We Go Sri Lanka..

Island of Gems & Beaches

Heritance - Kandalama

Amaya Reef Hotel, Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka – Welcomes you to share the beauty of a charming beach town

Situating on the golden sands of Hikkaduwa, the charming beach town and a famed destination for surfing Amaya Reef, the beach retreat of the Amaya Resorts & Spas provides an unparalleled holiday experience with heartfelt service of the friendly smiling staff that greets their guests as a returning family member.



Carefully designed 50 rooms overlooking the Indian Ocean allows to enjoy the stunning views of the early rising and the evening sunset provided with satellite TV, air conditioning, hot and cold water, mini bar and the tea & coffee making facilities.



Set your chair to overlook the Indian Ocean under the star studded sky for a romantic dinner at the Waves restaurant serves an array of exquisite eastern and western dishes including local Sri Lankan touches that makes each dish unique. Theme nights including barbecue nights, sea food nights, Mongolian nights, Sri Lanka nights, Chinese nights and International buffets brings you close to the Sri lankan culture and world cuisine creating an atmosphere to evoke each special theme.



If you are in the mood, Ayurevedic centre of the Amaya reef provides number of holistic therapies and wellness programs including Waspha Sweda a treatment that specially recommended for nerve diseases, Inhalation that recommended for the infections of the lungs, common cold, headaches, asthma, cough and sinusitis, Avagaha Sweda that cures skin defects and improves blood circulation, Neck & Shoulder massage that stimulates special point in the shoulder and neck to improve the blood supply to the related organs, Foot massage that stimulates all the organs entire body and also special three day wellness programs under the supervision of a qualified ayurvedic doctor.



Air conditioned conference hall of the Amaya Reef including TV, Multimedia, audio-visual equipment, Maggi board, flip charts, conference kits is a perfect location for focused, productive meetings. This conference hall can accommodate a group of 110 persons.



Some of the most attractive features & excursions that Amaya Reef organizes are

• Sri Lankan weddings
• Galle city and Dutch fort
• Stilt fishing at Ahangama
• Whale watching tours at Mirissa
• Sinharaja rain forest
• Turtle hatchery, Kosgoda
• Water sports at Bentota
• Deep sea catamaran fishing
• Moonstone mine at meetiyagoda
• Snorkeling and glass bottom boat riding
• Nature trail at Kanneliya, Hiyare and Rumassala


Address: 400, Galle Road, Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

Reservations: 0094(0) 114767888

Email: sales@amayaresorts.com

Website: www.amayaresorts.com

Sunnyside Holiday Bungalow, Ella – A Place to Experience Your Holiday with a Difference

Sunnyside Holiday Bungalow is a tranquil location blessed with true Sri Lankan hospitality to indulge your holiday situated in Ella, the calm & sleepiest town in Sri Lanka with a height of 1041 Meters above the sea level. The unique concept of No Liquor, No smoking lets you to enjoy your holiday with a difference. Ella gap (stunning views), Horton plains (world’s end) the paradise for the nature lovers, Demodara nine arched bridge, Demodara loop the amazing creation of the Sri Lankan Railway tracks, Picturesque Rawana falls, Kenellan tea estate, Uvahalpewatte tea estate are within the close proximity to the Sunnyside Holiday Bungalow.



This simple retreat boasts of two triple rooms and a double room surrounded by lush vegetation including some indigenous plants and some of the fruit plants like rose apple, avocado, Mango, guava etc. All the rooms are carefully designed with basic amenities that requires for a peaceful holiday with the comfort of the natural breeze blowing through the windows. Get up to the rhythm of the early morning bird songs and if you are in a mood you can rise up for a nature walk through the misty bushes by counting number of bird species. Some of my recorded bird species are Sri Lanka Dull Blue Fly catcher, Sri Lanka Jungle Fowl, Sri Lanka Yellow fronted barbet’s,Sri Lanka Grey Horn bill, Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot, Hill myna, velvet fronted nuthatch, Shikra, Crested Serpent eagle, Dark fronted babblers, tawny bellied babblers, Emerald dove, Scarlet minivet, Pale billed flowerpecker, Grey tit etc.



Apart from bird species this property provides excellent opportunities to observe some of the animals like Giant squirrel, Fishing cat, Black napped hare, Mongoose and some of the butterfly species like Tawny coster, Blue Morman, Glassy Tiger, Common Jezebel, Common Sailor etc.



Arrays of Sri Lankan dishes followed by number of desserts are served prepared in a homely kitchen under the direct supervision of the property owners with extremely good hygienic conditions.




Undoubtedly the Sunnyside Holiday Bungalow ensures an unparalleled holiday experience with its naturally blessed calm & peaceful environment.

Address: Sunnyside Holiday Bungalow
Bandarawela Road
Ella

Telephone: 0094(0)575615011,0094(0)776239802

Website: www.sunnyside.go2lk.com

Reservation: sunnyside@go2lk.com

Hotel Elephant Corridor, Sigiriya - A Paradaise for Nature Lovers Blessed with Breath taking Nature settings

Elephant Corridor, the luxury boutique hotel carefully designed with utmost respect to the nature within the territory of the world famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress which is regarded as the 8th wonder of the world provides an unparalleled holiday experience with its unique theme concept, luxury of relaxation in absolute privacy. With its all-suite concept of accommodation, Deluxe, Super Deluxe, Romantic Suite, Royal Suite and the super luxury President Suite are tasteful designs especially for the couples who seek a romantic place considering the privacy is most important for the honeymoon. Being more personalized, Elephant Corridor introduces no fixed meal times and meals are served in preferred style of the guest, en-suite, at special restaurants or even outdoors under the trees.



