Sri Lanka. Who likes ancient
14:17 Sri Lanka. Who likes ancient | |
 Sri Lanka - is a republic and a unitary state governed by a presidential system. The capital, Sri Jayawardenapura-Kotte, is a suburb of the largest city, Colombo. An important producer of tea, coffee, gemstones, coconuts, rubber and the native cinnamon,[17] Sri Lanka has been called The tear drop of India because of its shape and location and is known as "The Pearl of the Indian Ocean" because of its natural beauty. It is also known as "The nation of smiling people".The island contains tropical forests, and diverse landscapes with high biodiversity. The country has had a long history of international engagement, being a founding member of SAARC and a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, the G77 and the Non-Aligned Movement. It is also the only country in South Asia that is currently rated 'high' on the Human Development Index. Sri Lanka was the first Asian country to have a female ruler; Queen Anula who reigned during 47–42 BC. Sri Lankan monarchs completed some remarkable constructions like Sigiriya, the so-called "Fortress in the Sky". It was built during the reign of Kashyapa I. Sigiriya is a rock fortress surrounded by an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs, and other structures. The 5th-century palace is also renowned for frescos on the rock the surface. It has been declared by UNESCO as one of the seven World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka. Among the other constructions, large reservoirs, important for conserving water in a climate that alternates rainy seasons with dry times, and elaborate aqueducts, some with a slope as finely calibrated as one inch to the mile, are most notable. Biso Kotuwa, a peculiar construction inside a dam, is a technological marvel based on precise mathematics, allowing water to flow outside the dam keeping the pressure to a minimum. Know about geography. The island consists mostly of flat-to-rolling coastal plains, with mountains rising only in the south-central part. The highest point is Pidurutalagala, reaching 2,524 metres (8,281 ft) above sea level. The climate is tropical and warm, due to the moderating effects of ocean winds. Mean temperature ranges from 17 °C (62.6 °F) in the central highlands, where frost may occur for several days in the winter, to a maximum of 33 °C (91.4 °F) in other low-altitude areas. Average yearly temperature ranges from 28 °C (82.4 °F) to nearly 31 °C (87.8 °F). Day and night temperatures may vary by 14 °C (25.2 °F) to 18 °C. Country is famous for its food. Dishes include rice and curry, pittu, Kiribath, wholemeal Roti, String hoppers, wattalapam (a rich pudding of Malay origin made of coconut milk, jaggery, cashew nuts, eggs, and spices including cinnamon and nutmeg), kottu, and hoppers.[286] Jackfruit may sometimes replace rice and curries. Traditionally food is served on a plantain leaf. Middle Eastern influences and practices are found in traditional Moor dishes, while Dutch and Portuguese influences are found with the island's Burgher community preserving their culture through traditional dishes such as Lamprais (rice cooked in stock and baked in a banana leaf), Breudher (Dutch Christmas cake), Bolo Fiado (Portuguese-style layer cake), and Gum Billas (Dutch style honey coated sweet treats). Climate isn't cold. Sri Lanka is tropical, with distinct dry and wet seasons. The seasons are slightly complicated by having two monsoons. From May to August the Yala monsoon brings rain to the island’s southwestern half, while the dry season here lasts from December to March. The southwest has the highest rainfall – up to 4000mm a year. The Maha monsoon blows from October to January, bringing rain to the North and East, while the dry season is from May to September. The North and East are comparatively dry, with around 1000mm of rain annually. There is also an inter-monsoonal period in October and November when rain can occur in many parts of the island. 1. Amanwella - Tangalle Amanwella is modern and calm, serene and stylish, 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, authenticity or modern necessities. The clean vertical lines of Amanwella contrast with the rugged landscape creating a sense of calm, serenity and luxuriance that enables guests to unwind while enjoying the highlights of its rich coastal surroundings. The scenery is tropically stamped: long white beaches, tall leaning palms, rocky outcrops, dense turquoise ocean, a buzzing local village life, nearby rock temples, and heart-surging wildlife. Nature rules in this part of the world and Amanwella enjoys a privileged setting from which to observe some of the rare marvels: seasonal egg laying by giant turtles on nearby beaches, protected elephant herds in national parks, sweeping vistas with dramatic sunsets and dancing foliage, the crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean and extraordinary topographical features. The contemporary design of the resort blends inextricably with its locale through the extensive use of regional materials and aesthetics; distinctive terracotta roof tiles, hand-hewn stone walls, water features, terrazzo floors and sliding terrace doors. Every suite benefits from its own sparkling pale aqua plunge pool and the main swimming pool features a unique ‘internal wall’ design, with uninterrupted views of the staggering front stage of palms, beach and ocean. Lowest price $190.  