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Polonnaruwa – Travel Guide

Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka that was once the capital of the country during the 12th and 13th centuries. This travel guide to the city will cover a vast array of things to experience – mostly archaeological ruins, including temples, palaces, and monasteries. Polonnaruwa is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore the ruins on foot, by bicycle, or by tuk-tuk.

Here are some of the most popular archaeological sites and attractions in Polonnaruwa:

Gal Vihara: This complex of four granite Buddha statues is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Polonnaruwa. The largest statue is a reclining Buddha that is 14 meters long.
Lankatilaka Image House: This temple is home to a large standing Buddha statue that is 13 meters tall. The statue is decorated with intricate carvings and is considered to be one of the finest examples of Sinhalese art.
Ponnambala Vatadage: This circular structure is thought to have been a Buddhist monastery. The walls of the vatadage are decorated with intricate carvings, and the interior is home to a number of Buddha statues.
Royal Palace Complex: This complex of ruins includes the Audience Hall, the King’s Bath, and the Queen’s Palace. The Audience Hall is one of the best-preserved structures in the complex, and it is decorated with beautiful stone carvings.
Minnewara Tank: This large reservoir was built during the reign of King Parakramabahu I. The tank is still used for irrigation today, and it is a popular spot for swimming and fishing.

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In addition to the archaeological sites, Polonnaruwa also has a number of other attractions, including:

The Polonnaruwa National Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient city, including sculptures, pottery, and jewelry.
The Polonnaruwa Art Gallery: This gallery displays a collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from the Polonnaruwa period.
The Polonnaruwa Cultural Centre: This center hosts a variety of cultural events, including dance performances, music concerts, and art exhibitions.

Polonnaruwa is a fascinating city with a rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient city, learn about the Sinhalese culture, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Anuradhapura | Sri Lanka | Travellers Guide

Being the first point of the Cultural Triangle the history of {en:Anuradhapura} is as long as the chronological history of Sri Lanka. It was the very first capital of Sri Lanka and rose to prominence in the early stages of development of the island. In retrospect this city of ruins is a living symbol of what used to be the rich Sinhalese culture and architectural magnificence. The city is scattered with man made reservoirs and tanks such as the Kala Weva. Great battles have been fought here and many renowned kings have lived and died. Today the frequently visited places in Anuradhapura are the Sacred Sri Maha Bodhi, The Jetavaramaya, Isurumuniya, The Brazen palace and of course {en:Mihintale} where Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka.

Anuradhapura Kingdom was built by King Pandukabhya, son of Princess Unmada chithtra. The city was the first of it’s kind with well designed sanitary system, Gardens, Irrigation and Water supply systems, Temples, cemeteries and burial grounds, etc. The city was then became the capital city of Sri Lanka and flourished under many subsequent Kings ruled for centuries. Anuradhapura Kingdom was highly vulnerable to invasions from South India and suffered usurp of throne several times, by invading Kings from south India. Singhalese Kings have managed to defeat the invaders after reorganizing the troops, although the invading kings ruled in the mean time. One such historic battle held Between King Dutugamunu and South Indian King, Elara. In that, King Elara was defeated and King Dutugamunu ruled the country in single sovereignty.

The Anuradhapura Kingdom was under constant threat from south Indian kingdoms. The King Mahinda V ascended to throne in 982 A.C, and was the last Sinhalese king to rule the country from Glorious city. At this time the South Indian realm Chola, became very powerful under the Great Rajaraja (985- 1018 A.C) and conquered Sri Lanka. The King Mahinda was captured and imprisoned in South India.

The South Indians ruled the country for next 75 years. They shifted the Capital city to Polonnaruwa due to strategic reasons after considering the vulnerably for attacks from both native Sinhalese people and other south Indian Kingdoms.

There are many worlds’ firsts in Sri Lanka, one of them being the first recorded instance of a wildlife sanctuary being created in the Mihintale vicinity. The Sri Maha Bodhi – believed to have been grown from a sapling of the tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment is the tree with the oldest historical record, over 2000 years.

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Amangalla Hotel | Galle | Sri Lanka

5 STAR HOTEL | 17 ROOMS | 8 SUITES | 1 RESIDENCE

Amangalla derives its name from aman, or “peace” in {en:Sanskrit}, and galla, the Sinhalese name for the town of Galle. The origin of the name “Galle” is attributed to the Portuguese mariner who first sighted its natural harbour. Tradition has it that a sailor up on the crow’s-nest of the Portuguese vessel spied a cock crowing on a rock. Take Gallus, Latin for rooster and Gala, Singhalese for rock, and it comes as no surprise that the coat of arms of Galle is a rooster standing on a rock. The resort provides the perfect base for exploring the fort and the town of Galle.

Lying within the walls of the fort is Amangalla an amalgamation of buildings dating back over 400 years. Collectively the buildings have been used as headquarters for the Dutch commandeur and his officers and later as a billet for British soldiers. In 1865, the buildings were combined to create the New Oriental Hotel, one of twelve hotels at the time within the fort. As the New Oriental Hotel, the property traded for 140 years.

Historically, the fortified town of Galle has been a significant trading port. More than a thousand years ago it was the essential port of call for Chinese, Persian, Arab and Indian traders. Later came the Javanese and Sumatrans, followed by Marco Polo in 1299. But it was with the arrival of the Portuguese in 1505 that a small foreign trading post was established. In 1589, when the Kandyans forced the Portuguese out of their Colombo fort, a Portuguese settlement commenced in earnest with a fort of palm trees and mud.

