Tresure island magazine feb march 2016

VOL-02 ISSUE 09

LKR 250.00 US $ 3 SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND | FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016

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CONSULTANT EDITOR Renuka Bandaranayake SUB EDITOR Sara Pathirana

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CONTRIBUTORS FROM MAIDEN ISSUE Prof. Rohana P. Mahaliyanaarachchi Dept. of Agri Business Management of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka

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Dr. Iraj Rathayake Dept. of Tourism Management of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka Chamalka Kothalawala - Taxidermist, National Museums,Colombo Sri Lanka Sri Lanka Tourism National Museums Colombo

CONTRIBUTE WRITERS Indaka Karunadasa Kalharie Pitigala Sara Pathirana Subhadra Sooriyaarachchi Mihiri N. Peiris S. V. Wijeratne

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PHOTOGRAPHY Kawya Sawmini Warna Liyanawatte Suranga Cooray Rohan Karunarathna CREATIVE & LAYOUTS MERC MEDIA (Pvt) Ltd. DISTRIBUTION AND LOGISTICS Global Media Holdings (Pvt)Ltd. PRINTING Commercial Printing & Packaging (Pvt) Ltd Opinions expressed in Sri Lanka The Treasure Island are those of writers, and may not necessarily be the view of Global Media Holdings (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 Holdings (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

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12 My magical Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a magical place

and for many Poles it has been known as the land of tea, exotic spices, precious stones, lush nature and wildlife.

20 Opportunities for niche

markets to arise in Sri Lanka

‘Treasure Island’ spoke to the Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism, Paddy Withana regarding their targets for the year 2016 which is the year Sri Lanka is elected under the top ten countries to visit by Fox USA.

22 Wildlife photography

A wildlife photographer’s job is unlike that

of a fashion photographer. To be able to fulfill such a role as that of a wildlife photographer, one needs to attribute themselves with patience, dedication, discipline and know-how. One such wildlife photographer who is proficient in his field is Nayanaka Ranwella.

30 Sri Lankan Stamps

This article is a selection of

35 Venomous Reptiles 39 Birds

in Sri Lanka there are 103 species of

Even Colombo is full of wildlife, though we

Sri Lankan stamps which represent flora and fauna whilst portraying Sri Lankan nature and wildlife at her best

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reptiles. Among these 48 species are endemic to Sri Lanka. And 20 species are categorized as venomous reptiles.

tend to take it for granted and do not seem to realize it. I have been a wildlife enthusiast for a while now, and taking in to hotography as a hobby was a sudden addition to my ife.

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44 Mini World’s End

Madolsima is a small bazaar which sells

48 Medicinal Plants Garden

Ministry of Indigenous Medicines of

52 Mother Nature

Peter Duncan was born to a wealthy

day to day provisions for labourers who work at nearby tea estates. The Madolsima area has a number of lush tea estates, waterfalls, pine forests, paddy fields and mountainousscenic views etc. Madolsima lies in the far end of the Badulla district.

Sri Lanka has five herbal gardens under the Department of Ayurveda.

These are located at Haldummulla (The National Research Medicinal Plants Garden), Girandurukotte, Pattipola, Pallekele and Nawinna (Maharagama).

Independence In Kuwait City 62 Hotel Chandrika 60

The Sri Lanka Embassy in Kuwait celebrated Hotel Chandrika is nestled in the sacred

the 68th Independence Day on a grand scale at the embassy premises in Kuwait City in the morning of February 04th 2016.

family in New Zealand. An economist by profession, he held a Master’s Degree from a reputed University in South Africa and spent the best part of his youth serving the World Bank which led him on to become engaged with many projects in South Africa, Brazil and in various parts of the world.

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Swami Kovil

Sri Kadiravelayutha Swami Kovil is one of the oldest Hindu shrines in the area and lies amidst a misty and panoramic view of the Haputale hills by the side of the Beragala – Haputale main road in Haputale in the Badulla district.

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city of Thissamaharama promises guests with the perfect holiday encompassing wonderful memories that one will cherish.

Rusell’s Viper ( “Thith Polanga” in Sinhala) is one of the mostly venomous reptile in Sri Lanka . It scientifically named as “Daboia Russelii” it can be found until 1500 meters above the mean sea level in Sri Lanka . The venom effects for human nervous system as well as muscles .

Photography by Nayanaka Ranwella

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LEISURE

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My magical

Sri Lanka Text and pix by Alina Kręcisz

Sigiriya rock

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Sri Lanka is a magical place and for many Poles it has been known as the land of tea, exotic spices, precious stones, lush nature and wildlife. It was believed to be a place that promised great adventures and unforgettable experiences. That is why many people want to discover this country on their own.

The distance of 7500 km or 4500 miles between Poland and Sri Lanka takes several hours by plane to cover. Once you embark you can get a first feeling of it thanks to the climate of a high temperature and

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humidity, typical of coastal areas.

However, the upland’s temperature resembles that of summer in Poland, so being there is not so disturbing for many of us.

We had traveled to Asia aiming to find diversity and relaxation and escaping Europe’s intense and speedy life. Indeed, we found a peaceful place, and time to think and about of positive energy.

Two years ago accidently I chose Sri Lanka for my vacations. In fact, I hardly even knew where this country was located nor had I a clear idea of what was to be

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expected of this exotic place. As a photographer I hoped that bringing back some interesting photos from this trip would be worth taking.

Unexpectedly my journey turned out to be a fascinating experience, both with its people and the country itself. I took hundreds of pictures and I recorded hundreds of interesting places during my trip. I came back happy, just to realize that I am hungry for more.

Immediately I knew I had to come back to Sri Lanka. Indeed, since then I had traveled there two more times.

Sri Lanka is an island and

because of its climate it presents to her visitors richness and a great variety of local fauna and flora. I was amazed to see the many species of wild animals and birds, including leopards, bears and elephants at the Yala National Park. However, an unforgettable sighting that left an impression on me was of a group of elephants that I happened to spot at a short distance from me and close to the hotel where I was staying. Their size, their majestic grace and at the same time their fragility were breathtaking.

I extremely enjoyed the lush

and flourishing nature in the national parks and in countryside villages, thanks to artificial water reservoirs that colorfully shaped the local landscapes throughout the country. These extraordinary surroundings had posed a challenge for me as a photographer. I was purposely leaving my hotel where I was staying, in the early hours to capture pictures of the sunrise by the sea or during the awakening of the jungle or nearby village.

Focused on capturing the best images, there were times I kept forgetting how I got there in the place and could not find my way

back to the hotel. Hopefully, there was always somebody to help me.

Nilaveli, Uppuvelli and the coral reef at Pigeon Island displayed picturesque beaches on the north-east coast and did make lasting impressions on me.

Fishing boats with fishermen emptying their net illuminated by the soft rays of the early hour’s sun had left me speechless. I hope I will keep these pictures as hallmarks of a vacation that was spent in Sri Lanka.

Mihintale

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Dambulla Raja Maha Viharaya

Dambulla Raja Maha Viharaya

Abayagiriya Dagaba - Anuradhapura

Thuparamaya dagaba - Anuradhapura

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Tissamaharamaya Dagaba and Tissamaharama tank

Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Mihintale, Dambulla, Sigiriya and Kandy reminded me of several Polish travelers and artists who visited these places in the nineteenth century. I found Anuradaphura, the first capital, the most extraordinary city with its uniqueness; it was a fallen city that once felt empty, taken over by jungle and was rediscovered in the XIX century. It has today become a touristic attraction and its ruins testify how developed this civilization was and the people who had built it.

Galle, Colombo, Trincomalee and Kandy on the other hand, brought me closer to the colonial past and its architecture. Particularly charming was the old part of Galle with its narrow streets around the fort. Sitting with a cup of tea in one of the seaside restaurants I admired a beautiful sunset there.

The taste of tea in Sri Lanka is special to me. This might be due to the water or the freshness of the tea itself or maybe because of the place and the circumstances in which I was drinking it. Or maybe because of the unique pleasures I get in my memorable journeys through the upland areas covered with carpets of tea fields, gilded with the sun and shrouded in the morning mist.

I learned the way tea leaves were collected, I witnessed laborious work of women on the plantations and in the factory, and I got acquainted with the whole production cycle of the various types of tea which is being drunk generally in Poland.

helped me meet people and get to know their lives. In fact, this was not difficult, as many of them had voluntarily asked me to take pictures of them. Occasionally we were doing even selfies together. One of the women that I had photographed invited me for a birthday party of her one-year-old son. I was struck by this extraordinary openness of the local people, by comparison, a rare attitude among people in Europe.

Much in the way I see Sri Lanka now, I believe, I owe to my guide Buddhika Gomis. This is not only showing gratitude to the excellent job he did as being my guide but also due to his kindness and hospitality he showed to me and my friends. It was thanks to his hospitality that let us meet his family, his mother and sister and for the cookery lessons we got on preparing some Sri Lankan dishes that has made me cherish this country in my memory forever.

As a photographer I had tried to express all these feelings and emotions of Sri Lanka and its people through the landscape in my pictures and I can only hope that viewers will relate with it.

Everyone in their travels look for something different. Now, from the perspective of Europe, when I think of Sri Lanka, I believe that the greatest wealth is its people truly welcoming with great energy and calmness, and in some sense similar to the Poles!

Meeting people and conversing with them is the best way to discover a country. It is no doubt popular wisdom. Indeed, I learned a lot about local life and customs from friendly Sri Lankans that I met. Obviously, photography has

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Alina Kręcisz

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Addience hall of king Nissankamalla - Polonnaruwa

Nine arched bridge and No: 40 railway tunnel - Demodara (Ella)

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OPPORTUNITESE

Opportunities for niche markets to arise in

Text by S. V. Wijeratne

expect 2.2 million tourist arrivals this year which is a 26% growth from the tourist arrivals recorded in 2015. The countries we are concentrating on are based on the arrivals we have got, the list is topped by India, secondly China, then United Kingdom and Germany. These are the top four countries from where we get the majority of travellers.

Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism, Paddy Withana

Sri Lankan Tourism has been gathering strength since 2010. Having earned US $ 2.7 billion attracting over 1.9 million tourist arrivals in 2015 the country is heading more towards the tourist sector as it has the potential to provide the Sri Lankan economy the needed support. ‘Treasure Island’ spoke to the Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism, Paddy Withana regarding their targets for the year 2016 which is the

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year Sri Lanka is elected under the top ten countries to visit by Fox USA.

Q: What are your plans for 2016?

A: Sri Lanka is in a good position to attract more tourists to the country, so keeping in mind the trend we thought we might

If you consider these countries, India being our neighbouring land, it is the best to focus on, flying time, cost of flying is less and thus it is a more desirable destination. China has globally become a country where there is a majority of out-bound tourists.

In 2015 data claimed that the amount of Chinese out-bound tourists amounted to 115 million, so it is wise to look into the Chinese market with whom we have continued to maintain a good connectivity.

The European market is the most important market for us, United Kingdom, Germany France has good connectivity with the rest of the world. Thus it would be wise to entrust them with the message of Sri Lankan tourism.

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Q: What are your set targets for 2016?

A: Our Target in terms of Foreign Exchange would be US $ 3.6 billion this year. The tourism industry currently provide carriers for 350,000 people, we hope to increase it by over 20,000 during this year and the next. There are several hotels coming up this year and thus we target to increasing the rooms to 2500 rooms this year. Currently we have close to 40,000 rooms formally and informally.

Q: It was mentioned in several news reports that Sri Lanka should look into getting more Brands into the country. What is your take on that?

A: We do have several well renowned brands in the country, and it would be beneficial to gain more. We need to look into conducting more investor forums so as to show what the country has to offer. Sri Lanka has a lot to offer as one country. One area of the country is completely different from the other. There are a lot of opportunities for niche markets to arise.

Q: What are the policy changers to attract investors?

A: The policies depend on the investment. However concessions were made for items such as water sport equipment. Though the country’s land cannot be owned by a foreign entity the lease is more relaxed. There are many incentives that could encourage investors.

Q: What Kind of trends are you focusing on?

