Treasure Island Magazine 2017 ISSUE 2

VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

LKR 250.00 US $ 3

4

2015 November | SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND

F E AT U R E S

VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

CONTENTS

12 OUR FAVOURITE CITY IN SRI LANKA SURROUNDED BY THE GREEN MOUNTAINS, IN THE CENTRE OF SRI LANKA, IS THE BEAUTIFUL CITY KANDY.

18 FIND THE GREATEST ADVENTURE IN THE ISLAND OF MYSTERY

24 THE WORLD FAMOUS ‘FOX HILL’ IN DIYATALAWA THE ‘FOX HILL SUPER CROSS’ IS HELD ANNUALLY AT DIYATALAWA FOX HILL’S RACING TRACK AND IS ONE OF SRI LANKA’S PREMIER ANNUAL MOTOR SPORTING EVENTS.

WITH VARYING CLIMATES AND GEOGRAPHY PACKED INTO A SMALL ISLAND, SRI LANKA OFFERS A RANGE OF ADVENTURES FROM THE TOP OF THE MOUNTAINS TO THE DEPTHS OF THE OCEANS.

30 MAHAWELI MAHA SEYA- A SANCTUARY BESIDE THE KOTHMALE RESERVOIR THE OPENING OF THE MAHAWELI MAHA SEYA WAS HELD ON 20TH JUNE 2017 UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF PRESIDENT MAITHRIPALA SIRISENA AND PRIME MINISTER RANIL WICKREMESINGHE. THE PRESIDENT OFFERED FIRST TRIBUTES TO THE STUPA AND OPENED IT FOR THE PUBLIC VENERATION.

36 NAWALAPITIYA - THE ECO TOURISM PARADISE NAWALAPITIYA IS ONE OF THE MAJOR TEA CULTIVATION AREAS IN SRI LANKA, BELONGING TO THE DIMBULA TEA DISTRICT DIVISION.

44

SENASUNGALA CAVE TEMPLE: LITTLE DAMBULLA

COVER PHOTO

THE SENASUNGALA CAVE TEMPLE ALSO KNOWN AS ‘LITTLE DAMBULLA’- THE LEGENDARY TEMPLE THAT BELONGED TO THE ERA OF KING DEVANAMPIYATISSA (307 – 267 BC).

8

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

Sri Dalada Maligawa (The Temple of the Tooth) is a Buddhist temple in the city of Kandy Sri Lanka.

It is located in the royal palace complex of the former kingdom of Kandy, which houses the relic of the tooth of the Lord Buddha.

Pix by: Manjula Kumara Gamage

F E AT U R E S

VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

CONTENTS

50 KANDY DALADA PERAHERA KANDY DALADA PERAHERA IS A HISTORICAL PAGENT WHICH ESTABLISHED BY THE KING WIMALADHARMASOORIYA THE FIRST (1592 – 1604 AC) REIGNING THE COUNTRY FROM KANDY.

53 ILHAM SANOON IS AN ARTIST LIKE NO OTHER ILHAM SANOON IS AN ARTIST LIKE NO OTHER. WHILE THIS MAY APPLY TO ALMOST ARTISTES WHO GRAPPLE WITH THEIR OWN UNIQUE TALENT AND CREATIVE MASTERPIECES.

56 CHE ADVENTURE THE CHE ADVENTURE PARK IS A RETREAT FOR THE CORPORATE SECTOR AS WELL AS AN IDEAL PLACE FOR FAMILY OUTINGS.

60 MAGAMPURA RESORT FOR AN ECO-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY MAGAMPURA VILLAGE RESORT IS DEDICATED TO MAKE YOUR STAY EVER SO MEMORABLE. IT IS AN IDEAL HIDEOUT FOR ALL NATURE LOVERS.

62 THE MAHAWELI REACH HOTEL: EXPERIENCE THE INFINITE LUXURY THE MAHAWELI REACH HOTEL IS IDEALLY SITUATED IN THE HISTORICAL CITY OF KANDY ALONGSIDE THE MAHAWELI RIVER WHICH IS THE LONGEST RIVER IN SRI LANKA.

65 - 69 EVENTS

70 - 77 NEWS

10

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

CONSULTANT EDITOR E .D . C. LAKSHAN SUB EDITOR YOHAN DIAZ DEPUTY EDITOR INDAKA KARUNADASA CONTRIBUTORS FROM MAIDEN ISSUE PROF. ROHANA P. MAHALIYANAARACHCHI DEPT. OF AGRI BUSINESS MANAGEMENT OF SABARAGAMUWA UNIVERSITY OF SRI LANKA

RENUKA BANDARANAYAKE DEPUTY DIEECTOR - DEARTMENT OF NATIONAL ZOOLOQGICAL GARDENS

DR. IRAJ RATHNAYAKE DEPT. OF TOURISM MANAGEMENT OF SABARAGAMUWA UNIVERSITY OF SRI LANKA

CHAMALKA KOTHALAWALA AXIDERMIST, NATIONAL MUSEUMS

CONTRIBUTE WRITERS KALHARI PITIGALA SARA PATHIRANA SUBHADRA SOORIYAARCHCHI KRIS THOMAS ALINA KRECISZ JOSEFINA EKSTRÖM MIMMI ARVIDSSON PHOTOGRAPHY KAWYA SAWMINI WARNA LIYANAWATTE SURANGA COORAY MANJULA KUMARA GAMAGE ROHAN KARUNARATHNAM CREATIVE & LAYOUTS ADMIRE CREATIVE DISTRIBUTION AND LOGISTICS GLOBAL MEDIA HOLDING (PVT)LTD. PRINTING COMMERCIAL PRINTING & PACKAGING (PVT) LTD OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN SRI LANKA THE TREASUREISLAND ARE THOSE OF WRITERS, AND MAY NOT NECESSARILY BE THE VIEW OF GLOBAL MEDIA HOLDING (PVT) LIMITED OR ITS EMPLOYEES. READERSHIP IS ADVISED TO SEEK ADVICE FROM SPECIALISTS BEFORE ACTING ON INFORMATION PUBLISHED IN THE MAGAZINE PRODUCTION AND ADVERTISING GLOBAL MEDIA HOLDING (PVT) LIMITED 23/5A, SUNETHRADEVI MAWATHA, KOHUWALA, NUGEGODA, SRI LANKA GENERAL : (+94) 11 2 199 077 MARKETING : (+94) 77 3 688 912,

(+94) 77 3 688 911

infor@treasureisland.lk

treasureisland.lk

EXPERIENCE / K A N D Y

- O U R FAV O U R I T E C I T Y I N S R I L A N K A

Kandy OUR

FAVOURITE CITY IN SRI LANKA Text & Pix: Josefina & Mimmi

Surrounded by the green mountains, in the centre of Sri Lanka, is the beautiful city Kandy. The streets are crowded and the traffic is intense, but there is also a spiritual calmness and a harmony with nature. This city became our home for one month, a month we spent working as volunteers. This text, however, is focused on our experience of Kandy, which we explored in our free time.

12

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

MIMMI ARVIDSSON

JOSEFINA EKSTRÖM

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

13

EXPERIENCE / K A N D Y

- O U R FAV O U R I T E C I T Y I N S R I L A N K A

Our journey began in a rusty old car that picked us up at the airport. Exhausted from the flight but thrilled about what was ahead of us, we left Colombo behind and headed towards the Hill Country. As the time passed the temperature became cooler as we were getting closer to Kandy.

When entering the city we were welcomed by the big Buddha statue.

B

14

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

The swarming streets, the beautiful lake and the surrounding hills are some of the features that characterize Kandy. The first thing you notice when you arrive is all the smells: street food, curry and dried fish.

The streets are filled with people, dogs and even wild monkeys. Buses are crowded together with small tuk-tuks on the roads and there is a constant noise from all the honking. Several times a day the old trains chugs along through central Kandy. The city is vibrant and full of life.

A lot of our time in Kandy was spent at the local markets. The crowded markets have a huge variety of things that almost feels overwhelming. It is very lively and colourful, with shouting vendors everywhere, hoping to sell their items. Some of the things we bought were sarongs, gifts to our friends and families in Sweden and even a Kandyan sari each. At the central market we bought fruits and spices. Our favourite fruit became mangosteen, a delicious fruit we had never tasted before.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

15

EXPERIENCE / K A N D Y

- O U R FAV O U R I T E C I T Y I N S R I L A N K A

There are lots of nice restaurants and cafĂŠs in Kandy. When in need of a break from the heat and the lively streets, we often returned to a coffee shop located next to the Temple of Tooth. After a refreshing dose of air condition, water and coffee, we felt ready to explore more of the city. Kandy offers a variety of traditional Sri Lankan food, but even international dishes can be found at Kandy City Center. Mostly we ate rice and curry, which can be found almost everywhere.

During our time in Kandy we also did some sightseeing. Being a religious city, Kandy has many temples. One that we visited was the Temple of Tooth. The buildings were majestic and it was an amazing experience. We also visited smaller Hindu and Buddhist temples. Other sightseeing that we appreciated was a herbal spice garden, a tea factory and to watch the traditional Kandyan dance. We were also given a boat tour on Kandy lake, where we saw a lot of fish and even a water monitor.

On the weekends we did some trips to nearby attractions such as the Lion Rock in Sigiriya and the Dambulla cave temple.

16

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

The people in Kandy were very hospitable. Families invited us to their homes for tea and we made a lot of friends. Kandy is definitely our favourite city in Sri Lanka.

The locations amidst the mountains are incredible, there is a lot of culture and the town offers something for everyone. We would strongly recommend Kandy to other travellers visiting Sri Lanka!