Picturesque swimming pool inspired with its own nature settings in a very tranquil location provides an invigorating swim to soothe your body from the mid day heat. Well equipped gymnasium, Ayurvedic Health Spa, Jungle bar ensures luxury boutique experience while leaves your worldly cares behind.



Apart from all these luxury, the untamed forest of the Elephant Corridor with some indigenous plants and shrubs spreads over 200 acres the Elephant Corridor is a paradise for nature lovers. Irrespective of you are a soft birder or a keen birder or a wildlife enthusiast who like to observe some mammals including elephants or perhaps you like to watch butterflies and dragonflies, this park provide excellent opportunities. As a keen bird watcher this is the only property which belongs to a hotel I have recorded most number of bird species.



During my two hours birding session I was able to observe Orange breasted green pigeon, Pompadour Green Pigeon, Spotted dove, Brahmin kite, Tawny bellied babblers, Little Green bee eater, Stork billed Kingfisher, White throated kingfisher, Common Iora, Malabar pied hornbill, Red rumped swallow, Scarlet minivets, Jungle prinia, White browed fantail, White browed bulbul, Red vented bulbul, Little cormorant, Lesser whistling duck, Asian paradise flycatcher, Coppersmith barbet, brown headed barbet, Common myna, Red wattled lapwing, barred button quail, Paddy field pipit, Black hooded oriole, Rose ringed parakeet, Indian peafowl, Indian robin, Oriental magpie robin, Long billed sunbird, Purple rumped sunbird, Indian pond heron, Cattle egret, Intermediate egret, Little egret, Common tailorbird, White rumped shama etc.



Common sailor, Banded peacock, Tamil yeoman, Common jezebel, Crimson rose, Glassy tiger, Blue glassy tiger, Common tiger, Common Indian crow, Common evening brown, Peacock pansy, Lemon emigrant are some of the butterfly species identified. Sri Lanka toque monkey, Grey langur, Grey Mongoose, Ruddy mongoose, Black naped hare, Otter, Palm cat, Ring tailed civet, Asian elephant, Wild boar, Giant squirrel, Palm squirrel are some of mammals can be spotted in this nature park

Conclusively the Elephant Corridor is a paradise for anyone who likes his or her stay to be memorable considering the privacy is most important blessed with breath taking nature settings.

Web site: www.elephantcorridor.com

Telephone: 0094-(0)66-2231950/5

Fax: 0094-(0)66-2231952

Kosgoda Beach Resort - A Tranquil Location for a Charm Holiday

With its own beauty of the property surrounded by the picturesque Kosgoda River and the Indian Ocean, Kosgoda Beach Resort provides incomparable holiday experience boasting with 29 villas, 12 duplex villas and one suite scattered under the lush vegetation on the southern coast of Sri Lanka.



Every villa ensures its luxury provided with air conditioning, open air spacious bath room with shower Jacuzzi, Television, Safety locker, Mini bar, hair dryer, tea & coffee making facilities. Pool lounge with billiard facilities, Volleyball courts, table tennis facilities, GYM, Internet facilities are some of the main facilities that this resort offers.



Picturesque swimming pool with kiddie’s area spreads almost over one third of the property provides an invigorating swim while two restaurants offers an array of eastern and western dishes with fine dine options.

Richmond, a local fisherman from the area is now ready to take you around the Kosgoda lake by his traditional hand driven boat to explore the natural beauty of the area including some bird watching where you could observe White Bellied Fish Eagle, Brahminy Kite, Stork billed kingfisher, Common Kingfisher, Pompadour Green pigeon, green imperial pigeon, Purple heron, Little egret etc.

If you are in the mood you could try number of holistic therapies to nourish the soul by using leaves, herbs, flowers and greenery at the Spa and Ayurvedic Center.

Some of the other attractive features the resort offers are

• Bird watching with boat rides at Hiyare sanctuary
• Birding tours to Sinharaja Rain Forest


Reservations: kosgodab@sltnet.lk

Web site: www.kosgodabeachresort.lk

Telephone: 0094912264848, 0094912264849

SET A DATE FOR A WEEKEND IN THE HILLS

Hidden amidst the lush hills of Ambewela, making you feel there’s no one else but yourself, Jetwing Warwick Gardens promises you solitude, peace, tranquillity and soulful rejuvenation. Built in the 1800’s by a Scottish tea planter and located some 1850 metres above sea level, this little English bungalow is the ideal ‘get away’ for the busy, overworked and stressed out businessman eager to spend some quality time with his family.

This luxury bungalow is uniquely situated, being both secluded within the Ambewela mountain range and in close proximity to places such as the Ambewela farm, Hakgala Gardens and Horton Plains for exciting day trips. Leopard and Sambar can be spotted at Horton Plains.