A: We are looking at trends that has great demand among foreigners We have two of the largest Mammals in our country, The elephant and the whale, thus whale watching and wild life tourism could be looked into, we are looking at eco-tourism, Ayurveda, adventure. For investors there is a great opportunity in bringing Golf tourism, cruising, malls, and proper theme parks.

We also hope to focus on Entertainment, that is to say bringing entertainers to the country.

We wish to have more activities that will encourage tourists to visit and perhaps stay longer.

This will also encourage domestic travelling. Many Sri Lankans travel out to see beauty when it could be found locally. We have found that religious trails are highly popular and will gain a good response if focused on.

We are currently looking into how to promote the lagoons in the country. In Sri Lanka we have over 30 lagoons which should be great tourist attractions.

Q: What kind of Infrastructure development should occur?

A: We are trying to implement domestic air travel within the country and develop freeways

from the airport to areas such as Colombo and Kandy. We also need more convention centres to host events.

Q: What can you tell about the latest trend of ‘Poshtels’ in Sri Lanka?

A: Well, that was for backpackers.

However, now we prefer the term ‘Flash Packers’. These tourists aim for comfort but prefer the tours to be of their own making.

They stay longer and therefore contribute more in terms of foreign exchange.

Q: Final Comments?

A: Needless to say tourism can give the country’s economy a significant boost, it develops the country in terms of infrastructure, employment, and domestic travel.

It is a very lucrative sector.

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EXPERIENCE

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Wildlife Photography is more than just clicking away in a

Jungle Nayanaka Ranwella

By Vidheshika Pathirana

A jungle, forest or sanctuary is the natural stage that is set for wildlife photographers to go about with their business. A wildlife photographer’s job is unlike that of a fashion photographer. To be able to fulfill such a role as that of a wildlife photographer, one needs to attribute themselves with patience, dedication, discipline and know-how.

One such wildlife photographer who is proficient in his field is Nayanaka Ranwella. He has been at it for over 10 years and says that it only gets worse for the animals with time especially when it comes to witnessing the plight of these creatures that would end up being victimized due to human carelessness.

“Generally, if you acquire great interest about wildlife then the job becomes easy as long as you are disciplined. Unlike a catwalk ramp, where you cannot get witness real

cats, for this type of photography you need opportunity. You need to understand the consequences and the risks that come with engaging in this role,” Nayanaka said.

Sri Lanka is a country with a rich biodiversity and abundance of wild animals such as leopards, elephants and marine life such as whales. Not just our forests and lands but our coastline and surrounding ocean is full of marine life. “If we are not knowledgeable about what we are taking for granted right now, then there really is no use in doing what we do,” Nayanaka added.

For a wildlife photographer, staying idle for hours on end might sound frustrating at some point but it also gets fulfilling the moment you capture an image that not only one day tends to change the life of the photographer who captured it but also, the creature itself at a moment in its life.

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Nayanaka also disclosed that with a constant presence within the realms of the jungle, someone such as him feels a great bond with the environment around him as well as with the animal in question. Harnessing all relevant equipment and going about his rounds on a regular basis without bringing interference to his role as an Editor for a reputed media house in the country, Nayanaka not only concentrates on the role of visiting places and capturing images but also is on the constant lookout on the welfare of the creatures he forges a bond with.

“There are moments where I can identify particular animals such as leopards to the extent of having constantly observed them, studied them and been present in their territory whenever the time came for an image to be captured,” he acknowledged.

There have been occasions where wild elephants have charged towards him and supportive trackers at electrifying speed that it is almost unbelievable to think that huge creatures such as elephants can tend to move so swiftly at given times. If not for the expertise of a handler or tracker, Nayanaka added that there were many a time he had stared death in the face. “It is a risky role being

a wildlife photographer but you need to have that passion and love for these animals if you want to do the right job,” he further added.

Sometimes, there also happens to be greater advantages of working in this type of field that also tends to benefit these animals. Nayanaka recalled an instance when he was at one time contacted over the phone by a villager who exposed to him about an accident that had occurred in the vicinity. A wildlife officer himself had shot a knee of a famed wild tusker in the area, in defense. The news reached Nayanaka before even relevant authorities were notified of the incident.

This showed the relationship some photographers forge with people in the vicinity and even though Nayanaka had managed to alert the right people to instigate action by transferring a vet to the area and ensuring the animal was comfortable, unfortunately, the elephant had passed away and Nayanaka disclosed that the incident was one of the saddest occurrences in his life as he had been well-acquainted with this elephant in particular as he had used to photograph it a number of times over the years and had felt that he knew the animal very well.

These situations happen thanks to the carelessness and lack of knowledge about the subject at hand. People aggravate the surroundings in the wild and this greatly affects these animals that only keep to themselves. Even jeep safaris are also disturbances for elephants and leopards in particular, who have been many a time been faced with accidents after been hit by passing vehicles in their territory.

Not just the people but there are even some careless and selfish photographers who aim to capture the best image and end up vandalizing the area that the animal in question frequents.

When it comes to occasions where photographers aim to capture bird images, these people end up trimming tree branches that at times serves as a barrier for many types of birds and their fledglings.

“It is a sad situation and unfortunately, occurrence of the negative tends to overshadow the positive aspects of wildlife photography just because people are reckless and selfish,” Nayanaka reiterated. Being out there, Nayanaka explained that he tends to become part of his surroundings. He witnesses their

behaviour and lifestyles, their routines and issues.

His family understands his way of life and his stance in his work as a wildlife photographer and completely supports him with the fact knowing he is constantly out there travelling places and looking for prospective image subjects. Nayanaka disclosed that the younger generation need to understand that these animals have every right to survive and live the way they want and urges the public to consider the welfare of these animals and the need for us humans to live alongside them in harmony.

Nayanaka Ranwella

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HISTORY According to world history the first postal stamps were introduced in Britain in 1840 AD and the first adhesive stamp was introduced on May 6th, 1840 AD. The first Sri Lankan (then Ceylon) stamp was introduced on April 1st, 1857 when Ceylon was under British rule. The first stamp of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) costed six pence and depicted the British Monarch Queen Victoria. The first Sri Lankan rupee stamp was introduced on February 1st, 1892.

After Ceylon became a Republic nation in 1972, the first stamp was introduced in May 22, 1972 with the name change of Ceylon with Sri Lanka.

This article is a selection of such Sri Lankan stamps which represent flora and fauna such as flowers, fish, freshwater fish, coral, sea snails, lizards, frogs, fruits, butterflies, birds, and mammals whilst portraying Sri Lankan nature and wildlife at her best.

n Text a

Indian Laburnum Indian Laburnum is scientifically named as Casaia fistula and “Ehela” in Sinhalese. It is also known as the Golden Shower tree in English. This tree is native to the Indian subcontinent and is a five petalled flower of a yellow colour. The tree grows 15 - 25 meters in height and is found in the dry zone in Sri Lanka. The tree bears flowers from May to August.

This flower is also known as the national flower in Thailand.

Blue Water Lotus Blue water lotus (Water Lily) is scientifically named as Nymphaea stellata and is the national flower of Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

In Sinhalese it is known as “Nil Manel”. The blue water lotus is native to South and East Asian countries. The Blue lotus is a freshwater aquatic plant.

Mrs. McCarthy’s Orchid Mrs. McCarthy’s Orchid is also known as McCarthy’s Dendrobium orchid and is scientifically named as Dendrobium maccarthiae. This is an orchid variety grown in Sri Lanka. The flower is named after Mrs. McCarthy, the English wife of the Colonial Ceylon Governor during the 1880’s. Vesak Mal Orchid is the Sinhalese name for the orchid. The flower lasts for

Wightii’s Bulbophyllum Orchid Wightii’s Bulbophyllum is an orchid variety that is native to Sri Lanka. Scientifically named as Bulbophyllum wightii, the orchid has been named after the English Surgeon and Botanist Wightii.

This orchid variety is found in wet mountainous forests in Sri Lanka.

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dasa

ruana

aka Ka

y Ind d Pic b

a long time and blooms during the late spring and summer and mainly grows in tropical evergreen forests. It is also known that the Vesak Mal Orchid is endemic to Sri Lanka and is one of the rarest and most beautiful flowers that can be found here. This orchid has been included in the National Red List 2012 in Sri Lanka for being an endangered and vulnerable plant.

FLOWERS

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d n a a n u Fa a on Flor kan n a L i Sr s p m Sta

Sri Lankan stamps are vivid in shape and appearance. Not only this but Sri Lankan stamps comprise of a certain uniqueness that are showcased through the pictures and details of ancient ruins, wall paintings, events, flora, fauna, nature and personality for example.

Blue Binara Blue Binara is scientifically known as Exacum trinervium. The Binara flower is known as “Ginihiriya”.

There are white varieties of Binara in the Knuckles region in Sri Lanka. The Binara is an endemic variety to Sri Lanka. Binara flowers can be found in the highlands in Sri Lanka such as Horton Plains, Pattipola, Ohiya, Idalgashinna, Ella and Bandarawela around road cuts that are filled with moisture.

Sunflower The Sunflower is scientifically identified as Helianthus annuus.

The Sunflower is a common plant that can be found throughout the year and mainly grown in tropical areas. The sunflower always faces towards the sun’s direction. From the sunflower, sunflower oil is also extracted.

across tropical Asian countries.

Scientifically named as Plumeria rubra, this plant variety has a wide range of colours. This flowering plant is also known as the “Temple Tree” in English and “Araliya” in Sinhalese.

Shoe Flower The Shoe Flower is scientifically named as Hibiscus rosa-sinensis.

The Shoe flower is the national flower of Malaysia. This was proposed in 1958 by the Ministry of Agriculture of Malaysia and on July 28, 1960 the Government of Malaysia declared the Hibiscus rosa-sinensis as their national flower.

Bee Orchid The Bee orchid is also known as the Pedunculate Cottonia and is an orchid variety found in Sri Lanka as well as in India.

It is scientifically known as the Cottonia peduncularis. Bee orchids can be found in semi-evergreen to humid forests. March to August is the flowering period for the Bee Orchid’s.

Frangipani flower Frangipani flower is also known as Plumeria and is a native plant to Mexico as well as South American countries and is spread

Iron Wood Flower Iron wood tree is the National Tree of Sri Lanka. It was declared so in February 26, 1986. “Na” is the Sinhalese name for the iron wood tree. Scientifically, iron wood tree is named as Mesua nagassarium.

There’s an ancient herbarium of iron wood trees at Galkiriyagama in the Anuradhapura district and was named as the “National Iron Wood Forest” in Sri Lanka. The iron wood tree grows to about 30 meters in height and is indigenous to the lower wet zone of Sri Lanka.

The iron wood tree has beautiful bright red leaves when matures and turns into green and white flowers.

AQUATIC FAUNA

Dugong Dugong is an herbivorous aquatic mammal that lives in the ocean.

Scientifically, they are known as Dugon dugon. Dugongs are known as “Muhudu Ura” in Sinhalese. In the Indian ocean Dugongs can be found around the northern coast of Kalpitiya, Bar Reef Marine Sanctuary and Puttalam Lagoon. According to data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Dugongs are species that are “vulnerable to extinction”.

FISH

Tuna Fish Tuna fish live in tropical seas and are considered as a very important species of fish to the fishery trade. Scientifically knows an Katasuwonus pelamis, in Sinhalese tuna is known as “Balaya”.

FRESHWATER FISH

Green Chromide Fish Green Chromide fish is a fresh water fish variety that survives in the Sri Lankan coastline as well as in the Southern Indian region.

Green Chromides are scientifically named as Etropus suratensis.

Green Chromide fish are known in Sinhalese as “Korali”. Green Chromide fish can be found in almost all inland reservoirs in Sri Lanka.

Mountain Labeo The Mountain Labeo is also known as the Green Labeo and is a freshwater fish variety that is native to Sri Lanka. In Sinhalese it is known as “Gadaya” and scientifically it is known as Labeo fisheri. These are an endemic fish variety and live in fast flowing streams.

Orante Paradise Fish Orante Paradise Fish also known as Spotted Gourami is a freshwater fish variety which is endemic to Sri Lanka. Scientifically known as Malpulutta kretseri, “Malpulutta” is the Sinhalese name. Orante Paradise Fish dwell in low-flowing streams near shaded forest areas.

