Victoria Spills after 17 Years

Victoria dam started spilling water after 17 years,due to heavy rain falls in Sri Lanka. Victoria is one of the most beautiful dams built in order to generate hydro power

World’s Fifth Highest Tower will be in Sri Lanka soon - Lotus Tower

The Chinese state company has accepted a new contract to build the world’s fifth highest tower in Sri Lanka at an estimated cost of US$ 100 million.


The tower will be named “Lotus tower” (Nelum Kuluna) and when completed will stand 350 meters in height. The overall shape and appearance will be that of a lotus flower and will take up 20 acres of ground area.

The first and second floors will be used by media broadcasting and the telecommunications system. It is planned that there will be four basement levels including a shopping complex. According to the source it will take only 30 seconds for people wishing to visit the top floor of the tower which will accommodate gamble casinos and night clubs.

In view of the existing condition of the less fortunate in the country it may be argued that US$ 100 million might be put to a better use.

-Rivira

WildGrass - Sigiriya

Nestled in the heart of an enchanting forest, amongst the whispers of trees and magical birdsong, there exists a slice of paradise. Welcome to WildGrass - an unforgettable experience for the soul that longs utopian bliss.  Tucked away deep within the jungles of Sigirya, our tranquil haven is designed to captivate both heart and mind, cocooning you in the warm embrace of Mother Nature’s best. Indulge in untold luxuries, away from the cacophony of city life as you release all worldly worries in utmost seclusion cloaked by breathtaking natural scenery and the haunting music of the wild. Step into the enchantment of a luxurious jungle hideaway.

You will find it all too easy to fall under the spell woven by the resort’s alluring sensations from the very first second you begin your experience.  The other-worldly charm of the environment surrounding you can calm even the most restless of spirits. The most captivating feature of the Wild Grass Nature Resort is its absolute stillness and the sheer luxury of privacy within the folds of this gorgeous retreat, enveloped by the majesty of the pristine forest.

The resort rests in 30 acres of unfenced jungle land, surrounded by a stunning vista of lush forestry, majestic mountains, and a delightful little lake, an enthralling picture that can be enjoyed from almost any location within the premises. At the resort, considerable care has been taken to maintain the original ecosystem by leaving the wilderness untouched; as a consequence, the resort is regularly visited by a variety of resident creatures including elephants, wild boar, deer, wild rabbits, peacocks and more than 40 varieties of birds.

You find yourself delighting in the inner knowledge that you are a privileged visitor in their exclusive domain.
The unique feature of WildGrass remains its exceptional natural beauty and absolute solitude afforded to the traveler seeking a perfect rest. Intimate and secluded, the resort limits itself to only 5 exotic villas in the entire property, adequately spaced out to make privacy the ultimate luxury.

The official website can be found here.

Ramada - Katunayake

The Ramada Katunayake is 7 km from the International Airport bordering Colombo Airport Highway. 25 km away is the Colombo Main City - the hub of business activities / Harbour etc., 8 km to Katunayake Free Trade Zone and 5 km to Ekala Industrial Zone. We are also 25 km to Biyagama Export Processing Zone. Negombo Beach - famous fishing village is about 15 km North. About 3 km away is the Birds Sanctuary at Muturajawela which can be accessed by a boat ride. Also Gampaha Botanical Gardens is about 30 km away.

All rooms are equipped with TV, mini Bar. International direct dialing and Internet / Cable TV facility are in all rooms. Business Center Available. VIP Lounge Available. Gym and Swimming Pool facilities are free for resident guests. Lobby Bar. 24 hrs Coffee Shop and Room Service. Outdoor Games. Restaurant and Bar.

Travel about 2 km to the west from the Airport and would reach the Airport turn off roundabout. Take the road leading towards Colombo which is on the left side, South, and drive about 5 km. The Ramada Katunayake is situated on the right side when you drive from the airport towards Colombo.

Lake Lodge - Colombo

In March 2009, Nayantara Fonseka, also known as Taru, helms the re-opening of Lake Lodge, a 13-room Bed & Breakfast / Budget Hotel that has been owned by her family for 40 years.