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

17

EXPLORE / F I N D

18

T H E G R E AT E S T A D V E N T U R E I N T H E I S L A N D O F M Y S T E R Y

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

FIND THE GREATEST ADVENTURE IN THE ISLAND OF

MYSTERY

With varying climates and Geography packed into a small island, Sri Lanka offers a range of adventures from the top of the mountains to the depths of the oceans. Other than taking a dip in the ocean or snorkelling, scuba diving and surfing are the most popular beach sports in the country. Scuba diving has a long history in the country.

Text & PICS Courtesy of Sri Lanka Tourism

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

19

EXPLORE / F I N D

T H E G R E AT E S T A D V E N T U R E I N T H E I S L A N D O F M Y S T E R Y

The ocean is filled with coral gardens, multitude of exotic fishes and ancient wrecks. Sri Lanka offers one of the best diving experiences in the world. Although comparatively new to the country, surfing too has made its mark in the Southern and Eastern coasts of the island for the last twenty five years. The sea around Sri Lanka is also one of the most challenging marine game fishing locations while white water rafting, Kayaking and canoeing are some of the relatively new water sports practiced in the country.

With many adventures packed within few miles of each other, Sri Lanka is an adventure itself waiting to happen. With over 1,600km of coast, Sri Lanka is an ideal location for wind-surfing, water-skiing, surfing, sailing,scuba-diving (including wreck-diving), snorkelling, speed-boating and banana-boating.

Prime water-sports sites are located in the Negombo region on the west coast, Wadduwa, Kalutara and Beruwela on the south-western coast, and Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Koggala, Tangalle and Hambantota on the southern and south-eastern coasts. Watersports providers are run by local and foreign professionals PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) and rent state-of-theart equipment Sri Lanka possesses over hundred rivers, together with lagoons and ‘tank’ (irrigation lakes), so there are plentiful opportunities for year-round kayaking and canoeing, perhaps combined with a camping trip. Two popular locations are the Kalu Ganga and the Kelani Ganga (rivers).

The Kelani Ganga near Kitulgala has fast headwaters and rapids ideal for white-water rafting (from November to April only), with names such as Virgin’s Breast, Head Chopper, Killer Fall, Rib Cage and Slot and Drop.

Varied landscape, wildlife, and archaeological sites offer excellent

20

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

THE OCEAN IS FILLED WITH CORAL GARDENS, MULTITUDE OF EXOTIC FISHES AND ANCIENT WRECKS. SRI LANKA OFFERS ONE OF THE BEST DIVING EXPERIENCES IN THE WORLD.

opportunities for trekking. Nature trails of exceptional interest include the Sinharaja rainforest, the cloud-forests of Horton Plains, the Knuckles (mountain range), and Hakgala Strict Natural Reserve. In addition, para-gliding, rock climbing, cave treks and mountain biking are possible.

TREKKING AND HIKING With multitude of roads winding through expanding mountains, lush green forests, paddy fields, parks and

sleepy villages, Sri Lanka offers a plethora of opportunities to the keen hikers and trekkers.

The highlands of Sri Lanka with virgin rain forests, sacred mountains, lush tea gardens and plains filled with rare birds and insects coupled with mild temperatures and welcoming smiles of the villagers provide the ideal setting to an unforgettable walking experience.

DIVING Surrounded by the Indian Ocean with its coral gardens, multitude of exotic fishes and ancient wrecks Sri Lanka offers one of the best diving experiences in the world. The colorful coral gardens along the southern coasts and old and new ship wrecks around the Galle harbor and little and great basses are the favourite Sri Lankan dive sites yet Kalpitiya, Ampara and Trincomalee in Eastern and Western coasts offering rare

chances of wreck diving, skin diving and diving with dolphins.

The ocean around Sri Lanka whispers of tales bygone, ones of regal maritime visits, of bandits and pirates and journeys of explorers and spice merchants. As you plunge into the warm waters and dive below, these stories come to life. The crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean with a visibility of 20 meters (65ft) provide perfect conditions for diving. With

wrecks as dated as the 18th Century dotting the seas, deep reefs and reef walls provide enthralling explorations for scuba divers. For the less adventurous on-shore coral reefs are ideal for snorkelling. The abundant marine life found around the island is surpassed only at Hikkaduwa in the southern coast where the reef is thought to contain more species of fish than the Great Barrier Reef.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

21

EXPLORE / F I N D

T H E G R E AT E S T A D V E N T U R E I N T H E I S L A N D O F M Y S T E R Y

DEEP SEA FISHING Surrounded by the Indian Ocean and filled with fresh water reservoir inland, Sri Lanka is the hidden paradise for extreme anglers. With a shoreline of 1,140 miles and a continental shelf of 10,000 square miles, the seas around Sri Lanka is one of the most challenging marine game fishing locations while the outfalls of 103 major river basins and hundreds of estuaries, lagoons and coastal lakes all around the country are yet to be fully explored by sporting anglers.

As the waves plummet the sides of the boat and the sea birds call above your head, the ocean’s scent and the thrill of the chase is exhilarating.

Shark, Marlin, Tuna, the big names in deep-water game fishing roam Sri Lanka’s deep seas. Closer to shore the calmer waters teem with a variety of species, and the hospitable local fishermen are only too willing to invite visitors to join them on their daily or nightly excursions off the coastline.

ROCK CLIMBING Experience the thrills of crumbling rocks beneath the feet, head spinning heights and the earth expanding beneath conquering the mountains of Sri Lanka. The ranges of mountains standing guard around the highlands of Sri Lanka including the Knuckles range, Ella range, Habarana, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Horton Plains and Buttala provide challenging climbs to amature as well as experienced climbers. The newest experience in mountaineering in waterfall climbing with exciting climbs like the rock face of Bambarakanda waterfall, the tallest in the country.

HOT AIR BALLOONING Roam the skies of Sri Lanka enjoying the signs and sites from the heavens

22

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

above. Floating at heights of 500 to 2000 feet on average, effortlessly drift over the treetops, wildlife, lakes & rivers, cultural sites, local urban homesteads & landmarks like Sigiriya Rock. The sunrise rides are offered at day break to enhance the experience by accompanying the sights and sounds with magical experience of dawn.

As the multi-coloured hot-air balloon drifts silently above the forest, adventure takes on a whole new meaning. Startled by the noise of

a sudden burst of gas keeping the balloon aloft, a couple of peacocks take flight directly below the balloon’s basket, their outrageously long iridescent blue and emerald tail feathers streaming behind like a psychedelic jet stream. Several deer dart nervously across a clearing below, but the small herd of elephants continues feeding, utterly unfazed by this aerial intruder.

Balloons that travel with the wind, make for one of the most surreal and tranquil sensations of flight.

Following the initial adrenaline rush

SRI LANKA IS IN A VANTAGE POINT TO OBSERVE THE MIGRATION OF 26 SPECIES OF CETACEANS INCLUDING BLUE WHALES, SPERM WHALES, PILOT WHALES, FIN WHALES AND A LARGE VARIETY OF DOLPHINS.

dolphins, Sri Lanka is in a vantage point to observe the migration of 26 species of cetaceans including blue whales, sperm whales, pilot whales, fin whales and a large variety of dolphins. of the take-off, one could settle down to absorb the wonder of the colourful earth below.

WHALE WATCHING The ocean around Sri Lanka is the home to the gentle giants and the performers of the ocean. Dolphins and whales parade their presence at various locations around Sri Lanka during the months of December, January, February, March and April.

Being situated on and around the migrating routes of whales and

The ever smiling, mischievous dolphins will put on a show while some of the oldest and the largest sea creatures, the humpback and the blue whales, will nonchalantly glide past you, when you embark on a whale/ dolphin watching excursion off the Southern, Eastern or the West coast of Sri Lanka. The ideal locations for whale watching would be Dondra Point (accessible from Galle, Hikkaduwa and Mirissa) and Trincomalee while the sea off Kalpitiya teems with an abundance of dolphins.

With the whale watching season in Mirissa being in full swing and many local and foreign tourists gather to the Mirissa harbour. The Sri Lanka Coast Guards had increased their vigilance in monitoring the implementation of Sea Mammals Observation, Regulation and Control Regulations.

To ensure that the Regulations are adhered by boat operators and tourists engaged in whale watching, the members of the Rohana Coast Guard base had been observing whale and dolphin watching activities in Mirissa since last year.

The coast guards also make sure that the boat operators; crew and the tourists abide the safety precautions and regulations before and during their tour of observation.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

23

HISTORIC / T H E

W O R L D FA M O U S ‘ F O X H I L L’ I N D I YATA L AWA

The World Famous

‘FOX HIL in Diyatalawa

Text by: Indaka Karunadasa | Photos: Sri Lanka Military Academy - Diyatalawa

24

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

(Pictures courtesy of the Sri Lanka Military Academy, Diyatalawa)

ILL’

LOCATED 197 KM AWAY FROM COLOMBO, IN THE COOL AND MISTY CITY OF DIYATALAWA, IS THE ‘BLACK ROCK HILL’ - 1331 METERS ABOVE THE MEAN SEA LEVEL (WAS ALSO KNOWN AS ‘KALUGAL KANDA’ BY THE LOCALS UNTIL 1913).

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

25

HISTORIC / T H E

W O R L D FA M O U S ‘ F O X H I L L’ I N D I YATA L AWA

1. HISTORICAL BANYAN TREE, PRESENT 2. FOX HILL

Diyatalawa, which means ‘Waters Plain’ in Sinhala, is a Garrison town that was built by the British in 1885. Among the visitors that had set foot to this city, was Fr. Samuel Langonand. He was a Methodist priest and the first Englishman to visit Diyatalawa. He leased a land from Diyatalawa and built an elephant orphanage and a school.

Samuel Langdon was yet another Methodist priest, who came to Diyatalawa and built a school for technical studies.