Spotted Loach Spotted Loach is a freshwater fish variety which is endemic to Sri Lanka and was first recorded

by Dr. Deraniyagala in 1952.

Lepidocephalus jonklaasi is the scientific name. This species of fish was named as a threatened species in the 2007 Red List.

Cherry Barbs Cherry Barbs are a tropical freshwater fish variety that is endemic to Sri Lanka and is also popular as an aquarium fish variety. There are a few varieties with scientific names such as Barbus titteya, Capoeta titteya and Pintus titteya. Locally known as the “Titteya”, this species can be found in wet zone water courses.

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CORAL

FROGS

Blue-Tipped Coral The Blue-Tipped Coral is scientifically known as Acropora Formosa. This coral species have been classed as a near threatened coral species under the IUCN Red List.

Round Snot Pygmy Tree Frog The Round Snout Pigmy Tree frog is an endemic species to Sri Lanka and lives in subtropical and tropical forests of the central and southern parts of the country, between 1060 meters and 2135 meters above mean sea level. It is scientifically named as Philautus femoralis. This frog species is also categorized as an endangered species by the IUCN.

SEA SNAILS

Rose-Branch Murex Rose-Branch Murex is a sea snail variety. Scientifically these are known as Chicoreus palmarosae.

This sea snail variety is distributed among Indo-west Pacific, East African, South and North Asian oceans.

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Sharp-Snout Saddle Tree Frog Sharp-Snout Saddle Tree Frog is an endemic species to Sri Lanka. Scientifically named as Polypedates longinasus, this frog variety has been listed as an endangered species by the IUCN. Sharp-Snout Saddle Tree Frog can be found in central and southwestern Sri Lanka, between 150 meters and 1300 meters above the mean sea level.

FRUIT

Ceylon Tiger Butterfly Ceylon Tiger is scientifically known as the Parantica taprobana. An endemic butterfly to Sri Lanka, this butterfly species can be found 1000 meters above the mean sea level.

Conical Wart Pygmy Tree frog Conical Wart Pygmy Tree Frog is scientifically known as the Theloderma schmarda.

LIZARDS

Lyre-Head Lizard Lyre-Head Lizards are scientifically named as Lyriocephalus scutatus.

This lizard variety goes by the name of “Kandukara Bodilima” in Sri Lanka and is known to be the largest lizard as well as being endemic to Sri Lanka. This lizard lives in wet zonal forests in Sri Lanka.

BUTTERFLIES

Sri Lankan Wood Frog The Sri Lankan Wood Frog is scientifically known as the Rana gracilis (Hylarana gracilis).

This frog variety is an endemic species to Sri Lanka and lives in freshwater marshes, agricultural land, grasslands and forests.

According to the IUCN data this species of endemic frog is under threat due to wetland reclamation, urbanization and agrochemical pollution.

King Coconut King Coconut is known as “Thimbili” in Sinhalese and is a variety of coconut. It has sweeter water than that of a coconut. King coconut is a popular wayside delight in Sri Lanka. The value of the stamp on which the first King Coconut image appeared was 10 cents and was issued on December 1, 1954. There are a few varieties of king coconut such as “Kaha Thambili”, “Gon Thembili: and “Ran Thambili” in Sinhalese.

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The Tamil Lacewing Cethosia nieotneri is the scientific name for this endemic butterfly species found in Sri Lanka. This butterfly species can be found above 1300 meters.

The Sri Lankan Birdwing The Sri Lankan Birdwing butterfly scientifically known as Troidoes Helena darsius is considered as one of the biggest butterflies found in Sri Lanka.

Oriole Bird Oriole bird also known as Black Hooded Oriole in English and “Kaha Kurulla” in Sinhalese is scientifically known as Oriolus xanthornus ceylonensis.

BIRDS Ceylon White-Eye Ceylon White-Eye is a small bird that is scientifically known as Zosterops ceylonensis.

Ceylon Jungle Fowl Ceylon Jungle Fowl is scientifically known as Gallus lafayettii. Ceylon Jungle fowl is an endemic creature to Sri Lanka. The Ceylon fowl’s scientific name commemorates the French aristocrat Gilbert du MotierMarquis de La Fayettii. Ceylon jungle fowl is known locally as the “Wali Kukula”. The Ceylon Jungle Fowl is the National bird of Sri Lanka.

Grackle Bird Grackle birds are also known as the Common Grackle or the “Salalihiniya” in Sinhalese. Gracula india is the scientific name.

Coppersmith Barbet Coppersmith barbet is scientifically known as the Megalaima haemacephala and has another three sub species, namely indica, dlica and rosea.

Sri Lankan White-Faced Starling The Sri Lankan White-Faced Starling is called “Hisa sudu sharikawa” in Sinhalese and Sturnus senex is the scientific name. Sri Lankan White-Faced Starling is a rare bird that lives in locations above 4000 feet.

Ceylon Spur Fowl Ceylon Spur Fowl is scientifically known as the Galloperdix bicalcarata and “Lanka Haban Kukula” is the Sinhalese depiction.

Living in forest areas in Sri Lanka and above 7000 feet, the Ceylon Spur Fowl lives on the ground and is unable to fly but can run fast. It feeds on small insects, small wild berries and cereal. They lay eggs between April and August.

Ceylon Lorikeet Scientifically known as the Loriculus beryllinus, the Ceylon Lorikeet is widely known as “Gira Maliththa” in Sinhalese. They lay eggs in holes in tree barks.

Layard’s Parakeet Layard’s Parakeet is a bird from the parrot family that is endemic to Sri Lanka. The common name of Layard’s Parakeet commemorates the British naturalist Edgar Leopold Layard.

Layard’s parakeet is scientifically named as Psittacula calthropae.

Ceylon Wood Pigeon Ceylon Wood Pigeon is an endemic bird species in Sri Lanka. IUCN named the Ceylon Wood Pigeon as vulnerable. It is scientifically known as Columba torringtoni. Ceylon Wood Pigeons love shady moisture-ridden places and can be found around Horton Plains, Welimada and Bandarawela. Ceylon Wood Pigeon lay eggs in between February and May as well as during August and October and they are known to lay only one egg.

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muximus ceylonensis. IUCN has listed Elephas muximus ceylonensis as endangered since 1986.

Sri Lankan Rufous Babbler Sri Lankan Rufous Babbler scientifically known as Turdoides rufescens is endemic to Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankan Rufous Babblers are also known as Orange-Billed Babblers.

Malabar Trogon Malabar Trogon is a very beautiful bird variety endemic to Sri Lanka and South India. The Malabar Trogon is scientifically known as the Harpactes fasciatus. This bird variety usually lives in pairs.

Giant Squirrel Giant Squirrels are scientifically known as the Ratufa macroura.

Giant squirrels are endemic to South India and Sri Lanka.

Mouse Deer Mouse deer or the Sri Lankan Spotted Chevrotain known as the “Meeminna” in Sinhalese is found in forests in Sri Lanka. Endemic to Sri Lanka, they are scientifically known as the Tragulus meminna but, the scientific name was changed to Moschiola meminna eventually.

MAMMALS

Ceylon Blue Magpie Ceylon Blue Magpie come from the crow family and are scientifically known as Kitta ornate. They go by the name of “Kehibella” in Sinhalese. IUCN has named this bird as vulnerable.

Red-Faced Malkoha Red-Faced Malkoha is an endemic bird to Sri Lanka and is scientifically known as the Phaenicophaeus pyrrhocephalus.

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Wild Buffalo Wild Buffalo also named as Water buffalo goes by the scientific name of Bubalus bubalis.

Asian Elephant Elephants are living giants on earth. Elephants come under two categories; Asian Elephants and African Elephants. Sri Lankan elephants belong to Asian elephants group and are scientifically known as Elephas

Golden Palm Civet Golden Palm Civet is a civet that is endemic to Sri Lanka. It has listed as a vulnerable species

by IUCN. Scientifically named as Paradoxurus zeylonensis, this species can be found at the Udawalawe National Park, Sinharaja Forest, Wasgamuwa National Park and Yala National Park.

Rusty Spotted Cat The Rusty Spotted Cat scientifically known as Felis rubiginosa is considered as the smallest wild cat found in Sri Lanka. These cats are similar in size to that of a domestic cat.

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Fishing Cat Scientifically named as Felis viverrina this creature is endemic to Sri Lanka and in 2008, the IUCN has named that Fishing Cat as an endangered species.

NATURE

Sri Lankan Venomous

Reptiles Text and Pic by Mathisha Kesara Karunarathna

Researches uncovered that in Sri Lanka there are 103 species of reptiles. Among these 48 species are endemic to Sri Lanka. And 20 species are categorized as venomous reptiles. Six species of venomous reptiles lived in land and other lived as aquatic species.

Among these six venomous land

lived reptiles only five of them are deadly poisons to humans.

Reptiles can be divided as Neurotoxin, Haematotoxin and Myotoxin according to toxins they has. In this article you will read about six venomous reptiles in Sri lanka.

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The Common Krait (f;,a lrj,d) The Common Krait scientifically named as Bungaruscaeruleus .

The Common Krait is in sparkling black color. Cylindrical medium size body and with an identical neck, with a round head. Eyes are small and nostrils are little big and the tail is shorter. The cylindrical body has twenty couples of bands. These bands are in white in color but when they old these bands vanishes. When The Common Krait born its about 200 – 250 mm in length and when it adolescent its about 800 – 1700 mm in length. The Common Krait is nocturnal animal. When night falls they are very active. In daytime they hide under leaves, gravels and rocks etc. The female of the Common Krait lay 6 to 12 eggs at a time. The Common Krait feed on small rats, lizards, frogs etc. The Common Krait can be found in dry zone of Sri Lanka as well as intermediate zone.

Sri Lankan Krait (uqÿ lrj,d) Sri Lankan Krait is also named as Ceylon Krail and scientifically named as Bungarus ceylonicus .

The Sri Lankan Krait is cylindrical with a round head with small eyes and with little big nostrils. The body is brown or black in color.

The cylindrical body is consists with 15 to 28 broad bands. When the animal became adolescent these bands are vanished. When newly born cub is 200 – 250 mm in length and when young they are 800 – 1200 mm in lenghth.

The Sri Lankan Krait is also nocturnal animal. The female lay 4 to 5 eggs at a time. Mainly they feed on small reptiles as well as rats, lizards and frogs etc. The Sri Lankan Krait is an endemic species to Sri Lanka. And they can found up to 1000 meters in wet zone forests. It also one of the venomous reptiles in Sri Lanka and their venom effects for human nervous system.

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Cobra (khd$kd.hd) Cobra is also named as Indian Cobra. Scientifically named as Naja naja. The cylindrical body is long. It has an identical neck and a flat head. When the head expand it has an archetypal. Cobra is a day animal but normally cobra can be found in nights as well. It can swim too. Female Cobra lay 5 to 45 eggs at a time. The eggs hatch in two months time. After imerging from the egg the cub is 200 – 300 mm in length. When adolescent it is 1000 to 1500 mm in length. And it fed on frogs, rats, lizards and other reptiles as well.

Island wide distribution. Cobra is most venomous reptile in Sri Lanka and the venom effects for human nervous system

Russell’s Viper (;s;a fmd<.d $odr fmd<.d) Russell’s viper scientifically named as Daboiarysselii. It has a fat cylindrical body. Its body is brown in color with chain like spots.

Three rows of spotted row can be found. On the head ‘V’ mark can be found. It is a nocturnal animal but can be found in day also.

Russell’s viper do not lay eggs but they deliver cubs. They deliver 5 to 30 cubs at a time. When they born 200 mm in length. When they young 800 to 1300 mm in length.

Russell’s viper feed on birds, lizards, frogs etc. It, can live 5 months without any food. Russell’s viper can’t found at higher elevation but it can found until 1500 meters above the mean sea level in Sri Lanka. Russell’s viper is a mostly venomous reptile in Sri Lanka and the venom effects for human nervous system, kidney as well as muscles.