Down a quiet residential lane in the heart of commercial Colombo, Lake Lodge was one of the first accredited Tourist accommodations in Sri Lanka, which Taru has refurbished with her usual creative flair. Your ‘home away from home’ while in Sri Lanka, whether for a few days of holiday or a month on business, Lake Lodge will be run in the typically friendly yet professional manner that she successfully spearheaded for several years with her Taru Villas boutique hotels.

12 + 1 stylish ensuite Double Rooms with all modern conveniences (AC, H/C Showers, CableTV etc).

Located down Alvis Terrace, Colombo 03.
Wi-fi
Spacious Lounge areas + 2 large terraces with view over park & lake.
Breakfast Bar.
As well as providing our guests with a delightful lunch and dinner menu, our Chefs are also available to prepare any meal to your individual requirement.
Licensed Bar.
Guest Laundry, Left Luggage, Safety Deposit, Fax, Airport Transfer, Taxi Service.

Rates starting from US$ 40++ (Per Night) : Rates valid till the 31st of October 2010

To make a booking or inquire about availability and rates email info@taruhotels.com or call on +94.112.326443
The official web site of Lake Lodge colombo can be found here

Minara Bopath Ella - Kuruwita

Minara, Bopath Ella is a nature friendly “Adventure Base Hotel” on the banks of Kuru Ganga over looking the mesmerizing Bopath Ella waterfall. It is about the only hotel in Sri Lanka that offers a magnificent view of a waterfall wrapped in the sounds of nature, 24 hours of the day, year round. 4 kilometers away from the Kuruwita town, the hamlet where Minara is located is also known as Bopath Ella. The environs of minara offers the perfect nature friendly, seclude but yet comfortable surroundings that has been aptly described in tourist literature as one of the most picturesque places in Sri Lanka. Popular among foreign as well as local tourist, Minara provides the perfect hide away to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty. The hotel offers privacy and comforts in a homely atmosphere to blend in with its surroundings with a personalized and friendly service.

May it be your honeymoon, weekend of relaxation, exploring the wilderness, taking part in adventure or even for workshops and receptions minara provides the facilities and services to satisfy all and their needs, importantly ensuring privacy for the guest.

Accommodation
12 Rooms, all with a view of the water fall. Rooms are with:
Attached Bathrooms with hot & cold water
Air-Conditioning
Television

The restaurant provides a magnificent view of the water fall and the lush green surroundings. The sounds of water and the wilderness provide soothing music to make it an unforgettable experience.
Special buffet and BBQ arranged for groups
Other Facilities

Facilities for residential and day workshops, conferences, meetings and get-togethers

Weddings, Receptions and other functions up to a maximum of 250 persons in a separate reception area (Separate wing with a view of the waterfall)

Adventure based activities, team building and training by professional experienced personnel to suit your requirements by prior arrangement

Sufficient space to pitch your own tents for camping

Laundry Facility

The official web site of Minara Bopath Ella, Kuruwita can be found here

The contact details of Minara Bopath Ella hotel is:

Tel:
0094 45 2263610
0094 77 7552403
0094 11 2734341
Fax:
0094 11 2732386
E Mail :
minara-bopathella@hotmail.com
info@minarabopathella.com

.

Ratnaloka Tour Inns - Rathnapura

"Ratnaloka Tour Inns, a star class resort hotel established in 1978. Since then we have implemented series of refurbishment programs embracing concept of sustainability practices. We are humbly proud to be acclaimed among the hospitality industry as the Jewel in the city of Gems Ratnapura, situated 106km from capital Colombo.

Our resourceful staff waiting to welcome you with exemplary and courteous services inimitable to them with the facilities, 53 Rooms includes, 12 deluxe rooms and 41 Std., rooms with swimming pool and a large landscaped garden. We strive to focus our attention to best hospitality practices of international standards and continuously concern on environmentally responsible and sustain Green initiatives.

Ratnaloka Tour Inn, the only star class hotel in the city of gem Ratnapura, is located in a tranquility 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 and cold water. Surrounded 50 acres of land with tea cultivation, trees of tropical fruits, number of herbs provides the luxury to each and every guest to breath with fresh air to soothe their body and mind from the morning they walk-up. 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..