Diyatalawa is also well known for historical tragedies such as the evacuation of its habitants to Boer prisons in the 1900’s. According to historians, the first Boer War occurred in 1877, 1899-1902 between Great Britain and the South African

26

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

IN 1913, A BRITISH VESSEL CAME TO TRINCOMALEE PORT FOR REPAIRS. WHILE THE VESSEL WAS UNDER REPAIR, THE CREW OF THE BRITISH VESSEL VISITED DIYATALAWA. THIS SHIP WAS NAMED ‘HMS FOX’ WITH AN INTERESTING BACK STORY.

Republic. Boers are settlers of Dutch descendant, who came to South Africa in 1600s’ when the Dutch East Indian Company was established in Africa.

As a result of the Boer war, many prisoners from the South African Transvaal and Orange Free State were brought to British Colonies, such as Sri Lanka (then Ceylon). The Boer prisoners were brought to Ceylon stations at Diyatalawa, which is currently an Army and Survey’s Camp site.

1

2

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

27

HISTORIC / T H E

W O R L D FA M O U S ‘ F O X H I L L’ I N D I YATA L AWA

1

THE ‘FOX HILL SUPER CROSS’ IS HELD ANNUALLY AT DIYATALAWA FOX HILL’S RACING TRACK AND IS ONE OF SRI LANKA’S PREMIER ANNUAL MOTOR SPORTING EVENTS.

28

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

In 1913, a British Vessel came to Trincomalee port for repairs. While the vessel was under repair, the crew of the British vessel visited Diyatalawa. This ship was named ‘HMS Fox’ with an interesting back story. The abbreviation ‘HMS’ was derived from the words ‘Her Majesty’s Ship’ and this particular ship was called HMS Fox because of a pet fox the crew kept inside the ship.

During their visit, the crew of the British vessel HMS Fox, with the help of the Boer prisoners, built a stone replica of their pet fox with the name and the year of the ship engraved onto white stones on the hillock of Black Rock Hill in remembrance of their visit to Diyatalawa. Since then, this mountain became known as ‘Fox Hill”. Today the Fox Hill belongs to the Sri Lanka Military Academy (SLMA).

Single Tree Hill (One Tree Hill) Single Tree Hill is a small hillock in front of the Fox Hill. With a historical Banyan Tree resting on top of it, this hill is 4298 feet above the mean sea level and was named ‘One-TreeHill’ on a map printed in 1941 by the Survey’s Department.

Fox Hill Racing Track The ‘Fox Hill Super Cross’ is held annually at Diyatalawa Fox Hill’s racing track and is one of Sri Lanka’s premier annual motor sporting events. The Fox Hill motor racing track (which belongs to the Sri Lanka Military Academy) is the brain child of a German gentleman named Hans Ralf. Proposed in 1993, the idea for the racing track was brought to fruition according to international standards with a total length of 1.3 km.

2

4

1. HISTORICAL BANYAN TREE IN 1901 2. CREW OF THE HMS FOX SHIP AT DIYATALAWA 3. FOX HILL 4. A CREW MEMBER OF THE HMS FOX WITH PET FOX 5. FOX HILL RACING TRACK

3

5 3

For any information regarding the 25th Fox Hill Super Cross event, please do not hesitate to contact the Sri Lanka Military Academy, Diyatalawa on +94 57 2229071 or +94 77 2649297

Special thanks to Col. Crishantha Gnanarathe and Col. Kelum Wickramasinghe

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

29

TRANQUILITY / M A H A W E L I

M A H A S E YA - A S A N C T U A R Y B E S I D E T H E K O T H M A L E R E S E R V O I R

Mahaweli Maha Seya

A sanctuary beside the Kothmale reservoir BY: SUBHADRA SOORIYAARCHCHI

30

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

The opening of the Mahaweli Maha Seya was held on 20th June 2017 under the patronage of President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

The President offered first tributes to the Stupa and opened it for the public veneration.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

31

TRANQUILITY / M A H A W E L I

T

The Mahaweli Maha Seya stands grandly on a cliff overlooking the Kothmale Reservoir. It is known as Gamini Dissanayake Reservoir as it was renamed in honour of the late Minister. The bubble shaped Mahaweli Maha Seya is 289 feet in height, two feet less in height than the highly sacred Ruwanweli Seya in Anuradhapura and with a circumference of 628 feet. A special feature of the Seya is that nearly 4,000 devotees can enter its dome and attend religious activities.

In his ceremonial speech, the President expressed his pleasure to open this stupa as the sixth President of the country, which the foundation stone was laid by the first Executive President of Sri Lanka.

The valley of Kothmale stimulates a special consequence, because of the great reservoir that has been constructed there. The reservoir is part of the Accelerated Mahaweli

32

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

M A H A S E YA - A S A N C T U A R Y B E S I D E T H E K O T H M A L E R E S E R V O I R

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

33

TRANQUILITY / M A H A W E L I

Development Project which was built at highest sea-level (5500 feet above sea-level) in this country. It provides water to the dry zone. Moreover it supplies power to the whole-island.

This project was accomplished because of the untiring effort of late Mr. Gamini Dissanayake.

With the commencement of Kothmale Reservoir, 16 Grama - Sevaka Divisions, 66 Villages, four tea estates and 18 temples and two devalas submerged by the water of the reservoirs.

Mr.Gamini Dissanayake took steps to compensate these people and to re-settle them in lower and upper Kothmale Valley regions, as well as Bintenna Pattuwa (Mahaweli C) and Nuwara Kalaviya (Mahaweli H). To reimburse the loss of these religious monuments, decided to structure a Seya.

34

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

M A H A S E YA - A S A N C T U A R Y B E S I D E T H E K O T H M A L E R E S E R V O I R

The foundation stone of the Seya project was laid by the late President J.R. Jayewardene and the late Mahaweli Development Minister Gamini Dissanayake on March 20, 1983.

The structure of Mahaweli Maha Seya was designed by the former chairman of the Mahaweli Cultural Foundation Trust, the late VidyaJyothi Dr. A.N.S. Kulasinghe, a renowned engineer of international repute. Architect Dharma Siriwardene and Gamunu Silva were also among the key people involved in the project.

Late Mr.Gamini Dissanayake's sons, Chairman of the Cultural foundation of Mahaweli, Minister of Plantation Industries Navin Dissanayake, and MP Mayantha Dissanayake , Cabinet Ministers, Central Provincial Councillors and thousands of devotees were present at the event.

Minister Navin Dissanayake says he is extremely happy to witness the completion of the project. He further stated "It has taken 33 years for us to finish this amid a great deal of obstacles. It was my father's idea to start work on this massive project and for over a decade from 1990 work completely stopped. I took over as chairman in 2010 and within six years work has completely finished.

I feel this is a great achievement for the whole nation."

Late minister Gamini Dissanayake’s dream has become visible in front of us after 33 years, and the Mahaweli Maha Seya will reflect this great leader who illuminate the whole nation with the utmost effort.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

35

DESTINATIONS / N A W A L A P I T I YA

- T H E E C O T O U R I S M PA R A D I S E

NAWALA 36

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

Direction:

Located 112km away from Colombo, Nawalapitiya can be reached via Kandy (38 km from Kandy) or along route A-7, Colombo – Nuwara-eliya highway.

APITIYA THE ECO TOURISM PARADISE Text & Pix: Indaka Karunadasa

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

37

DESTINATIONS / N A W A L A P I T I YA

- T H E E C O T O U R I S M PA R A D I S E

NAWALAPITIYA IS ONE OF THE MAJOR TEA CULTIVATION AREAS IN SRI LANKA, BELONGING TO THE DIMBULA TEA DISTRICT DIVISION. HENCE TEA TOURISM IS POPULAR AMONG THE LUSH TEA ESTATES. TEA TOURISM IS ONE OF THE NEWEST TOURISM CONCEPTS INTRODUCED TO SRI LANKA, AS WELL AS TO THE WORLD.

38

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

Activities:

An eco-tourism destination with its adjoining areas offering waterfalls, railway tourism, tea tourism, white water rafting, mountain climbing, spice gardens, scenic views, religious places, archeological sites, bird watching and the study of flora and fauna.

Nawalapitiya can be identified as one of the best eco-tourism sites in Sri Lanka. It is located 589 meters (1932 feet) above the mean sea level, and is an agricultural hub flourishing with tea, rubber, paddy and spices. With breathtaking waterfalls, it is a heavenly experience for any discerning traveler.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

39

DESTINATIONS / N A W A L A P I T I YA

Other attractions in Nawalapitiya • The Kadiyanlena waterfall is located along the Nawalapitiya – Dimbula, Thalawakele Road (B-317). Situated 10 km away from the Nawalapitiya town, with three levels, the waterfall presently runs through two small hydropower houses.

• Along Nawalapitiya – Galboda road you find The Galboda waterfall located 14 km away from the Nawalapitiya town.

Since the last few kilometers of the road is only accessible by 4WD vehicles, most people love to visit the waterfall by getting down from the train at the Galboda railway station and trekking the rest of the way (Approximately 2 km).

The Galboda waterfall is 30 meters in height and is formed by the Galboda Oya stream and is the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Since the area is famous for recreation, the surrounding area is carefully maintained by the local authorities with necessary amenities.

40

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

- T H E E C O T O U R I S M PA R A D I S E

• Heighten Ford waterfalls, also named as Sudugala Ella Falls, is located 4 km away from the Nawalapitiya town along Samanalagama Road. Heighten Ford is a well-known recreational area with waterfall sliding, natural pools, safety bathing, etc. And if ever you need to hop on a train, the Heighten Ford railway halt is located just nearby.

by the Upper Kotmale water project, is situated 3 km from the Thalawakele town and can also be viewed from the Colombo - Badulla main railway line.