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Saw Scale Viper (je,s fmd<.d) Saw Scale Viper scientifically named as Echiscarinatus. It has a fat cylindrical body. With an identical neck and round shape head. Saw Scale Vipper is ash, brown or dark brown in color.

The body is divided by a white decoration. On the head ‘+’ mark can be found. It is a nocturnal animal. When it got anger it produced a sound by rubbing scales on the body. And also when it anger it will bite. It has an ability to slide on sandy ground. It does not lay eggs but deliver cubs.

Newly born cub is 50 to 80 mm in length and when young it is 300 to 500 mm in length. It fed on small mammals and insects.

Saw Scale Viper has recorded in North, North western and eastern provinces near the beach. It is said that the Saw Scale Viper is one of the most venomous reptile in Sri Lanka. The venom effects human blood system.

Sri Lankan Coral Snake (fom;a l¿jd) Sri Lankan Coral Snake scientifically named as Calliophismelanurus. It has a narrow thin body with an identical neck. The color of the Sri Lankan Coral Snake is light brown. Near the tail there are two black strips.

This reptile is thin such as a pen.

Young animal is 200 to 270 mm in length. It is also a nocturnal animal. Small reptiles and earth worms are its food. It is recorded in lowlands, intermediate zone.

It is also a venomous reptile. But due to its body size it can’t harm humans.

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Sriis home Lanka to an abundance

Birds

of indigenous

I have been a wildlife enthusiast for a while now, and taking in to photography as a hobby was a sudden addition to my life. Being in an industry where I get the chance to travel more often and then having the opportunity to travel with my friends paved the way for me to be able to travel to many places, which included National Parks in Sri Lanka.

However, whilst most of us would believe, my assumption also was that if I needed to witness wildlife I should travel beyond Colombo and more specifically visit national parks, forests and thickets which proved to be the case initially.

Through my photographic approach in terms of a recreation, I realized that even Colombo is full of wildlife, though we tend to take it for granted and do not seem to realize it.

I am sure that most people who are deeply engrossed in the field of ornithology (birding) would say that the birds we witness in Colombo would mostly be the Common Myna, House Sparrow, Magpie, Kingfisher and Barbet.

WILD LIFE But, little do we realize that in Colombo itself we can see three different species of Kingfishers and two different species of Barbets. There are many more birds that we simply pass by without noticing or even realizing their beauty or even accept their existence.

The next time you want to see some birds while going to places beyond Colombo, you will receive the opportunity to witness abundant species of birds. So, when you are in Colombo, try and spend some time walking around the capital. Be observant to your surroundings, enjoy the birds you see and appreciate nature.

With this in mind, I would like to share with you some photographs that I had managed to capture of many birds that I have seen during my travels in and around of Colombo.

Harshana Weragama

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Brown headed barbet

Yellow fronted barbet

Crimson fronted barbet

Sci. Name : Megalaima zeylanica Sin. Name : Polos Kottoruwa Sited : Boralesgamwa

Sci. Name : Megalaima flavifrons Sin. Name : Kaha nalall kottoruwa Sited : Kaluaggala

Sci. Name : Megalaima rubricapilla Sin. Name : Oluwa rathu kottoruwa Sited : Boralesgamwa Whilst starting with the barbets of Sri Lanka, there are many more species of birds that can be seen in Colombo. These birds would span from the most common to the some that we would not even believe are birds that can be seen in Sri Lanka.

Thus, the I would like to share some of the birds that I have come across during the last three years, where I have been able to capture these birds whilst travelling about in Colombo may it be for work or leisure.

Common Kingfisher

White-throated Kingfisher

Sci. Name : Alcedo atthis Sin. Name : Podhu-mal Pilihuduwa Sited : Battaramulla

Sci. Name : Halcyon smyrnensis Sin. Name : Laya-sudu Pilihuduwa Sited : Boralesgamuwa Lake

Red-wattled Lapwing

White-breasted Water Hen

Sci. Name : Vanellus indicus Sin. Name : Rath-karamal Kirala Sited : Kimbulawala

Sci. Name : Amaurornis phoenicurus Sin. Name : Laya Sudu Korawakka Sited : Kimbulawala

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When looking at a Kingfisher a bird that we see very commonly all around the country, little did I realize that there are seven different species of which of them I have been lucky enough to site three in Colombo itself. These are White-throated Kingfisher (Sci. Name : Halcyon smyrnensis, Sin. Name : Layasudu Pilihuduwa) Common Kingfisher (Sci. Name : Alcedo atthis, Sin. Name : Podhu-mal Pilihuduwa) and Pied Kingfisher (Sci. Name : Ceryle rudis, Sin. Name : Gomara Kalapu-pilihuduwa).

Black-headed Ibis Sci. Name : Threskiornis melanocephalus Sin. Name : Sudu Da-koka Sited : Kimbulawala

Pied Kingfisher

Indian Cormorant

Blue-tailed Bee Eater

Sci. Name : Ceryle rudis Sin. Name : Gomara Kalapu-pilihuduwa Sited : Boralesgamuwa Lake

Sci. Name : Phalacrocorax fuscicollis Sin. Name : Hadapalu Diyakawa Sited : Kimbulawala

Sci. Name : Merops philippinus Sin. Name : Pendanil Binguharaya Sited : Boralesgamuwa

Yet another common bird that we see in Colombo is the Cormorant. There are three species of Cormorants of which you can see two more frequently. Namely Little Cormorant (Sci. Name : Phalacrocorax niger, Sin. Name : Punchi Diyakawa) and Indian Cormorant (Sci. Name : Phalacrocorax fuscicollis, Sin. Name : Hadapalu Diyakawa)

Whilst out of the four species of bee eaters, one has been sited of the four species of Munias I have seen two in Colombo.

In addition to these some others that I have seen in Colombo are here as a pictorial guide, which will allow you to be able to identify them the next time you are travelling. Go outâ&#x20AC;Ś travel with patients and enjoy nature, whilst seeing these beauties next timeâ&#x20AC;Ś

White-rumped Munia Sci. Name : Phalacrocorax fuscicollis Sin. Name : Pita-sudu Wee Kurulla Sited : Thalawathugoda

Little Cormorant Sci. Name : Phalacrocorax niger Sin. Name : Punchi Diyakawa Sited : Kesbewa

Painted Stork Sci. Name : Mycteria leucocephala Sin. Name : Lathuvakiya Sited : Thalawathugoda

Common Sandpiper

Scaly-breasted Munia Sci. Name : Phalacrocorax fuscicollis Sin. Name : Thith Wee-kurulla Sited : Thalawathugoda

Sci. Name : Tringa hypoleucos Sin. Name : Podhu Silibilla Sited : Thalawathugoda

Black Drongo Sci. Name : Dicrurus macrocercus Sin. Name : Kalu Kauda Sited : Palawatta

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Green Imperial Pigeon

Common Tailorbird

Spot Billed Pelican

Sci. Name : Ducula aenea Sin. Name : Maha Neela Goya Sited : Maharagama

Sci. Name : Orthotomus sutorius Sin. Name : Battichcha Sited : Maharagama

Sci. Name : Pelecanus philippensis Sin. Name : Alu Pasthuduwa Sited : Boralesgamuwa Lake

Spotted Dove

White-browed Bulbul

Rose-ringed Parakeet

Sci. Name : Streptopelia chinensis Sin. Name : Alu Kobeiya Sited : Maharagama

Sci. Name : Pycnonotus luteolus Sin. Name : Bama-sudu Kondaya Sited : Bandaragama

Sci. Name : Psittacula krameri Sin. Name : Rana Girawa Sited : Boralesgamuwa Lake

Purple-rumped Sunbird

Whiskered Tern

Black-hooded Oriole

Sci. Name : Nectarinia zeylonica Sin. Name : Dam Kati Sutikka Sited : Maharagama

Sci. Name : Childonias hybridus Sin. Name : Kangul Lihiniya Sited : Boralesgamuwa Lake

Sci. Name : Oriolus xanthornus Sin. Name : Hisa-kalu Kaha kurulla Sited : Boralesgamuwa Lake

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Brahminy Kite Juv.

Srilanka Mynah

Black-winged Stilt

Sci. Name : Haliastur indus Sin. Name : Bamunu Piyakussa Sited : Boralesgamuwa Lake

Sci. Name : Gracula ptilogenys Sin. Name : Lanka Salalihiniya Sited : Kesbewa

Sci. Name : Himantopus himantopus Sin. Name : Piyapath Kalu-ipalava Sited : Wattegedera

Purple Heronole

Red-vented Bulbul

Asian Open-bill

Sci. Name : Ardea purpurea Sin. Name : Karaval-koka Sited : Kesbewa

Sci. Name : Pycnonotus cafer Sin. Name : Kondaya Sited : Maharagama

Sci. Name : Anastomus oscitans Sin. Name : Vivara-thuduva Sited : Wattegedera

Plain Prinia

Purple Swamp Hen

Pheasant-tailed Jacana

Sci. Name : Prinia inornata Sin. Name : Bama-sudu Prinia Sited : Kesbewa

Sci. Name : Prophyrio prophyrio Sin. Name : Nil Kithala Sited : Maharagama

Sci. Name : Hydrophasianus chirurgus Sin. Name : Savulpenda Diyasana Sited : Kimbulawala

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World’s End

Mini

DISCOVERING/SCENIC

Madolsima

The longest world’s end

cliff in Sri Lanka Text and Pic by Indaka Karuanadasa

Once a great seat of learning in the East of Sri Lanka, Shasthrawela was the abode of five hundred Arhants and was known as the Pabbatha Bodhigiri Vihara. Today only ruins of a once grand complex of preaching halls, viharas, dagabas and Buddha statues remain of these grand vihara initially built by King Kawantissa during the second century BC. A stone inscription on site states that King Maha Dhataka Maha

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Madolsima is a small bazaar which sells day to day provisions for labourers who work at nearby tea estates. The Madolsima area has a number of lush tea estates, waterfalls, pine forests, paddy fields and mountainous scenic views etc. Madolsima lies in the far end of the Badulla district.

Madolsima mini world’s end is located at Lunugala, Madolsima by the edge of Roeberry estate.

This cliff is divided between the Badulla and Monaragala districts.

There are four mini world’s ends in Sri Lanka. One is located at Horton Plains and is named as the “Horton Plains small world’s end”. The second cliff lies in the Knuckles area and is known as the “Deenston” mini worlds end.

The third cliff is the “Riverstern” mini world’s end and Madolsima is the fourth cliff. There are few other smaller world’s end cliffs that can be witnessed.

then turn to the right from Kuruwigolla junction going up to Ambalama junction or from Passara along the A-5 PassaraBatticaloa road up to Lunugala town.

(Also one can come from Bibile along the Bibile- Lunugala road leading up to Lunugala town.) At Lunugala, there’s a road which leads towards Ambalama junction adjacent to the Police Station.

These two roads meet each other at Ambalama junction.

Ambalama junction is a four way junction. From the Ambalama junction one has to take on the Pitamaruwa road which will lead up to Roeberry Tea Estate. The Roeberry tea estate is 10 km away from Ambalama junction.

Pitamaruwa road goes across the Cocagala. When you pass Cocagala on your left side you will notice the D.S. gala (D.S. Stone) which resembles Honorable D. S. Senanayake, the first Prime Minister of Sri Lanka.

From the Cocagala one has to travel again on the right side road which leads up to Pitamaruwa.

When you travel about 1.5 kms there is another junction. From this junction again you will have

To reach Madolsima Mini world’s end there are two roads that go up to the Ambalama junction: From Passara Pola junction take the left road towards Madolsima,

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to turn right towards a gravel road after about 1 km. Then you will reach the Madolsima Mini world’s end drop! There’s a sign board directing to the “Mini World’s End”.

There is another drop a few meters above. To reach this drop one has to take to the right side gravel road. Here, you will find another sign plate which will indicate directions.

From this cliff one can achieve a good vantage point and witness the eastern coast of Sri Lanka on a clear day. The mini world’s end mountain is 1257 meters high above sea level. When you climb up to the Madolsima mini world’s end you would find yourself standing on the end (boundary) of the Badulla district and this piece of land belongs to the Roeberry tea estate and the bottom part of the cliff belongs to the Dorapanawa village in Bibile in the Monaragala district.

