Standing tall amidst untouched wilderness, Upper Diyaluma offers a tranquil atmosphere that’s a far cry from the bustling crowds found at more popular tourist spots. Here, you can truly immerse yourself in the serenity of nature, undisturbed by the noise and commotion that often accompanies well-known destinations. The pool at the foot of the falls is a gift for travelers to indulge in a refreshing dip, promising a wonderful experience that’s both unique and memorable.

However, it’s essential to approach this natural wonder with a sense of responsibility and environmental awareness. As with any place of natural beauty, Upper Diyaluma deserves to be treated with the utmost respect. Visitors are not only encouraged but urged to follow responsible tourism practices. This includes refraining from littering, sticking to designated paths to minimize environmental impact, and actively supporting local conservation efforts. By doing so, we can ensure that this hidden gem remains a pristine sanctuary for future generations to discover and appreciate.

Source: ASTL Team

Image credit to respective owners

Believed to have been established during the 1st century BCE, Kudumbigala Monastery has survived invasions and thrive as a sanctuary for meditation and religious practice. The site’s historical roots intertwine with legends and stories, making it a destination for both history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.

The monastery boasts a unique blend of architectural styles, showcasing influences from various periods. From simple cave dwellings to intricately carved stupas, the site reflects the evolution of Buddhist architecture over the centuries. As you wander through the complex, you’ll encounter rock-cut caves adorned with ancient murals, each telling a story of devotion and artistic brilliance. It is also noteworthy that it’s pagoda is the only one cylindrical shape dagoba in Sri Lanka.

Kudumbigala Monastery isn’t just a historical relic; it’s a living spiritual haven. Monks and devotees continue to flock to this sacred site for meditation and religious practices. The tranquil surroundings and the distant murmur of the ocean create an atmosphere conducive to contemplation and inner peace.

Perched on a rocky outcrop, Kudumbigala offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The combination of lush greenery, rugged terrain, and the azure waters of the nearby ocean provides a visual feast for visitors. Sunset at Kudumbigala is a particularly enchanting experience, casting a warm glow over the ancient ruins.

In recent years, concerted efforts have been made to preserve and restore Kudumbigala Monastery. Conservation projects aim to protect the site’s historical and cultural significance, ensuring that future generations can continue to marvel at its beauty and learn from its storied past.

A Natural Oasis

Ritigala Sanctuary is a study in natural splendor. Encircled by tropical forests, it boasts a landscape that is both breathtaking and serene. Towering trees, cascading waterfalls, and meandering streams contribute to the sanctuary’s idyllic setting, making it a haven for both flora and fauna. The sanctuary’s abundant biodiversity only adds to the allure, offering a sanctuary for myriad species in this verdant enclave.

A Tapestry of Time: Pre-Buddhist Occupation

Before the advent of Buddhism, Ritigala was believed to be inhabited by ascetics, a tradition that may have been established as far back as the reign of King Pandukabhaya in the 4th century BCE. The sanctuary’s ancient roots provide a window into a time when solitude and spiritual contemplation were paramount.

Emergence of the Buddhist Monastery

Around the 1st century BCE, Ritigala underwent a transformative phase, evolving into a Buddhist monastery of great repute. Here, monks sought refuge in its secluded chambers, dedicating themselves to rigorous meditation practices. The architectural remnants that dot the landscape are a testament to their devotion. Unique in design, these structures blend harmoniously with the natural rock formations, creating an atmosphere of serenity and tranquility.

Architectural Echoes of a Bygone Era

The ruins of Ritigala are a tapestry of archaeological wonders. Amidst the sanctuary’s expanse, one can find platforms, staircases, retaining walls, ponds, and meditation chambers, all bearing witness to the ancient monks’ architectural ingenuity. These remnants, carefully preserved and meticulously studied, offer a vivid glimpse into the daily life of those who once called this sanctuary home.

Decline and Abandonment

The reasons behind the eventual decline and abandonment of Ritigala remain enigmatic. Shifts in religious and political landscapes may have played a role, yet the exact circumstances remain elusive. What is clear, however, is that Ritigala’s legacy endures, an echo from the past that continues to resonate through the ages.

Preservation and Exploration

In recent years, concerted efforts have been made to safeguard the sanctuary’s natural habitat and archaeological treasures. Conservationists and archaeologists work tirelessly to ensure that Ritigala’s allure remains intact for future generations. Visitors and pilgrims alike now have the privilege of exploring this living museum, a testament to Sri Lanka’s enduring cultural and spiritual heritage.