• One of the most famous waterfalls in Sri Lanka is the Devon waterfall. Located along the Nawalapitiya – Thalawakele main road (A-7), this waterfall was named after the British Coffee planter ‘Devon’ and is 97 meters in height, flowing from the Kotmale Oya, and is located 1140 meters above the mean sea level.

• Nawalapitiya also offers opportunities for Railway Tourism, possessing the second largest railway platform in Sri Lanka. While Galboda has double railway bridges and double tunnels, the Galboda railway station also has a water spring, named the ‘Governor’s Well’ which according to sources, provided water to the Governor’s house when Sri Lanka (or Ceylon as it was then called) was under the British rule. In addition, Galboda is also considered to be one of the top locations to find the hardest and tastiest water in South Asia.

• St. Clair’s waterfall is located along the Hatton – Thalawakele main road and is the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka.

Kothmale Oya and Kuda Oya are the main water sources for this fall. The waterfall has two stages, namely Maha Ella and Kuda Ella. This waterfall, also affected

Nawalapitiya is one of the major Tea cultivation areas in Sri Lanka, belonging to the Dimbula Tea District division. Hence Tea Tourism is popular among the lush tea estates. Tea tourism is one of the newest tourism concepts introduced to Sri Lanka, as well as to the world.

Tea factory visits, tea tasting, tea plucking, trek through tea estates are prominent activities that take place in this form of tourism. Another notable aspect in Nawalapitiya is the fact that all over the spare spaces of the home gardens, and spare plots of lands are cultivations where well-known Sri Lankan spices are grown, i.e., pepper, cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla.

In terms of attractions for religious devotees or pilgrims, Adam’s Peak can be clearly seen in the vicinity of some mountainous areas in Nawalapitiya. In addition, scattered around the area are estate Hindu shrines, centuries old churches and the recently built ‘Mahaweli Maha Seeya’, one of the biggest Dagabas in the area. The ‘Mahaweli Maha Seya’ is located along the right side of the Kotmale dam and is 200 feet (61 meters) in diameter and 289 feet (88 meters) in height.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

41

DESTINATIONS / N A W A L A P I T I YA

- T H E E C O T O U R I S M PA R A D I S E

THERE ARE MANY COLONIAL LANDMARKS AROUND NAWALAPITIYA. AMONG THESE, THE ULAPANE FOOL’S BRIDGE IS THE MOST POPULAR. THE ULAPANE FOOL’S BRIDGE OR THE ULAPANE UPSIDEDOWNSIDE BRIDGE, IS FOUND OVER THE MAHAWELI RIVER AND WAS CONSTRUCTED BY THE BRITISH WHEN THE COUNTRY WAS UNDER THE COLONIAL RULE.

The scenic Kotmale dam is situated close to Nawalapitiya. This dam was constructed under the Mahaweli Development project and is 600 meters in length and 87 meters in height. Kotmale is one of the oldest villages in Sri Lanka. In fact, there are two water spouts which are attributed to be the bathing places of Prince Dutugemunu (before his reign as a King in Sri Lanka (161-137 BC). Near the Kotmale dam one can also witness an old gateway to the highlands, ‘Dehidu Kadulla’, which is a rock built wall which is centered by a door or a gateway.

The Ambagamuwa inscription can also be found near Nawalapitiya, along the Nawalapitiya-Ginigathhena road (B-319), between Nawalapitiya and Ginigathhena which is ½ km away from the main road. Written in the Medieval Sinhalese

42

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

language, the inscription was erected by King Vijayabahu I (1055-1110 AC) who ruled from Polonnaruwa, and refers to the victory over the Tamil invaders and offerings made at Adam’s Peak.

There are many Colonial landmarks around Nawalapitiya. Among these, the Ulapane Fool’s Bridge is the most popular. The Ulapane Fool’s Bridge or the Ulapane Upside-Downside Bridge, is found over the Mahaweli River and was constructed by the British when the country was under the colonial rule. Presently this bridge is abandoned and lies a few meters away from the present bridge on the Gampola – Nawalapitiya main road. According to sources, the British engineers had sent the plan and materials to Ceylon in order to erect the Ulapane Bridge, but the engineer who was engaged in the construction work

misread the plan and erected the bridge upside down. Evidently, this was not what the British engineers expected, therefore they erected another bridge nearby. This bridge too was later abandoned and neglected and to date only the side walls can be seen. Later the British erected another steel bridge a few meters away which can be seen near the newly built arched bridge. This location is also known as the only the place where four bridges have been erected in the same location in Sri Lanka.

In conclusion, Nawalapitiya is one of the best hill country resorts to view the sunrise and sunset with many scenic roadways suitable for hiking. The area offers many indigenous and endemic floral varieties with orchids and flowering plants as well as indigenous and endemic birds, butterflies,

reptiles and mammals in addition to numerous cultural and historic attractions for the discerning traveller.

Nawalapitiya Eco Resort and Safari Services Nawalapitiya Eco Resort located 12 km away from Nawalapitiya town, along Nawalapitiya-Thalawakele scenic road.

Resort located in a lush serenity, with eye-catching panoramic views. Resorts verandah over looking mountains offers endless panoramic view towards horizon.

In the evenings again it offers endless color variations in the clouds with eye-catching beauty. The Nawalapitiya Eco resort is a heaven for eco tourism hot spots and it’s a memorable place to stay who love nature and natural environment.

Nawalapitiya Eco Resort and Safari Services Binara Villa, Bowhill Estate, Nawalapitiya.

Contact number: +94 77 1222958 (Dr. Ranjith Dissanayake)

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

43

RELIGIOUS / S E N A S U N G A L A

44

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

C AV E T E M P L E : L I T T L E D A M B U L L A

SENASUNGALA CAVE TEMPLE

Little Dambulla Text & Pix: Indaka Karunadasa

Direction: MahiyanganaPadiyatalawa (A-26) main road.

8km passed Mahiyangana town, turn into Keselpotha Road at the 50th mile post junction. Travel 12 km further and turn left into the gravel road which leads one to the temple. One can also travel from Mahiyangana town along the B-57 MahiyanganaBadulla main road and turn into Nagadeepa Wewa Road from Mapakada junction.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

45

RELIGIOUS / S E N A S U N G A L A

C AV E T E M P L E : L I T T L E D A M B U L L A

Activities: Archeological site visits, mountain hike, breathtaking panoramic views, rural village visit, photography, Buddhist pilgrims and meditation programs.

I

n the district of Badulla, situated close to the Mahaweli river, is the town of Mahiyangana. In this town lies the Senasungala Cave Temple also known as ‘Little Dambulla’- the legendary temple that belonged to the era of King Devanampiyatissa (307 – 267 BC). It is one of the first Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. During the reign of King Saddhatissa (137 – 119 BC), there were cave dwelling monks who lived in this area. Upon discovering the existence of these monks, King Saddhatissa ordered for the construction of drip ledges above the natural caves to prevent water from dripping inside and converted the caves into a Buddhist monastery. The cave was donated to the monk Dewamitta and his 127 followers. At the time, this temple was known as ‘Athurugiri Viharaya’, but currently this site is known as ‘Senasungala Cave Temple’.

46

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

ACCORDING TO HISTORY BOOKS, THIS MOUNTAIN AREA WAS USED AS A WATCHTOWER DURING THE WAR BETWEEN DUTUGEMUNU AND KING ELARA. KING WALAGAMBA USED IT AS SHELTER WHILE HE WAS HIDING INSIDE THE CAVES. DURING THE 1818 REBELLION PERIOD, THE SINHALA REBELS USED THESE CAVES YET AGAIN AS HIDING SPOTS, WHILE THEY GATHERED TROOPS. SURROUNDED BY OTHER NATURAL CAVES, THIS IS QUITE A HISTORICAL SITE CONTAINING THE HERITAGE OF SRI LANKAN CULTURE. The main temple complex, which resembles the Dambulla Cave Temple, is located on a hillock and consists of natural caves. If one were to stand on the cave temple complex facing the far south of the cave complex, a natural pond (Pond No: 1) is clearly visible. This pond is about 3 meters in length and 2 meters in breadth and is currently protected by a wall. Adjoining is another natural pond that measures 8 meters in length and 5 meters in breadth (Pond No: 2). Towards the far end of the North of the temple compound is a natural pond (Pond No: 4) measuring 7 meters by 6 meters, which is also protected by a wall. Adjoining is yet another natural pond (Pond No: 3) measuring 10 meters by 5 meters.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

47

RELIGIOUS / S E N A S U N G A L A

Faceria sitatur, unti que ium fugit, cus et re dolori ullenihici odigend ustruptis possita voloria tibusdam inversperes ut quis cullaut atiat.

48

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

C AV E T E M P L E : L I T T L E D A M B U L L A

In-between these four natural ponds is a cave measuring 50 by 8 meters in width and 55 meters in height. Protected by a drip ledge, the inside of the cave features inscriptions, an image house, monks’ quarters, a kitchen and dining halls.

Inside the image house rests a 26 feet reclining Buddha statue. According to the inscriptions this statue was the largest and oldest reclining statue in the area surrounded by beautiful wall paintings which belongs to Kandyan era.

According to history books, this mountain area was used as a watchtower during the war between Dutugemunu and King Elara.

King Walagamba used it as shelter while he was hiding inside the caves. During the 1818 rebellion period, the Sinhala rebels used these caves yet again as hiding spots, while they gathered troops. Surrounded by other natural caves, this is quite a historical site containing the heritage of Sri Lankan culture.

This article was sponsored by: Provincial Ministry of Tourism – UVA Provincial Council.