Madolsima mini world’s end is very important as this drop continues for about 1 ½ to 2 km.

Bibile, Medagama, Pitakumbura, Nagala Wewa, Senanayake Samuddraya, Ampara and Monaragala can be seen from here.

The mornings and the evenings are misty around the Madolsima mini world’s end. So, the ideal time to visit is in the morning around 8.00am and 10.00am.

The ideal travel period to visit is between April to September but from October to December, the monsoon season tends to persist around this area.

Please remember to accommodate yourself with drinking water and food. It is also ideal to visit with a group rather than limiting the group to one or two persons. If possible it would be a good idea to acquire a reputed guide with you who knows

the area well. A 4WD jeep would also be ideal for the journey as a majority of the roads are not in a very good condition. (Distance from Badulla is 62 km, 43 km from Passara and 24 km away from Madolsima).

Towards Namunukula mountain range

Sign Plate - which indicate directions.

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AGRO

The NationalResearch

Medicinal Plants Garden Haldummulla

Text and Pic by Indaka Karuanadasa

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DIRECTIONS TO THE SITE The National Research Medicinal Plants Garden lies in the Uva province, Badulla district along the BalangodaBeragala (A-4, ColomboRathnapura-Wellawaya) main road, at Haldummulla. The distance is 180 km away from Colombo and a few meters away from the main road.

Ministry of Indigenous Medicines of Sri Lanka has five herbal gardens under the Department of Ayurveda. These are located at Haldummulla (The National Research Medicinal Plants Garden), Girandurukotte, Pattipola, Pallekele and Nawinna (Maharagama).

The National Research Medicinal Plants garden is the one and only medicinal plants research garden in Sri Lanka. The garden was developed under the coordination of Associate Professor Dr. Piyal Marasinghe.

It was established in 1986 with

an expanse of 23 acres. Later on an additional 42 acres of adjacent lands were incorporated into how it is seen today.

According to the Ayurvedic Department 1500 species of medicinal plants are used in Sri Lanka and 208 of those are used frequently. The National Research Medicinal Plants Garden has a research glass house, poly tunnels, seed room, nursery, sales area and a dried herbal store among others. The research glass house was donated through the body JICA of Japan. Poly tunnels are used for the germination of seeds and the seed room is

Circuit bungalow

used to store dried seeds. The nursery and sales areas are also well maintained. The rest of the available land area is landscaped and well maintained with plants.

When one enters into the herbal garden, it resembles that of a natural forest. But, all the trees and plants are given their scientific name along with the name in Sinhalese. Frequent birds song can be heard throughout the garden. Not only birds but reptiles, butterflies and mammals can also be found throughout the herbal garden. Some amphibians as well as insects are also evident in the vicinity.

Lecture Hall

The National Research Medicinal Plants Garden encompasses a circuit bungalow and two hostels.

Contact numbers: The National Research Medicinal Plants Garden: +94 57 2050126 Circuit Bungalow: +94 57 3574331 Hostel +94 57 3574330 Department of Ayurveda: +94 11 2289611 / +94 11 2289612 Special gratitude goes out to the Commissioner of Ayurveda, Mr. E.M.S.U. Ekanayake the Officer In Charge of the Herbal Garden Haldummulla and Associate Professor Dr. Piyal Marasighe.

Impatiens repens (Galdemata)

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Glass House

Telegraph plant (Prana Jeewa)

A berry of Sandal Wood

Red Sandal Wood

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Bin Kohomba

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Ira raja

Alpinia calcarata (Araththa)

Kaluwa Ala Mal

Akmella an anesthetic plant

A beetle species - Naga Walliya

Siuru media Withania somnifers (Amukkara)

A fern species - Beru Ala

How seed is taken

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GREENERY

Peter Duncan, an extraordinaire

Mother Nature

Peter Duncan was born to a wealthy family in New Zealand.

An economist by profession, he held a Masterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Degree from a reputed University in South Africa and spent the best part of his youth serving the World Bank which led him on to become engaged with many projects in South Africa, Brazil and in various parts of the world.

Later, he visited Sri Lanka and was infatuated by the simple life-styles he witnessed. This country attracted him in many ways which lead him to travel the best parts of the country by train and which also included a trip to Jaffna.

From there onwards a couple of visits were made to Sri Lanka until he put a firm foot on the ground by purchasing Wild Flower Hall Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, an act to help out 52

his good old friend Jedice Earline, who had been in financial difficulty during this period.

Endeavours that only bettered human life Fascinated by his new endeavor, he started on various researches in producing scents using lemon grass, extracting oils from various plants around the area, experimenting in producing wines and other finished products.

While engaging himself on various other experiments, he started teaching English to the village kids and this inspired him to get engaged with villagers on a more closer and personal ground.

He invested in sending villagers for various educational programmes/ courses and funding them where needed. No villager came to seek help of any sort and walked out

who embraced protecting

empty handed.

huge water problem by then.

In uncovering the complex inner life behind the legend of this solitary man, he started developing a passion for nature which led this great conservationist to set his focus in generating water and protecting the water dam.

He made constant visits to agricultural research centers, botanical gardens, the veterinary department in seeking advice and assistance in carrying out the projects he had undertaken

His extraordinary ability to attract others in seeing the sacred beauty of the natural world got him to entice his friends from around Europe to come down to Sri Lanka and settle in places such as Dambulla and Moratuwa and promote various projects such as organic farming, tropical tree planting etc.

His focus was finally set towards generating water and protecting water in and around the area as the entire village was faced with a

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Solidarity led from one thing to another By then, he came across two businessmen; Mr. Dhammika Liyanage and Manjula Dissanayake, who were instantly attracted to this land and area by its beauty and magnitude and ended up coming onboard as business partners to Peter Duncan as he was not in a healthy financial situation by then to uplift Wild Flower Hall Lanka into a commercial organization.

Wild Flower Hall Lanka was

re-named as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Windloft Retreatâ&#x20AC;?, turning a new page in history by recreating the premises towards enhancing its standard and focusing to cater to a clientele who were in a constant lookout for a hide away from their busy life schedules.

Inspired by the Analogue Forest (Kandyan Home Garden

System), a forest cultivation and land conservation project was also initiated to add in a new dimension to his vision.

Personal anecdotes filled with rich detail will portray him as a fascinating man with intelligent thoughts who was full of energy for the great outdoors.

At the age of 84, he was determined to make plans for the next 20 years while carrying out projects to achieve his ultimatum.

Spending over Rs. 20M on forest development, in January 2016 he had to lay down his baton and hand it over to Mr. Dhammika Liyanage, who became his close acquaintance until the very moment he breathed his last.

Fascinated and inspired by his vision and the noble work that he had been engaged in to turn this land into a peaceful greener place, on January 10th,, 2016, on the day of his funeral, Dhammika Liyanage with his close associates made a pledge to continue on the mission that Peter Duncan had dreamt about.

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TRANQUILITY South India to assist with making his dream a reality.

Sri

Kadiravelayutha Swami Kovil Haputale Text by Indaka Karunadasa picx by Surana Cooray

Jasmine sticks and camphor burning smells can be sensed and the bells of the Hindu shrine can be heard from the Haputale – Beragala main road. It was chilly, misty and rainy and yet huge crowds of Hindu devotees gathered at the Hindu shrine for their daily devotions and rituals.

Sri Kadiravelayutha Swami Kovil is one of the oldest Hindu shrines in the area and lies amidst a misty and panoramic view of the Haputale hills by the side of the Beragala – Haputale main road in Haputale in the Badulla district. Sri Kadiravelayutha Swami Kovil is also named as the main Hindu Temple in Haputale and sometimes goes as the Sri Kadiresan Kovil or Murugan Kovil in Haputale.

It has been said that the Sri Kadiravelayutha Swami Kovil was founded in the year 1886. In 1886, when the Hindu temple of Haputale was founded in Sri Lanka in the then Ceylon, the country was under British Colonial rule and this was also during the construction period of the Colombo – Badulla main railway track. However, according to Mr. Ramasamy Karthigesan Perunkondar (Suresh), the present hereditary trustee of the Hindu temple at Haputale said, “According to the legal documents which I have on me, the Hindu temple in Haputale, which is under my hereditary trustee ownership, was established in 1905 by Nallakutti Ramasamy Peunkondar who arrived into Ceylon from South India. He lived in a village named Perunkondan Viduthi (Perunkondan Village). Later he had joined Indian Railways as a Periya Kangani (Supervisor) and came to Ceylon in 1880”.

It is a well known fact that choosing rock stones to build a Hindu temple is an extraordinary art. This was the reason he had decided to bring down sculptors from his home town in South India which was a popular place for the conducting of this particular trade.

The names of the donors’ and a brief history of the Hindu temple have been carved on rock pillars in Tamil. The language is also mildly different to what it sounds like today. All the rock pillars have four different flower carvings on it. Born as the eldest child in a traditional Hindu household, Mr. Ramasamy was always known to be a die-hard devotee of Lord Murugan, and this devotion led him to build a temple for Lord Murugan using his wealth.

In and around 1905, the Sri Kadiravelayutha Swami Kovil was the only existing Hindu temple in the area of Haputale for the devoted visits from Hindus and other devotees. During that time, the Haputale area was covered from Poonagala to Udaveriya, Dambetenna to Haldummulla and Koslanda. It was also the focal point for many thousands of Hindus in the vicinity.

“Nallakutti Ramasamy Perunkondar is a man who hailed from an affluent family background,” said Mr. Karthigesan. Mr. Ramasamy came to Ceylon at the time and worked hard with the British railway authorities.

As he strived and worked hard, they had offered to provide him with help if he wished for anything specific. Suddenly, Mr. Ramasamy who felt inspired by their remark of “ask anything and we shall do it for you”, Mr. Ramasamy lingered on the thought for a while and acknowledged his wish to them. “I am going to construct a Hindu shrine in Haputale, where the Vedihiti Kanda and the Kataragama God’s shrine can be viewed.”

The pillars holding the roofs of the Sri Kadiravelayutha Swami Kovil were brought down from Tamil Nadu in the southern part of India, through a shipment from Rameshwaram, which was the south Indian port to Talai Mannar and then followed the trip from Talai Mannar to Haputale by train. According to a traditional story the pillars were transported from the Haputale Railway Station to the temple site through the use of a temporary railway track. Mr. Ramasamy brought down sculptors from 56

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Mr. Ramasamy Karthigesan Perunkondar (Suresh) - the Hereditary Trustee of the Kovil

inner sanctum of the kovil

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Loard Ghanesh

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Chariot

Festivals There were three chariot festivals in a calendar year until 1983.

1. January (Thai Poosam. Thai represents the name of a Tamil month. Poosam is the name of a star).

2. March (Panguni - Uthiram).

3. August (Aadi - Thiruvonam ).

But, after 1983 this was limited to only one chariot festival which took place in August.

August chariot festival

Bodhi tree - a sapling from Sri Maha Bodhi at Anuradhapura

Sri Kadiravelayutha Swami Kovil

This has now become one of the oldest chariot festivals in the up-country region; Uva province in the Badulla district. The August chariot festival is also known as Esala Perahara in Sinhalese. There is said to be a traditional link with the ancient Katharagama Devalaya shrine. The chariot festival of the Haputale Hindu temple takes place on the same day of the water cutting ceremony (known as Diya Kapeema in Sinhalese), ending the annual perahara of the Katharagama Devalaya shrine.

This practice has never been amended by the Hindu temple for a century. It remains a concrete practice and custom. The date for the festival is clearly indicated in the traditional Hindu almanac.

Presently, the August chariot festival is held for four days, commencing with the flag hoisting (Kap Situveema in Sinhalese), special Poojas and Dhanaya on the second and third days (offering vegetarian meals to devotees and visitors) ultimately continuing with the chariot festival. This covers the streets of the town in Haputale, going on for almost 12 hours. The procession comprises of cultural infusions, traditional dances and western bands to name a few.

The two chariots used to carry deities annually are considered as the oldest surviving chariots in the area.

