Treasure Island Magazine 2017 ISSUE 1

VOL - 03 ISSUE 01

LKR 250.00 US $ 3 TREASUREISLAND.LK / VOL - 03 ISSUE 01

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SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND | November 2015

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2015 November | SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND

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F E AT U R E S

OUR TIME IN SRI LANKA IT HAS BEEN ALMOST THREE MONTHS SINCE WE CAME BACK TO SWEDEN AFTER TWO AMAZING MONTHS IN SRI LANKA!

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CONTENTS

12 18 TURTLE HATCHERIES IN SRI LANKA

22 DONDRA LIGHTHOUSE THE DONDRA LIGHTHOUSE IS THE TALLEST LIGHT HOUSE IN SRI LANKA AS WELL AS IN THE WHOLE OF ASIA.

SRI LANKA, THOUGH BEING A LITTLE ISLAND NATION ON THE INDIAN OCEAN, IS A COUNTRY THAT IS ABUNDANT IN NATURAL RESOURCES AND WILDLIFE.

24 THE GALLE FORT THE GALLE FORT IS LOCATED IN THE SOUTHERN PART OF SRI LANKA AND IS 116 KM AWAY FROM COLOMBO. IT CAN BE ACCESSED BY TRAIN, BY AIR, OR ALONG THE A-2 MAIN ROAD AND THE SOUTHERN EXPRESSWAY

34 MADU GANGA- A POPULAR BOATING DESTINATION FOR THE ADVENTUROUS

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MADU GANGA IS AN ESTUARINE LAGOON ENTERING THE SEA AT BALAPITIYA. THIS WETLAND CONSISTS OF OVER 915 HECTARES OUT OF WHICH AROUND 110 HECTARES ISLAND.

YATAGALA RAJA MAHA VIHARAYA

COVER PHOTO

THE YATAGALA RAJA MAHA VIHARAYA IS LOCATED NEAR THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE CITY, IN PROXIMITY TO THE WORLD FAMOUS UNAWATUNA BEACH.

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The Galle Lighthouse was built in 1848. It was destroyed by a fire in between 1934 and 1939.

The present lighthouse was built in 1939. It’s 26 meters (87 feet) in height. This is one of the oldest lighthouses in Sri Lanka.

Pix by: Manjula Kumara Gamage

F E AT U R E S

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CONTENTS

48 THE WORLD OF FAIRY TALES - SRI LANKAN WILD MUSHROOMS TRAVELLING THROUGH THE DENSE UNDERGROWTH, ONE IS LIKELY TO COME ACROSS WILD MUSHROOMS SCATTERED AMONG THE FALLEN FOLIAGE.

56 INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN DAY CELEBRATIONS IN HAPUTHALE, SRI LANKA THE INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN DAY, DESIGNATED

BY THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN 2003, IS CELEBRATED ON THE 11TH OF DECEMBER EVERY YEAR.

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

DR. IRAJ RATHAYAKE 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

60 THE BADULLA KATARAGAM DEWALAYA IN SRI LANKA THE BADULLA KATARAGAM DEWALAYA IS LOCATED ON A HIGHER ELEVATION IN BETWEEN THE PATTINI DEWALAYA AND THE ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING OF THE KATARAGAMA DEWALAYA WHEN ENTERING FROM THE LOWER STREET MAIN ENTRANCE.

66 'VILLA 46' TO ENTICE THE SHORES OF HIKKADUWA ‘VILLA 46’ IS THE LATEST ATTRACTION IN HIKKADUWA, OWNED BY SRI LANKAN CRICKETING LEGEND MARVAN ATAPATTU. THE VILLA CATERS TO OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS, FREQUENT TRAVELERS AND BEACH LOVERS AS IT IS THE PERFECT GETAWAY AND HIDEAWAY.

68 - 74 EVENTS

75 - 78 NEWS

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CONSULTANT EDITOR E .D . C. LAKSHAN

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ALINA KRECISZ JOSEFINA EKSTRÖM MIMMI ARVIDSSON PHOTOGRAPHY KAWYA SAWMINI WARNA LIYANAWATTE SURANGA COORAY ROHAN KARUNARATHNA 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 / O U R

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TIME IN SRI LANKA

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Our time in

SRI LANKA Text & Photography: Josefina & Mimmi

It has been almost three months since we came back to Sweden after two amazing months in Sri Lanka!

First, we worked as volunteers for a month at a girls orphanage in Kandy. We also taught monks English and helped at a daycare. During the last month we travelled on our own along the southern coast by bus and train.

MIMMI ARVIDSSON

JOSEFINA EKSTRĂ–M

As volunteers, we lived in Mawilmada, a village outside of Kandy, with the organisation "The Green Lion". The first week, we got to learn about the Sri Lankan culture: we visited temples, a tea factory, tried meditation, learned how to cook Sri Lankan food etc. It was really interesting and offered us an insight into the Sri Lankan life. Most of our time as volunteers was spent at a girls orphanage in Wattegama, where the children were from eight to eighteen years old. We helped them with their English homework, played a lot of games, sang and danced. Another project we participated in was at the daycare in central Kandy.

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EXPERIENCE / O U R

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TIME IN SRI LANKA

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MOST PEOPLE WE MET WERE VERY FRIENDLY AND HOSPITABLE, AND WE GOT TO KNOW SOME SRI LANKAN FAMILIES THAT WE STILL KEEP IN TOUCH WITH THEM.

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TIME IN SRI LANKA

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We also taught young monks English at a temple which was a challenge because we never teach before. However, it was a fun experience and we really enjoyed our time there. As volunteers we got to know many wonderful children, that we really miss spending time with.

After our time in Kandy, we packed our backpacks, and began our second month with a fantastic train ride to Ella. We were amazed by the views of the beautiful mountains. A couple of days later, we took the bus down to the coast, which was a bumpy five-hour long ride. The rest of our time were mostly spent at different beaches: snorkelling with turtles, learning how to surf, and doing different types of sightseeing.

We also went on a safari tour at Yala National Park and did whale watching in Mirissa. We stayed at simple accommodations, often run by families. Most people we met were very friendly and hospitable, and we got to know some Sri Lankan families that we still keep in touch with today.

Our time in Sri Lanka has been an amazing experience and a memory for life. We are really grateful for having been given this opportunity.

We hope that we can encourage other young people to go out into the world and explore different cultures, as it is one of the best things we ever done. We met so many wonderful people and the nature is stunning! We really love Sri Lanka and can't wait to go back some day in the future.

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NATURE / T U R T L E

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H AT C H E R I E S I N S R I L A N K A

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TURTLE HATCHERIES IN SRI LANKA

Text by: Sara Pathirana

SRI LANKA, THOUGH BEING A LITTLE ISLAND NATION ON THE INDIAN OCEAN, IS A COUNTRY THAT IS ABUNDANT IN NATURAL RESOURCES AND WILDLIFE. BUT, WITH THE PREVALENCE OF TIME, PEOPLE HAVE GROWN TO BECOME MORE IGNORANT OF THEIR SURROUNDINGS AND TAKING THEIR ENVIRONMENT FOR GRANTED. OF COURSE, THERE ARE ENTITIES TODAY THAT HAVE SET UP INITIATIVES TOWARDS HELPING TO BRING CHANGE THROUGH PRESERVATION OF THESE RESOURCES AND TO ENSURE THAT PEOPLE ACKNOWLEDGE THIS. In this edition, we decided to bring to your mind the subject of Turtle hatcheries in Sri Lanka and the efforts that have been set up in place to ensure that these endangered and rare species do not become extinct.

Turtles have been thoroughly researched and over the years, we have come to find out that these amazing creatures date back to over 100 million years. This reiterates the fact that they have existed side by side with Dinosaurs and have evolved over time. Sadly, the dinosaurs went extinct but the Turtle species have miraculously survived.

But, even though we live in an era where humans have revolutionized their living patterns and continue to adopt state-of-the-art technological breakthroughs as well as universally prominent and innovative entities that has only proven the extent that mankind has evolved into. Sadly, bringing the human kind into the picture hasn’t seemed to help expel the fact that many animal species have sadly dwindled overtime thanks to man’s carelessness and selfish behaviour in order to achieve wealth.