Other facilities include IDD. Fax, Internet, email, Laundry and restaurant bar, Doctor on call, Foreign currency exchange and all other essential necessities. There are many places of interest that one could visit from Ratnaloka Tour Inns, Adam's peak, Sinharaja, Bentota cave, Pothgul rajamaha viharaya, Gemological museum, National museum and Udawalawe national park are some of the attractions.

Kosgala, Kahangama, Ratnapura, Sri Lanka.

Tel: +94(0)452222455/2224565,2230017, 5675580, 5675581
+94(0)457200441,7200442,7200443,7200444
Fax: +94 (0)45 2230017
E-mail: ratnaloka@eureka.lk [General]
sales-ratnaloka@vinet.lk [Reservations]


The official web site of Ratnaloka Tour Inns, Rathnapura can be found here.

The Swiss Residence - Kandy

Located in the heart of the World Heritage City - Kandy, The Swiss Residence is more a home than a hotel. Known for our warm and personalized service, you will be greeted and made to feel right at home, from the moment you set foot here.

Placed amongst the luscious rain forests in the hills of this calm & peaceful city, The Swiss Residence, though placed in the heart of the city, is the perfect spot for those looking for a place to simply relax and enjoy solitude, forgetting the burdens of urban life – even for a moment.

Created with a rich mixture of Kandyan and Swiss architecture, The Swiss Residence consists of 40 cozy, well furnished rooms, with spectacular views of the surrounding mist covered hills in one direction, as well as the sun touched busy streets of the city seen below in the other direction.

The Swiss Residence features 40 rooms, ranging from the Royal Suite, Deluxe & Standard Rooms.


All rooms are designed keeping in mind the cozy, Kandyan hospitality with simple comfort and creating a homely atmosphere, to make you feel completely at home, away from home.

All guest rooms are provided with air conditioning, ceiling fan, windows that open for fresh air, piped music, TV, mini bar, tea/coffee making facilities, attached bathrooms with hot & cold water & private balcony.

The following amenities are available on request - Hair dryer, Baby cot, laundry facilities, etc.

The official website and contacts of The Swiss Residence Kandy can be found here.

Mermaid Hotel & Club - Kalutara

About Us
The Mermaid Hotel & Club lies on the golden sands of Mahawaskaduwa; a cosy fishing village in the city of Kalutara which is of religious significance, just 24 miles south of Colombo and 45 miles from the International airport.

The perfect get-away for sun, sand and sea lovers. It is cleverly nestled in a vast coconut grove along a stretch of golden, sandy beach.

The uniqueness of the hotel is that the club is built on a separate block of land adjoining the hotel. While the hotel is reserved only for peaceful relaxation, the club is where the action is. A wide range of sports and recreational activities can be enjoyed at the club.

Accommodation
The rooms are decorated with an eye for design, with a subtle touch, with muttered colors for a tranquil atmosphere. The look is simple, uncluttered and tasteful with its teak furniture and minimalist décor.

72 centrally air conditioned rooms, each boasting a flat screen TV, CD player, mini bar, safe, IDD facility, hair dryer and a balcony or terrace with partial sea view.

Facilities & Services
The hotel is superbly equipped, elegantly designed and offers all creature comforts in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Where ever you opt to be you will always experience a warm and friendly service with a Sri Lankan smile.

There are two swimming pools of which the main pool, complete with sun terrace, is located by the lounge at the hotel. This is reserved for swimming and sunbathing. The second pool located at the club is ideal for water polo and water aerobics.

The main restaurant located on the upper level over looks the pool and the ocean with its unique split-level design, the alfresco area adjoining the restaurant is ideal for couples to bask in each others company and enjoy an intimate candle-lit dinner. The restaurant offers buffet meals or set menus and an a la carte menu with a selection of sea food delicacies for guests to chooses from.

There are four bars conveniently located around the hotel. The Pool bar located by the lounge area, the Beach bar situated in the coconut palm gardens, the air conditioned bar with a snooker table near the Restaurant and the Club bar in the sports complex offering an assortment of thirst quenchers.

Evening entertainment arranged daily include live music, disco, cultural shows, Ballets and magic shows.

Sahana Spa
The Sahana Spa is located at the Mermaid Club in a separate complex and offers a range of treatments. The spa facility includes two treatment rooms, reflexology room, sauna, steam bath, Jacuzzi and changing rooms with toilets and shower.