Ritigala Sanctuary is more than a collection of ancient stones; it is a living testament to the enduring human quest for spiritual enlightenment and communion with nature. Its forests whisper secrets of bygone eras, and its ruins bear witness to the lives of those who sought solace in its embrace. For the modern traveler, Ritigala offers a journey back in time, an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of ancient monks and discover the profound beauty that lies at the intersection of history, spirituality, and nature. In Ritigala, the past lives on, an eternal sanctuary for the soul.

Kalpitiya offers a serene and tranquil beach getaway, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Surrounding this enclave are a number of intriguing spots that are well worth exploring.

Among the must-visit places in Kalpitiya are the historic Kalpitiya Dutch Fort, the picturesque Kudawa Beach, and the Kalpitiya Lagoon. Additionally, the Kalpitiya Dutch Church adds a touch of colonial heritage to the area. For wildlife enthusiasts, the renowned Wilpattu National Park lies in close proximity, providing an opportunity for a safari adventure.

Kalpitiya’s allure lies in its unspoiled beauty and its rapid emergence as an up-and-coming tourist destination. From the expansive Mutwal or Dutch Bay, the largest island in the Kalpitiya division, to the petite Vellai 1, there is a diverse range of experiences to be had here. Unlike the more frequented coastal towns, Kalpitiya retains its tranquility and remains refreshingly uncluttered.

In essence, Kalpitiya offers a distinctive and authentic Sri Lankan experience, making it a destination where one can truly immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of local culture and natural splendor.

Things to do in Kalpitiya

Plunge into the depths of the Indian Ocean for an unforgettable diving escapade, where vibrant marine life dances in a mesmerizing underwater world.

Glide through the tranquil lagoon on a kayaking expedition, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature.

Set out on a thrilling quest to spot magnificent whales and playful dolphins, witnessing their majestic presence in their natural habitat.

Delve into the heart of the bay with lagoon boat tours, uncovering hidden gems and scenic vistas.

HAMBANTOTA, Sri Lanka – Some 215 kilometers (130 miles) south of Colombo in the Hambantota district lies a unique, infrequently travelled, bird-watching location: Lunama and Kalametiya. A quaint coastal wetland, this bird sanctuary serves as a home for a range of birds — wintering and endemic — and other fauna, complete with swaths of mangrove forests, extensive reedbeds, scrublands and salt marshes.

For the traveler, Kalametiya lagoon, adjoined by Lunama, provides a tranquil backdrop to watch birds year-round — and to go paddle boating.

The dry zone in southern Sri Lanka has many locations of environmental significance and together, Lunama and Kalametiya forms one. First established in 1938, it is the island’s oldest bird sanctuary and occupies a picturesque area between the two saltwater lagoons, near a mangrove swamp and open plains.

This lagoon setting plays a key role in supporting the breeding colonies of pelicans, herons, egrets and others as well as wintering populations of migratory ducks and shorebirds. Recognizing Kalametiya and Lunama as important wildlife habitats, particularly for birds, an area of 700 hectares (1,730 acres) was declared a sanctuary in 1984 under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance.

Though it remains one of Sri Lanka’s most secluded nature reserves, it is among the most richly endowed bird habitats on the island and home to many species of birds, amphibians, mammals, reptiles and insects. A 2005 study recorded a total of 161 bird species there, including 121 residents, 46 winter migrants and one offshore marine bird. Among the resident birds, five are endemic while five are nationally threatened.

Winter draws many bird species to this biodiversity-rich area, which offers an ideal resting and feeding location. Plovers, terns, ducks, stints, sandpipers, terns and ducks abound, and these winter visitors draw many visitors interested in ornithology and photography. Add to the visiting feathered friends the many residents: cormorants, pelicans, egrets, storks, teals and tilts. It is a bird-watching paradise year-round and true paradise in the colder months.

This paradisical backdrop is enhanced by the nearby Bundala National Park, an internationally significant wintering ground for migratory water birds where the visiting glossy ibis was recorded while nesting after a lapse of about 150 years.

A March 2023 study took a look at the influence of land-use changes on bird diversity and feeding guilds – or groups of unrelated species feeding on similar foods – with the Kalametiya lagoon as the study focus and highlighted how Kalametiya has become a highly threatened wetland, having undergone drastic hydraulic changes in recent decades due to an upstream irrigation project — Uda Walawe Irrigation and Resettlement Project (UWIRP).

