowing ample time for exploration.
Admission: A small entrance fee grants access to the museum’s enlightening exhibits.
Souvenirs: Don’t forget to browse the museum’s gift shop, where you can purchase gemstones, jewelry, and other mementos to commemorate your visit.
Guided tours: English and Sinhalese guided tours are available, offering valuable insights into the museum’s collections and history.

For an immersive experience, take your time to explore each exhibit carefully, absorbing the wealth of information on display. Whether you’re a gemstone enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the natural world, the Natural Gems and Gemological Museum promises a captivating journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s geological wonders.

According to TripAdvisor reviews, past visitors have been captivated by the museum’s informative tours, knowledgeable staff, and stunning displays of jewelry. Many have praised the museum’s hospitality and the opportunity to learn about gemstones in a fascinating and engaging manner.

Whether you’re seeking to deepen your understanding of Sri Lanka’s natural treasures or simply admire the beauty of its gemstones, the Natural Gems and Gemological Museum in Kandy offers an enriching experience for travelers of all interests.

(Cover Image Credit: Sri Lanka Natural Gems )

Pigeon Island National Park: Sri Lanka’s Underwater Paradise

Pigeon Island National Park, near Trincomalee on Sri Lanka’s east coast, is a must-see for any nature lover. This park, created in 1963 to protect special birds and upgraded in 2003, is more than just beautiful beaches. It’s a wonderland under the water!

Two Islands, Big Fun

The park gets its name from the blue rock pigeons that live on the rocky shores. There are two islands here: Large Pigeon Island and Small Pigeon Island. The bigger island is about the size of two football fields and has a coral reef all around it. The highest point is a little over 44 meters tall, offering stunning views of the turquoise ocean.

Underwater Adventure

The coral reefs around Pigeon Island are some of the best in Sri Lanka. These colorful underwater gardens are full of life! You’ll see lots of different types of coral, like brain coral and staghorn coral. There are also hundreds of species of fish swimming around, including clownfish, butterflyfish, and even sharks!

History Whispers

The park’s beauty hides a bit of history. Back in the old days, when Sri Lanka was ruled by other countries, this island was used for target practice! The 2004 tsunami also affected the island, showing how important it is to protect this special place.

Fun Things to Do

Snorkeling: See the amazing coral reefs and fish up close! The best time to go snorkeling is during the dry season, from May to September.
Swimming: The beaches here are perfect for relaxing and taking a dip in the cool water.
Birdwatching: Look for the blue rock pigeons that the park is named after.
Boating: Take a boat ride to the island and enjoy the scenery.

Tips for Your Trip

The park is open from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm.
Be nice to the environment! Don’t touch the coral or scare the fish.
Bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel.
You can hire a boat to take you to the island. Agree on a price before you get on.

More Sri Lankan Adventures

Trincomalee, the town near the park, has lots to see and do too. Explore the old fort, visit the colorful temples, or just wander through the busy markets.

Pigeon Island National Park is a beautiful place with a rich history. By following a few simple rules, visitors can help keep this underwater paradise healthy for years to come. So come explore, have fun, and discover the magic of Pigeon Island National Park!

(Cover Image Credit: Medhavi Davda | Travel Blog from Instagram)

Preserving Paradise: A Journey to the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Centre

The Kosgoda Turtle Conservation and Research Centre stands as a beacon of hope for the preservation of Sri Lanka’s majestic sea turtles. Established in 1978 by Victor Hasselblad, the renowned Swedish camera maker, this pioneering project was born out of a deep concern for the dwindling populations of sea turtles along Sri Lanka’s southern coast. At that time, all seven species of sea turtles were facing the threat of extinction, with five of them choosing the sandy shores of Sri Lanka for nesting.

The center’s noble mission revolves around safeguarding Sri Lanka’s precious wildlife, particularly its endangered sea turtles. Through a multifaceted approach, they aim to educate the public about the critical importance of sea turtle conservation, protect vital nesting sites, and provide essential care for injured turtles.

For visitors eager to immerse themselves in this noble cause, the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation and Research Centre welcomes guests from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm daily. While a modest entrance fee supports the center’s efforts in turtle care, guided tours in various languages offer insightful glimpses into the center’s conservation initiatives.

Timing your visit to coincide with the hatching season, which spans from February to April, can be a truly enchanting experience. Witnessing the heartwarming sight of baby turtles making their maiden journey from the nest to the ocean is a moment that leaves an indelible mark on the soul.