Contact numbers: +94 55 2229675 (Office) +94 71 8687579 (Director of Tourism) +94 71 8310709 (Tourism development Officer) Email: uvatourismsl@gmail.com Web: www.tourism.up.gov.lk

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

49

FESTIVAL / K A N D Y

DAL ADA PERAHERA

KANDY DALADA PERAHERA KANDY DALADA PERAHERA IS ONE OF THE WORLD FAMOUS COLORFUL PAGENT THIS HISTORICAL PROCESSION IS HELD ANNUALLY TO PAY HOMAGE TO THE SACRED TOOTH RELIC OF LORD BUDDHA, WHICH IS HOUSED AT THE SRI DALADA MALIGAWA IN KANDY WHICH ESTABLISHED BY THE KING WIMALADHARMASOORIYA THE FIRST (1592 – 1604 AC) REIGNING THE COUNTRY FROM KANDY.

50

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

K

andy is the last kingdom of Sri Lanka.

Kandy city had been named as a World Heritage City by the UNESCO. In Kandy there’s a historical building named as ‘The Temple of the Tooth’ (Sri Dalada maligawa) which is venerated by all Buddhists as well as other religious devotees. Lord Buddha’s Tooth relic is housed in this historical building.

In the month of July/August (Esala month in Sinhalese) each year, Kandy Dalada Perahera is held.

This colorful pagent started after calculating auspicious time by the “Neketh Rala” of the Temple of the Tooth.

The Kandy Dalada Perahera begins after the cannon booms and is accompanied by whip crackers and a man on an elephant carrying a Buddhist flag along with few other Buddhist flags bearers on foot, with regional flag bearers. “Peramuna

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

51

FESTIVAL / K A N D Y

DAL ADA PERAHERA

Rala’ on an elephant carries the permission for the procession from the king at that time but today he carries ‘Lekam Mitiya’ – An Old Palm Book belongs to Sri Dalada maligawa. The processing is also followed by the ‘Gajanayake Nilame’ and the ‘Diyawadana Nilame’ along with traditional drums, double drums, flutes, dances etc.

And the ‘Kariya Korala’ followed by the tooth relic casket that carried by an elephant.

After the Dalada Maligawa procession it is followed by four other Dewalays processions namely; Natha, Vishnu, Kataragama and Pattini Dewala.

Kumbal Perahera : Kumbal Perahera is held for five days and its main objective is to send away evil spells and ill wills. Nilames do not participate in this procession and drummers, dancers and tuskers are not dressed well.

Randoli Perahera : After the five days of Kumbal perahera the Randoli perahera is held for another five days. During the Kandyan period the Chief Queen of the king paraded in the procession in a palanquin. Even today the palanquin is taken in the procession in honour of the Queen.

Maha Randoli Perahera : Maha randoli Perahera or the final Randoli perahera is one of the most grand

52

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

and colorful events which is world famous with attendance of Nilames, all well dressed tuskers, drummers and dancers are presented.

Day Perahera : Last night of the Randoli perahera, the procession separates into two parts. Dalada maligawa part of the procession goes to Adahana maluwa Gedige Temple nearby Kandy and deposited the Tooth Relic casket there. Other four dewalays parts goes to Getambe Ferry for ‘Water-Cutting’ Ceremony before dawn. After water-cutting the procession again comes to Ganadevi Hinu Shrine in Kandy for traditional rituals. From the Adahana Maluwa Gedige temple the Tooth Relic casket is brought from procession and join the remaining part of the procession which started near Ganadevi Hindu Shrine after the traditional rituals. And finaly Dalada maligawa procession part goes to Sri Daladamaligawa and other part to their respective four dewalayas in the evening. And concludes the Kandy Esala Perahera.

This year the Dalada perahera is proposed to be held in July 29th to August 8th in Kandy city.

SCHEDULE Kumbal Perahera 29th – 1st August Final Kumbal Perahera 2nd August Randoli Perahera 3rd – 6th August Final Randoli Perahera 7th August Day Perahera 8th August

I Ilham ARTIST / I L H A M

SANOON IS AN ARTIST LIKE NO OTHER

Ilham Sanoon is an artist like no other. While this may apply to almost artistes who grapple with their own unique talent and creative masterpieces, Sanoon becomes an exception with his black and white fine line art that has managed to encapsulate a wide array of themes and subject matter. Coming from a complete background of businesses, industries, corporations and numbers one would not expect Ilham to be an abstract artist on the verge of his fourth art exhibition.

Ilham Sanoon to sum up his life in the briefest manner possible is a businessman by day and an artist by night. With 25 years experience in corporate business- an entrepreneur and professional in ICT products and services- Sanoon is the chairperson and the managing director of the BLG group of companies. And among the group of companies is the BLACKLIT GALLERIA; Sanoon’s very own art gallery, situated in Bambalapitiya, that exhibits most of his artwork.

“Though being a Professional Entrepreneur in IT industry for all my life, my inspiration into the world of art wasn’t accidental, though all of it happened in the past three years,” Ilham noted.

SANOON

IS AN ARTIST LIKE NO OTHER

“This interest came as an absolute surprise to me as well as to my family. It was completely accidental.

I had my own interest and liking towards many styles of art from my childhood, but never had an opportunity or time to devote myself into this field. One day, it all came gushing out, when I was scribbling with a school gel pen on used paper which lead to a meaningful piece of art. I would say, that small output inspired me to come this far. But got a long way more to go.”

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

53

ARTIST / I L H A M

SANOON IS AN ARTIST LIKE NO OTHER

As many artists before him, Ilham found himself at odds with his background- in his case it was a family full of industrialists. Even though he himself is part of the industry- solely to win the bread and butter, according to him- he now devotes most of his time to promoting and developing his talent in art. And luckily for him, his youngest daughter has found a pinch of interest in the same talent and is practising it alongside his father.

To Ilham his work buds from a passion instilled deep within him.

“I do my art with great passion and interest. My art has become a part of my life. The three years that has passed since I started working on my art I have allowed my passion to take the lead with no commercial interest.

I value my work, as it involves loads of effort and time. Therefore all I want to accomplish is whosoever believes in my art, admire and love them, should be able to afford the same. My work is very much time well spent. I treat each piece with utmost care and spend in abundance to justify to its value. Only a true admirer can put a great value to my work, “ he opined.

Ilham celebrated his third anniversary of joining the art community of Sri Lanka this June alongside the fourth art exhibition he organized last May at the Plâté Loft Gallery.

Three specific pieces made highlights in the exhibition that encompassed Sanoon’s interest in nature and subjects that surrounds it. Sanoon himself noted that he is very much attached to nature where he conduct personal excursions into many national wildlife sanctuaries

54

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

to spend time with nature. He stages himself from there and try to work on his art.

“Honestly I don’t know what the final outcome of a piece would be until I’m done with it. Each and every piece of art I produce is a portray of my thoughts and views filled in with abstract imagination. My work communicates my opinions.”

His Den of Mushrooms and Volcanic Eruption are two such pieces that fringes Sanoon’s speculative vision and perception of nature that surrounds all of us. The Den of Mushroom (Hundreds of diverse species of mushrooms which differ in size are cautiously illustrated with dainty to thick black and white lines, while maintaining the diversity.

Thousands of lines, strokes, blots, dots, splashes, scrapes and scratches are embedded in this art) - a massive landscape piece that according to Sanoon has taken over 200 hours to complete- portrays the psychedelic environment that is birthed by a colony of mushrooms and other fungi. The viewer will be pushed down the rabbit hole with Alice, down to the Wonderland with this piece and it will be hard not to see the intricate details playing tricks with your perception, as you would see minute optical illusions taking place within the work itself.

Meanwhile, the piece known as Volcanic Eruption (This eruption is well brought to life with the maximum possible combinations of most intricate and detailed black and white lines. Depicting hot lava, volcanic ash and gases to escape from a magma chamber below the surface. The passage is consistently maintained to bring the life of this active volcano)- another giant

among Sanoon’s masterpiecesillustrates a realistic view that normal Sri Lankans are not privy to. Regardless of which, the piece dissects the natural phenomenon of a volcanic eruption to the minutest detail, giving the viewer the opportunity to witness the true ferocity of nature in vivid details.

Ilham uses a wide variety of material to complete his work.

From pens (which are his greatest asset- where one piece of work would use up more than ten pens in one go) and selected quality paper, Ilham has to choose carefully which material he uses.

“All my materials are with ink; black and white. Black Micro pigment ink pens, from one millimeter to one fifth o a millimeter (0.2mm). White pens; the Rotring isograph range of pens from (0.18mm) and many other type of ink pens, like calligraphy, touch lines, colour brush type pens. I try to use the most reliable and high quality products which I have used before. Starting from the paper and its gauge; even the most minute detail matters.

Some of the items I purchase from overseas through the online market while some I purchase from Plâté Loft Gallery.”

Currently Ilham’s art is predominantly consist black and white intricate fine lines depicting the most abstract of thoughts. He considers that his faithfulness towards black and white is a form of addiction and claims that he might step into colour on the day he feels he has anything to do with colour; until then he will remain colourless.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

55

ADVENTURE / C H E

ADVENTURE

CHE ADVENTURE TEXT BY: KRIS THOMAS

Che Guvera is a symbol for revolution among many other things. The Argentinean doctor who rebelled against the Capitalist governments of South America has now become synonymous with the youth, empowerment, awareness, liberty and exploration. These are the very fundamentals behind the Che Adventure Park in Hanwella.

The Che Adventure Park is a retreat for the corporate sector as well as an ideal place for family outings. It is the perfect place for corporate institutions that seek to expand the employee training above and beyond the status quo.

The Park offers what they prescribe as “adventure activities” that include camping, rafting, mountain biking, aerial rope traversing, archery, air rifling, cable balancing, rock trekking and climbing, paintball and several other activities.

The Park goes beyond the traditional definitions of ‘fun’.