The research noted how these changes have led to the invasion of the lagoon water by monospecific Sonneratia caseolaris, commonly known as mangrove apple, and Typha angustifolia reedbeds. Researchers studied the lagoon from January to April 2022 and encountered 79 bird species and found bird communities to be richer and more diverse in the angustifolia reedbeds compared with the mangrove-dominated areas.

They suggest that a management system aimed at restoring the lagoon to its past state would bring significant changes to its avifaunal community. Kalametiya lagoon is already an altered ecosystem caused by human pressure. For six decades, the mangrove forest had seen expansion, increasing its cover from 77.5 hectares (191.5 acres) in 1956 to 385.3 hectares (952 acres) in 2016 while reducing the lagoon water surface by 86% in the same period, indicating the speed and extent of expansion. These changes have also been linked to UWIRP, which took place about 49 km (30 mi) upstream from the lagoon.

The birds of Kalametiya are ecologically versatile and serve as important indicator species due to their sensitivity for environmental change and also their ecology being generally well known. While post-pandemic visitors increase, there is evidence to suggest the need for better management of the bird sanctuary.

Banner image of a pair of lesser whistling ducks (Dendrocygna javanica), nocturnal feeders special to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, also known as Indian whistling ducks or lesser whistling teals. Image courtesy of Kanchana Handunnetti.

Source: https://news.mongabay.com/2023/07/photos-sri-lankas-kalametiya-lagoon-draws-tourists-to-see-native-and-migrant-birds/

Relics of Buddhism are always magnificent to behold. They dot the East Asian world, and are the testament to the devotion and ancient history of its peoples. One such relic is the magnificent statue of Avukana Buddha, considered to be one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist sites. Almost in the geographical center of this nation, it is a popular tourist destination, as well as a pilgrimage site for devoted Buddhists. Who built this statue?

Avukana Buddha Stands Vigilant

This awe-inspiring statue of the Buddha is situated in the small village of Avukana, itself close to the town of Kekirawa. It is positioned in a picturesque area, a small clearing in an otherwise forested area, overlooking the ancient Kala Wewa reservoir to the east. Its location was clearly selected on purpose, to convey a sense of grandeur and to inspire visitors. Originally, the statue was housed in a purpose-built temple. However, over the course of centuries, the temple has been destroyed and no longer exists, while the statue remains.

The statue represents Buddha standing, with his right hand raised in a gesture of blessing. The pose is meant to convey reassurance, and is a special stance known as a variation of the Abhaya Mudra , a symbolic ritual pose. Above him is a special circular halo, called Mandala, itself richly decorated with carved lotus petals and other motifs. A peaceful and smiling face is represented on the Buddha, presented in truly stunning detail.

All this is all the more stunning when we consider the fact that the statue is carved out of a single large granite rock face! That’s right, the Avukana Buddha is all of 13 meters (42 ft) tall, and is one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. It was carved as a single piece, in situ, while the remaining cliff face behind it was carved in a form of Cyclopean Masonry, which is supposed to convey the sense of a mountain. Creating such a monumental piece was certainly a challenge – especially when you are faced with a titanic block of stone from which you have to “release” a stunning work of art such as this one.

A Relic of Sri Lanka’s Middle Ages

Popular opinion agrees that the Avukana Buddha was carved in the 5th century AD, during the reign and at the behest of King Dhatusena of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka ’s first King of the Moriyan Dynasty. Legend states that Dhatusena commissioned a famous master sculptor named Sena, who completed the statue in just six months, using nothing but a hammer and a chisel. Whether or not this is correct, scholars cannot say with certainty. It is more likely that the statue was built sometime in the 8th century AD, as a donative inscription at the back of the statue, dated to this period, was found in 1951.

Either way, the statue is made in the distinct style called the Anuradhapura School. It is famed for the realistic natural depictions of the human form. It also shows elements from the neighboring Gandara and Amaravati schools of art from India. Still, it retains a great deal of uniqueness, and is famous for its exquisite attention to detail. The Buddha is portrayed very realistically, with slender and elongated proportions, wearing a fine flowing robe that clings to his body. Every muscle, piece of clothing, and other details were carved with absolute precision.