As you prepare for your visit, remember to dress modestly, respecting the conservative customs of Sri Lanka. Covering your shoulders and knees is recommended as a sign of cultural sensitivity. While in the presence of these magnificent creatures, exercise caution and refrain from touching or attempting to take selfies with the turtles. Remember, they are wild animals deserving of our utmost respect.

Moreover, stay mindful of your surroundings, especially since the center is nestled along the sandy shores. Keep an eye on the waves and currents, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen and wear a hat to shield yourself from the tropical sun.

In essence, a journey to the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation and Research Centre is not just a sightseeing excursion but an opportunity to contribute to the conservation of one of nature’s most wondrous creations. So, come, embrace the spirit of conservation, and witness firsthand the magic of these gentle giants as they continue their ancient journey in the azure waters of Sri Lanka.

(Cover Image Credit goes to the original owners)

Galle Face Green

Nestled along the scenic coastline of Colombo, Galle Face Green beckons travelers with its charm and allure. Spanning 5 hectares of ocean-side splendor, this urban park is a cherished destination for both locals and visitors alike, offering a myriad of experiences to be savored and memories to be made.

As the sun dips low on the horizon, Galle Face Green transforms into a vibrant hub of activity. Families gather to unwind, couples stroll hand in hand, and children frolic in the gentle sea breeze. Kites dance gracefully in the sky, adding a splash of color to the golden hues of twilight.

One of the highlights of Galle Face Green is undoubtedly its tantalizing array of Sri Lankan street food. As evening descends, the air is filled with the irresistible aroma of isso wade, crispy deep-fried pastries stuffed with spicy prawns, and the sizzle of kottu, a delectable concoction of chopped roti, vegetables, and meat. With vendors lining the promenade, it’s the perfect opportunity to indulge your taste buds in the flavors of the island.

At the southern end of Galle Face Green stands the majestic Galle Face Hotel, a historic landmark that exudes old-world charm and elegance. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and marvel at the grandeur of this iconic establishment, which has played host to dignitaries, celebrities, and travelers from around the globe.

For those seeking adventure, Galle Face Green offers a host of recreational activities, from impromptu cricket matches to leisurely picnics on the grassy expanse. Whether you’re content to bask in the serenity of the seaside or eager to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, there’s something for everyone at this beloved urban oasis.

Before you embark on your journey to Galle Face Green, remember a few practical tips to enhance your experience. The park is open year-round, welcoming visitors with open arms. While there’s no strict dress code, it’s advisable to dress modestly out of respect for local customs. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat to shield yourself from the tropical sun, and keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

So, whether you’re savoring the flavors of street food, admiring the sunset, or simply soaking in the ambiance, Galle Face Green promises an unforgettable experience that will linger in your heart long after you bid farewell to Colombo.

(Cover Image Credit goes to the original owners)

Baobab Tree in Mannar: Guardians of Time

The Baobab tree, a living testament to a botanical odyssey across continents, graces the landscape of Mannar in Sri Lanka. Known by various names like biobab, boab, boaboa, bottle tree, upside-down tree, and monkey bread tree, these ancient giants weave a majestic tale of nature, mystery, and cultural significance.

Believed to have been introduced to Sri Lanka by Arabian traders, the Baobabs have stood resilient against the currents of time. A 2003 study identified around 40 Baobab Trees in Sri Lanka, with Mannar hosting 34 of these ancient beings. Among them, the Pallimunei Baobab reigns supreme, estimated to be around 800 years old. This magnificent giant boasts a circumference of 19.5 meters and a height of 7.5 meters.

In Sri Lanka, the Baobab is affectionately called Ali-Gaha, translating to Elephant Tree, owing to its bark resembling an elephant’s skin. Tamils, on the other hand, refer to it as ‘Perukka.’ Despite being an introduced species, these trees are safeguarded for their rarity and historical value. The Baobabs were not confined to Mannar alone, as historical accounts note their presence in Jaffna and Puttlam.

English travelers, captivated by these colossal trees, marveled at their mysterious importation from Africa. Sir James Emerson Tennent, in “Ceylon – An Account Of The Island” (1860), speculated that early mariners, possibly predating the Portuguese, could have introduced these colossal trees. The unique shape of the baobab, resembling a bulb rather than a typical stem, added to the intrigue.

Henry W. Cave, in “The Book of Ceylon” (1908), acknowledged Mannar’s commercial decline but highlighted its fame for the peculiar baobab trees. The landscape, dominated by these monstrous trees, added an unusual charm to an otherwise barren terrain.

Despite the ambiguity surrounding their introduction, Baobab trees are now protected in Sri Lanka, standing as silent witnesses to centuries gone by. The peculiar charm of these shapeless, massive stems continues to capture the imagination of those who venture to Mannar. As a testament to their enduring mystique, these trees serve as living conduits to an age when mariners traversed oceans, carrying with them botanical wonders from distant lands.