Jetwing Warwick Gardens is also ideal for small groups who want the hills exclusively to themselves. It also caters well for couples on their honeymoon and for those who just want to getaway from it all. This bungalow boasts of ‘Warwick’ the master bedroom with a spectacular view of the garden and mountain range; ‘Netherleigh’, which is secretly hidden behind a drape of antique carpets sewn together, midway through the landing, is the honeymoon suite with its crisp white linen and furniture. There are three other deluxe rooms, each with varying views and experience. Four of the rooms including the sitting room have their own fire place, which is lit in the evenings on request. In addition, there is a cosy sitting room with a private fire place and a baby grand piano for beautiful melodies. A day room for morning meals and a comfortable library with an interesting selection of books can also be enjoyed.

A place filled with experiences, Jetwing Warwick Gardens gives guests the opportunity to laze around in the bungalow doing absolutely nothing or settle in to a cozy chat, enjoy a typical English breakfast in bed or on the lawn with fresh eggs from the Warwick Farm or even have a Sri Lankan picnic in the garden. The bungalow also features a selection of teas from Sri Lanka’s finest tea growing regions. The guest could also experience the local version of the traditional High Tea at any one of the stunning locations. To the delight of the guests a stone Bar-Be-Que in the garden can also be arranged. The men also have the luxury of enjoying a morning shave or a head massage by the local barber, in the outdoors.

JETWING KURULUBEDDA, NATURE’S PERFECT LITTLE HIDEAWAY!

Wake up to the soothing sound of rustling leaves, the chirping of birds, the distant echo of temple bells and yet, be captivated with the stillness of perfect surroundings... this could be your morning at nature’s perfect little hideaway, Jetwing Kurulubedda.

A serene ten minute boat ride down the Kepu Ela in Mahamodera, Galle, a short waterway off the Gingganga, so near yet so far away from the hustle and bustle of life in Galle, leads you to two stilted dwellings situated amidst a mangrove on a quiet little village patch off the river.

Jetwing Kurulubedda, consisting of two luxury dwellings built on stilts boasts a bedroom suite, a large terrace with casual and relaxed seating and a spacious plunge pool below. A dining pavilion overlooking the marshes and paddy field, which is organically grown, a lounge surrounded by nature with a ramp leading to the edge of the river and a sprawling lawn for relaxation and lazing in a time wrap that is singularly yours to alter . This is a perfect location for small parties, quiet cosy chats or for couples seeking to reignite their passion.

Take a bath at the well where you can draw your own water in true village style, a drink of Kirala (Genus – Sonneratia Species – caseolaris) from the trees above, red rice from the paddy field around, organically grown vegetables and greens from the plots within and a smiling Sri Lankan butler to serve you any time of the day; the luxury of being truly pampered in style.

Experience a refreshing massage on the edge of the field followed by an evening cup of single estate hand rolled bio-tea with home styled patties and cutlets made in the kitchen. Take a dip in your private pool only to be greeted thereafter with a glass of Rosé wine from the cellar and then a dinner under the star studded sky.

Windsor Park Agri Holiday Resort, Hingurakgoda – Introducing Agro Tourism to Sri Lanka

Windsor Park is an Agri Holiday resort situated in Hingurakgoda (in the North central Province of Sri Lanka), Sri Lanka which is about 203 Kilometers away from Colombo. Hingurakgoda, located near Polonnaruwa, which is a historical kingdom of the ancient rulers of Sri Lanka, is a distinguished centre of Sri Lanka’s agro industry. Hingurakgoda, claiming kinship to a glorious past, during which an age-old hydro-culture flourished could be characterized as an oasis of those industrious and energetic people who conquered nature.

The Windsor Park is surrounded by the farmland spread around 1300 Acres for which is about 700 Acres are under paddy. This paddy cultivation is also considered as the biggest seed paddy production farm in the country. The highland area of the farm is utilized for the production of perennial crops & livestock. Minneriya sanctuary, Polonnaruwa ancient ruins, Sigiriya ancient ruins, Kawudulla Park are within the close proximity to the hotel.

The resort provides the luxury of relaxation with 7 cabanas provided with hot & cold water; air conditioned rooms, open verandah and a sitting area. All these cabanas are under fruitful tree shades to soothe your body & mind while the effect of the burning sun is dispelled by the winds that blow across the reservoirs. Restaurant allows you to taste all the Sri Lankan foods at your choice prepared with its own fresh herbs & vegetables picked from their own farmland. The daily rate of a single person is 65 US Dollars on Full Board Basis. The Inland reservoir & the ponds provide an excellent opportunity for the bird watchers to observe number of bird species for which are endemic birds to Sri Lanka. The flocks of peacocks that move about freely are the most spectacular natural sights in the Windsor Park.

Seed Paddy Cultivation: The seed paddy production of this farm is about 2.7 million of Kilograms a year with about 13 varieties ranging from 3 months to 4 & half months for the harvest.

Banana Cultivation: About 50 Acres of banana cultivation is maintained in the farm by using drip irrigation system and fertigation facilities. Cavendish SFC09 is being cultivated in 12 plots with an average of 5 acres of extent for a plot.

Dairy Farm: A herd of buffaloes and cattle are maintained at the farm for milk production and for breeding purposes. The farm produces about 500 liters of buffalo curd daily.