56

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

Our experience at the Che Adventure Park started with one fine morning inside a camp on the banks of the Kelani River. The cold was delightfully pleasurable and was something to which one could be glad to wake up. Waking up to the sweet sounds of the singing birds early morning, one can feel at peace with nature as you get ready to start off the first activity of the day: cycling.

The park provides the cycles and the attire required to set off on this adventure. We started our journey by riding towards the Asmadala Rock that is close to the Park, which is 10 minutes away by bicycle.

Crisscrossing through the morning air, one wouldn’t feel the time pass.

After climbing the rock we came upon a spectacular view of the area.

From the top, you get to see the widespread rubber plantations in the area alongside the snakelike flow of the Kelani River. The Rock has a historic significance as well with evidence of prehistoric life being found near the Asmadala Rock.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

57

ADVENTURE / C H E

ADVENTURE

Returning to the park we took a different route back. One that goes through a small village resting beside the Kelani river. This route, much longer than the first one, was a breath-taking experience filled with captivating sceneries.

Following the bike ride, the second activity is to take a makeshift raft down the Kelani River. Daunting as it may sound, we were looking forward to this. Flat water rafting, although it may not be dangerous as is contemporaries, is practiced at the Park under strict protective procedures. All those who take part in this group activity have to

58

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

wear life jackets and should follow clear instructions from the park instructors. Regardless, it would be you and your team controlling raft placing your trust upon it. The river will carry the raft through several villages and lush green environments filled with exotic birds, all unforgettable sceneries of breathtaking nature.

Participants, if they sign up, can test their endurance in rifle shooting and archery as well at the Park.

The Park offers separate instructors to teach the basics of air rifles and archery. The activities are lessons in mastering patience and realizing targets both physical and psychological. Depending on your taste, this will be the opportunity to

either return to the roots of modern weaponry with the bow and arrow or a chance to hone your survival skills with an air rifle. Â Finally, we were given the chance to try our hands and body at aerial ropes. Here, you basically strap yourself to a strong rig which is connected by a rope on the top of two trees. Then you jump from the tree and zip line down to the ground. It is the epitome of an adrenaline rush that will take you through the air.

As such, the Che adventure park is filled with adrenaline rushing fun filled activities for the whole family, friends and colleagues alike.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

59

RELAXATION / M A G A M P U R A

R E S O R T F O R A N E C O - F R I E N D LY H O L I D AY

MAGAMPURA RESORT FOR AN ECO-FRIENDLY HOLIDAY

I

BY KALHARIE PITIGALA

n vicinity of the Wedihitikanda mountain range, is a perfect hideout for those who love to relax in a serene environment full of flora and fauna. The Magampura village is an eco-friendly resort that provides a unique view for all its guests. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city life, one can look forward to having a comforting stay in this unique piece of serenity.

The resort offers twenty deluxe rooms and two family rooms. Each room is equipped with comfortable beds, AC, hot and cold water, TV with satellite channels, fans, personal bar, individual balconies, personal safe, complementary tea and coffee making facility, hair dryer, etc.

60

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

The surrounding of this beautiful resort is certainly a gift of nature.

It is enriched with thick greenery and provides a dwelling for many indigenous birds. The guests can relish this enchanting view especially during the early morning hours. Therefore this resort is an iconic entity for bird lovers.

The Resort presents a delicious and varied menu to delight its guests.

It offers both buffet and A La Carte options. The menu provides a lot of local food favourites so that the guests could get the opportunity of discovering the Sri Lankan spices and tastes at its best.

Magampura resort has a spectacular bar which is a haven for wine enthusiasts and cocktail lovers.

You have the option of enjoying pre-dinner drinks at the bar or you could visit the varandah to enjoy a glass of Champagne under the stars whist relaxing on your own or with a group of friends. This unique piece of

adventure occupies a handy outdoor pool which is accessible at any time of the day for its guests to have a dip.

Value added features such as foreign currency exchange, shuttle service, laundry, room service, free public parking site, ironing service, wifi etc. are also provided by this resort.

Kirinda, Bundala National park, Kataragama, Yala and Udawalawa are some of the other tourist attractions in this area. The staff at this resort is ever willing to lend a helping hand to you at any time with regard to your travel queries or any other matter.

Magampura village resort is dedicated to make your stay ever so memorable. It is an ideal hideout for all nature lovers.

For more information dial the hotline +94 474935777 or browse through: www.magampuraresort.com

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

61

RELAXATION / T H E

M A H AW E L I R E A C H H O T E L : E X P E R I E N C E T H E I N F I N I T E L U X U R Y

THE MAHAWELI REACH HOTEL: EXPERIENCE THE INFINITE LUXURY BY: SUBHADRA SOORIYAARCHCHI

The Mahaweli Reach Hotel is ideally situated in the historical city of Kandy alongside the Mahaweli River which is the longest river in Sri Lanka. The hotel provides comfort and modern accommodation that will suit to each and every one. Located only 3 hours away from Colombo and a few minutes away from the sacred city of Kandy, The Mahaweli Reach Hotel welcomes you to a world of culture and historic magnificence amidst lush greenery.

The Mahaweli Reach Hotel consists of 112 fully decorated guestrooms including a presidential suite, an executive suite, junior suites and also deluxe rooms with modern luxuries and comfortable furnishing. All rooms include a telephone with IDD facilities,

62

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

a television, piped music, mini bar, in-room safes, a private balcony, 24 hour room service, air-conditioning and fans. The presidential suite and the executive suite are designed exclusively for the elite traveler. The splashing waters of the Mahaweli River and the well maintained gardens of the hotel offers a breathtaking view one can never forget.

Dining at the Mahaweli Reach is a culinary adventure as the allday dining restaurant features Sri Lankan, Indian, Arabic, Thai, Chinese, Mongolian and European dishes. Along with a kids menu, the hotel also offers an amazing dessert buffet. The hotel is well known for its star class excellence which offers you exceptional meals TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

63

RELAXATION / T H E

M A H AW E L I R E A C H H O T E L : E X P E R I E N C E T H E I N F I N I T E L U X U R Y

wedding ceremonies are also a unique specialty of the hotel. For the business traveller, there is a wellequipped business centre at hand.

with themed nights such as BBQ nights, Sri Lankan nights & Kandyan nights, with the addition of nightly entertainment to suit your mood.

One can enjoy all meals overlooking the pool and the river while the bar offers you a range of local and international spirits.

Guests can also cool off and enjoy a swim at the pool, play billiards with friends and family, keep fit in the gym and also be healed and rejuvenated with Ayurvedic treatments through the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda - the science of longevity.

The Mahaweli Reach is highly recommended for banquets, creating a special and perfect setting for your special occasion. Traditional

64

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

One may also have the chance to unveil the charm and beauty of nature surrounded by this lush greenery. The hotel is of close proximity to the city; therefore guests can head towards the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and also enjoy a walk and even a boat ride on the lake.

There are more to access and explore in the city of Kandy such as The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, the Elephant Orphanage, Tea factories, Bahiravakanda Buddha Statue, Kandy Garrison Cemetery , Commonwealth War Cemetery, Lankatilaka Temple, Knuckles Mountain Range, Hanthana Mountain Range, Kandy View Point, Udawattekele Sanctuary are few among the list.

Visit The Mahaweli Reach Hotel and get the experience of the infinite luxury along with the peace and tranquility. For more details and for reservations visit web http://www.mahaweli.com

EVENTS / S R I

L A N K A T O U R I S M S H O W S P R E S T I G E AT T H E AT M

SRI LANKA TOURISM SHOWS PRESTIGE AT THE ATM

S

ri Lanka Tourism, in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Mission in Dubai, participated at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) which concluded recently on a highly successful note. The mega event was held from 24th-27th April 2017. Sri Lanka Tourism has been participating at this event since 2003 along with the travel and tourism industry in Sri Lanka, marking 2017 as the 14th consecutive year of participation at the event. The Sri Lanka stall was declared open by Hon. Minister of Tourism Development, Lands and Christian Religious Affairs, John Amaratunga , amidst a distinguished gathering of officials and representatives of the travel industry.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

65

EVENTS / S R I

L A N K A T O U R I S M S H O W S P R E S T I G E AT T H E AT M

The Sri Lanka stall was declared open by Hon. Minister of Tourism Development, Lands and Christian Religious Affairs, John Amaratunga

66

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

The Sri Lankan stall created a special attraction, showcasing an attractive display of the island destination. Fifty-five travel companies along with the 'Bally's magazine' and 'The Treasure Island magazine' were also represented Sri Lanka. Here are some highlights of the event.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

67

EVENTS / J U N E

/ J U LY C E L E B R AT I O N S AT B A L LY ' S C A S I N O

JUNE /JULY CELEBRATIONS AT BALLY'S CASINO

68

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

69

NEWS / H U AW E I

L A U N C H E S I N N O VAT I O N A N D I N T E G R AT I O N E X P E R I E N C E C E N T E R I N S R I L A N K A

Huawei launches Innovation and Integration Experience Center in Sri Lanka The establishment of Customer Solutions Innovation and Integration Experience Center (CSIC) is Huawei one of further contributions to support Sri Lanka’s digital economy.

H

uawei, a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) company had unveiled their brand new Office in concurrence with the establishment of Customer Solutions Innovation and Integration Experience Center (CSIC). Both facilities are located at 16F, West Tower, World Trade Center in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The establishment of CSIC is one of Huawei further contributions to support Sri Lanka’s digital economy.

The opening was patronized by Chief Guest, Hon. Harin Fernando, Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure, Hon. Yang Zuoyuan, Economic and Commercial Counsellor of Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka and other government officials.