HOTEL: MERMAID HOTEL & CLUB
Mahawaskaduwa , Kalutara , Sri Lanka
Tel : 94 34 2237613, 94 34 2238663
Fax : 94 34 2228572
resv@mermaidhotelnclub.com
www.mermaidhotelnclub.com

Meditation on your trip to Sri Lanka

Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka in the third century B.C and become an integral part of the country’s culture with a majority of Sri Lankans following the Buddha’s teachings. Meditation is an integral part of Buddhism, practiced to achieve a balance of mind which helps alleviate the stresses of modern life. Meditation is conducted at most Temples and Buddhist centres across the country while some of the Ayurveda and Yoga retreats conduct guided meditation sessions as an integral part of their holistic wellbeing programmes.

Buddhism in Sri Lanka
Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka in the third century B.C. when Emperor Asoka of India sent his son, Mahinda, to the island and introduced Buddhism to the reigning Sinhalese king Devanampiya Tissa (250BC – 207 BC). The king eventually became a powerful patron of Buddhism and established temples and the monastery of Mahavihara, which became the historic center of Theravada Buddhism in Sri Lanka. King Devanampiya Tissa followed the Indian emperor’s strategy of merging the political state with Buddhism. As a result, Buddhism became an integral part of Sinhalese culture and civilisation. Buddhism also had a great effect on the literary development of the island. It was in Sri Lanka that the oral teachings of the Buddha – the Tripitaka – were committed to writing for the first time. The language of these Buddhist scriptures, Pali, influenced the development of the Sinhala language. Since the third century B.C. to date, Buddhism continues to play an integral part in the lives of a majority of Sri Lankans in the country. In addition, the island’s Buddhist monks play a significant role in spreading Buddha’s teachings worldwide.


Ayurveda & Yoga retreats offering meditation
There are several Ayurveda resorts in Sri Lanka that emphasises positive health and the balance between mind and body through a combination of ancient philosophies such as - Ayurveda, Yoga, and meditation. Meditation sessions at these resorts are usually conducted by a Buddhist monk and if interested, guests can also participate in discussions on Buddhism and visit a nearby Buddhist temple. Some of the hotels offering meditation include:

• Ayurveda Pavillions, Negombo
• Barberyn Beach Ayurveda Resort, Weligama
• Paradise Island Health Resort, Bentota
• Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort, Wadduwa
• Villa de Zoysa, Boosa
• Muthumuni Ayurveda Health Resort, Beruwala
• Secret Garden, Unawatuna
• Tree of Life, Kandy
• Ulpotha near Anuradhapura
• Ranweli Holiday Village, Waikal


Meditation Retreats & Buddhist Centres in Sri Lank
If you wish for a more indepth understanding into the Buddhist philosophy and meditation, there are several centres across the island that conducts programmes over an extended period of upto two weeks. These are serious meditation retreats located in tranquil settings that follow an intensive routine of meditation and Buddhist discussions.

The Nilambe Meditation Centre in Kandy, the Vipassana Meditation Centers in Kaduboda and in Colombo all offer basic accommodation and vegetarian meals. Some centres also have books shops to purchase Buddhist literature. We have provided direct links to these Meditation Retreats & Buddhist Centres so that you can contact them directly and make your own arrangements.

Holiday Itineraries with meditation
We have put together several journeys that will give you a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage which includes ancient ruins dating back to the 3rd century B.C. as well as Buddhist temples and shrines that are very much a vibrant part of today’s life. We have chosen hotels and wellness retreats that offer guided meditation sessions to improve your concentration and mindfulness. If you wish, we will be happy to alter the existing itineraries to incorporate a longer stay at an indepth meditation retreat of your choice. Some of our itineraries that offer meditation include:

• Ayurvedic Rejuvenation
• Healing Wisdom
• Tranquil Sri Lanka
• Sri Lanka Yoga Retreat
• Serenity

you can find out more from the original article at reddot tours.

Nuwarawewa Rest House Hotel - Anuradhapura

Just one kilometer from the railway station in New Town, Anuradhapura. Nuwarawewa Rest House is an unassuming property convenient to both the old and new parts of Anuradhapura. Enjoying a peaceful aspect on the edge of the Nuwarawewa Lake, this hotel is a comfortable budget dwelling sought by families and travelers seeking a relaxed, no-fuss environment.