For travelers seeking a rendezvous with these botanical giants, Mannar offers a unique opportunity. Explore the Baobab Grove, particularly the iconic Pallimunei Baobab, and immerse yourself in the enigmatic aura of these ancient sentinels. As you stand beneath their massive branches, feel the whispers of time and the secrets of a landscape where these majestic trees have become synonymous with Mannar’s identity.

In conclusion, Mannar’s Baobab trees beckon adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike, inviting them to partake in a journey that transcends continents and epochs. As guardians of history and natural wonders, these Baobabs stand tall, their gnarled trunks and sprawling branches weaving stories that continue to echo through the ages.

(Cover Image Credit: Channa Jayasinghe from FB)

Gala Muduna Temple in Badulla

Would you like to sit on a wooden bench on top of a rock and watch the beauty of nature? So this is one of the best places to get such an experience.

From past to present
Sri Sambuddhaloka Wiharaya is located in a small village called Kahataruppa’, which belongs to Badulla District. The distance to the place is around 20 km from Badulla city. Currently, this temple is known as “Galamuduna Temple”, because it is situated on a large stone mountaintop. Visitors can observe a breathtaking view from there. In ancient times, there was a chamber where the arahants meditated below this rock. And also, there was a palace inside the rock. Dagoba and dwelling houses are currently being constructed, and devotees can contribute.

On the way
You have to choose the Palawatta-Kahataruppa bus from Badulla city. After that, get off the bus and walk down a small road for a short distance. It is 4km away from Kahataruppa junction.

As a visitor, you shouldn’t forget to bring a water bottle, an umbrella, and a snack. There is a small outlet near the bus stop where you can buy anything. Typically, visitors can travel on this small inner road on foot, by motorbike, or by three-wheeler. But it is difficult for little cars to follow that route.

Heaven Beauty
When you go to the top of the rock of the temple, you can see the village of Kohonawala, which has the least amount of sunlight in Sri Lanka, as well as Madolsima, Matigahathanna, and Pitimaruwa. Devotees can worship the sacred Bo tree and Buddha temple. The top of the rock can be seen very attractively in the early morning or in the evening when the sun sets.

So, finally, we have to say that the people who visit this sacred place and enjoy its beauty should be protected by not littering here.

(Cover Image Credit: Dulan Uddhika Marasinghe )

Adisham Bungalow in Haputale

Spending a day in a beautiful green garden surrounded by cold mist is a great experience for anyone. Adisham Bungalow can be called the best place to experience this for any tourist coming to Sri Lanka. It can be identified by a former name called ‘Adisham Hall’ and an alternative name called ‘St. Benedict’s Monastery. We hope that the information we provide in this article will be important to all of you who are looking forward to seeing Adisham Bungalow and spending a vacation.

Location and creation

This bungalow is located in Haputale, Badulla district. And also, it is 5000 feet above sea level. The construction of Adisham Bunglow was started in 1927. The entire construction of Adisham Bunglow was completed in 1931. This architectural bungalow was contributed by Sir Thomes Lister Villiers, who was a British aristocrat, planter, and governor of that time who strived for equality in education and the cessation of child employment.

The mansion was designed by Webster and Booth in accordance with Tudor and Jacabian architectural styles. The monastery occupies an area of 12 acres of land and the bungalow consists of forty rooms. The house is built with strong granite walls made of locally quarried stone, long, narrow turret windows, and chimneys. The roof was covered with flat Burmese teak shingles, and doors, windows, panels, stairs, and floors were all made of Burmese teak. The carpets needed for the Adisham bungalow were imported from Persia. Some of the chairs here are made of camel skin. It was completed with an advanced system of heating the rooms by passing the wind blowing through the wind windows in the roof through special pipe systems and sending them into the furnace. The room where the boiler is located is another special condition in the Adisham bungalow.

Ownership

After Sir Thomas Villiers, this was purchased by Don Charles Wijewardhana and his daughter Rukmini Wijewardhana, owners of Sedawatte Estates, in 1950. But after the daughter Rukmini sold it to an Italian Benedictan monk, However,the Italian monk removed silver cutlery and a few items of furniture in order to recover his investment and also make a profit. After two years, the house and property were donated to the Ampitiya Benedictine Monastery in 1963. Currently, it is maintained as a Roman Catholic Benedictine Monastery. The priests make various products from the fruits obtained from the garden of the bungalow and release them in the market.