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H AT C H E R I E S I N S R I L A N K A

Today, the number of turtle varieties that exist in the world has come down to a shocking 7. These creatures are under threat of being extinct.

Turtle hatcheries are thus, an essential element in order to help increase their numbers and of course, a lot of careful work needs to be done to ensure these creatures receive the best care throughout.

Turtles congregate annually in order to mate and the process continues to the beach where the female then arrives to lay her eggs. At one given time, a female turtle can lay upto 100 eggs in a hole burrowed on the beach at night. In two months time, the eggs hatch and the newborns then make their way to the sea.

It truly is a beautiful process but humans today have turned into the biggest predators against these turtles.

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A turtle farm or hatcheries provide a haven of protection and care for these creatures and many beach areas in the southern part of the country offer a number of hatcheries in the form of concrete tanks filled with water where these turtles are placed and maintained.

Amongst the types of turtles that can be found today is the Logger Head Turtle, Olive Green turtle, Flat Back turtle, Kemp’s Ridley turtle, Leatherback turtle, Green Turtle and the Hawksbill turtle. Many of these species have been deemed as either vulnerable or endangered today. A hatchery is one way to help ensure that turtle hatchlings survive from being captured by humans for the purposes of turning them into ornaments or even as gourmet food at some point.

Areas such as Hikkaduwa, Habaraduwa, Koggala, Kosgoda and Induruwa to name some accommodate a number of hatcheries that are open for the public. Tourists who visit these areas make it a point to pay these places a visit and include a trip into their itineraries.

Photos were captured at ‘Silver Green Turtle Hatchery’, Galle Road, Habaraduwa. Contact number: +94 77 7836115 (Mr. Nalin Abayadeera)

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COLONIAL / D O N D R A

LIGHTHOUSE

Lighth DONDRA

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DIRECTION:

DONDRA LIGHTHOUSE IS LOCATED AT DONDRA HEAD, IN DONDRA (DEVINUWARA) OF MATARA DISTRICT, CAN BE ACCESSED THROUGH THE A-2 COLOMBO-HAMBANTOTA MAIN ROAD. 6 KM FROM MATARA TOWN AND 1.2 KM FROM A-2 MAIN ROAD FROM DONDRA DEWALAYA (DEVINUWARA UPULWAN DEWALAYA).

Survey Department's Fundamental Bench Mark

The Dondra lighthouse is the tallest light house in Sri Lanka as well as in the whole of Asia. The light house is operated and maintained by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and is located at the Southernmost tip of Sri Lanka, erected to caution sailors of the boundary of the Island.

With its geometric octagonal shape, the Dondra light house stands tall at 161 meters and is a must see at night, producing a bright beam every 5 seconds extending to a range of 28 nautical miles, with focal plan of 153 meters.

house

The lighthouse was designed in 1889 by James Nicholas Douglass, a renowned British Civil Engineer and constructed by his brother William Douglass of Imperial lighthouse Services. The light house was commissioned in March 1880 and it is said that when erecting the light house tower, boulders were brought from the mines of Scotland and Cornwall in the United Kingdom.

THE DONDRA LIGHTHOUSE IS THE TALLEST LIGHT HOUSE IN SRI LANKA AS WELL AS IN THE WHOLE OF ASIA.

Most commonly, a light house is a tower designed to emit light from fire, however since the fixed lights, flash lights and occulting lights were introduced, fire was hardly used to produce light. Its major aim is to prevent water vessels and ships from reaching dangerous coastlines, shores and reefs.

Interestingly, adjacent to the Dondra lighthouse is a Survey Department ‘Fundamental Bench Mark’, erected to establish height above the mean sea level precisely, and it is this benchmark that denotes the exact height of Sri Lanka at its southernmost tip.

Whilst all the light houses in Sri Lanka were maintained by the British and maintained by Imperial lighthouse Service prior to independence in 1948, today all the light houses have been handed over to Sri Lanka Navy and are maintained by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.

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HISTORIC / T H E

GALLE FORT

THE GALLE FORT 24

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Text & Pix: Indaka Karunadasa

DIRECTION:

THE GALLE FORT IS LOCATED IN THE SOUTHERN PART OF SRI LANKA AND IS 116 KM AWAY FROM COLOMBO. IT CAN BE ACCESSED BY TRAIN, BY AIR, OR ALONG THE A-2 MAIN ROAD AND THE SOUTHERN EXPRESSWAY.

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alle is the capital of the Southern province of Sri Lanka. It was derived by the Sinhalese word ‘Ga-a-la’(An area where bullock carts are parked). The Galle Fort is the only living example of a Colonial Fort City in Asia. According to the Holy Bible, it is believed that ‘Transhish’ - the city that supplied gems and spices to King Soloman was Galle !

From very ancient time, Galle- which was also known as ‘Gimhanthiththa’ was famous for its natural sea port.

Although it was popular as the biggest sea port in Sri Lanka, after the artificial harbor was constructed in Colombo in 1873, the Galle port shifted to Colombo due to the British who selected Colombo as their administrative hub.

Lorenzo de Almeida, who was bound for Maldives, was blown off to the harbor in Galle with his commanding fleet in 1505 AC, thus Galle became famous. The Galle Fort was erected by the Portuguese in 1589 AC and in 1640 it captured by the Dutch. In 1797, the authority was passed on to the British.

During the time, the Portuguese built three small bastions in the North side of the fort for their protection. They were involved in the trade of cinnamon, cardamom, spices, elephant ivory and gems etc.

But, however latter twelve Dutch war fleets came towards Galle and captured the three bastions of the Portuguese. Willeam Jacobsz Coster was the commanding officer who took Galle fort (Galle) from the Portuguese on 13th March 1640. And the Dutch expanded the Portuguese’s St. Jagon bastion and renamed it as Sun bastion. Galle fort was built according to a plan made by the Dutch Governors Rijckloff Van Goens (1660-1661 (1st), 166-1664 (2nd), 1665-1675 (3rd)) and Adriaan Van Der Meyden (1653-1660 (1st), 1661-1663 (2nd)).

But, according to the earlier records the Galle fort haven’t finished until 1715 AC. The British took over the Galle Fort on the 23rd of February 1796, one week after taking over Colombo. When the British took over the Fort, the Dutch commanding officer to Galle was Datrive Thomas Prits. When the British evacuated the higher ranking officers, Datrive Thomas Prits didn’t leave the Galle and he went on to live with common people as an ordinary man. The British also used the Galle fort as their administrative hub.

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HISTORIC / T H E

GALLE FORT

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A. BUDDHIST TEMPLE B. WAREHOUSE KEEPER'S QUARTERS C. GOVERNOR'S RESIDENCE D. BREAD FRUIT E. MEERA MOSQUE F. FLAG ROCK BASTION

After considering the fortification of the historical monuments at the Galle fort, in 1988 United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and International Committee on Monuments and Cities (COSMOS) listed Galle fort as a ‘World Heritage Site’. Simultaneously, the Sri Lankan Government established the ‘Galle Heritage Foundation’ for the conservation and management of the Galle fort.

OLD LAND MARKS AT THE GALLE FORT 1. The Old Gateway:There are two gateways into the Galle fort. The old gateway is along Baladaksha Mawatha and faces the Galle harbor. It was constructed under the old warehouse building. Above the arched entrance outer wall is the shield of the British Monarch (1796). Before the British rule, this outer

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wall consisted of a Dutch shield (which could now be seen on the inner wall above the old gateway arch dated 1669).

2. Black Fort Bastion: The Black fort bastion is one of the oldest bastions built by the Portuguese. It was renamed as Zwart bastion or Black bastion by the Dutch in 1640. It is said that the oldest existing monument of the Galle fort is also the Black fort bastion. At the time of the Portuguese, the Black fort was an artillery factory. (Underground tunnels and prison cells can still be observed today). Presently, the Southern Provincial Deputy Police Office has been established at the Black fort bastion.

3. The Old Dutch Warehouse:This two storied building which is 175 meters in length and 13 meters wide, was built in 1676 by the Dutch. The original entrance (The Old Gateway) to the

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Galle fort is located at the middle of this Old Dutch Warehouse. According to available information, after the British rule, this building was used as an office building by the Sri Lankan Government.

