Sri Lanka Expo Tours

Pinnawala is a village in the Kegalle district of Sri Lanka, situated about 90 kilometers northeast of Colombo, the capital city. One of the main attractions in Pinnawala is the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, which is a popular tourist destination.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage:

1. Elephant Orphanage: The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage was established in 1975 and is home to a large number of orphaned and injured elephants. The primary objective of the orphanage is to provide care, rehabilitation, and a safe haven for these elephants.

2. Elephant Bathing: One of the notable features of the orphanage is the daily bathing ritual in the nearby river, where the elephants are taken for a refreshing bath. This is a spectacular sight and a popular attraction for visitors.

3. Feeding Time: Visitors can also witness the elephants being fed during specific times. It's an opportunity to observe the elephants up close and learn about their behavior and habits.

4. Conservation Efforts: The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage plays a significant role in elephant conservation efforts in Sri Lanka. It has successfully bred elephants in captivity and has been involved in various research and conservation projects.

5. Tourist Destination: Pinnawala is a major tourist destination in Sri Lanka, attracting both local and international visitors. It provides a unique chance for people to experience close encounters with elephants and learn about the challenges faced by these magnificent creatures in the wild.

Kandy is a city in the central part of Sri Lanka. It is the second-largest city in the country and is known for its cultural and historical significance. Here are some key features of Kandy:

1. Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa): One of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka, the Temple of the Tooth houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

2. Peradeniya Botanical Gardens: Located just outside Kandy, these gardens are renowned for their diverse collection of orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees. The gardens were originally created as a pleasure garden for the royal family.

3. Kandy Lake: Also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, Kandy Lake is an artificial lake built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe next to the Temple of the Tooth. It adds to the scenic beauty of the city.

4. Kandy Esala Perahera: This is an annual festival that takes place in Kandy to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. The festival includes a vibrant procession with traditional dancers, drummers, and beautifully decorated elephants.

5. Cultural Dance Performances: Visitors can enjoy traditional Kandyan dance performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. These performances often take place in various venues around the city.

6. British Garrison Cemetery: This cemetery is a reminder of the colonial history of Kandy. It contains the graves of many British nationals who lived and died in Kandy during the colonial period.

7. Kandy Market: The market is a bustling place where you can experience the local way of life. It's a great spot to buy traditional Sri Lankan spices, textiles, and souvenirs.

Dambulla is a town located in the central part of Sri Lanka. It is famous for its cave temple complex, known as the Dambulla Cave Temple or the Golden Temple of Dambulla. The cave temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most well-preserved cave temple complexes in Sri Lanka.

Key features of Dambulla and the Dambulla Cave Temple include:

1. Dambulla Cave Temple: The cave temple complex consists of five caves, which contain statues and paintings related to Lord Buddha and his life. The cave walls and ceilings are adorned with intricate and colorful frescoes and paintings that depict Buddhist mythology and the history of Sri Lanka.

2. Golden Buddha Statue: The largest cave (Cave 2) houses a 14-meter long reclining Buddha statue carved out of rock and covered in gold leaf.

3. Ancient History: The Dambulla Cave Temple dates back to the 1st century BCE and has been a place of worship for over 2,000 years. The caves were used by Buddhist monks as a place of meditation and refuge.

4. Cultural Significance: The temple complex is a significant religious and cultural site in Sri Lanka, attracting both pilgrims and tourists. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

5. Location: Dambulla is situated in the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, which also includes the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. It's a popular stop for tourists exploring the cultural and historical attractions of the region.

Pasikuda is a coastal resort town located on the east coast of Sri Lanka. It is known for its pristine beaches and clear shallow waters. The area has gained popularity among tourists for its tranquility and natural beauty.

The Pasikuda beach is renowned for its long stretch of shallow coastline, making it an ideal destination for swimming and water activities. The beach was relatively undeveloped for many years but has seen increased tourism infrastructure in recent times.

Pasikuda is also near Kalkudah, another coastal area with beautiful beaches. The entire region was affected by the civil conflict in Sri Lanka, but with the return of peace, there has been a surge in tourism, and Pasikuda has become a sought-after destination for both local and international travelers.

"Dambana" is a village in Sri Lanka, specifically known as Dambana Veddah Village. The Veddah people are an indigenous group in Sri Lanka, and Dambana is considered their main settlement. The Veddahs have a unique culture and are known for their traditional way of life, which includes hunting and gathering.

The Veddah community in Dambana has attracted attention due to their efforts to preserve their cultural heritage in the face of modernization. Visitors to Dambana have the opportunity to learn about the Veddah way of life, their customs, and their connection to nature. It's a place where traditional rituals, dances, and practices are still maintained, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural diversity of Sri Lanka.