Overall, the Avukana Buddha differs somewhat from the other Buddha statues of Sri Lanka, and as such it holds a special place in the nation’s cultural heritage. Over the centuries, it was subject to a lot of scholarly interest, and received attention from artists, historians, and archeologists alike. The exquisite skill with which it was made, and the masterful rendition of the Buddha are both testaments to the skill and efficiency of ancient Sri Lankan craftsmen. 

A Masterpiece of Ancient Sri Lankan Art

Today, the statue is the pride of Sri Lanka , and is widely hailed as one of the finest examples of ancient Sinhalese sculpture. It is protected by the government and considered the national treasure of Sri Lanka, as well as one of its national symbols. Due to this, the government carried out some restoration work over the years, and added special metal support structures that prevent the statue from toppling over during earthquakes.

The Sri Lankan government announced plans in 2017 to build a special visitor center and a museum near the statue, in order to boost tourism and provide visitors with more information about the statue’s history. Either way, if you ever find yourself in Sri Lanka, this popular tourist site is one you cannot miss!

Source: https://www.ancient-origins.net/artifacts-other-artifacts/avukana-buddha-0018927

This wetland which comprises seven tanks built close to the ocean is bordered by the Battuluoya and the Udappuwa main road in the North, the Chilaw – Puttalam railway in the East, the Sengal Oya in the South and the Paru Cannal (Holand Cannal ) in the West. The Ratambala Oya is the main water source of the Wetland. The Wetland is also fed by floodwaters of the Deduru Oya brought to the area via the Sengal Oya scheme.

This wetland sanctuary comprises seven manmade shallow tanks: Pinkattiya tank (40 hectares), Wellawali tank (currently not holding water ), Maradansola tank (12 hectares), Irakkawela tank (14 hectares ), Anawilundawa tank (40 hectares),Surawila tank (32 hectares) and Mahayiyava tank (50 hectares ). According to historical records, they were built in the 12th century during the reign of King Parakramabahu 1. These tanks are interconnected and form one wetland with a complex irrigation system.

Anawilundawa is a unique area of land close to three vastly different ecosystems; the coast, the mangroves and the fresh water tanks. It is this rarity that is the reason for the reputation of the wetland as being one of the six Ramsar wetlands in Sri Lanka.

 Ramsar wetland

The World Conservation Union conducted a study on the biodiversity of the wetland and on August 3, 2001, it was declared an international Ramsar wetland. A Ramsar site is a wetland site designated to be of international importance under the criteria of the Ramsar Convention on wetlands signed at the Iranian town of Ramsar in 1971. Four years before it was declared a Ramsar wetland, on June 11, 1997, the Anawilundawa Wetland had been declared a sanctuary by the Department of Wildlife Conservation.

The tank system of the Anawilundawa Wetland helps feed traditional paddy fields in the area as well as islets of natural vegetation. About 412 hectares of paddy fields are said to be asweddumised with the water of these tanks.

This Ramsar wetland is rich in fauna and flora and therefore, has become a natural habitat for more than 150 species of aquatic birds, 20 species of mammals, 70 species of butterflies and over 50 percent of Sri Lanka’s freshwater fish species.

There are different categories of bids in Anawilundawa such as wetland birds (waders, gulls and terns, ducks, herons, egrets and storks, great cormorants, kingfishers, the purple swamp hens), forest birds (woodpeckers, barbets, pigeons, raptors), scrubland birds (bulbuls, doves) and grassland birds (munias, prinias, pipits, larks and raptors). Migratory birds such as sandpipers, stints, plovers, terns and gulls share the wetland with its resident birds such as herons, egrets, pelicans, great cormorants and storks. The period from October to April is tailor-made for visiting the sanctuary to spot these migratory birds since they arrive in October and leave by April every year.

The Anawilundawa sanctuary is also home to 20 species of mammals. Among them are toque monkeys, slender oris, rusty spotted cat, the otter, rats, mice, shrews, bats, black-naped hare, mouse deer, fishing cat, mongoose, and jackal. Small herds of wild elephants are roaming the sanctuary especially during the dry season. Slender lorises dominates the trees in the sanctuary.

The reptilian fauna of the wetland comprise the flap shell turtle, the star tortoise, milk tortoise, stone tortoise, crocodiles, lizards, skinks and geckos, green vine snake and many other reptiles. The cobra, Russell’s viper and the common Indian Krait known as three highly venomous serpent species also inhabit the sanctuary.