Natural surroundings and tourist attractions

Beautiful oil and watercolor paintings by Thomas Lister’s wife,who was a talented artist,add to the artistry of the bungalow. Another painting that is special among the paintings here is the one with the portrait of Sir Thomas Lister, drawn by an English painter named David Painter. As with Leonard da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, this painting is painted so that we turn in the direction, and what is even more interesting is that not only the eyes but the whole person are turned in the direction.

Adisham Bunglow can be named as both a colonial heritage in the country and a masterpiece of English architecture set up in the mountains. The stone mansion and the monastery play key roles as eye-catching creations. When we consider the natural beauty of the awesome garden, it can be seen as an acre-wide orchard of fruits and plants with a beautiful hillside view across Hindu kovils, tea estates, and eucalyptus forests. Visitors can feel the scenic beauty around the monastery garden with its lovely flower beds. Beautifully blooming orchids and roses enhance their attractiveness. The upper part of the bungalow is a forest and a bird sanctuary. The cold mist and the small, spectacular mountains full of tea plantations add to the beauty of the environment. And the other most unique thing is the view point of Sir Thomas in the Adisham bungalow. If you go there, the best time to go is between 5.30 and 6 a.m., when the sun rises.

As a visitor, what can I do?

Anyone who visits Adisham bungalow can enjoy nature, spending the vacation, sightseeing, and photography. It is open to those who are willing to visit every Saturday, Sunday, Poya Day, and all days of school vacation from 9.00 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. You have to pay Rs. 100 for adults and Rs. 50 for children at the entrance. For those who prefer to stay here and have a holiday, concessionary packages with food have also been introduced. In addition to this bungalow, you can also get a variety of farm produce here. Adisham Monastery is an attraction not to be missed.

Kandy View Point (Arthur’s Seat View Point)

Kandy View Point with our guest During our Kandy Day Tour

Kandy View Point, or what somebody called Arthur’s Seat View Point, is a must-visit spot in Kandy city. The place is situated on the Rajapihilla Mawatha, which is around one kilometer away from the city center. You can go there easily by foot. But you need to walk on a hilly route to get there. Sometimes it can be very tiring for adults. If you are uncomfortable going there on foot, then you can hire a tuk-tuk to reach there easily and quickly. Tuk-tuk is the perfect option to visit there.

Arthur’s Seat View Point is also considered the height point of the Kandy City area, and it is 550m above sea level. It takes around 10–15 minutes to reach there from Kandy Lake.

Location of the Kandy View Point

Here is the Google Maps location of the place.

View

From the Kandy View Point, you can observe the beauty of Kandy City. There is a nice metal stage for the viewers. Starting from the right side, you can watch a marvelous picture of the Tooth Relic Temple and Kandy Lake. Udawattakale Forest Reserve is situated just above the Tooth Relic Temple. The picture of Kandy Lake is absolutely beautiful, and that brings much relaxation to your mind.

In the center, you can see a clear picture of DS Senanayaka Street, which is directed towards the Katugasthota area. From the distance, you can view Hunnasgiriya Mountain Peak of the Knuckles Mountain Range. As well, you can observe some of the mountain peaks near Kandy City. On the left side, you can see Bahirawakanda Temple with its giant Buddha statue. Simultaneously, you can identify some of the most important buildings in the city.

We can definitely say that this is a perfect spot for a photographer to take some marvelous photos. Therefore, it is advisable for anyone to bring a camera.

The Best Time to Visit Kandy View Point

According to most visitors, early mornings and late evenings are the perfect times to visit there. The sunrise pictures of the early mornings will generate fabulous images. It is not very crowded in the mornings. The sunset time is also perfect, but you will face a crowded environment at that time. Nighttime is also ideal for viewing a marvelous picture with lights.

Final Word

Kandy View Point is one of the must-visit places during our Kandy Tour. If you are a foreigner who loves to visit there, you can easily contact us as your trusted tour agency in Kandy.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a unique and popular attraction in Sri Lanka. Located in the village of Pinnawala in Sabaragamauwa Province, about 90 kilometers northeast of Colombo, the orphanage is home to a large number of rescued elephants (around 80) that have been given a second chance at life. The elephants are taken care of by a team of dedicated caretakers and are a major tourist attraction in Sri Lanka.

The distance from Bandaranaike International Airport (also known as Katunayaka Airport) to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is approximately 95 kilometers (59 miles), and it takes about 2.5–3 hours to travel by road, depending on traffic conditions. The distance from Kandy to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is approximately 36 kilometers (22 miles), and it takes about 1–1.5 hours to travel.