Traditional Home Garden: Wide varieties of Sri Lankan vegetables are grown by using only the traditional methods & fertilizing.

Vegetable Cultivation: About 10 acres of land are being cultivated the vegetables like chillie, tomato, capsicum, cucumber, brinjals etc. by using drip irrigation & micro irrigation system. Average production of vegetables is about 250 Kilograms a day.

Mango Cultivation: Around 40 acres of land are being used for the mango cultivation of the farm. Some of the varieties grown here are Karthakolumbun, Vilad, Hingurakgoda Vilad, Vellekolumbun etc. Hingurakgoda Vilad is an endemic fruit to Sri Lanka.

Fresh Water Fish/Prawns: The inland reservoir and three special ponds are maintained to grow fish under high intensity systems.

With all these unique facilities Hotel Windsor Park offers incomparable, cozy, unforgettable experience to the guests who choose to stay for a holiday. Also the Nature Park blessed with an amazing bio-diversity, is a wonderful forest park for environmentalists.

Some of the very attractive features the Hotel Windsor Park offers are

• Elephants Safaris
• Cycling through the farmland
• Experience the traditional techniques of farming
• Bird Watching
• Cultural Visits to the Ancient ruins

Reservations: 0094773052873 Ganga

0094272247233 Indrajothy

The Waterside Hotel, Bentota, Sri Lanka – A Perfect holiday experience in a tranquil location with its theme concept of a rural village life

The waterside hotel, Bentota situated in a tranquil location, which is about 70 kilometers south of the city of Colombo. With its very own theme concept of a simple village life, tranquility and the friendly atmosphere provides you incomparable holiday experience.

Waterside boosts with six rooms with a panoramic view of the Bentota River, towards the lagoon and the sea. Each room ensures its own luxury provided with Satellite TV, Mini bar, Telephone facilities, and attached bathroom with hot and cold water.

The open sided elegant fine dining restaurant overlooking the Bentota River, serves an exquisite array of International and Sri Lankan dishes with specialty of seafood varieties on ala carte menu.

Early morning nature tour through the picturesque Bentota River by the boat-exciting feature that Waterside offers which provides unforgettable memories for the nature lovers. In the same time, this tour gives you the opportunity to observe number of bird species including some of the migrant species. Some of the birds you could observe while while you are on this tour are Stork Billed Kingfisher, Common Kingfisher, White Throated Kingfisher, White Breasted water hen, Red Wattled Lapwing, Indian Pond heron, Purple heron, Little cormorant, Brahminy kite, White Bellied sea eagle, Common Kestrel, Spotted dove, Pompadour Green pigeon, Green imperial pigeon, Rose ringed parakeet, Asian koel, Blue tailed bee eater, Brown headed barbet, Barn swallow, Scarlet Minivet, Yellow wagtail, Red vented bulbul, Oriental magpie robin, Common tailor bird, Asian paradise flycatcher (Ceylon paradise flycatcher), Asian Paradise flycatcher (Indian paradise flycatcher), Purple rumped sunbird, Loten’s sunbird, Black hooded oriole, white bellied drongo, Common Iora, Common myna, Scaly breasted munia etc.

View of the swimming pool

Some of the very attractive features that Hotel Waterside offers are

• Sri Lankan weddings including traditional poruwa etc.
• Nature/Bird watching tours by the boat
• Day trips to Galle, Ambalangoda mask factory, Kosgoda turtle hatchery etc.
• Deep sea fishing
• Tuk tuk rides
• Fishing

Address : Yathramulla, Bentota, Sri Lanka

Telephone : 0094342270080/81

Fax : 0094342270084

Email : reservations@bentotawaterside.com

Website : www.bentotawaterside.com

AIDA Ayurveda & Holistic Health Resort,Bentota,Sri Lanka – Feel the Harmony of real Ayurveda Philosophy

AIDA Ayurveda & Holistic Health Resort is conveniently located in Mangala mawatha,Bentota which is about 70 kilometers away from the city of Colombo. The hotel features with 40 rooms for which 16 rooms are main house rooms & the rest of the rooms are riverside rooms. Each & every room provided with hot & cold water, Telephone facilities, A/C, TV, Electronic safe etc.

By the means of its name AIDA Ayurveda & Holistic Health Resort, is a special place for Ayurveda treatments in Sri Lanka. On arrival of the guest an experienced doctor will conduct a diagnose to design their individual health & wellness schedule to be followed during their stay in the hotel. This comprehensive diagnose will be followed by using its very own traditional methods of Ayurveda like pulse reading, palm reading, tongue diagnosing, eye diagnosing etc. These treatments include internal & external treatments. Development of emotional balance are followed by very comprehensive methods like conducting Yoga & Meditation programs, allowing them to hear very emotional music, allowing them to see & feel the fragrance of very impressive flowers etc. With its very own special surroundings, it naturally allows the guests to improve their internal spirit.

The physical treatments include number of holistic therapies, head massages, foot massages, body massages, flower baths, herbal baths, steams, sauna etc. Ayurveda, the secret of Asian beauty, the herbal beauty clinic of AIDA resort offers very special beauty treatments with the harmony of Ayurveda. Some of the beauty treatments are facials, Pedicure etc.