The newly-opened Huawei Customer Solutions Innovation & Integration Experience Center (CSIC) is a state-ofthe-art center that enable customers to experience, architect, validate and build ICT solutions. CSIC is built on the concept of cloud and leading IT infrastructures, where customers can develop innovative ICT solutions, share Huawei global best practices and exchange ideas. It serves as a platform that enables joint innovation with customers based on their demands and business environments.

70

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

The CSIC is state-of-the-art center is furnished with 4K video, public safety demonstration devices, 120+ global show cases for business, technology and society. The center has been formulated with the aim of providing customers with an opportunity to experience, plan, authenticate and build ICT solutions.

Minister of Telecommunication and Digital Infrastructure Harin Fernando said, “As we progress to develop Sri Lanka to be a digitally empowered nation, the role of information communications technology becomes even more vital. The launch of the Huawei Customer Solutions Innovation and Integration Experience Center would further help us to innovate as we work together to bridge the digital divide and help the citizens enhance their living standards and quality of life.”

Customers will be exposed to global best practices, provide an avenue for idea exchange and business solution innovation. In addition to the strengthened network solutions, customers can also experience Huawei Enterprise Business innovative solutions such as safe city and the latest Huawei smart phones.

Compared to a traditional exhibition centre, the CSIC is built on the concept of Cloud. Huawei has incorporated its global resources to build a huge cloud which

will include entities such as Huawei global best practices. The CSIC’s physical environment was also set up in a manner where the best infrastructure and most comfortable environment can be wellexecuted efficiently.

H.E. Yi Xianliang, Chinese Ambassador said:” The establishment of CSIC is the connections with the MOU that Sri Lanka government signed with Huawei during Hon. Prime Minister and I visited Huawei Headquarter in China last year. As a global leading ICT company, Huawei’s value and contribution will support ICT development in Sri Lanka. ” Commenting on the opening, Mr. Shunli Wang Huawei Sri Lanka CEO said, “The establishment of CSIC is one of Huawei further contributions to support Sri Lanka’s digital economy and ICT development following the national broadband forum and Seeds For the Future program we organized last year.

We are willing to share our global best practice and experience and work with the stakeholders to make innovations and support Sri Lanka to be a digitally empowered nation. We keep innovation and exploring new possibilities to drive the progress, and be openness to tap into collective wisdom.”

NEWS / T H E

ROCK FORT HOTEL WEB L AUNCH

THE ROCK FORT HOTEL

WEB LAUNCH

G

amini Wickremarachchi, Chairman of GW Group – owners of Rock Fort Hotels – an expanding hotel chain which owns three properties: ‘Rock Fort Unawatuna’, ‘Rock Fort Pearl’ and ‘Rock Fort Thalpe’ in southern Sri Lanka, launched the hotel’s web Site.

Representatives from Rock Forts travel partners Tangerine Tours, Apple Holidays, Compass Tours, Fiege Hloiday, GoGo Lanka, Exotic Holiday, Green Adventure, Activ Lanka, Jetwing Travels, Aitkinspence Travels, Changyo Lanka, Firs Choice TRravels, Exotic Global, Ayubowan In coming, Mac Travels, Agoda, Booking.com, Expedia, EWelcome Holiday, and the media were invited for the event.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

71

NEWS / LMFPA CELEBRATED THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY | DON’T HIT & RUN – CAMPAIGN BY AA CEYLON AND FIA

LMFPA CELEBRATED THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY Lanka Microfinance Practitioner's Association (LMFPA) celebrated the 10th anniversary by organising a conference to impart knowledge to their membership and to enlighten them on the achievements of LMFPA and the current status of the Microfinance industry in Sri Lanka.

Honourable Eran Wickramaratne, Deputy Minister of Public Enterprise Development, participated as the chief guest to add value to this event.

Moreover, the keynote address delivered by Dr A. T. Ariyaratne, founder of Sarvodaya Movement added impetus to the conference. The eminent members in the the panel discussions represented the Central Bank, NGO Secretariat, Insurance Board of Sri Lanka and other key stakeholders of the microfinance industry. The Official Event Partner to this prestigious occasion was Alliance Finance Company PLC – AFC Micro Finance. The main sponsors of the event were Lak Jaya Microfinance Ltd and Prosperous Capital & Credit Ltd. Today microfinance is recognised as effective tool for poverty alleviation in many countries around the world including Sri Lanka. It provides variety of financial services such as savings, credit, micro insurance, money transfers and non financial services such as training, advice and product marketing support to poor and low income house holds in order to improve the living standards of this segment of the population. The NGOs, not for profit companies, cooperatives, government and private sector are actively involved in the industry in Sri Lanka.

The recently enacted microfinance act is a land mark achievement of the industry stakeholders which was also a result of over 10 years dedicated lobbying by LMFPA. This act empowers, NGOs and MFI companies for deposit taking which was a main bottleneck in the microfinance industry so far. Now LMFPA is looking forward to receive micro insurance regulations and access to CRIB etc which are also fundamental requirements of the industry to serve poor and low income people in the country in an affective manner.

Don’t Hit & Run – campaign by AA Ceylon and FIA By the end of the year 2015, Sri Lanka recorded the highest death toll (2801) due to the massive number of road accidents. Amongst the numbers of concern was the total number of fatal accidents (2590) excluding the death toll mentioned prior. Some of these statistics mentioned are due to the negligence of drivers when committing a criminal offence, leaving the victims stranded. Our main objective is to reduce the death toll by a minimum of 30% and total disability due to 'Hit & Run' by a minimum of 50% within two years. The ‘Don’t Hit & Run!’ project to be implemented with grants of the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and contributions from sponsors. Creating awareness on how to prevent deaths and permanent disabilities due to 'Hit and Run' after an accident could reduce the death rate considerably.

Mr. Dhammika Attygalle, President of AA Ceylon, Mr. Devapriya Hettiarchchi Secretary/ CEO and the executive committee have invited Hon. Ashok Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister Transport & Civil Aviation to launch this noble project that can save many lives and prevent permanent disabilities. The message will be communicated and sustained by conducting workshops for Learner school instructors who are registered with the Department of motor traffic. Further, the following eminent speakers will educate the learner instructors on the repercussions of it and run.

Dr. Sisira Kodagoda, Chairman, National Council for Road Safety Mr. Indika Hapugoda, SP -Director Traffic, Department of Police Mr. J. A. S. Jayaweera - Assistant Commissioner Technical, Department of Motor Traffic Dr. Anil Jasinghe, Deputy Director General, National Hospital Mr. Nalinda Indatissa, Attorney-at-law Member of the Executive Committee Bar Association of Sri Lanka Dr. Rohitha Rathnaweera, Managing Director - Global Institute of Safety In addition, AA Ceylon will display messages on the repercussions of Hit & Run together with Boy scouts and volunteers to create awareness.

72

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

NEWS / MOBITEL SUCCESSFULLY HOSTS ‘GOOGLE I/O EXTENDED SRI L ANKA 2017’ FOR THE 4TH TIME

MOBITEL SUCCESSFULLY HOSTS ‘GOOGLE I/O EXTENDED SRI LANKA 2017’ FOR THE 4TH TIME

T

he National Mobile Service Provider, Mobitel, recently hosted the Extended event of the highly anticipated Google I/O 2017 on 17 May 2017 at the Stein Studio Complex in Ratmalana, for the 4th time in Sri Lanka.

This was the local extension of Google I/O an annual global developer event. The local extension of the global event brings local developer communities together to experience the I/O keynote and sessions with one another in real-time, around the globe. A highlight included the real-time I/O keynote linking communities via a global live-stream. The event witnessed the participation of a large number of googlers from around Sri Lanka.

The participants of the event comprised largely of developers, ICT professionals, industry leaders, university students and young tech-savvy innovators. The exciting and interactive overnight event featuring a live stream from San Francisco focused on next-gen technology, mobile innovation and was moderated by renowned local speakers. The event also included entertainment acts, refreshments and a raffle draw, where Mobitel offered a lucky participant the chance to participate in CommunicAsia 2017 in Singapore.

Mobitel also conducted a competition parallel to the Google I/O 2017 Extended event under the theme ‘Inspire Sri Lanka’ which was an island-wide competition for innovators passionate about utilizing technology for a better tomorrow. In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) programme, it was an opportunity for all who participated to contribute towards ending poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring prosperity for all with technology. The competition promoted the advancement of mixmode solutions which comprise of both hardware and software alike, while encouraging creativity and entrepreneurship among young developers. The winning team walked away with 3 travel packages to visit CommunicAsia 2017 on 23 - 25 May at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

Google I/O is an annual developer-focused conference held by Google in San Francisco, USA, featuring a wide range of highly technical, in-depth sessions focused on building web, mobile, and enterprise applications with Google and open web technologies such as Android, Chrome, Chrome OS, Google APIs, Google Web Toolkit, and App Engine and Google related technologies, including information on new products and upgrades to existing products.

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

73

NEWS / A

S L U M B E R P A R T Y AT T H E M E W S : M A C K LY B R I N G S S L E E P W E A R T O T H E R U N W AY

A SLUMBER PARTY AT THE MEWS: MACKLY BRINGS SLEEPWEAR TO THE RUNWAY A slumber party took over Park Street Mews on 18 June when sleepwear label Mackly hosted its first runway sleepwear show. The Mackly models enjoyed every minute of their turn on the runway, marking a first for Sri Lanka as ladies and kids modelled the label’s Kids Sleepwear range and premiered the Ladies Pyjama line.

Mackly Founder Sharmila Srikumar launched the label in 2014, with exclusive focus on children’s sleepwear. She was inspired by her own long quests in search of comfortable, safe, adaptable and cute sleepwear for her children.

The Mackly label initially designed children’s sleepwear, and with this show Sharmila debuted her first Ladies Pyjama Line for older customers.

The company places emphasis on the safety factor-each piece goes through a needle and metal detector and is phthalate and allergy-free.