 The hotel is just a short car trip from major sites, including the Bodhi Tree, Isurumuniya Rock Temple and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth. Best of all, guests can enjoy panoramic vistas of the hotel’s namesake - Nuwarawewa Lake - from sun loungers on the verandah of the Rest House.

You can make your reservation by visiting this web site.

Amangalla - Galle Fort

Overflowing with colonial landmarks, in the heart of a 17th century Dutch fort, rests a peaceful, and immaculately restored historic hotel, Amangalla. Galle Fort, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, houses the most charming and characteristic buildings in the ancient trading port of Galle. In the 19th century horse drawn carriages delivered parasol-bearing gentry to the famous doors of the, then New Oriental Hotel. Today, the hotel portrays the complex patina of its past in an exemplary setting, surrounded by the rich colonial tapestry of Sri Lanka’s exceptional Dutch fortress.

The official website of the hotel Amangalla can be found here.

Mandara Resort - Mirissa

Mandara is synonymous with Coral Reefs and mountains, signifying the location of luxurious Mandara resort. Set on the beach at Mirissa bay in southern Sri Lanka, where “Pollathu Modara” river meets with mighty Indian Ocean. 20 luxuriously furnished rooms with private jacuzzis offer a panoramic view of Mirissa Bay encapsulatedby range of mountains.

Accommodation
Twenty extravagantly furnished en suites with private plunge pools / Jacuzzi. Each room is unique in layout and decor / supremely comfortable.
Equipped with full of luxury and convenience, with TV, DVD/CD player's in all rooms.

ROOM TYPES
4 - Standard Rooms
4 - Superior with plunge pool
8 - Deluxe room with Jacuzzi
4 - Penthouse rooms

Twenty extravagantly furnished en suites with private plunge pools / Jacuzzi. Each room is unique in layout and decor / supremely comfortable. Equipped luxury and convenient features, including a TV, DVD/CD player.

WINE & DINE
Delectable food prepared by our Chefs to suite your biological cycle with the choice of both international and local cuisine and Wines to complement your palate. Our staff would serve your food in the place of your choice. (Garden, in Room, under the shade of Panda muss)

HOTLINE	:	+94 (0) 41 2253993
TELEPHONE	:	+94 (0) 41 22 53993
		+94 (0) 41 22 53994
		+94 (0) 41 5676762
Mobile Number	:	+ 94 071 680 5758
FAX	:	+94 (0) 41 22 53706
E-MAIL	:	mandararesort@sltnet.lk

The official website can be found here.

Jetwing Beach - Negombo

Nestled among two and a half acres of palm tree gardens, along a beautiful sun-kissed beach in Ethukala, near the coastal town of Negombo, is Jetwing Beach, a cool, calm, temple of chic. A harmony of soft colours and rich dark woods envelopes this beach hotel in Negombo that lives and breaths luxury.

Your cares will be swept away by the cool breeze that blows through its open spaces. Apart from its spectacular setting amidst windswept palms and sun bronzed beach, this Negombo hotel’s spa features a comfortable lounge to relax in, a Jacuzzi, steam room and special treatment rooms with a choice of air-conditioned environments for treatment. The luxury and romance of this idyllic location forms the perfect backdrop for honeymoons.

Jetwing Beach is an idyllic hotel in Negombo Sri Lanka that can be found in the north western part of the island  that is a 15 to 20 minute drive from the Bandaranaike International Airport, 3 km from the main city of Negombo,  and only 35 km away from Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, Colombo.

Boat Safari at (Sri Lanka) Dutch Canal 

A memorable and an exciting boat safari along the historical Dutch canal inter connecting vast expanse of large water bodies shaded by mangroves - an ideal habitat for a large number of water birds Kingfishers, Herons, Egrets, Brahmini kites are not uncommon. Water monitors either swimming placidly by the side of the boat, with flicking tongues or resting on trees. Also we can see "tight rope walk" of the toddy taper and to learn all information pertaining to the toddy industry will no doubt be interesting and a thrilling experince. 2, 1/2 hours excursion, Distance : Starts from the beach at the hotel.

The official website of Jetwing Beach Negombo can be found here.