After its recent restoration,it has now been established as the Maritime Archeological Museum and the Marine Biological Museum.

4. The Warehouse Keeper’s Residential Quarters:The Warehouse Keeper’s residential quarters was also built by the Dutch. This building faces the Old Dutch Warehouse along Hospital road at the Galle fort. The plaque dated 1760, can be observed on the wall. Presently the building has been occupied by the Department of Archeology as their Provincial Office.

5. The Akersloot Bastion: As afore said the Galle fort was captured by the Dutch Commander Wilhem Jacobs Coster. This bastion was named after his hometown Akersloot. The name of the bastion ‘Akersloot’ and ‘1759’ are still engraved and fixed above the main entrance facing the Hospital road at the Galle fort. It is said that in the bastion consists Sri Lanka’s oldest Bread Fruit tree (Artucorpusincisisus). It is also reported that the Dutch introduced Bread Fruit to Sri Lanka.

6. The Kachcheri Building:The Kachcheri building or the Old Dutch Hospital, is located between the Akersloot bastion and the Avurora bastion along the Hospital road at the Galle fort. It was built as a hospital by the Dutch, and served the officers and staff of the Dutch East Indian Company (VOC). The Dutch built another hospital at the East side of the Galle fort. The British used this building as a Military barrack. They later turned the building as an office for the Government Agent to Galle. After the British, the building was used as the Galle Town Hall. Presently it is used as a Shopping Complex.

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7. The Avurora Bastion: It is said that the name of this bastion was derived by the Roman God Avurora. In 1760 there were six cannons installed on the bastion.

8. The Point Utrecht Bastion: This bastion was been named after the first clergyman of the Dutch Reformed Church who came from Utrecht village.

His name was Rev.Anthenrio Husaivers.

It is said that there were six cannons installed in the bastion and it is presently the Galle Lighthouse which was erected in 1939.

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9. The Galle Lighthouse:The Lighthouse was built in 1848 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Sri Lanka. The old light house was destroyed by a fire in between 1934 and 1939. The present lighthouse was built in 1939. It’s 26 meters (87 feet) in height and at the base of the Galle fort lighthouse is the radar unit and the office which belongs to the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.

10. The (Gun Powder) Magazine: A gunpowder magazine is nearby the Galle lighthouse and near the road. The gunpowder magazine’s roof is made out of lime and cement. Above the arched door ‘1789’ was inscribed.

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G. FORT LIGHTHOUSE H. HISTORICAL MANSION MUSEUM I. AMBALAMA J. BELL TOWER

11.Meera Mosque (Masjid): Meera Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the Galle district. In 1790 there was a small mosque. In 1909 that small mosque had been demolished and erected a larger mosque. Inside the mosque there are stained glass windows and the floor is tiled with beautiful floor tiles.

12. Flag Rock Bastion: During the Dutch period, the Dutch flag was hoisted here followed by the British flag. In 1848, the first lighthouse in Ceylon (Sri Lanka) was erected at the Flag Rock Bastion.

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K. BLACK FORT BASTION L. REMAINS OF OLD LIGHTHOUSE-FLAG ROCK BASTION M. NEW GATEWAY N. GUNPOWDER MAGAZINE

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13. Triton Bastion: A windmill was installed at the Triton bastion to draw sea water to clean the roads of the Galle fort at that time. The Triton bastion was built during the time of Governor Petrus Vuyst.

According to available records, Governor Petrus Vuyst was sentenced to death in Batavia.

14. The Neptune Bastion: According to available records, the Neptune bastion was built during the time of Governor Petrus Vuyst (1726-1729). In 1735 there were eight cannons that were installed on this bastion.

15. The Kippanburg Bastion(Clippenberg): The British installed a signal station on the bastion and named it as the ‘Lloyd Signal Station’. The remains of the signal station can still be seen today.

16. Aeolus Bastion: It is said that in 1760 there were five cannons installed at this bastion.

17.Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple: Sudharmalaya Buddhist temple is located at the junction of Parawa Street and Rampart Street. It is said that the temple was built in 1889 on the site of Portuguese Roman-Catholic Church which was demolished by the Dutch in the 17th century. The Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple was the only Buddhist temple at the Galle fort.

18. The Star Bastion: Earlier this was named as St. Anthony’s bastion. The Dutch named this as ‘Zee Punt’ (Sea Bastion). But, in 1667 it was renamed as the Star bastion. At the time, there were six cannons which were installed at the bastion. The largest gun powder store was also located in the Star bastion.

20. Kevalier the Cat Bastion:Kevalier the Cat Bastion is located on a higher elevation of the Moon bastion. The main purpose of this bastion was to protect the Moon bastion. There were five cannons that were installed at this Bastion at that time.

21. The Sun Bastion:The Sun bastion was strongly built by the Portuguese which was named as ‘Sa Jago’. In August 1667 its name was changed as‘Zon’ (Sun) bastion. It is said that in 1760 there were nineteen cannons installed at the bastion.

19. The Moon Bastion: When it was constructed by the Portuguese it was named as ‘Conceycao’ and in 1667 it was renamed as ‘Moon Bastion’. It is said that in 1760 there were 19 cannons which were installed at the Moon bastion.

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22.The Dutch Reformed Church (Groote Kerk): The Dutch Reformed Church is located along the Church Street of Galle fort. It was constructed by the Dutch in 1755. The construction was supervised

by Abram Anthonisz. This was built on a site of an earlier Portuguese convent.

Abram Anthonisz was a superintendent of a shipping company and was an architect in Galle during that time. It is said that the Dutch Reformed Church is one of the oldest Protestant Church in Sri Lanka.

According to historical information, this was the third church that was built by the Dutch. The first was near the Galle Clock Tower, second was in front of the present Dutch Reformed Church; belfry of the previous church can be seen even today. The Dutch Reformed Church was built on the highest point in the Galle fort. The foundation for the church was laid in 1682. In 1775 the Commander of Galle -Casparus de Jong and his wife Geertruyda Adriana Le Grand donated money to build the Church as offering of thanks to the God after their daughter was born. The church’s floor is paved with grave stones (oldest dated 1662). An old organ made in 1760 and archives (Any information on this archives can be obtain from – The Dutch Reformed Church Head Quarters at Wellawatte, Colombo 06, Sri Lanka) from mid 17th century are key highlights to observe. Anno 1672 is carved in church’s arched entrance.

O. GALLE CLOCK TOWER P. THE OLD DUTCH WAREHOUSE Q. READING ROOM

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23. Bell Tower: The Bell tower lies in front of the Dutch Reformed Church at the Galle fort. It was built in 1701 which is also inscribed on it although it isn’t that clear.

24.The Galle Fort Reading Room (Galle Fort Library): The Galle Fort is located at No: 14, Church Street at Galle fort. It is said that this was started as a Reading Room for the Ceylon Rifles Regiment in 1832 by the British. This Reading Room was served for them until 1879. (As in 1879 the Ceylon Rifles Regiment was dismissed by the Governor Sir William Gregory). The building which the Galle fort Library house was built by the Dutch and when the Dutch rule this building was served as Tax Collector’s Office for the Dutch.

25.The Trade Office and the Personnel Department (Economic Building): The Trade Office and the Personnel Department building is located along the Church Street. Today this building is used as a Post Office. During the time of the Dutch, this building was known as ‘NegotieKantoor’. In 1760 there were book keepers working at the office.

26. All Saint’s Church:The ‘All Saint’s Church’ is an Anglican Church located along the Church Street in the Galle fort.

The foundation for the church was laid

by Rev. Fr. Dr. Piers Calveley Claughton on the 30th of October 1868. Rev. Fr. Dr. Piers Calveley Claughton was the second Bishop of Colombo at that time. In order to build the church, the Government donated the land along with 600 pounds (at that time Sir Hercues Robinson was the Governor of Ceylon). The designer of the church was J.G. Smithers. It is said that the church was constructed on a site of the former magistrate court house. A gallows was said to stand on the site of the present altar. After construction of the church was congregated by Bishop Rev. Fr. Dr. Piers Calveley Claughton on 21st

February 1871. The first vicar of the church was Rev. Fr. Dr. George Justus Schrader. (For any other information regarding this church please visit, www.aasaintsgall.org).