Herbal garden of AIDA resort which has number of herbs is an attractive place of the guests who stays in the hotel. They always love to hang around the bushes of herbs & breathe the fresh air blowing through the plants.

Traditional “Shanthi Karma”, a way of treatment for certain illnesses which has a proud history of the country is very interesting event that this hotel organizes. The scenic restaurant of the hotel provides an array of Ayurvedic friendly healthy foods with the recommendation of the doctor.

The riverside gallery restaurant with a view over Bentota River, serves lots of delicious food including seafood who are not on Ayurveda cure. Also the AIDA offers one day Ayurveda treatment package for the non residents of the hotel.

Address: 12A, Mangala Mawatha, Bentota, Sri Lanka

Reservations: 0094-34-2271137, 0094-34-2271138

Email: aida1@sltnet.lk, aida1@visual.lk

Website: www.aidaayurveda.com

Hotel Yala Village – A Blend of Untamed Beauty of Nature, Adventure & Luxury of Relaxation

Hotel Yala Village is situated in Kirinda,Sri Lanka (in deep south of Sri Lanka) bordered by the Yala Wildlife Sanctuary which is about 280km away from Colombo International Airport. Approximately it takes about 5 to 6 hours drive via Ratnapura. Yala Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the Sri Lanka’s best preserved areas for which is the shelter for hundreds of elephants,crocodiles,wild boar,peacocks,about 56 species of birds,12 species of mammals,20 species of butterflies,15 species of reptiles etc.

It is a tranquil location spread over 10 acres of vegetation scattered with 61 chalets. Each chalet is unique in design with animal inspired themes in décor ensuring that each guest enjoys the untamed beauty of nature while allowing you the luxury of relaxation in absolute privacy. Wild elephant, Wild Boar, Peacocks, Spotted deer, many species of birds can be commonly seen in the hotel park. All the chalets are air conditioned and it includes with a private verandah, satellite TV, well stocked Mini Bar, Telephone/IDD provided with hot & clod water. Chalets are categorized as Fisherman’s, Beach, Round, Stilt, Traditional Village and Tarzan Suite ranging from 165 US dollars to 415 US Dollars on Full Board basis.

Observation Desk is a very attractive place in the hotel which allows the guests to have a panoramic view of the vastness while the picturesque swimming pool provides an invigorating swim with a spectacular pool bar serving up delightful concoctions. Eastern & Western cuisine can be enjoyed at the hotel restaurant with Ala carte and table d’hote menus. Also the hotel enriches with a Naturalist (Mr. Dilan Peiris) who has a sound knowledge about the Sri Lankan birds, Animals, Reptiles, Mammals and the Nature.

Some of the very attractive features the Hotel Yala Village offers are

· Bird Trails (Bundala Sanctuary & Inside the Hotel park)

· Adventure Safaris – Yala Wildlife Sanctuary

· Cultural Visits – Kataragama, Thissamaharamaya, Sithulapawwa etc.

· Nature walk with the Naturalist

· Airport pickups

· Participation of Sri Lankan cookery workshops on request

Safety Tips

Remember you stay in a part of the jungle so wild animals are freely roaming through the hotel park. Always seeks the assistance of the hotel staff while you walk in the evening & the night because meet the Wild elephant is a common incident in this hotel. Also please refrain from giving foods to the wild animals & remember not to leave any fruits in your vehicle.

Telephone : 0094112320862,0094112439049-51

0094472239450

Reservations : htlres@keells.com

Ratnaloka Tour Inn, Kosgala, Kahangama, Ratnapura – Promising Charm Holiday with the only star class hotel in the city of Gem in Sri Lanka

Ratnaloka Tour Inn, the only star class hotel situated in the city of gem in Sri Lanka is located in a tranquil village called Kosgala (around 8 kilometers away from the city of Ratnapura). Ratnapura which is 101 kilometers away form Colombo is always a blessing to the pearl of the Indian Ocean. With it’s charm environment the Ratnaloka Tour Inn always ensures their unique ability to provide a totally relaxed holiday experience by touching the hearts of the guests whoever who chooses this hotel to spend a holiday.

The hotel features 53 rooms with 11 deluxe rooms provided with air conditioning, Mini bar, attached bathroom provided with hot & cold water. Surrounded 50 acres of land with tea cultivation, trees of tropical fruits, number of herbs provides the luxury to each & every guest to breath with fresh air to soothe their body & mind from the morning they wakeup. The picturesque swimming pool shaded by an array of cardamom trees provides with an invigorating swim. Some of the other facilities are the main restaurant facing the tea estate, the air conditioned Orchid restaurant, bar etc.

Some of the very unique facilities this hotel offers are the Gem Museum & the Gem Shop which has kept large collection of local & foreign gems for display. Blue sapphire, Yellow sapphire, Cats eye are some of the local gems they displays in the museum while Opals, Lapise, Amber are examples for the foreign gems that they displays in the Gem Museum. Also there are many gem studded jewelries made out of silver & 14K, 18K gold are kept for sale.

Within the hotel premises there are few gem mining sites are maintained by the hotel to experience their guests in gem mining in Sri Lanka. Tea plucking competitions, Rubber tapping competition are some of very special events that the hotel organizes.