Daily Poojas Four scheduled poojas at 06.00 am, 08.00 am, 11.30 am and 5.30 pm. However, the Sri Kadiravelayutha Swami Kovil is open daily from 06.00 am to 01.00 pm and 04.00 pm to 07.00 pm to the public for worship.

Special Poojas Every full moon day, birth of new years, first day of the Tamil months.

The Hereditary Trusteesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; After arriving to Haputale in 1880, Ramasamy Perunkondar, the original founder of the temple bought lands in and around Pahalakadurugamuva, Diyatalwa and planted tea and cultivated paddy lands. Later he became the owner of a tea estate named Kapuwattha estate, and this commitment turned him into a very wealthy man.

According to the arrangement made by the original founder of the temple, the premises is managed and controlled by the eldest sons of his family. After the demise of the original founder in 1912, his eldest son, also known as Ramasamy Nallakutti Perunkondar (the eldest male child is given his grandfathers name) became the hereditary trustee and his son Nallakutti Ramasamy Perunkondar took responsibility as trustee in 1956. From 1989 to the present day, Ramasamy Karthigesan Perunkondar (Suresh) serving as the hereditary trustee of this temple (the youngest trustee to manage a Hindu temple as no one had taken responsibility or been appointed at the age of 17 or close to that).

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CELEBRATIONS/DESTINATIONS The Sri Lanka Embassy in Kuwait celebrated the 68th Independence Day on a grand scale at the embassy premises in Kuwait City in the morning of February 04th 2016. The event saw a large gathering of foreign Diplomats in attendance at this on the occasion.

After hoisting of the national flag at 8.30 a.m. by the Sri Lankan Ambassador HE Kandeepan Balasubramaniam the visitors were hosted to a morning tea party with the traditional Kavum, Kiribath and other Lankan Sweet meets.

Speaking at the occasion he said that Sri Lanka had been a long standing friend of Kuwait and it is a privilege to be associated with a friendly country in celebrating the 68th Independence Day here in Kuwait City.

Since Sri Lanka gained Independence, country had close relations with Kuwait and it had done a lot for Sri Lanka in various ways. Kuwait has given 140,000 job opportunities to Sri Lankans which my country highly appreciates. said the Lankan Ambassador.

To mark this event a special Cultural show was also held with the participation of world renowned dance troop of Channa and Upuli. In addition to this cultural show and an exhibition of Scrap Metal Sculpture and Wildlife paintings of Lalith Senanayke too were held on this day.

The Cultural Show presented by a group of 17 members from the Channa Wijewardene Dance Foundation led by Upuli Wijewardene performed well to show the culture of Sri Lanka through the art dance. The Chief Guest at the Cultural Show was Kuwait’s Minister for Public

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INDEPENDENCE IN

KUWAIT CITY Sri Lanka’s Independence celebrated on a grand scale in Kuwait Works and State Minister for State Assembly Affairs Ali Saleh Al-Omair. Al most all Diplomats representing their respective countries in Kuwait attended the Cultural Show which depicted various forms of Lankan dancing.

The dancers received a standing ovation from the guests at the show.

On Wednesday a Lankan food Festival was held at one of Kuwait’s leading Hotel Radisson organized by the Embassy of Sri Lanka. This Festival was intended mainly to promote Lanka’s food among the foreigners which could attract them to visit Sri Lanka as tourists.

The Food Festival also saw many Diplomats based in Kuwait visit to taste Lankan food prepared only by Lankan Chefs serving at this hotel. The festival received high praise from all who made to the Hotel for the occasion.

This Festival too was highly appreciated by all after they tasted the real tastes of Sri Lankan food which are prepared using various kinds of spices to give different tastes.

Two days of hard work by HE the Ambassador and the staff of the Sri Lanka Embassy in Kuwait has take a great step in promoting the country’s image. They deserve a big commendation for their part played in organizing these great events in Kuwait to strengthen relations and to promote Sri Lanka among the Kuwaiti public.

The Sri Lankan Ambassador to the Kuwait HE Kandepan Balasubramaniam hoisting the national flag to mark the 68th Independence Day celebrations at the Embassy premises in Kuwait City.

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Text by Subhadra Sooriyaarachchi

A precious vacation with complete hospitality

Hotel CHANDRIKA

RELAXATION

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Hotel Chandrika is nestled in the sacred city of Thissamaharama in a peaceful realm surrounded by lush greenery in the south of Sri Lanka. It takes just 30 minutes from both, Yala National Park and the pilgrim city of Kataragama to get there. Undoubtedly, this place would be regarded as the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Consisting of 40 guest rooms divided into 20 deluxe rooms and 20 deluxe chalets, all the rooms are arranged to accommodate the needs of modern day travelers. A/C, LCD flat screen TVs, with cable/satellite and WIFI connections, direct dial , and many other facilities are made available including hot and cold water and tea/coffee making facilities to

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assure guests with a comfortable stay, making this place a home away from home.

Hotel Chandrika is well suited for company get-togethers or company outings with games and interactive activities. The spacious conference room can easily accommodate 50 guests.

Deluxe rooms are having verandahs each that open up into a great view of a beautifully landscaped garden filled with lush greenery, fruit and the sweet melodies of migratory birds.

Deluxe Chalets come with private balconies overlooking the lush tropical garden. All rooms comprise of spacious bathrooms with a tub.

The hotel also offers a service of a doctor-on-call. The staff members are always very keen to look into all the requirements of their guests during their stay, offering a 24 hour room service.

The spacious restaurant does justice to guests by serving a delectable range of mouth watering dishes of traditional authentic Sri Lankan as well as continental and western cuisines to suit the palate. The hotel sources most of the fruits and vegetables from local farmers (including organically grown products) as well as fish and red meat from nearby villages to ensure high quality and fresh ingredients.

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One can receive a pampered experience by the swimming pool with the pool bar and Jacuzzi that overlooks the garden and where nature, culture and hospitality blends in hand in hand. Guests can leisurely sip a drink served by friendly bartenders while relaxing and cooling off from the warm weather.

Hotel Chandrika promises guests with the perfect holiday encompassing wonderful memories that one will cherish.

It is located in close proximity to several tourist attractions, notably close to the Yala National Park.

Culturally valued sites such as the Katharagama, Thissamaharama temple, Kirinda temple and Sithulpawwa Vihara complexes

are also well known in this ancient Ruhunu Kingdom. With the aim of providing a more wholesome experience for nature lovers the hotel organizes safari trips to the nearby Yala National Park.

After an adventurous safari at Yala, one can enjoy and relax by having a favourite drink chosen by them from the bar in the open- to-nature-setting close to the beautifully designed pond in the garden. There you can taste various leading international spirits as well as a large array of cocktails served by their skilled bartenders whilst listening to soft piped music.

But, to experience the best way of relaxing after a tiring day is to pay a visit to the hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ayurveda

Spa for a complete pampering session via Ayurvedic therapies.

The purpose of Ayurveda is to prevent illness using the energies of nature. So, during your stay here, you can just live as a part of nature whilst going through a total healing process for your body and mind.

Whether you travel with your family or a bunch of friends, Hotel Chandrika ensures you a precious stay from the very first moment you enter this peaceful realm.

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NEWS

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Appoints Ms. Ruvini Dias Bandaranayake as the New Manging Director

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), nation’s catalyst for Tourism Promotion announced that they have appointed Ms. Ruvini Dias Bandaranayake as the New Managing Director. The ceremony of assuming duties as Managing Director took place at Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau on 15th February 2016, under the patronage of Hon. Minister of Tourism & Christian Affaires Mr. John Amaratunga, Hon. Minister for Ports & Shipping Mr. Arjuna Ranathunga and Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism Mr. P.M.Withana. Together with the Chairman Mr. P.M. Withana, Ms.

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Bandaranayke will be expected lead the team at Sri Lanka Tourism to strengthen the country’s Tourism Industry and further develop Sri Lanka’s position in the world tourism ranks via various promotional & marketing activities.

Ms. Bandaranayake, was previously Executive Director at Airport and Aviation Services Sri Lanka and also, prior to her new appointment at Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) she has functioned as MD/ CEO of JCT Colombo Oil Bank. By taking her remit as the Managing Director at SLTPB, Ms. Bandaranayke

commented that together with the team at Sri Lanka Tourism she will be planning to take Sri Lanka tourism to the next level.

Ms. Bandaranayke will also bring a wealth of marketing and management experience to Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau which she has gained through her long and successful career in some of the top institutions in the country.

While the overall tourism industry of Sri Lanka is poised for growth to achieve a Sustainable Tourism Development phase within the upcoming years. The New

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government’s strategic Marketing plan for 2016, will be backed by both private and public sector stakeholders addressing long standing needs of the tourism industry and the future goals of the country as a sustainable tourism destination where the total benefits will be shared among all Sri Lankans. As the newly appointed Managing Director, Ms. Bandaranayake will expect to set her goals primarily to guide Sri Lanka Tourism to offer the above achievements to the nation.

promotes Green Banking through e-statement campaign Reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability and technological innovation, Hatton National Bank (HNB) has concluded a highly successful awareness campaign which encouraged its customers to switch from paper statement accounts to e-statement accounts.

Titled ‘Change Your Address and Win’, this campaign was a milestone in HNB’s long running environmental sustainability drive and its positioning as the ‘Bank of the Future’. As paper product manufacturing contributes

significantly to deforestation and produces greenhouse gases, there are numerous benefits to the environment from the use of e-statements. From a customer point of view, this campaign was an example of HNB’s endeavour to boost the adoption of the latest technology among its customers in order to offer them superior service standards.

The three month long campaign culminated in a draw which rewarded customers who had supported this initiative by opting for e-statements. The first

prize, a Curved LED TV, went to Ms. Shakira Mubeena Begum Mohamed of HNB Emirates Customer Centre and the second prize of a family tour to Singapore was won by Ms Mohomed Lafeer Fathima Sasmiya of HNB Islamic Banking Unit. The 3rd prize of 3 Apple iPhone 6 phones were given to Mr. Anandarajah Ravindrarajah of HNB Trincomalee, Mr. Dandaniyage Dhammika of HNB Ginigathhena and Mrs. R A Manjula Lakmini Perera of HNB Mount Lavinia.

Epasinghe, Head of Process Improvement and Change Management of HNB stated that as Sri Lanka makes rapid strides in the digital space, we at HNB are committed to being a key participant on this journey. Conversion of paper statements to e statements is an initiative which is merely one step in the right direction which will result in speedier and more convenient access to information for customers and would have a positive impact on the country’s eco system.

Commenting on this, Mr Janaka HNB e-statements are now available for both individual and corporate accounts, including savings accounts, credit cards, current accounts and NRFC and RFC accounts. Once an account has been converted, the customer will receive the month’s e-statement on the first day of the following month via email, instead of the traditional mail based paper statement.

Furthermore, customers benefit from a lack of postal delay, ease of use, the added security offered by an email or computer password and the elimination of the need to regularly update a savings account passbook. They also have the freedom to choose which of their accounts to convert to e-statements, with the option of reverting to paper statements at any time.

Picture shows Thimal Perera – Deputy General Manager – Retail & SME Banking of HNB, handing over the first prize of a curved LED TV to the winner Ms. Shakira Mubeena Begum Mohamed, a customer of HNB Emirates Customer Centre. Janaka Epasinghe, Roshantha Jayatunge, Keshini Hikkaduwage of HNB are aIso in the picture

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CJSGLF 2016

highlights elephant

conservation at

Sponsors film maker, conservationist and television host Saba Douglas-Hamilon

Screens international feature documentary Common Ground

In the five days that spanned the Fairway Galle Literary Festival 2016, Colombo Jewellery Stores added a fresh dimension to the creative realms prevalent at the Festival, infusing interactive discussion and focused awareness on the human-elephant relationship and conservation.

For CJS, this was the natural follow up to the ‘Unforgettable’ project it has been pioneering in the two villages of Pussellyaya and Weheragalagama villages in Wasgamuwa, where, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Wildlife Conservation Society, CJS is continuing an interactive campaign to seek sustainable solutions for the villagers and the 350 elephants living in that

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habitat. ‘Unforgettable’ is the campaign that CJS mooted, using elephant enthusiast CJS Brand Ambassador Jacqueline Fernandez and the Sri Lanka Wildlife Conservation Society in a well-integrated conservation initiative with the two villages, pioneering some sustainable solutions that would prompt better human elephant co-existence.