27. Residence of the Commander (Governor’s residence):This is located along the church street and in front of the All Saint’s Church.

During the Dutch rule, Galle was under a commander. It is said that this residence was erected in 1683.

28. Clock Tower: The Galle Fort Clock Tower was erected on the Moon bastion of the Galle Fort rampart.

The clock tower was built in 1883.

The clock tower was erected by Dr. Pieter Daniel Anthonisz, an eminent surgeon and the Chairman of the Galle Municipal Council at that time.

29.New Gateway (The British Gateway): The New gateway to the Galle fort, also named as British gate, was made by the British in 1873. This Gateway was erected by breaking the Galle Fort rampart between Sun and Moon bastions.

30. Ambalama:Ambalama at the Galle Fort is located along the Hospital road and a structure of four pillars where the roof hold.

31. Closseberg Hotel: In 1859, the owner of a shipping company, Captain Baily, bought a land in the Galle fort and built a Villa which he named as ‘Marina’ after his wife. After few years Captain Baily sold his villa, which was bought by a local businessman and planter named Simon Perera. Today this villa is known as ‘Closseberg Hotel’.

OTHER LANDMARKS: Southland Girls’ College, New Old Dutch House, Highway Patrol Police Building, Amangalle Hotel, New Oriental Hotel – built in 1694 and is the oldest hotel in Sri Lanka, Court’s Building – During the Dutch period this was used as a paddy/rice store as well as a carpentry workshop, Methodist church –which was built on the 9th of February 1819.

MUSEUMS 1. The National Museum (Open from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm, closed on Sunday and Monday) 2. Maritime Museum (Closed on Friday and Saturday) 3. Historical Mansion Museum (Dutch Period Museum) – Located along Leyan Bann Street. Open Daily from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm. The building where the Historical Mansion Museum is located is considered as the oldest building within the Galle fort.

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DESTINATIONS / M A D U

G A N G A - A P O P U L A R B O AT I N G D E S T I N AT I O N F O R T H E A D V E N T U R O U S

Madu Ganga A POPULAR BOATING DESTINATION FOR THE ADVENTUROUS Text by: Sara Pathirana

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M

adu Ganga is an estuarine lagoon entering the sea at Balapitiya.

This wetland consists of over 915 hectares out of which around 110 hectares is land. As the area is covered majorly with water and little islets, the Madu Ganga wetland happens to be the second largest wetland in the country today. In 2003, the wetland was also declared under the Ramsar Convention.

The islets here comprise of 16 such entities namely the Koth Doowa, Dik Doowa, Maa Doowa, Mema Doowa, Hon Doowa, Dimi Doowa, Erawana Doowa, Nai Doowa, Muwan Doowa, Merala Doowa, Galman Doowa, Katu Doowa, Mada Doowa, Tona Doowa, Thiniya Doowa. Smallest islet is Satha Paha Doowa, which consist only an abundant shrine. And the largest islet is Maa Doowa and this islet is connected to the main land with a steel built bridge. And in this islet there are about 300 families with a school, temple, and a post office. There are people who inhabit some of these islets and engage in the harvesting and producing of cinnamon quills and cinnamon oils.

Another main feature about the Madu Ganga is that the area has become an attraction for locals as well as foreign tourists who go on boat rides and explore nearby mangroves. Most of the water bodies surrounding the mangroves are brackish and the mangroves provide a habitat for the survival of small fish, over 110 species of birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals that have adapted in time to these mangroves and made this their home. The Madu Ganga mangroves consist of 14 different

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DESTINATIONS / M A D U

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G A N G A - A P O P U L A R B O AT I N G D E S T I N AT I O N F O R T H E A D V E N T U R O U S

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G A N G A - A P O P U L A R B O AT I N G D E S T I N AT I O N F O R T H E A D V E N T U R O U S mangrove species that also include 302 different types of plant species as well that harmoniously exist alongside these entities. One particular plant, the Rath Milla has been revealed as a rare and endemic plant native to Sri Lanka.

Among mangoves flora Kadol (Rhizophora mucronata), Malkadol (Burguiera gymnorhiza), Kiralla (Sonneratia caseolaris) are prominent. Karen Koku (Acrostichum aureum) is the only mangrove fern to found in Sri Lanka. All most all the mangrove plants are woody and adapted to saline environment.

As afore said Madu ganga is a paradise of birds, snails, crabs, fish etc. Mada kakuluwa, Thani Anda Kakuluwa, Kalapu kakuluwa, are some crab varieties found in Madu ganga. In the mornings and in the evenings Madu ganga is a paradise of birds. Kadol Koka (Little Green Heron), Ali Kokka (Egret), Mudu Lihiniya (Terns and Gulls), Silibillan (Sand Pipers) are common with King Fishers.

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AS AFORE SAID MADU GANGA IS A PARADISE OF BIRDS, SNAILS, CRABS, FISH ETC. MADA KAKULUWA, THANI ANDA KAKULUWA, KALAPU KAKULUWA, ARE SOME CRAB VARIETIES FOUND IN MADU GANGA.

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DESTINATIONS / M A D U

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G A N G A - A P O P U L A R B O AT I N G D E S T I N AT I O N F O R T H E A D V E N T U R O U S

Madu ganga mangroves are home for fish, prawns and crabs as their nurseries. Adults come to Madu ganga mangroves from sea to lay their eggs among mangrove plant roots. But sadly, mangroves today have grown to become another plant species that is facing endangerment due to the careless felling behavior that have been attributed to man.

Sri Lanka alone has lost about 76% of mangrove forests over the past 100 years. But, according to a report by the British Broadcasting Corporation that was made over a year ago, Sri Lanka was named as the first country in the world to have set up a scheme with the purpose of protecting mangroves.

Apart from the flora and fauna of the area, the mangroves also provide a sinister and yet relaxing feeling where visitors tend to go on boat rides that take them under the shade of these amazing entities.

Apart from that, the Madu Ganga also offers a number of other recreational options such as experiencing the vast ecosystem of the wetlands, getting a foot massage at fish massage stalls that have been set up and where visitors can dip their feet into the stalls for a relaxing though ticklish experience.

The mangroves have also, at one point, been acknowledged to have helped against soil erosion whilst also proving essential against epidemics such as the tsunami as the mangroves helped protect the region by acting out as a natural barrier. The swampy area that is covered with the mangrove habitat has immensely helped in nurturing over 300 species out of which 19 have been known as endemic to the region.

Apart from the mangroves, history was also made when the Amarapura sector’s first Buddhist higher ordination ceremony or the ‘Upasampada’ took place on a fleet on the Madu Ganga in the year 1803. Visitors also stand enamored by the sight of a Buddhist Temple on the islet Koth Duwa, where history was also made there. It is known to have dated back to the days of kings where two other islets from this archipelago have known to have provided refuge to two different kings; King Dhathusena and King Mugalan at one point in time.

SCENIC MADHU SAFARI “Scenic Madhu Safari” offers wonderful boat safari experience along the waterways of Madhu River. Scenic Madhu Safari is giving you an unique occasion to explore the hidden beauty of the river that you never get to experience with other service providers. By joining Scenic Madhu Safari you can avoid rush in the town. Scenic Madhu Safari assures you a unique boating experience with utmost comfort. Scenic Madhu Safari will take you to most beautiful landscapes of the river that you will never get an opportunity to experience the diversity of the river with any other boat services. Most of the boat services don’t offer long boating services covering all beautiful landscapes of the river. Scenic Madhu Safari is operating from a village which shared a boundary with Madhu Ganga where you can avoid rush for boating in the town and experience despoiled nature scenery.