Over 264 plant species belonging to 86 families also add colour to and enrich this biodiversity hotspot. Some 218 plant species are native while Pupulu Vernonia Zeylanica is endemic to Sri Lanka. There are also invasive alien plant species. Most of the plant species found in the sanctuary are used in traditional medicine. Huge, tall trees, woody plant species, shrub species, herbaceous plant species, aquatic plants, two special species of epiphytes and many other species of climbers make this an eye-catching landscape of thick lush green vegetation.

The tanks within the sanctuary play a multidimensional role in the ecosystem. They control flood, recharge aquifers, retain pollutants and sediments and provide the ecosystem with the indispensable, i.e. water for its survival. Sustainable traditional farming and inland fishing wouldn’t be possible if it were not for this system of tanks.

Unscrupulous element

Despite the inexpressible significance of safeguarding this unique ecosystem, some unscrupulous, ignorant people harm this natural treasure land which has great potential to become more popular as an ecotourism site. But extension of prawn farms or prawn hatcheries in surrounding areas has led to mangrove destruction and pollution whereas the other potential threat comes from the excessive use of fertiliser and pesticides in coconut plantations in the vicinity of the wetland.

Although the area of the Anawilundawa sanctuary which is about 95 km away from Colombo belongs to the dry zone of the North Western Province, this land and air of pools of water, tanks, thickets, bushes, and forests teeming with giant trees and vines comfort whoever frequents there with coolness in a wet zone. The tranquility of the environment is disturbed only by the beautiful chirping of lovely birds of different kinds and the sweeping sound of the gentle breeze blowing from all directions kissing the trees and vines and lake water.

Intoxicated by the splendour of the wonderful, picturesque, enchanting nature there, bird-watching enthusiasts, nature lovers, environmentalists, and citizen naturalists would be reluctant to return from this unique wetland of spellbinding beauty. Let there be everlasting protection for this open natural art gallery, which is no doubt a potential tourist attraction.

Source: https://www.sundayobserver.lk/2023/06/04/impact/anawilundawa-wetland-sanctuary-nature%E2%80%99s-treasure-trove

Summiting ‘Sri Pada’ (Adam’s Peak) was an affirmed task of myself, just like almost every other Sri Lankan. Well known for the ‘Holy Footprint’ rock formation near the summit, this highland monarchy is conquered together by devotees of four religions namely Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims. According to Buddhist beliefs, the rock formation is the footprint of the Lord Buddha.

I was called ‘Kodu’ and wondered why, to know that the first-time climbers of Sri Pada are known as ‘Kodu’ in Sinhala. Accompanied by the ‘Nade Guru’ or the team leader till the summit, there are numerous rituals performed when a Kodu graces the Sri Pada.

Among the list of essentials such as sweaters, earmuffs, and snacks, I loaded my backpack with a piece of clean white cloth, a few coins cleansed with turmeric water, a needle and thread, lime, coconut oil, flowers, and incense sticks to perform the devoted activities.

It was so close to a fantasy yet was a reality to explore the lush greenery and mint fresh air along the Ratnapura Palabatgala route. We walked along, passing the peak wilderness sanctuary and I had to pinch myself to believe that it was not a dream!

Our first stop was Palabathgala Rajamaha Viharaya. As per the instructions of Nade Guru, all Kodu offered flowers and tied clean coins using white cloth stripes at the temple wishing for a safe journey. Then we continued the trek till the Lihinihela Ambalama. We screamed “Lihini Akke” to the precipice, which was another ritual. According to a folktale ‘Lihini’ is a young woman who had not been able to summit Sri Pada during her pilgrim and awaiting for merits to summit in her next life. So, when we called her name to the precipice, it echoed a sound as if she acknowledged. That was one such fulfilling activity as if I supported a person to climb the mountain. Then we reached the Katukitula almshouse, gifting ourselves a break.

Enjoying a sip of handful of fresh water from Kalu ganga, we continued to walk until we reached Gettam Pana. It is said that the Lord Buddha had torn his robe and had sewed it at Gettam pana. To resonate that there is a Kodu ritual to weave here. We covered our shoulders with the white cloth and held the needle and thread above it. Then carrying it from one end to another, each of us weaved at Gettam Pana.