 Ella is a small town located in the Badulla District of Uva Province in Sri Lanka. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful scenery, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

1. Nine Arch Bridge: One of the most iconic landmarks in Ella, the Nine Arch Bridge is a picturesque railway bridge known for its stunning architecture. The bridge is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a great vantage point for photographers.

2. Little Adam's Peak: This is a relatively easy hike that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations. The trek to the summit takes about 30-45 minutes and is well worth the effort, especially during sunrise or sunset.

3. Ravana Falls: Located near Ella, Ravana Falls is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by dense greenery. According to local legend, it is believed to be the site where Ravana, a character from the Indian epic Ramayana, hid Princess Sita.

4. Ella Rock: For those looking for a more challenging hike, Ella Rock is a popular trekking destination. The trail takes you through tea plantations and forests, ultimately leading to a summit with stunning views of the Ella Gap.

5. Tea Plantations: Explore the nearby tea estates to learn about the process of tea production. Many plantations offer guided tours where you can see how tea leaves are plucked, processed, and packaged.

6. Ella Spice Garden: Discover the variety of spices that grow in Sri Lanka by visiting a spice garden. You can learn about the cultivation and uses of different spices and herbs.

7. Local Cuisine: Ella has a range of restaurants and cafes offering both local Sri Lankan dishes and international cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try some traditional Sri Lankan food.

8. Ella Railway Station: The colonial-era railway station in Ella adds a touch of charm to the town. The station itself and the surrounding landscapes make for great photo opportunities.

 Yala National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. It is the second-largest national park in the country and is renowned for its diverse range of ecosystems and wildlife.

Key features of Yala National Park include:

1. Biodiversity: Yala is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is particularly famous for its population of leopards, making it one of the best places in the world to spot these elusive big cats. Other animals you may encounter include elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and numerous species of birds.

2. Habitats: The park comprises several ecosystems, including scrub jungles, water reservoirs, and coastal areas. This diversity in habitats contributes to the park's rich biodiversity.

3. Bird Watching: Yala is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the park. The months from November to March are considered the best time for bird watching.

4. Safari Tours: Visitors can explore the park through safari tours, which are typically conducted in jeeps accompanied by experienced guides. These tours offer the opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

5. Archaeological Sites: Yala National Park also has historical significance, with several ancient ruins and rock inscriptions within its boundaries.

Galle is a city on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, known for its well-preserved Dutch-colonial architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here are some key aspects of Galle:

1. Fortress: The Galle Fort is a major attraction and a well-preserved colonial-era fortress built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, later expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century. The fort is characterized by its narrow streets, colonial buildings, and the iconic Galle Lighthouse.

2. Historical Significance: Galle has a rich history and has been influenced by various cultures over the centuries. The city has remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial periods.

3. Galle International Cricket Stadium: This cricket stadium is one of the most picturesque in the world, situated near the Galle Fort and the Indian Ocean. It has hosted international cricket matches and is a popular venue for sports enthusiasts.

4. Cultural Attractions: Galle is home to several museums, art galleries, and cultural sites. The Maritime Archaeological Museum, Galle National Museum, and Historical Mansion Museum are worth a visit for those interested in the history and culture of the region.

5. Shopping: Galle offers a range of shopping opportunities, particularly within the fort area. Visitors can find boutique shops, art galleries, and markets selling local crafts and souvenirs.

6. Beaches: Unawatuna, a popular beach destination, is located near Galle. It's known for its beautiful sandy beaches and coral reefs, making it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling.

7. Cuisine: Galle offers a variety of dining options, including local Sri Lankan cuisine, as well as international dishes. The fort area has many charming cafes and restaurants.

8. Galle Literary Festival: This annual event attracts writers, poets, and literature enthusiasts from around the world. It provides a platform for discussions, readings, and cultural exchange.

Colombo is the capital and largest city of Sri Lanka, an island country located in South Asia. It is situated on the west coast of the island and has a rich history that spans over 2,000 years. Colombo serves as the economic, cultural, and political center of Sri Lanka.

Key features of Colombo include its vibrant mix of modern and colonial architecture, bustling markets, diverse cultural influences, and a variety of religious sites. The city is home to a range of attractions, including the Colombo National Museum, Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, and the Galle Face Green promenade along the Indian Ocean.

Colombo is a major port city and a hub for trade and commerce. The city's skyline is characterized by a blend of skyscrapers and historic buildings, reflecting its dynamic and evolving nature. The city also offers a diverse culinary scene, shopping opportunities, and a lively nightlife.

In addition to its urban appeal, Colombo serves as a gateway for travelers exploring other parts of Sri Lanka. The Bandaranaike International Airport, located nearby in Negombo, facilitates international and domestic air travel.