CJS sponsored Saba Douglas Hamilton, a passionate wildlife conservationist, television host and filmmaker and Director of Save The Elephants Foundation.

Through her charities she has worked to support, protect and increase awareness of issues, which threaten to erode the African Elephant population and

their habitat.

At The session ‘Thinking Out Loud’ Saba Douglas-Hamilton who enthused about her passion for elephants from her childhood growing up in the African bush, while her parents conducted pioneering research on elephants’ social behavior, was overwhelming. Speaking to a packed audience at Hall De Galle, Saba, who was pleasantly surprised at the massive positive response she received, stated that her first time in Sri Lanka was truly memorable and that she is thrilled to be a part of GLF. “Promoting and educating awareness of the conflict which is widespread not only in Africa

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but also here in Asia is truly a mission that we must all be responsible for,” she stated.

“I’ve grown up in Africa and observed that continent’s efforts to find sustainable solutions.

She explained about the success of beehive fences and that this is also now being tested in Sri Lanka. Elaborating that the primary challenge in Africa is the illegal ivory trade, she was delighted to hear that Sri Lanka would be burning seized Ivory on the 26th of January. A book signing ceremony followed her talk and photo opportunities with like-minded wild life enthusiasts at CJS Tent. At a well-attended Literary Dinner the same evening, Saba played the Sounds of Africa and spoke of the importance

of conserving elephants in the wild and why we need to protect the Elephants and the vital role elephants play as a Keystone species in our eco system On Saturday CJS screened Common Ground, a documentary set in Sri Lanka which has been shown at a number of film festivals including the REEL EARTH Environmental Film Festival produced by Greener Media, features Founder of the SLWCS Ravi Corea who continues to collaborate with CJS in its conservation and co-existence initiatives in the humanelephant relationship. When

Jacqueline Fenandez’s crystal clear articulation of the need for sustainable solutions to ensure the continued existence of the elephant in the wild permeated the darkened Hall de Galle, the impact on the audience on the magnitude of the problem was surely palpable.

Produced and directed by Phillip Buccellato, the documentary traces the co-existence between humans and elephants but as a result of development and increasing human population, the loss of elephant habitat resulting in conflict situations, which has become a widespread concern

and a dire focus for the continued existence of the elephant. A highlight of the film was some of the award winning pioneering and innovative sustainability solutions being implemented by SLWCS. Some of which are the Elephant Orange Project using citrus as an alternative crop, electric fences, the Ele-Alert Elephant Intrusion Early Warning system, beehive fences and the Ele-Friendly Bus for the village, a danger-free transport mode for the villagers.

For Chairman of Colombo Jewellery Stores AkramCassim, these two events at GLF marked yet another step being taken in

his quest towards conserving the elephants in the wild. A wildlife enthusiast himself, Cassim who mooted the collaboration with the SLWCS believes that CJS can make a difference in integrating sustainable solutions to humanelephant habitat. “Being at GLF highlighted all the initiatives that are currently in place but it also enabled us to engage in educating multiple stakeholders on the dire need to maintain an ecological balance with this majestic creature, who is so symbolic of Sri Lanka’s cultural image.”

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Kadolana Eco Village Awarded Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence Award -2015

Kadolana Eco Village has been declared one of the 2015 Winners of the coveted Certificate of Excellence awarded by Trip Advisor, the world’s largest travel website. This award is presented solely based on guest reviews.

Speaking of the high recommendations they have been receiving, the General Manager, Mr. Asoka Wanigaratne stated, “Guest satisfaction is the top most priority and all our staff go that extra distance to make sure guests get the ultimate eco-friendly holiday experience.

This has led to us having many repeat customers which is a clear sign that we are doing something right.”

Kadolana Eco Village lies at the edge of Madu Ganga in Anda Dola village, Balapitiya, within an hour’s drive from Colombo via the Southern Expressway.

Kadolana Eco Village gives you the option of two different types of rooms. The Eco Friendly rooms are rustic and built using clay bricks and have roofs made of thatched coconut leaves. The bathrooms are open to the sky, giving you an experience like no other. The AC Deluxe rooms are for those seeking luxury amidst nature.

These air conditioned rooms are equipped with flat screen TVs and satellite connections.

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LAUGFS Sets Up Sri Lanka's

Largest and Most Modern Pharmaceutical

Manufacturing Plant

LAUGFS Pharmaceutical (Pvt) Ltdtoday inaugurated construction of Sri Lanka’s largest pharmaceutical manufacturing facility,with a massive investment in excess of USD30 million, holding its ceremonious groundbreakingat the Koggala Export Processing Zone.

both the public and private health sectors. However, Sri Lanka still largely depends on imported products for over 90% of the country’s requirement, with only around 10% manufactured locally.

The foreign currency outflow as a result of this exceeds Sri Lankan Rupees 60-75 billion every year.

LAUGFS Holdings Ltd and Premium International Pvt Ltd have formed a joint partnership to build and operate an Oral Solid Dosage (OSD) pharmaceutical manufacturing facility, which is expected to be the first internationally certified plant in Sri Lanka to export products to the world.

The LAUGFS manufacturing facility at Koggala is expected to transform the healthcare and pharmaceutical sector in the country on numerous fronts.

Boosting the healthcare sector through technology transfer and capacity building, this will also deliver numerous benefits to the country’s economy as well as the local consumer.

The local pharmaceutical industry has been on a high growth momentum, with annual forecasted rates of 12 – 17% in

“Being a home grown Sri Lankan conglomerate, we are proud to diversify further into

the healthcare sector. With this new venture, we will be able to provide high quality, affordable pharmaceutical products for the local market, saving billions of foreign currency outflow.

Compared to our neighbouring countries, Sri Lanka’s dependency on pharmaceutical imports is extremely high with only 10% of the requirement manufactured locally.Bangladesh, for example, where the domestic pharmaceutical market is thrice the value of our own, meets 97% of the domestic requirement through local manufacturing.

Pakistan caters to around 70% of domestic demand of finished medicine through their local production,” stated Mr.W.K.H. Wegapitiya, the Chairman of LAUGFS.

and medications worldwide, global spending on medicines is expected to reach $1.17 trillion by 2017, according to a recent report by the IMS Institute for Healthcare Informatics. Most multinational pharmaceutical manufacturers adopt a regional production strategy using certified Contract Manufacturers, which has opened up a massive export market for regional players.

With rising demand for healthcare

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journey of success in

Sri Lanka Oman Air, the national airline of the Sultanate of Oman commenced operations in Sri Lanka in 2009 and in a relatively short period of time, the airline has achieved significant success. Oman Air is renowned for offering affordable flights, a luxurious travel experience and world-class standards of service.

Gihan Karunaratne – Country Manager, Sri Lanka & Maldives, Oman Air has been at the helm of the airline’s local operations and has played a pivotal role in driving the airline’s continued growth in Sri Lanka. Gihan has over 35 years of experience in the aviation industry and is a talented leader with a proven track record for delivering results.

Oman Air in Sri Lanka: Commenting on Oman Air’sjourney ofsuccess in Sri Lanka, Gihan Karunaratnestated, “Sri Lanka was the 32nd destination that Oman Air introduced to its network, which has now grown to include 50 destinations. Locally, we have worked closely with our General 72

Sales Agent, North South Lines (a member of the Hayleys Group), to build our brand presence and establish a strong customer base. We have alsofocused on engaging with customers through special offers and events such as the Oman Air Golf Classic – a tournament, which brings together over 100 golfers from across the region.”

The rise of the Colombo-Muscat route: By2011, Oman Air was offering five flights per week from Colombo to Muscat. By 2012, the airline started offering daily flights and thereafter increased flight frequencies to 10 flights per week.

Today, the airline offers double daily flights to Muscat that operate with an average passenger load factor of 74%. Commenting on the immense demand for flights between both destinations, Gihan Karunaratne stated, “The Colombo-Muscat route is an important part of our global network and services business and leisure travellers as well as Sri

Gihan Karunaratne – Country Manager, Sri Lanka & Maldives, Oman Air

Lankan expatriate workers based in Oman. The direct flights are immensely convenient and help us to connect passengers to Oman, the Middle East and Europe. This route also connects travellers to Sri Lanka and contributes towards the growth of the local tourism industry.”

An exceptional product offering: Commenting on the airline’s product offering and new fleet Gihan Karunaratne stated, “Oman Air launched a programme of expansion in 2015 which will see the airline’s fleet grow to 57 aircraft by 2018. We recently introduced the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to our fleet to offers passengers the ultimate big-jet experience between key sectors.

Our long haul Business Class cabins includeluxuriouslie-flat beds and provide passengers with an outstanding inflight dining experience and state-of-the-art entertainment systems. Business Class passengers can also benefit from V.I.P. lounge access as well as a chauffer service.

The Economy Class cabins are designed to offer a relaxing and pleasant travel experience, enhanced by wholesome meals and ample entertainment options.”

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A legacy of excellence: Over the years Oman Air has won a string of international accolades and is renowned for offering its passengers a world-class travel experience. Commenting on the airline’s recent award wins, Gihan Karunaratne stated, “Oman Air received high acclaim in 2015 at the World Travel Awards by winning the ‘World’s Leading Airline - Economy Class 2015’ award and the airline’s lounge at Muscat International Airport was also named the ‘World’s Leading Airport – Business Class 2015.’

At the North India Travel Awards, Oman Air was acknowledged as the ‘Best International Airline 2015’. In 2016, Oman Airreceived a ‘Good Design Award’ for the airline’s Business Class seats.

The Good Design Awards programme is presented by the Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and Design and Metropolitan Arts Press Ltd. We are extremely proud of the many accolades that Oman Air has received, which have helped the airline tostrengthen its position as a leader in the aviation industry.

As we look ahead to the future, Oman Air’s operation in Sri Lanka is well-poised to enjoy continued growth and add greater value to the airline’s global network.”

vision in to reality”, Dr. Dehigama added.

Executive Chairman and Managing Director of the Epic Technology Group Dr. Nayana Dehigama presents a memento to Chief Operating Officer of the Sampath Bank Mr. Nanda Fernando. The Sampath Bank goes on record as being the first-ever customer of the ‘Access Control Server Solution. Also in the picture is Director/CEO of the Epic Technology Group and chief architect of this product, Mr. Viraj Mudalige

Visa International, Master Card and American Express Global select

Epic Lanka as Certified Vendor’ for their Access Control Server Solution Epic Lanka Pvt Ltd today announced that Visa International, Master Card and American Express Global cards associations have certified and chosen its “Access Control Server Solution”.

This world class product has now been certified by these three leading card associations for secure payment processing.

Complying with 3D security for internet-based payment transactions, this is the preferred product with leading global banks, and financial institutions worldwide.

Joining a prestigious community of technology providers around the world, Epic Lanka Pvt Ltd goes on record as being the first and only Sri Lankan company to be appointed as a Certified Vendor for their Access Control Server Solution to provide secure payment processing products to be used in Visa International, Master Card and American

Express Global networks.

Commenting on this achievement, Executive Chairman and Managing Director of Epic Technology Group Dr. Nayana Dehigama said, “We’re no doubt very proud of this achievement, which is not only an endorsement of the quality and excellence of our service, but also of what a Sri Lankan company can achieve in the international business arena. Credit goes to my entire team. The dedication and commitment they have individually put in to achieve this status was tremendous”.

Established in 1998, the Epic Technology Group is a technology leader in providing technology of international standards to corporate and government organisations in Sri Lanka and in the region. Epic innovates, develops and implements world class technology solutions in the Secure Electronic Payments,

Information Systems Security, Mobile Enterprise Automation, Secure Document Management, Secure Mobile Communication, Secure Document Personalisation and Infrastructure Outsourcing.

