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Showing posts with the label Asia

FROM THE PAGES OF HISTORY - Buddhism

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  FROM THE PAGES OF HISTORY Buddhism  Before the rise of Buddhism in the sixth century B.C., India had gone through a long process of religious thought and philosophical speculation; the formulation of the doctrines of Buddhism and the beliefs and practices of the early Buddhists were in great measure due to the religious milieu in which this faith was first preached to the people. A review, perforce very brief, of the religious thought and life in India before Buddhism arose, is therefore necessary for the student of history to appreciate the great spiritual and intellectual upsurge created by that religion, says Prof. S. Paranavitana.  It is not possible to speak with any degree of certainty about the religion of the people of the Indus civilization until its script is deciphered: but, from the examination of the material remains unearthed at Mohenjo-daro, Harappa and other sites, it has been ascertained that certain aspects of Indian religion, with which we are familiar during h

Example Itinerary for 7D/6N tour in Sri Lanka.

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  Example Itinerary for 7D/6N tour in Sri Lanka. Starting Place - Colombo or Negombo. Day 1 Morning - Proceed to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. (Spend 2 hours) Lunch- Afternoon - Proceed to Habarana - Enjoy a wildlife safari Optional - After the safari, have an Ayurvedic (herbal) massage. Dinner  Sleep at your hotel Day 2 Morning - Visit Sigiriya Return to hotel and fresh-up  Visit Dambulla rock cave temple Lunch Afternoon - Proceed to Kandy Evening 5pm Witness a cultural show Next - Visit Temple of the tooth Dinner Overnight Stay at Kandy (Hotel) Day 3 Morning - Kandy city tour 11am Proceed to Nuwara Eliya Lunch on the way at Ramboda. Afternoon - Visit a tea factory. Proceed to Nuwara Eliya Dinner and overnight stay Day 4 Early morning - Visit Horton plains / The world’s end. Catch the train to Ella Lunch at Ella around 3.30 pm After Lunch trekking tour to Nine Arches Bridge Dinner and overnight stay at Ella Day 5  Morning - Trekking to Little Adem’s peak.  Trekking to Ella’s rock Late

Hantana - Trekking in Sri Lanka

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  Hantana Hantana is a prominent mountain located near the city of Kandy in central Sri Lanka. It's known for its picturesque landscapes, lush greenery, and biodiversity. The mountain is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking panoramic views of the surrounding area.   Hantana Mountain and its surrounding forest area are part of the Hantana Range, which is a significant ecological and environmental resource in Sri Lanka. The forest on Hantana Mountain is home to diverse flora and fauna, including various species of birds, mammals, and plants. It's also an important watershed area that contributes to the water supply of the region.   In addition to its natural beauty, Hantana has historical significance as well. There are remnants of colonial-era buildings and structures on the mountain, reflecting its past as a location for British military camps during the colonial period.   Hantana Mountain offers several hiking trails that allow

Narangala - Trekking in Sri Lanka

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  Narangala Narangala is a picturesque and magnificent mountain situated in the Badulla district(Uva Province – Sri Lanka). Rising up to approximately 1527 meters, the beautiful Narangala Mountain holds the distinction of being the second highest mountain in the Uva province. Route: Ella - Kumbalwela - Hali-ela - Kandegedara - Keenakele - Thangamale watta - Narangala hike. When traveling in your own vehicle, you have the option to park near the old tea factory before beginning your Narangala hike. Along the journey, there are footpaths and steps available that lead to the peak. This mountain used to hiking and camping. Hiking Trail:- Narangala hiking trail starts at Thangamalai estate. In Tamil, "Thangamalai" translates to "golden mountain." This region is abundant in grass, and when the grass becomes slightly dry due to intense sunlight, it takes on a golden hue, giving the mountain its name. Narangala's distinctive characteristic lies in its sharply re

Bambarakanda Falls Trail - Trekking Locations in Sri Lanka.

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  Bambarakanda Trail. Bambarakanda Trail goes to the top of Bambarakanda waterfalls, the tallest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. (263 m). This is situated in Kalupahana in the Badulla District at Haldummulla area, between Belihul-Oya and Beragala. And 5km away from the main road (Badulla – Ratnapura road). At Kalupahana junction, you need to turn onto the Kalupahana – Ohiya road. (Along this road, there are many lovely nature scenes and trails as you make your way up to Ohiya.) The Bambarakanda Falls, our destination, is only 5km away from the junction. Bambarakanda Falls, which can be found in a forest of pine trees, was formed by Kuda Oya, a tributary of the Walawe River. Kuda Oya originates at Horton Plains, known as the sponge of Sri Lanka. From the junction, you have the option to use a car or a tuk-tuk to reach there, but I personally prefer to walk this 5 km along this lovely road. Near the waterfall's viewpoint, there is a park where you can safely park your car. Additionall

Sinharaja rain forest – Trekking in Sri Lanka.

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Sinharaja rain forest Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a tropical rainforest located in southwestern Sri Lanka. The forest is renowned for its high biodiversity and unique ecology. It's considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a World Biosphere Reserve.   Biodiversity: Sinharaja is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to Sri Lanka. It's a hotspot for birdwatching, with numerous bird species, including some that are found only in this region.   Flora: The forest is characterized by its dense vegetation, with a variety of tree species, ferns, orchids, and other plants. The canopy layer is particularly diverse, providing habitat for many different species.   Fauna: Sinharaja is inhabited by various mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and insects. Some of the notable species include the Sri Lankan Leopard, Purple-faced Langur, and various species of owls, frogs, and butterflies.   Conservation: Due to its ecological significance, Si

Knuckles Mountain Range – Trekking in Sri Lanka.

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  Knuckles Mountain Range – Trekking in Sri Lanka. Knuckles mountain range is situated in central Sri Lanka in Kandy and Matale districts.   That’s an evergreen forest and rich in bio-diversity. It is home to a large number of flora and fauna. This magnificently panoramic region is one of the rarely visited lands in the country. The heights of the peaks of this mountain range from 1060m to 1906m. “Gombaniya” is the highest, knuckle shaped “Five peaks” are the second highest (1864m) and “Knucles-Kirigalpoththa” (Different from the Kirigalpoththa at Horton planes) is the third (1647m). The stunning views found within this conservation area make it an ideal destination for leisurely strolls and adventurous hikes. This enchanting location encompasses a network of nature trails that wind through lush landscapes, leading to mesmerizing waterfalls and babbling water streams. The expanse of the Knuckles mountain range covers around 155 square kilometers, embracing within its realm five disti

Sri Lanka as a Tourist Destination.

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  Sri Lanka as a Tourist Destination. Sri Lanka, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," is a tropical island nation located in South Asia. The country boasts a diverse range of natural beauty, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and travelers alike. From pristine beaches to lush forests, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife, Sri Lanka's natural wonders are sure to captivate anyone who visits. Sri Lanka is blessed with an extensive coastline that offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. From the golden sandy stretches of Bentota and Mirissa to the picturesque beaches of Unawatuna and Tangalle, each beach has its unique charm. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean provide perfect conditions for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. Despite its relatively small size, Sri Lanka is rich in biodiversity. The country is home to numerous national parks and wildlife reserves, such as Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park, and Wilpa