Website: www.scenicmadu.com Face book: www.facebook.com/ ScenicMadu Contact numbers: +94 71 3071614 +94 76 6067738 (Dinuka Lakmal)

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TRANQUILIT / YATA G A L A

R A J A M A H A V I H A R AYA

YATAGALA

RAJA MAHA VIHARAYA Text & Photography: Indaka Karunadasa

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DIRECTION:

GALLE. GALLE-MATARA (A-2) MAIN ROAD, UNAWATUNA, ERAMUDUGAHA JUNCTION (NEAR THE UNAWATUNA POST OFFICE). TURN LEFT FROM THE ERAMUDUGAHA JUNCTION INTO HEENATIGALA ROAD AND AGAIN TURN INTO HORAPEWANCHAWALA ROAD. IT’S 2KM FROM UNAWATUNA RAILWAY STATION OR FROM ERAMUDUGAHA JUNCTION AND 45MIN TO 1 HOUR WALK OR 15 TO 25 MINUTES BY A VEHICLE.

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The Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya is located near the UNESCO World Heritage city, in proximity to the world famous Unawatuna Beach. For those who visit the World Heritage City, the Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya is a must visit Buddhist Cave temple. Located on a hillock facing a paddy field, the name ‘Yatagala’ derives from native Sinhalese words ‘Yata’ – (below), ‘Gala’ – (rock), symbolic of it being under or below the rock.

ACCORDING TO HISTORICAL RECORDS THE YATAGALA RAJA MAHA VIHARAYA WAS FIRST ESTABLISHED WHEN KING DEVANAMPIYATISSA RULED THE COUNTRY FROM ANURADHAPURA. IT IS SAID THAT OF THE THIRTY TWO BODHI TREE SAPLINGS ORIGINATING FROM SRI MAHA BODHI TREE, ONE HAD BEEN PLANTED AT YATAGALA; PRESENT EVEN TODAY.

According to historical records the Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya was first established when king Devanampiyatissa ruled the country from Anuradhapura. It is said that of the thirty two Bodhi tree saplings originating from Sri Maha Bodhi tree, one had been planted at Yatagala; present even today. History also states that when King Parakramabahu II (1234-1269 AC) who reigned from Dambadeniya, learnt about the Bodhi tree at Yatagala, he ordered his minister Devapathiraja to erect an 18 cubit reclining Buddha’s statue (at Yatagala), which further added to the prestige given to the Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya even today.

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TRANQUILIT / YATA G A L A

R A J A M A H A V I H A R AYA

Upon entering the premises and ascending the flights of stairs, visitors enter a large terrace where a Bodhi tree, the Yatagala Image house, a standing Buddha statue and Dagaba are found.

Behind the Bodhi tree is a boulder garden, where one can walk along the paved pathways under huge boulders. It is interesting that at a one end of the boulder garden are clear pestle marks, which tells a story of it being originally belonging to an inscription by King Ravana.

The image house, tiled with decorative Chinese marble, contains sitting, standing and reclining Buddha’s statues as well as wall paintings on the rock walls and canopy. It is also historically noted that one of the resident monks, Rev Ketagoda

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Thero in 1795 AC, during the reign of King Kirtisri Rajasinghe in Kandy, constructed a Buddha Statue with a combination of five alloys and brought the statute to the boundary of the Kandyan kingdom.

Being impressed by the statue and its impeccable craftsmanship, the king had donated two gems for the statue to be used as eyes. To present, this statue can be venerated at the image house at the Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya.

The statues at the Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya are abundant, with yet another standing Buddha statue, resembling the Auvkana Buddha statue found adjacent to the image house. Past documentary reveals that this statue was erected in the same place which once housed a

THERO IN 1795 AC, DURING THE REIGN OF KING KIRTISRI RAJASINGHE IN KANDY, CONSTRUCTED A BUDDHA STATUE WITH A COMBINATION OF FIVE ALLOYS AND BROUGHT THE STATUTE TO THE BOUNDARY OF THE KANDYAN KINGDOM.

carved statue, which had faded due to the inadequacy of the rock used.

There had also been a small dagaba; erected by the king Parakramabahu II of Dambadeniya, on an octagonal stage, with resemblance of 16 elephants holding up the dagaba. However, in 1991 Don Bastian Samaranayake had erected the present dagaba by covering the small dagaba as a ‘Kanchuka Dagaba’. The temple premises also had a Buddhist chapter house with Kandian style three roofs. According to the residential monk there were few ancient stone inscriptions but, unfortunately all the inscriptions had been destroyed over time.

For those interested in rich Buddhist Heritage, a stopover at the Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya is a must do for the traveler going down south!

Contact number: (temple) +94 91 2222199

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BALLY'S CASINO

Valentine Day celebration

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EXPLORE / T H E

W O R L D O F FA I R Y TA L E S S R I L A N K A N W I L D M U S H R O O M S

THE WORLD OF FAIRY TALES

SRI LANKAN WILD MUSHROOMS Text & Pix: Indaka Karunadasa

Travelling through the dense undergrowth, one is likely to come across wild mushrooms scattered among the fallen foliage. While mushrooms prefer more moist and shady environments, they are usually found growing in soil, or on wood or decomposed materials, in vivid shapes, colours and patterns.

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W O R L D O F FA I R Y TA L E S S R I L A N K A N W I L D M U S H R O O M S

A

A. FLASK MUSHROOM B. SHAGGY PARASAL – POHORA HATHU C. COMMON EARTH BALL MUSHROOM D. GANODERMA LUCIDEN VARIETY E. WHITE JELLY MUSHROOM F. PUFF BALL

B

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E

F

C

D

Mushrooms are neither plant nor animal, but belong to the fungi kingdom. Unlike plants, chlorophyll is not present in their system; instead their nutrients are obtained from non-living organic matter.

Growing in a variety of shapes and sizes, mushrooms are able to grow as umbrella shapes, puffballs, truffles, brackets, cups, birds’ nests, and can even resemble fruits.

As mushrooms do not possess an outer skin, its internal moisture is rapidly lost to the atmosphere allowing it to dry easily.

Germination occurs through spores, rather than seeds, and mushrooms consist of a stem and a cup, and roots, known as hyphae.

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W O R L D O F FA I R Y TA L E S S R I L A N K A N W I L D M U S H R O O M S

G

G. GANODERMA LUCIDEN VARIETY H. LENA PAHURU BIMMAL I. KUDA HATHU – SMALL MUSHROOM J. WEHI BIMMAL (RAIN MUSHROOM) K. SINAHA HATHU – LAUGHING MUSHROOM (POISONOUS) L. GANODERMA LUCIDEN VARIETY

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H

J

I

K

L

Mushrooms can be broadly classified into three primary segments: edible mushrooms, medicinal mushrooms and poisonous mushrooms. Edible mushrooms are considered to have numerous health benefits. Such mushrooms consist of vitamin B supplements such as Niacin and Riboflavin, and also carry the additional advantage of having the highest protein content than any other vegetable variety.

They are also low in fat content with low calories.

Particularly following rainy weather, upon close examination, one can find thousands of mushrooms appeared around damp and shady areas around Sri Lanka. In fact, Sri Lanka boasts of many varieties of mushrooms, namely Sri Lankan Agaricales (Gill Fungi), Sri Lankan Aphylloporales, Sri Lankan Auriculariaceae (Slime Fungi), Sri Lankan Tremellales (Jelly Fungi), Sri Lankan Gasteromycetales (Earth Balls and Puff Balls) and Ascomycetes (Cup Fungi).

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W O R L D O F FA I R Y TA L E S S R I L A N K A N W I L D M U S H R O O M S

‘Wehi Bimmal’- (Rainy Mushroom) is an edible variety of mushroom that grows on decaying wood. The ‘Common Ink Cap’ mushrooms can be found on decaying hardwood logs as well as stumps. ‘Lena Pahuru Bimmal’ is found growing on decaying wood logs in clusters and is an edible mushroom, first identified by Berkely and Broom in 1873. The ‘Shaggy Parasol’ of ‘Pohora Bimmal’ are found on grassy lands, and are most commonly seen growing in groups. ‘Kuda Hathu’ (Umbrella Mushrooms) are a small mushroom variety grown mostly on decaying compost heaps and can be found in large groups.