It was a long journey yet was the beginning of the actual hike. We then reached the Dharmaraja rock, and from there continued counting the number of steps until Sita Gangula. Sita Gangula is the water stream just before the start of the holy journey. We soaked ourselves head to toe in the freezing water and cleaned ourselves using lime. We dressed in full-white as a symbol of respect, cleanse, and spiritual divine. All our tiredness faded away once we sighted the wonderful Sri Pada Mountain above our heads from Haramiti Pana.

We then reached the Makara Thorana, which was the welcome emblem for devotees that also serves as the actual starting point of Sri Pada Mountain climb. Following the Mahagiridamba, Ehela Kanuwa and then the Ahas Gauwa (Sky summit), it was one surreal stretch of a hike. The pure white coat formed from mist blended with pleasant smell of incense sticks signaled to us that we have reached the peak of Sacred Sri Pada Mountain.

Together with devotees from across the country as well as foreign visitors, I was able to pay homage to the holy footprint. Ringing the giant metal bell one time to mark my first visit, I was also fortunate enough to witness the wonderful sunrise of the day from the top of the holy mountain.  

 Summitting the 2,243 m (7,359 ft) tall Adam’s peak will remain the most treasured memory in my life.

Source: ASTL Team

Best visited between March and October, and situated one km from the coast of Nilaveli, a coastal town in the Trincomalee District, the island is named after the endangered rock pigeons of the region. Declared a sanctuary in 1963 to protect them, it was announced a national park in 2003 to include the coral reefs. It is Sri Lanka’s 17th national park, and one of its two marine national parks; Hikkaduwa is the second. The island itself comprises two smaller ones namely large and small Pigeon Islands.

Though there is scuba diving, windsurfing, swimming and fishing, snorkeling is the most popular activity. The reefs are shallow—one to seven feet—and safe for beginners. A deep calmness takes over as they float over the water in silence. And then, marine life opens like colourful surprises. 

Keep an eye out for the critically endangered hawksbill sea turtle with its narrow, pointed beak. It’s harvested for its prized shell that’s made into ornaments. 

If you’re lucky, the elusive black-tip reef shark will make an appearance before you.If snorkelling isn’t your thing, other attractions beckon; a trip to the Koneswaram temple is one of them. A 40-minute drive from the island, the 17th-century hill-top Shiva temple offers panoramic views of the island. Believed to 
be one of the Panch Ishwarams or the five abodes of Shiva, there are caves beneath it, dating to the Sangam Period. Not to be missed are the Kanniya Hot Springs—seven wells with varying temperatures, the waters of which are considered therapeutic. Locals believe King Ravana created them for his mother to bathe in. Ready to take a dip into history?

Source: https://www.newindianexpress.com/lifestyle/travel/2023/mar/05/treasure-islandsri-lankaspigeon-island-national-park-2552500.html

Many spices, some of them native, are grown in tropical Sri Lanka due to its different microclimates and soil types, which has led to a successful spice trade throughout history. Spices improve the flavor, color, and aroma of food. Many of them also have numerous health advantages. When used in the appropriate combination, spices can transform even the most basic dish into a flavorful and aromatic culinary experience.

As Sri Lanka is a multi-cultural country, you cannot expect anything less when it comes to Sri Lankan food. Our country is filled with its regional flavors while the cuisine is known for a rich combination of rice specialties, spices, herbs, seafood, seasonal vegetables and fruits and of course, legumes.

Culture plays an essential role in the food scene in Sri Lanka while many Sinhalese food items are derived from the chena cultivation. There will be a variety of traditional Sri Lankan foods available, including milk rice, sweetmeats, and spicy curries as accompaniments, for everything from the most revered and momentous Sinhala & Hindu New Year to numerous day-to-day occasions and festivals.

Many of these dishes are centered around the main staple rice, rice flour and coconut while seafood also plays quite an important part in Sri Lankan. Most Sri Lankans prefer vegetable curries while the main go-to meal in any part of the island is the good old “ Rice and Curry”. The curries have immense flavour and colours which are derived from a list of Sri Lankan Hot Spices.

Since Sri Lankan food is regionally diverse, you can expect the same dish prepared in various methods and with different flavors. For an example, the dishes from the South of Sri Lanka have a distinctive quality and is mainly blended with seafood. “Ambulthiyal” is a unique spicy fish preparation that uses a thick gamboge (goraka) paste while the preparation in the South is different from the other parts of the island.

If you’re the kind of traveler who follows your taste buds, Sri Lanka will give you the perfect blend of authentic Sri Lankan culinary experiences with mouth-watering local cuisine!

Source: ASTL team