Besides the main restaurant there is a small pond shaded with tea bushes & perennial fruit trees. This area provides an excellent opportunity to observe number of bird species in the morning & in the evening for the people who enjoys bird watching. Sri Lanka Yellow Fronted barbet, Brown Headed Barbet, Black Hooded Oriole, Indian Robin, Pied Thrush, Red Vented Bulbul are some of the bird species can be observed in the hotel garden.

Some of the very special features the Ratnaloka Tour Inn offers are

• Try Your Luck (Gem Mining Competition)
• Tea Plucking Competition
• Rubber Tapping Competition
• Bird Trails to Sinharaja Rain forest
• Safari trips to Uda Walawe park
• Cultural trips to Maha Saman Devalaya, Pothgul Rajamaha Viharaya, Nedun Rajamaha Viharaya, Iddamalgoda Rajamaha Viharaya etc.

Address : Kosgala, Kahangama, Ratnapura

Reservations : 0094452222455, 0094452224565, 0094455440011

Email : ratnaloka@eureka.lk

Website : www.ratnaloka.com

Amaya Hills, Heerassagala, Kandy, Sri Lanka - A Memorable stay in one of the most beautiful hills in the country

Amaya Hills, a palace in the hills nestled in a tranquil location high above the city of Kandy which is 115 kilometers away from the city of Colombo. Kandy, the capital of the central province of Sri Lanka, the last ancient kingdom always has the blessings of Sri Dalada, the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. Heerassagala, one of the most beautiful locations in Sri Lanka within the Hanthana range of hills richest with lovely fauna & flora, the comfortable climate, breathtaking nature surroundings etc.The world famous Peradeniya botanical garden is within very close proximity to the hotel. Some of the Orchid varieties found in Peradeniya botanical garden are found only in Sri Lanka.With all these Amaya Hills ensures its incomparable holiday experience boasting with 100 rooms comprising with 4 Suite rooms, 5 Junior Suite rooms, 48 Deluxe rooms and 43 Standard rooms.





All these rooms are specially designed to indulge the guests with a panoramic view of a range of picturesque hills. Each & every room ensures its luxury provided with Cable TV, well stocked Mini Bar, Electronic safe, Air conditioning, hot & cold water etc.

The Tea room of Amaya Hills is very special has its own warm & inviting atmosphere to enjoy a cup of world famous Sri Lankan tea. You could enjoy the all Sri Lankan tea flavors including High grown tea (Comes from Nuwara-eliya region), mid grown tea (comes from Hanthana, Gampola, Kandy area) and Low grown tea (comes from Rantapura, Deniyaya area). Also the Dumbara Bar allowing you to have an evening drink
In a relaxed setting inspired by woven mats of Dumbara, Kandy while the Rasawasala restaurant serves an array of Sri Lankan & International cuisine by an expert chef in an indoor & terrace seating.

Le Garage the underground night club in a high mountain setting opens on every Saturday till 2am in the morning.


With its own techniques for a deep relaxation, the Ayurvedic Spa offers number of holistic therapies & Ayurveda treatments including one week & two week wellness programs. Some of the most popular treatments are Herbal Oil Body Treatment (Herbal body massage, Herbal steam and Herbal bath), Vashpa Sveda (Herbal oil & Steam treatment), Avagaha Sveda (Rejuvenating herbal bath), Herbal Oil Head Treatment (Head massage with vital point treatment), Vaktra Chikitsa (Herbal facial treatment) and Reflexology (Foot massage treatments with whole body effects).

Spend few hours with nature, the morning & evening bird trails are one of the most attractive features the Amaya Hills offers. Mr. Susantha (the Naturalist of the hotel) will take you through the breathtaking Hanthana hills to observe number of bird species. About 380 bird species (including endemics & migrant birds) are recorded from this area. Sri Lanka Spur Fowl, Sri Lanka Jungle Fowl, Sri Lanka Yellow Fronted Barbet, Sri Lanka Myna, Sri Lanka Layard's Parakeet, Sri Lanka Bush Warbler, Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon, White Browed Fantail, Brown Fish Owl are some of the bird species you could observe during this trail. Also about 65 species of butterflies & mammals, number of coffee varieties, number of spices including cardamom, pepper etc. could be observed while you are on the bird watching.

Nice flower arrangements & the friendly staff is something that specially has to be mentioned about this hotel.

Some of the other very attractive features the Amaya Hills offers are

• Tractor rides through the jungle

• Safari trips to Kaudulla, Minneriya & Wasgomuwa National parks

• Flat water rafting through the Mahaweli river

• Visit the Udawattekale

• Cultural visits to Sri Dalada Maligawa, Gadaladeniya, Ambakke etc.