Being the pioneers in implementing some of the mission critical ICT solutions for several state organisations and leading corporate firms, the Epic Technology Group also provides a seamless and prompt customer support service in maintaining the largest network of on-line real time payment processors in the country. “We design and develop software solutions inhouse that conform to the highest international standards reflecting our commitment to quality, passion for excellence and quest for innovation. We strive to be a technology leader with a growing talent pool that is truly outstanding and committed to set the industry standards in transforming our

Commenting further on this Director/CEO and chief architect of this product, Mr. Viraj Mudalige said, “This is a very niche product, with a unique domain expertise which is assimilated, designed and developed in-house at EPIC Lanka. There is no doubt that by the launch of this product we will be putting Sri Lanka on the world map with our Access Controller Server Solution for 3D Payments.

In today’s high tech digital society in which we live, having this solution greatly reduces the risk of fraudulent transactions, because the card issuing bank has to conduct a verification and a user authentication before sending the transaction to the card acquirer for payment authorisation. This shifts the liability to the card issuers, which, in turn will help to reduce fraud when the cardholder in not presenting his/her card for the transaction”.

Epic also implemented its branchless banker solution for BSN Bank Malaysia, creating over 6,500 agents enabling the BSN Bank to seamlessly extend its reach nationwide and to provide on-line real time banking services to the public through external service agents.

“At Epic Technology Group, we value harmony, collaboration and ethical practices. We foster a family culture within the organisation where equal opportunities are given to everybody to excel. Continuous training, active technology transfer arrangements and a conducive learning atmosphere make our family stand out in their effort of making Epic a winning organisation in the region”, Dr. Dehigama concluded.

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UK’s Iconic beauty brand The Body Shop opens new store in

Sri Lanka!

Begins a new chapter in Sri Lanka with the launch of its new store & continues celebrating 40 years of rich heritage in beauty.a

The Body Shop, the iconic global retailer of cosmetics and toiletries launched its new store in Sri Lanka today.

Jacqueline Fernandez, Brand Ambassador of The Body Shop in Sri Lanka and Trevor Rajaratnam, Director, The Body Shop Sri Lanka open the first The Body Shop store in Sri Lanka.

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The Body Shop was founded in 1976 by Dame Anita Roddick, in Littlehampton, England. The beauty brand pioneered social activism and was built on the philosophy that business can be a force for good.The Body Shop seeks to make a positive difference in the world by offering high-quality, naturallyinspired skincare, hair care and make-up produced ethically and sustainably.

Scaling up its vision, earlier this month, The Body Shop has launched globally a pioneering new global CSR strategy that will underpin all aspects of company operation. The new Commitment will reaffirm The Body Shop position as a leader in ethical business and will define the next stage of development of The Body Shop business. The brand has established a sustainability framework entitled ‘Enrich Not Exploit’, incorporating 14 specific, measurable CSR targets for 2020.

New targets include ensuring 100% of The Body Shop’s natural ingredients are traceable and

FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016 | SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND

sustainably sourced; reducing the energy consumption of The Body Shop stores by 10% every year; and guaranteeing that 70% of The Body Shop’s product packaging does not contain fossil fuels.

All The Body Shopproducts are created using the finest ingredients sourced from the four corners of the globe which are not tested on animals. The Body Shop has over 3000 stores in over 60 countries.

Jacqueline Fernandez, the brand Ambassador for The Body Shop launched the new storeat Fairline Building on Galle Road todayin an exciting and interactive media event. Also present on the occasion were The Body Shop Sri Lanka Director, Trevor Rajaratnam and Ashok Pathirage, Chairman/ CEO of Softlogic group which holds the franchise for the new store.

The Body Shop storeoffers awide range of 100% vegetarian products across Skin Care, Bath, Shower,Body care, Make Up, Hair, Fragrance, Men’s and Gifts. Otherthanthe world famous and iconic products, the store also offers skincarespecialist consultation and make-up application and special make over services for customers.

‘Ayubowan’ Mate 8 and GR5 says

Two flagship products launch respectively for business elites and young generation.

The world’s most advanced smartphone technology ever with finger print sensors.

The Huawei GR5 sports a fully featured camera, which includes a perfect selfie mode with 10 beauty levels, slow-motion and time lapse functions enabling its users to capture and share their adventures instantaneously”. The device feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor 616 offers superior processing, ensuring the phone functions keep up with its users’ pace. 3000mAh battery will offer a full 24 hours of heavy use and three full days of light use.

Asoka Pieris - Group CEO SINGER Sri Lanka reiterated, “Huawei together with SINGER has set on a journey to enrich all Sri Lankans with the latest technology, unmatched quality enabling and empowering all citizens across the island to experience the latest technological advancements”.

Huawei together with its national distributor SINGER Sri Lanka introduced two latest flagship smartphones- Huawei Mate 8 and Huawei GR5 to Sri Lanka at a grand spectacle held at the Cinnamon Grand. Over 400 guests were able to experience the ‘Breakthrough in Power and Efficiency’ offered by the new duo smartphones.

The Mate 8 available in Gold and Black is tagged as the “New style of business on global platform” The device features groundbreaking hardware and is the first smartphone to run the Kirin 950 chipset, with CPU boosting power up 100 percent, GPU performance up 125 percent, and power efficiency up 70 percent vs. the Kirin 925.

Aspiring “Think young dream big” the GR5 available in Gold colour boasts a 13MP, F2.0 aperture rear facing camera with stacked CMOS sensor, a 7cm microshot and a 5MP front facing camera.

Shunli Wang – CEO Huawei Sri Lanka, said, “Sri Lanka is a key market and a strategic investment for Huawei. With the aggressive performance globally, Huawei is pursuing a consolidated product offering ensuring every product is the best option for each market segment. We remain focussed and

From left: Dean Ding from Huawei, Group CEO SINGER Sri Lanka PLC Asoka Pieris, Country Head Huawei Device Sri Lanka Henry Liu and Brand Manager for Huawei from Singer Sri Lanka Sahan Perera introduces the Huawei Mate 8 and GR5 to Sri Lanka

committed to all our customers who are the best ambassadors of Huawei and we continue to offer the very best product, for a great price and backed up by an excellent after sales and customer service”.

The Huawei Mate 8 architecture balances energy efficiency with high-end performance through 4 x A72 2.3 GHz processors and 4 x A53 1.8 GHz processors.

Equipped with a 4000mAh high-density battery, the Mate 8 delivers industry-leading power efficiency offering over two days of normal usage.

Director Sales SINGER Sri Lanka PLC Kumar Samarasinghe, Regional Director Huawei Sri Lanka Stanley Mascarenhas, Marketing Manager Huawei Sri Lanka Ruwan Gamage and Country Head Huawei Device Sri Lanka Henry Liu

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The 09th Travel Trade Sports Club, Beach Volleyball Championships 2015, sponsored by Mt. Lavinia Hotels Group and hosted by Club Bentota, Aluthgama for the 4th successive year was successfully concluded at Paradise Island Aluthgama on 06th February 2016. ,

TTSC BEACH VOLLEYBALL

Picture shows : The “Bowl” Championship Winning pair Tharindu Perera ( 1st from left ) & Lakmal de Silva (in the centre) from Sri Lankan Airlines “A”, receiving the award from Director Sales & Marketing Mt. Lavinia Hotels Group and Treasurer Travel Trade Sports Club, Chinthaka Daluwatte ( wearing black)

Picture shows : The “Plate” Championship winning pair, Sanju Samodana (1st from left) & Sasitha Dhananjaya (centre) from Club Bentota “A” receiving the award from the Residence Manager, Club Bentota, Camilus Cruze (wearing blue shirt)

Picture shows : “Cup” Championship runners-up pair Murugesh Kedis (1st from left) & Chandika Niroshan (centre) from Sri Lankan Airlines “B” receiving the award from the President, Travel Trade Sports Club, Denesh Silva (wearing red T-Shirt)

Picture Shows : “Cup” Championship winning pair, Supun Priyankara (1st from left) & Lalin Priyankara (centre) from Club Bentota “B” receiving the award from President Travel Trade Sports Club, Denesh Silva (wearing red T-shirt)

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FEBRUARY - MARCH 2016 | SRI LANKA THE TREASURE ISLAND

Prime Lands focus on providing the best locations; invoke two of the best so far!

Presents Prime City in Athurugiriya and Lake Breeze in Suwarapola Every house buyer would no doubt look around the vicinity and hope to achieve not only the best house in the best location but also the best house in the most soothing location. For extra measure, knowing that your home would be located at the ideal place with focus on serene surroundings is important to note.

Athurugiriya, the area is becoming popular with time and one can notice more banks and shopping boutiques sprouting about as a result of the area seeing economic development. Therefore, the area will continuously witness good change and abundant facilities for the perusal of residents in the area.

With this fixture in mind, as always, Prime Lands had embarked on initiating a project where home buyers can find their ideal home in the mush aspired and much needed type of locality.

Another point to consider is that the housing complex at Athurigiriya is closely situated at a point making it easier for residents to commute to other major towns such as Malabe. At the moment, there are 223 blocks of land available for residents in 6 perch plots that are segmented for potential home buyers.

The company had elevated away from the norm of constructed apartment blocks and has instead opted with two projects which incorporate individual homes for the discerning clientele. The Prime City project in Athurugiriya has been mainly focused towards a clientele who are categorized within the middle class segment as well as for individuals who look to invest in housing.

The town of Athurugiriya has been deemed as an area with growing potential in terms of land and housing for potential buyers and especially with the proposed expressway intersection that is set to enter Athurugiriya, it will no doubt provide investors with an added value in the future when they decide to resell as this would mean higher price growth as a result.

With the growth expansion that is being witnessed within the town of

Therefore, buyers can either purchase land plots with the hope of building a home or as an investment for future utility. Along with 24 hour covered security, Prime City will also incorporate facilities such as water, electricity, 30 foot tarred streets and concrete drainage systems.

Another service that buyers can benefit with is installment facilities from banks or Prime Land itself who will offer 5 to 7 years payment facilities to help ease ones future payment plans.

Prime Lands also ensures that there will be no hidden payments involved and will recognize the initial payment agreement being made whilst also assist the buyer with home constructions so that future residents can look forward to a properly adhered to service

from Prime Lands themselves and look forward to their dream home in no time!

The company will also see to the construction at a given scheduled period of time so that your home will be available to you when you need it. The homes which will be constructed through Prime Lands will come under three categories based on size. The first category will comprise of a home with a capacity of 1800 sqm starting from Rs. 9.2 million, the second category home with capacity of 1644 sqm from Rs. 9.3 million and the third home category with a capacity of 1774 sqm starting at Rs. 9.4 million.

Prime Lands believes that with the given rates of prices, acquiring such a home in an area such as this at this price is a choice a buyer would never regret. Based on a construction period of six to twelve months, Prime Lands have forged out an extensive and quality-based building system where they will ensure your dream home is built in accordance to standards.

The other project by Prime Lands is at Piliyandala. This occurrence which goes as Lake Breeze in Suwarapola is another initiative with quality at a reasonable rate set in mind. The main attribute that this location will encompass is the level of convenience from all major aspects for the comfort of home buyers.

encompass similar attributes to that of the Athurugiriya venture and will no doubt prove an ideal setting for potential buyers since the location in Piliyandala is in close proximity to the towns of Athurugiriya and Moratuwa.

This housing venture will also incorporate a location in serene surroundings and buyers will be able to choose from 8 different home categories. 2 bedroom homes will be priced at Rs. 8.5 million and upwards. Homeowners will receive the opportunity to enjoy facilities such as gyms, swimming pool and other such luxuries. Now, investors and buyers can no doubt bask in the essence of acquiring a plot of land or home at an added value.

Prime Lands is the only real estate company in the country that has managed to achieve ISO standard certification.

Due to their esteemed business acumen and knowledge in the real estate business in Sri Lanka, the company became the proud recipient of the renowned and much respected Asia Pacific Property Award. Prime Lands were also bestowed with the National Business Excellence Awards (NBEA) and LMD magazine named Prime Lands as the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Best Place to Workâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the awards which went under the same name.

Not only this but Prime Lands has made a name for itself as one of the best 20 companies in Sri Lanka.

The Suwarapola project will also

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