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‘White Jelly Mushrooms’ are usually found during the rainy seasons growing on the barks of dead trees. Another type is the ‘Youdha Piyaru Bimmal’ which is a ball shaped mushroom variety. Sizes vary, but some can grow up to the size of a tennis ball. When matured, the puff ball produces spore powder. A smaller variety of puff ball mushrooms exist as well. ‘Nai Bimmal’ or ‘Stinkhorn Mushroom’, also known as the Hawaii’s Orgasm Mushroom is slightly different in appearance, consisting of a hollow stalk with a chambered wall and a bell shaped cap. Stinkhorn mushrooms are present in a wide range of colours. Another type of mushroom known as ‘Flask Fungi’ can also be found on dead tree trunks.

‘Pethi Hathu’ are usually found growing on living and dead plants’ remains, while ‘Fomes Mushrooms’ can be found on decaying wood barks. It is said that Fomes Mushrooms can be used as medicinally as they possess many health properties. ‘Sponge Mushrooms’ can be found primarily in shady areas, usually growing on decaying wood barks and decomposed compost piles.

The sole museum relating to mushrooms in Sri Lanka can be found at Horticultural Research and Development Institute at Gannoruwa, Peradeniya, Kandy.

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CELEBRATIONS / I N T E R N AT I O N A L M O U N TA I N DAY C E L E B R AT I O N S I N H A P U T H A L E , S R I L A N K A

International

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ain Day Celebrations in Haputhale, Sri Lanka

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The International Mountain Day, designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003, is celebrated on the 11th of December every year.

In 2002, the year was declared as the ‘Year of Mountains’ by the United Nations General Assembly and since then, every year is commemorated with different themes. The theme for 2016 was ‘Mountain Cultures: celebrating diversity and strengthening identity’.

In one of its many awareness programs conducted in many regions around the world, a similar program was held in Haputale recently. It was introduced to Sri Lanka in 2010 by Mr. Asanka Rathnayake and Mr. Ranjith Karmegam of the Prabawa Organization based in Haputhale.

Hapuhtale is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and is 1431 meters above sea level. Haputhale is more popular among tourists as it has one of the finest panoramic view points such as Lipton’s seat and many other tourist hot spots.

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The program was held near the Haputale Hindu Cultural Centre, in front of the Sri Kadiravelayuth Swami Kovil, along the Colombo road. All participants which consisted of school and university students, environmental lovers, media personnel and locals, climbed the 1765m Haputhale Mountain.

From the Haputhale town along Colombo road, the journey continued through Dambetenna road and the Thotalagala Bio Tea Estate. The mountain top is a famous view point and has a perfect view of parts of the Central, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Eastern and Uva provinces. It was also named as 'Prabawa Mountain View Point' recently.

An awareness program on protecting mountains was also held along with discussions on traditional

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heritage, tea cultures and on indigenous and local populations.

Haputhale, especially Haldummulla, is a town of great importance as it has a prehistorical burial site near Haldummulla Tamil School and a Galapita Gala face. It is also the first city to be established by the British in the hills of Haputhale.

There are a few traditional villages around Haputhale, and they have unique knowledge and traditional cultural practices. Tea estate workers have another unique tea cultural tradition along with traditional cultural practices. The British mined Graphite mines are also visible in the area with another traditional cultures.

The Haldummulla fort, Welanhinna fort are other heritages in the area along with ancient temples, Hindu Kovils and Churches.

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FAITH / T H E

B A D U L L A K ATA R A G A M D E WA L AYA I N S R I L A N K A

The Badulla Kataragam Dewalaya in Sri Lanka

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DIRECTION:

BADULLA TOWN (IN FRONT OF THE UVA PROVINCIAL COUNCIL BUILDING). THE MAIN ENTRANCE IS ALONG LOWER STREET, BADULLA.

T

The Badulla Kataragam Dewalaya is ranked as the biggest KataragamDewalaya in Sri Lanka. It is devoted to God Kataragama also known as ‘Skanda’. God Kataragama was a warrior in India and Sri Lanka.

The Badulla Kataragam Dewalaya is located on a higher elevation in between the Pattini Dewalaya and the administrative building of the Kataragama Dewalaya when entering from the Lower Street main entrance.

It is said that King WimaladharmasooriyaI (15901604 AC) erected this Dewalaya and according to available historical information, after he was appointed as the King of Kandy in 1584, the Portuguese war troops attacked the Kandy City which is also known as the great war in Balana and Kadugannawa, where the King was defeated.

Thereafter he fled with the Tooth Relic to Badulla crossing Weeragantota after hiding the Tooth relic near the Ududumbara village. At that time Badulla was a sub kingdom. When the king Wimaladharmasooriya I, reached Badulla sub kingdom, the king was welcomed by the sub king Eepa.

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B A D U L L A K ATA R A G A M D E WA L AYA I N S R I L A N K A

However, King Wimaladharmasooriya I reorganized troops for a battle against the Portuguese and he vowed to God Kataragama the Skanda that he would end victorious which he did and thereafter erected the Badulla Kataragama Dewalaya. A few years later, the Portuguese destroyed this Dewalaya but was rebuilt during the reign of King Senarath (1635-1687 AC) which was later patronized by King RajasingheII. This Dewalaya has the largest ‘Dig Ge’ (A Pavilion) which is 188 feet long and an inner shrine house which is also named as 'Maligawa'. The

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THIS DEWALAYA HAS THE LARGEST ‘DIG GE’ (A PAVILION) WHICH IS 188 FEET LONG AND AN INNER SHRINE HOUSE WHICH IS ALSO NAMED AS ‘MALIGAWA’. THE OUTER WALLS OF THE INNER SHRINE HAS MANY WALL PAINTINGS WHICH BELONGS TO KANDYAN ERA.

outer walls of the inner shrine has many wall paintings which belongs to Kandyan era. The Dewalaya has a beautiful wood carvings also from the Kandyan era with five moonstones carved into stones. The ’Sinhasana Mandapaya’ – where the king look Dewalaya Procession, also has many wood carvings from the Kandyan era. The Sinhasana Mandapaya too lies about 100 meters away from the premises.

The Dewalaya also displays a pair of elephant tasks which was donated by Weera Keppetipola in 1818 and many other archeological valued objects such as a Bodhi tree, an administrative building and a stone carved water pot.

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

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RELAXATION / 'VILLA 46' TO ENTICE THE SHORES OF HIKKADUWA

‘Villa 46’ TO ENTICE THE SHORES OF HIKKADUWA

Text by: Yohan Diaz

‘Villa 46’ is the latest attraction in Hikkaduwa, owned by Sri Lankan cricketing legend Marvan Atapattu. The villa caters to outdoor enthusiasts, frequent travelers and beach lovers as it is the perfect getaway and hideaway.

Located exactly an hour away from the highway, the beautiful boutique villa is conveniently fitted into the southern coastal belt while it blends into its surroundings. Upon entering the premises, one walks through a pathway of Araliya and Daffodil flowers which opens up to a spacious living area that is completely furnished with ‘Kos and Kumbuk’ wood. The interior is simple yet elegant and was designed by Marvans’ beloved wife, Neluni Atapattu. A teacher by profession, Neluni had given special attention to details, each with its own unique story as it blends into the atmosphere.

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All the four rooms namely; Araliya, Orchid, Manel and Nelum, are compact and cosy and has been designed with a perfect view of the ocean. Each and every room has been tastefully furnished with common amenities and features such as double beds, a modern bathroom and a satellite TV. The large living area in the upper deck of the Villa is equipped with a bar to unwind and a TV lounge with a DVD library with the sole intension of keeping children occupied.

The specialty of the property is that guests are entitled to their own privacy as the villa has been specially designed to access all

four rooms with separate entrances to accommodate guests with no intrusion.

The dining experience is out of this world as it is situated a few meters away from the shore. The entire experience is filled with the hustle and bustle of the waves, tingling ones senses into a calm and relaxed state. At dusk, one is invited to the shores to experience beautiful Sri Lanka at its best as the sunset becomes the main attraction of the whole experience. While the colour and ambience of the sky changes to suit ones state of mind, the pool also takes centre stage as it takes the façade of the coastal belt.

The overall concept was intended to accommodate families as the idea was to transform the plot of land to entertain friends and family. But it went beyond their expectations as the scenic view and atmosphere led them to transform it into a boutique villa. The name ‘Villa 46’ carries great significance as it is Marvans’ national jersey number as he goes down in history as the 46th test player of Sri Lanka.