• Cultural drama & dancing lessons

• Traditional sports

• Cooking demonstrations by the chef

• Yoga lessons

• Golf tours

• Visit to a meditation center
  

Address: Heerassagala, Kandy, Sri Lanka

Reservations: sales@amayaresorts.com, amayahills@amayaresorts.com

Telephone : 0094114767888, 0094812233521, 2

Website : www.amayaresorts.com

Vil Uyana, Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

The Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana – Affordable indulgence in the heart of the Cultural Triangle

The Cinnamon lodge is a tranquil location nestled in the heart of the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, Just 178 kilometers away from the city of Colombo. It is about 4 hours drive from the Colombo International Airport. Kaudulla wildlife sanctuary, Minneriya wildlife sanctuary, Ritigala cultural site, Polonnaruwa ancient ruins, Anuradhapura ancient ruins, Dambulla cave temple and the Sigiriya ancient ruins which is also considered as the 8^th wonder of the world are within close proximity to the hotel.

The Kaudulla & Minneriya sanctuaries are the shelter for hundreds of wild elephants, crocodiles, wild boar, peacocks, fishing cat, sambar, about 150 species of birds including number of endemic species and even the elusive leopards. Sri Lanka Jungle fowl, Malabar Pied Hornbill, White bellied fish eagle, Grey headed fish eagle, and Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill can be seen in Minneriya & Kaudulla sanctuaries. Also these two parks are very famous to see the biggest herd of wild elephants in Sri Lanka.

With its unique special butler service allows the luxury to the guests to arrange everything on their behalf from the moment they arrives to the hotel or even from the moment they arrives the country till they leaves the hotel or even till they leaves the country.

The hotel boasts with 72 superior rooms, 40 deluxe rooms and 4 Suites set on a 27 acre land ensuring that each guest enjoys the untamed beauty of nature from the privacy of his own space. Each room provides with IDD facilities, Color Satellite TV, in room safe, comprehensive mini bar, and fully individually controlled air conditioning. By hosting a specially designed room for the disabled guests Cinnamon Lodge ensures the interest they have taken to provide the special care for them.

A total of 136 different bird species have been recorded from the hotel premises, belonging to 12 orders & 22 families. An average of 60 species can be observed early morning or during the evening bird walk.

The main open air restaurant ‘EHALA’ offers an exquisite array of dishes with its special Ala Minute menu allowing the guest to select the ingredients at their preference to cook the dish in their presence. You may try your own salad by selecting the ingredients at your choice with your favorite dressings. The ‘Lotus’ restaurant serves a selection of inspired dishes offering both outdoor & indoor seating.

If you are in the mood, you could try number of holistic therapies (the ancient secrets of Asian beauty) to nourish the soul by using the herbs, leaves and greenery collected from the jungle. The Ayurveda & Wellness centre of the Cinnamon Lodge offers number of stress releasing therapies to celebrate the harmony of transforming the mind, beautifying the body and nurturing the soul.

Some of the very attractive features the Cinnamon Lodge offers are

• Cultural visits to Sigiriya ancient ruins, Ritigala , Polonnaruwa & Anuradhapura ancient ruins
• Elephant safaris around the Habarana lake
• Wildlife safaris to Kaudulla & Minneriya sanctuaries
• Bird trails
• Biking
• Nature trails
• Bullock cart rides
• Participation of Sri Lankan cookery workshops
• Sri Lankan Wedding packages
• Awareness programs of Sri Lankan reptiles by the trained naturalists
• Preparation & serving meals at the excursions
• Picking up your preferred fresh vegetables for your own meal from the organic farm maintained by the hotel

Reservations : 0094112439049 – 51 Arini

Email : arini.khms@keells.com

Website : www.cinnamonhotels.com

Inquiries : terrence@cinnamonhotels.com

Mahaweli Reach Hotel, Kandy, Sri Lanka – The most succeeded hotel in the capital of Hill country in Sri Lanka

The Mahaweli Reach hotel is nestled on the banks of Mahweli River in P.B.A.Weerakoon mawatha which is about 120 kilometers away from the city of Colombo. Sri Dalada Maligawa (The temple of tooth relic of Lord Buddha), beautiful range of Hanthana hills, Udawattekele forest reserve are within close proximity to the hotel.

The Mahaweli Reach boasts with 112 rooms comprising of 108 deluxe rooms, 3 Executive rooms & One President suite. All the rooms ensures its luxury provided with fans & air conditioning, mini bar, piped music, satellite TV, boarded floors and electronic safe etc. Main restaurant opens to lawn sloping down to the majestic Mahaweli allows you to indulge in exotic Sri Lankan cuisine and excellent Table d’hote choices while the Bar Lounge overlooks the pool & garden serves snacks & refreshments throughout the day. Kandy’s largest free form swimming pool owns by Mahaweli Reach which spreads over a large area of the garden under the shade of mango, olive and jak trees.

With its special business centre allows their guests to keep in touch with any part of the world. This business centre provides high speed internet access, photocopy facilities, fax facilities etc. Also is consists of a small meeting room.

Weddings in Paradise, Mahaweli Reach is very special for arranging the weddings in very traditional Sri Lankan style. Guests enjoy the luxury of having their ceremony outdoors with spectacular mountain backdrop or opt for a ceremony on a boat on the tranquil waters of Mahaweli. This comprehensive wedding arrangements includes Kandyan dancers/drummers, Traditional singing of wedding blessings by young Sri Lankan girls, conducting of traditional Kandyan wedding ceremony by the Master of Ceremonies, Decorated Poruwa ( platform of which ceremony is performed) , hair makeup and dressing of the bride in traditional attire comprising of saree & jewellery, Registration of the ceremony by the Government Registrar of marriages, Caparisoned elephant on which groom will be brought to the wedding venue, Palanquin in which bride will be carried to the wedding venue, Bridal bouquet/head dress and décor for the venue including traditional oil lamp etc.