History and Background

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was established in 1975 by the Sri Lankan Department of Wildlife Conservation. The main objective of the orphanage was to care for orphaned and injured elephants that were found in the wild. Over the years, the orphanage has become a sanctuary for elephants that have been abandoned, injured, or are too old to be released back into the wild.

The orphanage is home to over 80 elephants, making it the largest captive herd of elephants in the world. The herd includes both young and old elephants, and visitors can witness the daily routines of these magnificent creatures.

A unique experience

Visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a unique and unforgettable experience. Visitors can participate in the daily feeding, bathing, and playing routines of the elephants. The elephants are fed milk and fruit three times a day, and visitors can watch as the baby elephants guzzle down their bottles of milk. The morning feeding time is 8.30 am to 10am.

The highlight of the visit is the daily elephant bath, where the elephants are taken down to the nearby river called ‘Ma Oya’ for a refreshing dip. Visitors can watch as the elephants splash around in the water, playfully squirting water at each other. There are two bathing times: the morning and the evening. The morning bathing time starts around 10 a.m., and the evening bathing time starts around 2 p.m. The orphanage closes around 6 p.m., and visitors will not be allowed to enter after 5 p.m.

Conservation Efforts

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage plays a crucial role in elephant conservation in Sri Lanka. The orphanage provides a safe haven for elephants that have been abandoned or injured in the wild, and cannot be released back into the wild. The orphanage also engages in breeding programs, with the aim of increasing the elephant population in Sri Lanka.

In addition, the orphanage conducts research on elephant behavior and biology, with the aim of improving the welfare of elephants in captivity. The orphanage also works closely with local communities, educating them on the importance of elephant conservation and promoting responsible tourism.

Ticket Prices (in 2021)

For Foreign Visitors:

Adults: LKR 3,500
Children (3-12 years): LKR 1,750

For SAARC Visitors:

Adults: LKR 2,000
Children (3-12 years): LKR 1,000

For Local Visitors:

Adults: LKR 500
Children (3-12 years): LKR 250

Conclusion

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a must-visit attraction in Sri Lanka. It offers a unique and memorable experience, allowing visitors to witness the daily routines of rescued elephants. While the orphanage plays a crucial role in elephant conservation, it is important to ensure that the welfare of the elephants is not compromised. Visiting the orphanage can be a responsible and ethical way to support elephant conservation efforts in Sri Lanka.

Coconut Tree Hills in Mirissa

Coconut Tree Hills is a recently famous tourist attraction in Sri Lanka, where it is situated in the Mirissa area of the Southern Province. The picture of this place will definitely come up on Google Images when someone is searching “Sri Lanka.” It is a nice little dome-shaped hill surrounded by palm trees. Coconut Tree Hills is a place that you should not miss during your southern Sri Lanka tour.

Mirissa is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka, with most visitors coming to surf at Mirissa Beach. It’s also a great place to see whales in the Indian Ocean. Along with these things, you should not miss the Coconut Tree Hills as well. You can observe this little mountain from Mirissa Beach without any trouble.

There are two major routes to reach Coconut Tree Hills from Mirissa town:

1) Through Mirissa Beach

2) Through Bandaramulla Temple

Most tourists and visitors reach the place through Mirissa Beach. As soon as you reach the beach, you need to walk towards the left and should walk a few meters until you pass a few bays. Then you can get to the location and identify it from afar. Parrot Rock is another little hill you will meet during that walk. It is another place that is nice if you can reach it. You can observe Mirissa Beach from that little mountain too.

If you are driving or are too lazy to walk along the beach, you can reach the location via Bandaramulla Temple. However, you need to walk on a difficult road to reach the place, whether you choose any of the above routes.

Coconut Tree Hills is a privately owned coconut farm that is open to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You do not need to bring a ticket to enter. After you reach it, you will observe an amazing view of the Indian Ocean. The place is fully covered with palm trees, and you can capture stunning photographs to publish on Instagram. The blowing sea breeze will make you more comfortable and help you relax.

The place is normally crowded every day with locals and foreigners. But if you can go there in the early morning, you can observe stunning pictures of the sunrise in a less crowded environment. Anything before 9 a.m. is less crowded, which you should note before your visit. The sunset time is also a superb time to be on Coconut Tree Hills. The climate report explains that October through December is the rainy season in the area. As a result, the best time to visit here is from January to May. Another thing to keep in mind is that the beach is closed from May to September during the monsoon season.

So, we request that you visit Coconut Tree Hills during your next visit to Mirissa. Take some stunning shots there, and don’t forget to tag them with the username @mahaweli.lk on Instagram.

(Cover Image Source: Wonder Discovery from FB)