The property is fully managed by the Attapattu’s and the first few callers are entitled to receive a special discount at an introductory price.

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EVENTS / THE EARL’S COURT GROUP LAUNCHES THE ULTIMATE MULTI-CUISINE RESTAURANT THE BLACK PEPPER

THE EARL’S COURT GROUP LAUNCHES THE ULTIMATE MULTI-CUISINE RESTAURANT

THE BLACK PEPPER

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range and black was the name of the game as the Earl’s Court Group took their first leap into the restaurant industry, and what a leap it was. Officially launched on the 26th of January 2017, the ‘BLACK PEPPER’ brings the very best cuisines from the four corners of the island to Colombo in a mouthwatering fusion of modern and traditional styles.

The combination of two grand monarchs, Black Pepper, the King of Spice and the Ruler of the Crustaceans, the Crab, make up the restaurant’s magnum opus. As a popular local delicacy, Crab holds a special place upon many a palette, whilst black pepper is known for the strength of its exceptional flavor and aroma. Together the two make up the restaurant’s signature dish – the succulent and fiery, Black Pepper Crab. The menu also features a number of authentic and modern seafood dishes, including the notorious Jaffna Crab curry, garlic butter prawns in Cantonese style, the Tangalle seer fish curry and the chili Crab in Singaporean style.

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The restaurant is made up of two levels, complete with a bar and show kitchen, which allows guests to watch, as their meals are prepared.

All dishes served at ‘BLACK PEPPER’ are prepared using nothing short of the best local produce.

Speaking at the opening on Thursday, Mr. Emal Gunasekara warmly welcomed the gathering and expressed his delight and pride at the accomplishment of the Group’s first venture in the restaurant industry.

Having ventured into the hospitality industry in 2000 with the inauguration of the Earl’s Regency hotel in the central hills, The Earl’s Court Group is a diversified business located in Sri Lanka with financial services and hotel management being their core businesses.

Visit www.blackpeppercolombo. lk or call 0112 320544 for more information

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EVENTS / BRITISH COSMETICS CELEBRATES STUDENT

GRADUATION WITH FASHION EXTRAVAGANZA

British Cosmetics celebrates student graduation with fashion extravaganza

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ritish Cosmetics, Sri Lanka’s premier hair and beauty care provider held its annual student graduation at the Hilton Residencies. Chief Guest on the occasion was Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Education Mr. Anuradha Wijekoon and the Guests of Honour were Commercial Specialist of the US Embassy Mr. Adrian Mendus, Regional Director (South Asia) City & Guilds Mr. Mufthy Hashim, Director of the TVEC Mr. Vajira Perera, entrepreneur and award-winning actress Mrs. Sangeetha Weeraratne among an august gathering of distinguished guests.

British Cosmetics -Colour designed by Staff

The evening also saw British Cosmetics celebrate its students’ graduation with a fashion extravaganza in line with its credo to celebrate learning and its success. The graduation ceremony comprised a gala fashion extravaganza featuring psychedelic creations by the talented students in six varied segments named Beach, Fire, Floral, Bird, Sky, and Metal, choreographed by former super model and Miss. Sri Lanka Rozanne Diasz Leanage.

British Cosmetics - Graduating Class of 2016

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British Cosmetics - Fantasy Creation

The trainers of the British Cosmetics Academy, Nail Techs and the Salon Staff of British Cosmetics also added colour and vibrancy to the evening with a ‘Cut and Colour’ segment which featured the variety of the British Cosmetics’ portfolio of colour products.

The celebratory soiree culminated in a spectacular ‘Evening Wear’ section

by Ruchira Karunaratne of Rebel and an equally breathtaking ‘Bridal Collection’ by Ruchira and Michael Wijesuriya.

Speaking on the occasion, CEO/Technical Director of British Cosmetics Mrs. Nirosha Jagodaarachchi said that the Academy was proud to empower its graduating students to face the world as fully-fledged professionals.

“We have imparted to you all our knowledge with passion. Together with our international partners we have exposed you to the highest international standards. Today you showcase your talent on stage and go out into the world, fully empowered and with your heads held up high”.

“The Academy has been in demand by hundreds of students who have sought to excel in the local hair and beauty care industry. We were all eager to learn various methodologies in this field and broaden our horizons as we step into an adventurous and ever-evolving career. We are indeed very fortunate to have been guided by industry experts,” said Dhaneeka Goonethilleke, who echoed the common sentiments of her graduating batch.

British Cosmetics -Colour designed by Staff

British Cosmetics counts 19 years of experience in the industry and is led by Dimuth and Nirosha Jagodaarachchi, the experienced professionals in the industry. It is committed to furthering the success story of the Sri Lankan cosmetics industry by scaling new heights of personal beauty care and lifestyle.

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EVENTS / 24TH PRODEXPO INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION

24th PRODEXPO International Exhibition

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February 06, 2017 marked the opening of the 24th PRODEXPO International Exhibition which will be held in Moscow until February 10, 2017. It is the largest annual specialized exhibition in Russia and Eastern Europe focused on food, beverages and raw materials.

The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Russia organized three colourful stands with the support of the Sri Lanka Tea Board and the Sri Lanka Export Development Board.

On the first day of the exhibition Hon. Navin Dissanayake, Minister of Plantation Industries of Sri Lanka, Mr. Rohan Pethiyagoda, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tea Board, and H. E. Dr. Saman Weerasinghe, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Russia, officially opened Sri Lankan stands and met with representatives of Sri Lankan companies participating in the exhibition in sectors of tea, fisheries, and exports.

The exhibition is known to be a great and efficient platform to establish direct business connections between Russian and Sri Lankan companies and to improve bilateral trade and economic relations between the two countries in general.

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EVENTS / MLHG SPONSORS 10TH TRAVEL TRADE SPORTS CLUB BEACH VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016

MLHG SPONSORS 10TH TRAVEL TRADE SPORTS CLUB BEACH VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS 2016

The 10th Travel Trade Sports Club Beach Volleyball Championships 2016 sponsored by Mount Lavinia Hotel Group and hosted

by Club Bentota for the 5th successive year, concluded on 11th February 2017, at Paradise Island, Aluthgama.

“Cup” Championship Winner, Club Bentota “A” Team players, Sasitha Dhananjaya (extreme right) and Sanju Samodana (2nd from right) receiving the Trophy from the General Manager of Club Bentota, Chinthaka Daluwatte; also in the picture is N.V.S. Kumara, Head of HR , Club Bentota.

“Cup” Championships Runners-up, Club Bentota “C” players, A.S. Chandimal Silva (extreme right) & Sumith Pradeep Kumara (2nd from right) receiving the Trophy from Chinthaka Daluwatte, General Manager – Club Bentota.

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A I R L I N E S W E L C O M E S T H E S O P H I S T I C AT E D A I R B U S A 3 2 0 N E O T O I T S F L E E T

SriLankan Airlines welcomes the sophisticated Airbus A320neo to its fleet

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riLankan Airlines has commenced the induction of the first of its latest Airbus aircraft. The A320neo arriving today, February 27th will be the first of the A320neo and A321neo family aircraft in its fleet. The introduction of these newgeneration aircraft will help enhance its exceptional service standards for passengers and serve to align its fleet to the airline’s new strategic focus on Asia and the Middle East. The addition of seven brand new wide body A330-300 aircraft in 2016 greatly enhanced its long haul fleet and passengers can now enjoy more comfortable seats, a state-of-the-art entertainment system, excellent in-flight cuisine, and flight attendants famed for their warmth and caring.

Ajith Dias, Chairman of SriLankan Airlines, said: “Our airline realigned its strategic focus during the last quarter of 2016 to capitalise on market opportunities in the rapidly growing travel and tourism industry in Asia, which included the launch of services to 11 new destinations throughout the Indian Ocean and Middle East regions. The arrival of the A320neo and A321neo aircraft will better align our fleet to this objective, as these aircraft are more suited to our medium haul operations, while we already possess an excellent fleet of A330 aircraft for our long haul routes.”