The Mahaweli Reach hotel can be described as the most succeeded hotel in Kandy. It has started as a four roomed guest house more than quarter of a century ago and today it has obtained 5 stars rating because of its determination and the intangible feeling of warmth and hospitality with exuded by the management and the staff.

The spacious banquet hall comprising with sophisticated audio visual equipments can be used for any occasion.

Some of the very special features the Mahaweli Reach offers are

• Cultural visits to Sri Dalada Maligawa (The temple of tooth relic of Lord Buddha), Gadaladeniya temple, Embekke temple etc.
• Golf Tours to the scenic Victoria Golf links with views of the sweeping water of the Victoria reservoir
• Visits to the Peradeniya Botanical garden
• Special Theme nights & Cultural shows
• One day & half a day city tours to Kandy
• Nature trails to Udawattekele Forest Reserve
• Bird trails to Hanthana hills
• Experiencing the traditional Sri Lankan life style
• Cooking demonstrations etc.

Address : 35, P.B.A. Weerakoon Mawatha, Kandy, Sri Lanka

Reservations : 0094814472727

Email : sales@mahaweli.com

mareach@slt.lk

Website : www.mahaweli.com

Amaya Lake, Dambulla, Sri Lanka - Reflection of Culture, Nature, and Luxury of Relaxation in the heart of the Cultural Triangle

Located in Dambulla on the shores of the breathtaking Kandalama lake, a retreat dedicated to its environment with an innate understanding of what is required to enjoy the spoils of this rich land without compromising on location, creating a sense of calm, sweeping vistas with dramatic sunsets and dancing foliage, Amaya Lake provides an unparalleled holiday experience with leaves your worldly cares behind.

The Field Ornithology Group of Sri Lanka (an affiliate of the Birdlife International) has identified rich in birdlife, Amaya Lake as a bird friendly resort. Enjoy the beautiful song of the White Rumped Shama on your nature walk in the morning while observing number of bird species including the Sri Lanka Jungle fowl, the national bird of Sri Lanka. Some of the highlights are Black capped bulbul, White bellied sea eagle, Tawny bellied babblers, Dark fronted babblers etc. In addition, some of the animals like Black napped hare, Giant squirrel etc. and some of the butterfly species can observe.

Newly added Amaya Superior, the suite room equipped with all modern amenities, spacious bathroom, a pantry with all kitchen utensils, dinning area, plunge pool and a butler service.

Samara restaurant, open-air restaurant with refreshing breezes and views of the lake offers an exquisite array of dishes including Sri Lankan, Western and Indian dishes followed by a flute player weaves a tune from his treetop perch and cultural shows in the night. In addition, homegrown herbal teas, native herbs cultivated at Amaya Lake, a light brew of coriander seeds prepared with the guidance of the Ayurvedic spa serves nightly at Samara restaurant. Healthy specialties cooked on a traditional wooden stove serve at Wewekade Ayurvedic restaurant.

The Ayurvedic Spa offers deep relaxation techniques with a range of indigenous Ayurvedic treatments and tailored treatments in specially designed thatched lodges. Indulge a body massage with medical oils, warm herbal baths in a carved rock tub or a couple’s bath in a tub carved from Diya Labu tree, herbal facial treatments, herbal steam in a Kohoba wood steam bath or a facial massage with herbal oils.

Some of the very attractive features Amaya Lake offers are

• Bullock cart rides through the village
• Bird watching
• Nature walks
• Barge boat rides on the lake
• Trips to Kaludiya Pokuna
• Yoga meditation sessions
• Night safaris to Minneriya park
• Cultural shows
• Barbeque terrace
• Cultural shows
• Magic shows
• Sport facilities

Address : Kap Ela, Kandalama, Dambulla, Sri Lanka

Telephone : 0094664461800, 0094662231822, 0094114767888

Reservations : sales@amayaresorts.com

Website : www.amayaresorts.com

The Fortress Hotel, Koggala, Sri Lanka

The Fortress, a luxury boutique resort boasts with 11 fortress rooms, 12 Beach rooms, 18 Ocean rooms, 6 Ocean lofts and 2 Fortress residences, nestled on the shore of the Indian Ocean at Koggala, Sri Lanka. Sensual living spaces, open plan bathrooms, cutting edge entertainment systems with plasma screens, private bar, day bed, in-room safe and IDD telephone facilities ensures its unparalleled luxury resort experience. Lime Spa of the Fortress offers a range of Ayurveda treatments, Homeopathic treatments, international therapies and tailored treatments to stay tuned by using deep relaxation techniques. Adam & Eve massage, Relax foot massage, Head Neck & Shoulder massage, Relaxing back massage, Balinesian back massage are some of the very special treatments they offers at Lime Spa. Also Ritual Ayurvedic one day package including Sublime Awakening(Steam,Sauna,Jacuzzi) , Traditional Ayurvedic massage, Indian head & shoulder massage, Shirodhara is very attractive among the guests who enjoys the luxury at Lime Spa.