Comfort is an additional factorthe sleepwear is made with 100% breathable cotton material and all t-shirts have heat seals in place of labels to avoid discomfort at the back of the neck. Moreover, each piece is tested for colour fastness and shrinkage.

At the show-Sri Lanka’s first exclusive sleepwear showcase- 35 young children bounded down the runway in their Mackly pyjamas.

Mackly’s ladieswear collection was launched at the show with an opening performance by 12 year old Senruni Abeywickrema,

74

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

who sang Rihanna’s hit song ‘Diamonds’. The show, complete with a dance performance by the models and dancers, was well received. The ladieswear collection brings functional style to the table, and Sharmila says she was responding to overwhelming demand from her young customers’ mothers, older siblings and other friends. “In this day and age there’s no such thing as ratty old pyjamas,” she shared at the event. “In this highly visible, selfie-policed culture even your pyjamas need to be on-trend. And who doesn’t want to be in their comfiest clothes after a busy day?”

Mackly sleepwear is available at Odel and Cotton Collection with a new collection out every three months. The latest collections are expected to hit the shelves from July onwards.

NEWS / S I N G E R

L A U N C H E S T H E M O S T A F F O R D A B L E 4 K U LT R A H D S M A R T T E L E V I S I O N S E R I E S

SINGER launches the most affordable 4K Ultra HD Smart Television Series

S

inger Sri Lanka, the country’s premier consumer durables retailer, added another innovative product to its portfolio with the launch of the Singer Epic 4K Ultra HD Smart TV product series in Sri Lanka.

The product launch was graced by Singer Sri Lanka Group CEO Asoka Pieris, Singer Sri Lanka Marketing Director Kumar Samarasinghe at a ceremonial launch at Taj Samudra Hotel Colombo.

As a leading TV brand in Sri Lanka, Singer continues to innovate, bringing the latest technology and superior products to a growing customer base in Sri Lanka. Singer introduces a new dimension in television technology with

advanced features and enhanced viewing pleasure which combines convenience and features of a smart personal future. The All new-range of Singer Epic 4K Ultra HD Smart TV product series guarantees to provide users with a brand new experience of entertainment at an unmatchable price and warranty with Singer service backing.

Singer Epic 4K Ultra HD Smart Android TVs will be available in 49”, 55”, 60”, 65”, 75” sizes for viewing pleasure, One of the most unique features of this new TV series is the dynamic viewing range that enhances colour through HDR, impacting saturation and contrast differences readily resolved. The new series gives a compact home cinema experience with high quality

Dolby Digital sound’s adding a new dimension to the total television experience.

Commenting on the new addition, Singer Sri Lanka Group CEO - Asoka Pieris said, “Singer, as a company, takes pride in introducing the best in class technology to improve our customer experiences at all times.

The new addition of Singer Epic 4K Smart TV Range will define a new chapter not only in entertainment but even in education and customers will have an amazing experience of a true Masterpiece”.

Epic 4K Smart TV range will facilitate home broadband connectivity for online streaming including world's leading in-built games, chat function, live streaming and downloading videos, receiving TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

75

NEWS / S I N G E R

L A U N C H E S T H E M O S T A F F O R D A B L E 4 K U LT R A H D S M A R T T E L E V I S I O N S E R I E S

news alerts and weather reports.

Another special feature is the access provided to e-thaksalawa, a partnership with the Ministry of Education to provide a direct link to the national e-learning platform to offer the best choices of evolving learning systems in Sri Lanka. This application is specially designed in accordance with school syllabuses for students from grade 1 to 13 by the Ministry of Education.

The brand new Singer Epic 4K TV range starts from LKR 125,000 and is available through the country’s largest retail network including Singer Mega, Singer Plus and SISIL World stores, comprising of over 420 retail outlets. A special introductory offer of a free Home broadband Wifi router in partnership with Dialog is also available for customers, with 3 years of fully comprehensive product warranty for Singer Epic 4K TVs.

76

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

NEWS / S I N G E R

L A U N C H E S T H E M O S T A F F O R D A B L E 4 K U LT R A H D S M A R T T E L E V I S I O N S E R I E S

CONSTRUCT 2017’

UNVEILS IN COLOMBO Sri Lanka’s No 1 construction exhibition, which is undisputedly Sri Lanka’s largest and most prestigious construction industry related exhibition will be held from 25th - 27th of August at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Centre (SBMEC) Colombo, Sri Lanka.

This event which is recognised as the most influential and key exhibition in the South Asia region is organised by the National Construction Association of Sri Lanka (NCASL) for the 17th consecutive year.

Chairman of NCASL Mr. Athula Priyantha Galagoda says, “We are honoured to host Construct 2017, an event of such magnitude, attracting a large number of local and foreign industry related experts. The dynamic event will be the platform providing an array of solutions pertaining to construction. With its modern conceptualised stalls and innovative and effectual methodologies, it is set to cater to a vast network of people from Sri Lanka and the region.

With so much to offer, ‘Construct 2017’ will play a significant role in changing the perceptions of its visitors who will be directed to a more futuristic approach on par with global trends.”

“This exhibition which commenced in 2001 has grown rapidly with many new features being incorporated into its manifesto. ‘Construct’ was established with a mission to enhance the knowledge of the masses by offering the most state-of-the-art technological approaches coupled with the need to create limitless opportunities for exhibitors. As we enter into our 17th year, we feel a great sense of satisfaction at being considered the

most reputed and unparalleled exhibition arena in the country and the region,” Mr. Galagoda added.

Chairman of Organising Committee Mr. Ruwan de Silva commented on the high standards maintained and hailed it as Sri Lanka’s most comprehensive construction trade exhibition. He added that ‘Construct 2017’ covers the whole spectrum, featuring over three hundred local and foreign exhibitors showcasing the achievements of Sri Lanka's construction industry. Renowned for its international exposure, it will function as a vibrant networking platform and resource centre for all construction industry related players in the Asia Pacific region.

The display will include products and services from Malaysia, India, Pakistan and China providing endless possibilities and sparking the imagination of the thousands of expected visitors.

While delivering unprecedented access to key decision makers in the industry, it is bound to increase the future business prospects of the exhibitors. The exhibition further facilitates the demand oriented industry which has seen a rapid growth in the recent past.

Construct 2017 will further incorporate the sub industries related to the construction industry to further augment the mega event. In addition, a series of seminars will also be held to convey its message to the growing populace inspired by the evolving trends in the global sphere.

Construct 2017 has Electro Metal Pressings (Pvt) Ltd as the Platinum Sponsor, Alumex PLC as the Gold

CAPTION FOR HEAD TABLE : At the Head Table are (L to R) Mr. Subodha Basnayake, GM – Asia Exhibitions & Conventions (Pvt) Ltd ,Mr. Nalin Karunaratne, Manager – Marketing , Seylan Bank PLC Mr. Priyantha Jayasinghe, Group Marketing Manager- Rhino Roofing (Pvt) Ltd ,Mr. Lalith Wickramasinghe ,Corporate Sales Manager - Nippon Paint Lanka (Pvt) Ltd Mr. Sarath Senaratne, Manager – Administration, Elcardo Industries(Pvt) Ltd ,Mr. Chandranandana Diyunuge, Chairman – EMP Holdings Ltd ,Mr. Amara Dissanayake, CEO – NCASL,Mr. Pubudu Kamal Perera, Hony. Secretary NCASL ,Mr. Darinton Paul, Second Vice Chairman NCASL ,Mr. Ruwan de Silva, Director of NCASL & Chairman Exhibition Organizing Committee ,Chief Guest - Hon. Chandima Weerakkody , Minister of Skills Development & Vocational Training ,Mr. Athula Priyantha Galagoda, Chairman NCASL ,Mr. Susantha Liyanarachchi, First Vice Chairman NCASL/Deputy Chairman Organizing Committee ,Mr. K. Liyanarachchi, Hony. Treasurer NCASL ,Mr. Madura de Silva – President, Young Constructors forum,Mr. Rohan Peiris, Managing Director - Alumex PLC,Mr. Dilendra Peries, Product Manager , St. Anthony’s industries Group (Pvt) Ltd, Dr. Najeeb Deen, Chairman/CEO – DBL Group & Deen Brothers Imports (Pvt) Ltd ,Ms. Adeline Goh, Manager – Malaysian Timber Council,Mr. Nalin Manorathne, Chief Marketing Officer – United Tractor & Equipment , Mr. Sampath Wijesinghe, General Manager – Sales & Marketing, Mr. Sujith Gunarathne, General Manager (Appliances) – DI Industries (Pvt) Ltd ,Mr. Sumith Perera, Manager – Operations , RCB Holdings (Pvt) Ltd

Sponsor, Deen Brothers Imports (Pvt) Ltd as the Silver Sponsor and Elcardo Industries (Pvt) Ltd as the Bronze Sponsor.

It also has on board United Tractor & Equipment (Pvt) Ltd (Construction Machinery Equipment Partner), Nippon Paint Lanka (Pvt) Ltd (Official Paint Partner), D I Industries (Pvt) Ltd (Official Air Conditioning Partner), St. Anthony’s Industries (Pvt) Ltd (Official Interior Partner), Malaysian Timber Council (Official Timber Partner), Mirama Ceramics (Official Tile Partner), Rhino Roofing (Pvt) Ltd (Official Roofing Partner), RCB Holdings (Pvt) Ltd (Official Earthmoving Equipment Partner), and Seylan Bank PLC (Official Banker).

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

77

78

Global Media Holdings (Pvt) Limited. 23/5A, Sunethradevi Mawatha, Kohuwala, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka General: (+94) 77 3 995 651 | Marketing: (+94) 77 3 688 912, (+94) 77 3 688 911 TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02

79

80

TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 02