2. Amangalla - Galle In the historic port of Galle, Amangalla sits within the ramparts of the 17th century Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The resort reveals the Fort's daily activity and its rich legacy, the narrow streets lined with Dutch and British colonial era buildings still in use. The buildings that comprise Amangalla date back over 400 years. Collectively the buildings have been used as headquarters for the Dutch commandeur and his officers and later as a billet for British soldiers. In 1865, the buildings were combined to create the New Oriental Hotel, one of twelve hotels at the time within the fort. As the New Oriental Hotel, the property traded for 140 years. Historically, the fortified town of Galle has been a significant trading port. More than a thousand years ago it was the essential port of call for Chinese, Persian, Arab and Indian traders. Later came the Javanese and Sumatrans, followed by Marco Polo in 1299. But it was with the arrival of the Portuguese in 1505 that a small foreign trading post was established. In 1589, when the Kandyans forced the Portuguese out of their Colombo fort, a Portuguese settlement commenced in earnest with a fort of palm trees and mud. There are four categories of accommodation at Amangalla. Ten bedrooms offer views either overlooking the garden or the nearby historic Groote Kerk (Great Church). The bedroom and separate bathroom are similar in size with furnishings including a four-poster king-size bed, writing desk, dining table, pettagama chest- all set within the original polished jackwood floors. The spacious bathroom offers twin vanities, free-standing tub, separate shower and toilet. Bedrooms range from 36 to 39 square metres. Six Chambers are located within the Church Street Wing and face the Fort ramparts. The entrance leads into the open plan room, featuring first the bathroom, followed by the bedroom and a separate sitting area. The bathroom has a large shower, free-standing bathtub, and toilet. There are four Garden Wing Chambers, three with balconies and one with a twin porch- all over-looking the treetops of the resort garden. Chambers range in size from 55sq m to 67sq m. The ten Suites look onto para trees, the ramparts of the Fort and the harbour, or the mature well-tended tropical gardens. The spacious Suites feature the original polished teak floorboards dating back over 300 years. The entry hall leads to separate bedroom and lounge area. Adjacent to the entry hall is the bathroom with a free-standing tub, twin vanities, separate toilet and shower. The bedroom has a king-size four-poster bed and arched, shuttered windows. The lounge is furnished with a chaise lounge, writing desk, dining table, planter's chair and pettagama chest. This furniture is either a property original or careful reproduction. Suites range in size from 60sq m to 80sq m. Lastly, Amangalla features The Garden House, a two-storey, 140 square metre house- with a private terrace and balcony offering treetop views- situated within the resort's gardens. The original, antique furniture of the house has been restored. At the entrance is a sitting room fitted with a chaise lounge, armchairs and coffee table. Double doors lead to the bedroom, furnished with a king-size four-poster bed, writing table and dressing cabinet. Adjoining this is a spacious bathroom, bathed in light from the pool garden outside. It offers twin vanities, a free-standing tub, toilet and separate shower. An internal stairway rises from the sitting room to the upper level, featuring a daybed and banquette. Other facilities include a pantry serviced by a private butler. Amanresorts recommends travellers combine stays at both Amangalla and its sister property, Amanwella. Amangalla, approximately 100km south of Colombo, the capital, is the ideal starting point and provides the opportunity to explore the historic Galle fort as well as the scenic and cultural attractions of the region. From Amanwella, with its tranquil setting and abundance of swimming and sun bathing opportunities, it is a two-hour drive to Amangalla. Lowest price $230.
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