Captain Suren Ratwatte, Chief Executive Officer of SriLankan Airlines, said: “ Equipped with these aircraft and coupled with our award winning service, we will have the capability to delight our customers even further.The Neo-series has been designed to provide significantly lower fuel consumption and lower operating costs through more modern engines, aerodynamic refinements, large curved winglets, known as sharklets, and weight savings. It also features cabin improvements such as more passenger seats, larger hand luggage spaces and an improved air purification system, as well as reduced engine noise levels and a significantly increased flying range.”

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NEWS / C E L E B R AT I N G 8 Y E A R S , B H A R T I A I R T E L C O M M I T S T O E M P O W E R T H E YO U T H O F S R I L A N K A

Celebrating 8 Years, Bharti Airtel commits to empower the youth of Sri Lanka APPOINTS POOJA UMASHANKAR TO SPEARHEAD YOUTH EMPOWERMENT ACTIVITIES Aims to further improve its fastest mobile 3G internet status Rewards the first few customers with lifetime free calls on its network

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harti Airtel, the third largest telecommunications and network operator in the world with a footprint in over 18 countries recently celebrated its 8th Anniversary in Sri Lanka with a commitment to further empower the youth.

Since its inception in January 2009, Bharti Airtel Lanka with an investment of approximately LKR 64 billion has built a formidable network in the country.

According to the recently published Internet Speed Test Results by the Telecommunication Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka, Airtel is the “fastest” among

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POOJA UMASHAKAR –BRAND AMBASSADOR OF BHARTI AIRTEL LANKA POSING WITH Mr. JINESH HEGDE - CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER /MANAGING DIRECTOR – BHARTI AIRTEL LANKA

all 3G networks in the island. The brand has also been acclaimed as one of the most preferred mobile telecommunication brand among the youth of Sri Lanka. With a view to further strengthen their brand promise to ‘EMPOWER THE YOUTH’, Airtel has named the countries much adored actress Pooja Umashankar as their Brand Ambassador for the year 2017. Pooja, widely acclaimed for winning the hearts the youth of this country, will spearheads Airtel’s youth empowerment programmes.

Further as part of the festivities, Airtel and its business partners awarded the some of their first customers with a lifetime of free calls within the Airtel network.

Mr. Jinesh Hegde, the CEO/MD of Bharti Airtel Lanka speaking at the event said “Airtel wouldn’t be where it is without the support of its subscribers. To uphold our promise to them of 40% faster internet, we have expanded our 3g reach by 40% over the last two years; and will constantly strive to bring in technologies that will keep us in that position. Welcoming renowned actress Poojah Umashankar onboard he added that “Pooja will help cement Airtel’s position as the most preferred telecom service provider among the youth of Sri Lanka.”

Commenting on her partnership with Bharti Airtel Lanka, Pooja Umashankar said, “I have always had passion for helping people, and I am thrilled to be associated with a brand who has long since demonstrated a similar passion. Together we will provide more opportunities for the youth of Sri Lanka to develop themselves and get closer to their dreams, no matter which corner of the country they may be in.”

ABOUT BHARTI AIRTEL LANKA Bharti Airtel Lanka commenced commercial operations of services in Sri Lanka on January 12, 2009, and was the fastest operator to reach 1 million customers in Sri Lanka. With its network footprint panned out across the country and capturing strategic ranking positions in various areas in less than three years of operations, Airtel has emerged as Sri Lanka’s fastest expanding network. Registered under the Board of Investment in Sri Lanka, Airtel Lanka provides digital mobile services into Sri Lanka which includes voice, data and enterprise solutions. The Company has received accreditations such as ISO 27001:2005 and ISO 22301 for its continuous efforts towards information security and business continuity.

NEWS / S R I

LANKA GOES AROUND THE WORLD WITH ‘’ECLECTIC PRESSE’’

SRI LANKA GOES AROUND THE WORLD WITH ‘’ECLECTIC PRESSE’’ eclectic presse filming the sri lankan locations

A French Media Crew from the French TV channel ‘’ Eclectic Presse’’, in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Embassy in France, arrived in Sri Lanka recently to give a full coverage on the island nation’s beauty and cultural aspects, for the travel programme , ‘’ Sri Lanka Le Nouvel Eldorado’’( Sri Lanka the new El Dorado’’) which is a documentary programme based on the beauty of Sri Lanka , and also the lifestyles of the French settled in the country.

They filmed the key attractions of the country till the 26th of February. On their arrival they paid a visit to the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and met the chairman, Mr. Paddy Withana, to discuss about their intention of promoting Sri Lanka’s natural wonders and promoting the paradise island as an attractive tourist destination. During their stay they filmed the beautiful beaches and landscapes, Regata at Weligama bay, Shipyard School with Children, Knuckles mountain range and conduct a few short interviews with some of the French and local nationals who live in Sri Lanka. Those were some of the key areas which they focused on.

Eclectic Presse is a media channel which provides documentaries for all mainstream TV channels such as Canal Plus, Arte, France Television and TF1. Therefore, it targets a very large audience. This of course will be a great opportunity to showcase Sri Lanka as a remarkable tourist destination to the rest of the world, blessed with all the natural and cultural resources, with everything compact and a large diversity. It will also be a great chance to strengthen the cultural and bilateral ties between the two countries, enabling a strong partnership. The interviews they held with the French nationals living here will be an interesting part of the documentary with all their positive remarks of the country and how they enjoy living in Sri Lanka. They have established themselves here to start independent businesses of their own, and enjoy the relaxed lifestyle. On this documentary they express how they feel it to be here. They express how relaxing they find it here, and how different it is from the busy and hectic lifestyle of Europe.

With Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Mr. Paddy Withana.

During their stay, accommodation was provided by Atyque Lanka. International media crews as these visiting Sri Lanka will mean a bigger boost for the tourism sector, since the country will be promoted as a preferable holiday destination through international media. According to the documentary, every year, 80,000 French tourists visit Sri Lanka. Each year, the number of arrivals increase. In 2016, tourist arrivals from France were recorded as 96,440, which was an 12% increase compared to the same period in the year 2015.

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NEWS / KEELLS SUPER INTRODUCES “SUPER FRESH CHICKEN” - BEST IN FRESHNESS, TASTE AND NUTRITION

Keells Super Introduces

“Super Fresh Chicken” best in Freshness, Taste and Nutrition The dynamic supermarket chain, Keells Super in their quest to ensure that customers get the best in freshness and nutrition, recently launched their latest produce in the meats range by introducing ‘Super Fresh Chicken’ across all their 60 plus outlets, islandwide.

Speaking about the latest offering, Mr. Gihan Cooray, President Retail of John Keells Holdings, said “We are committed to providing customers with the best in quality and nutrition with our fresh produce. We always strive to excel by consistently delivering fresh produce and with this initiative we are taking our freshness promise forward, by providing our customers with ‘Super Fresh Chicken’ which is not just tastier, but also nutritious.”

“Keells Super is the only supermarket to have Super Fresh Chicken,” said Mr. Charitha Subasinghe, CEO of Keells Super and Executive Vice President of John Keells Holdings. The stringent hygienic standards practiced from the farm to Keells Super ensure that quality is maintained throughout the process. “In order to retain its freshness the meat is packaged in a controlled atmosphere. The chicken is transported from the farm to Keells Super within 24 hours, through a temperature-controlled distribution system known as a “Cold Chain.” This temperature is further maintained at Keells Super to ensure customers get the freshest and highest quality chicken” he added.

"Fresh chicken retains its texture and nutrients. It is also juicier and tastier, making it a great addition to your meals” stated Sigrid De Silva, Senior Dietician and Adviser on Nutrition for Keells Super.

At Keells Super, freshness is part of their identity, with each and every supplier, employee and the management committed to offering customers fresh products that meet the highest quality standards. Keells Super has extended their ‘fresh promise’ a step further, by focusing on the best in nutrition and taste, and adhering to quality practices in order to provide the freshest products. Customers have always trusted Keells Super for the quality of its products and can continue to do so knowing that at Keells Super, freshness is always a priority. Try out the Fresh Chicken at Keells Super, and taste the goodness today.

Keells Super - The Standard of Freshness.

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