Among other early buildings was a Capuchin convent followed by the Black Fort known as Santa Cruz. In 1640, the Dutch captured the fortress of Galle and, to protect their presence, they needed a garrison – hence the fort. {en:Galle Fort} was built by 1663 with great ramparts and bastions, but not fully completed until 1715. In 1684 the headquarters for the commandeur were built on the corner of the present Church and Middle Streets, the start of what now comprises Amangalla.

The ensuing 400 years have seen people come and go. Swashbucklers, traders, colonialists, the Dutch, the English, all have left an indelible stamp on the rich history and character of this trading port.

The scenic countryside and quaint villages as well as the wildlife of southwestern Sri Lanka, provide further pleasant distraction. Galle Fort remains a “living” monument with a thriving community within. The inhabitants are also protected, not by the stone ramparts some 20 metres thick, but by {en:UNESCO}, which classified the fort a {en:World Heritage site} in 1988.

ACCOMMODATION

The Garden House – Situated within the resort gardens, this two-storey, 140 square metre house features a private terrace and balcony offering leafy, treetop views. The original, antique furniture of the house has been restored. At the entrance is a sitting room fitted with a chaise lounge, armchairs and coffee table. Double doors lead to the bedroom, furnished with a king-size four-poster bed, writing table and dressing cabinet. Adjoining this is a spacious bathroom, bathed in light from the pool garden outside. It offers twin vanities, a free-standing tub, toilet and separate shower. An internal stairway rises from the sitting room to the upper level, featuring a daybed and banquette. Other facilities include a pantry serviced by a private butler.

Suites – There are 8 Suites, of which six are located in the Church Street Wing and two in the Middle Street Wing. The Suites look onto para trees, the ramparts of the Fort and the harbour, or the mature well-tended tropical gardens. The spacious Suites feature the original polished teak floorboards dating back over 300 years. The entry hall leads to separate bedroom and lounge area. Adjacent to the entry hall is the bathroom with a free-standing tub, twin vanities, separate toilet and shower. The bedroom has a king-size four-poster bed and arched, shuttered windows. The lounge is furnished with a chaise lounge, writing desk, dining table, planter’s chair and pettagama chest. This furniture is either a property original or careful reproduction. Suites range in size from 60sq m to 80sq m.

There are 4 Garden Wing chambers – three with balconies and one with a twin porch – all over-looking the treetops of the resort garden. The large room is furnished with a four-poster king-size or twin beds, planter’s chair, writing desk, dining table and pettagama chest. The furnishings, either antiques or reproductions, complement the polished timber floorboards and the shuttered windows on the balcony/porch. The separate bathroom has a free-standing bath and separate shower and toilet. Chambers range in size from 55sq m to 67sq m.

Chambers – 6 chambers are located within the Church Street Wing and face the Fort ramparts. The entrance leads into the open plan room, featuring first the bathroom, followed by the bedroom and a separate sitting area. The bathroom has a large shower, free-standing bathtub, and toilet. A gracious and authentic turn-of-the-century ambience is recreated with use of a four-poster king-size or twin bed arrangement, a planter’s chair, writing desk, dining table and a pettagama chest perched atop gleaming teakwood floorboards.

Bedrooms – 7 bedrooms are located adjacent to Amangalla’s reception, on the ground level of the Middle Street Wing. Views are either overlooking the garden or the nearby historic Groote Kerk (Great Church). The bedroom and separate bathroom are similar in size with furnishings including a four-poster king-size bed, writing desk, dining table, pettagama chest – all set within the original polished jackwood floors. The spacious bathroom offers twin vanities, free-standing tub, separate shower and toilet. Three bedrooms are set within the property’s gardens. French windows and doors open onto the garden entrance of each room. The bedrooms offer a combined sitting and sleeping area with a writing desk, dining table and king-size four-poster bed. The adjoining bathroom includes twin vanities, a free-standing bathtub, shower and toilet. Bedrooms range from 36 to 39 square metres.

DINING

The Zaal – the Great Hall – as it was known in Dutch times, is the entry point to the resprt and has a wonderful colonial feel with high ceilings, overhead fans and chandeliers. There is relaxed seating within as well as on the verandah facing the tree-lined street front. The menu provides light meals and snacks in the morning and afternoon tea is served daily. The verandah is the ideal place to escape the heat of the day, enjoy a tall drink and watch the world pass by.

Adjacent is The Dining Room that provides an intimate setting for dining with a colonial accent. The Dining Room is furnished with period chairs and tables, crisp white linen and antique silverware, with many of the original pieces being returned to their rightful place in this room. The Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and provides a choice of traditional Sri Lankan curry and rice and home cooked dishes.

ACTIVITIES

Swimming Pool: The Pool is centred within the resort’s gardens and measures 21m by 10.5m. Bordering the swimming pool is a terrace containing five shaded cabanas and a series of sun lounges. Poolside service is provided and a variety of light meals and snacks are available.

Library: Located beyond the reception hall is the Library with an attached reading terrace. There is an extensive range of reference books on the history, arts, culture and communites of Sri Lanka as well as a selection of novels, magazines, newspapers, audio CDs and board games. Two computer stations are provided for guests to access the Internet. There is also an eclectic collection of memorabilia drawn from the archives of the New Oriental Hotel, which provides an interesting perspective into the history of the buildings, the fort and the port of Galle.

SPA & FITNESS

The Baths: These are contained within the lower level of the Middle Street building. Entry is to a reception hall that is flanked on one side by a long ascending arched corridor leading to five treatment rooms. There is a small relaxation area at the entrance to each of the rooms. On the other side of the reception hall are the female and male locker rooms and bath areas. Each contains a small number of lockers and a dressing area leading to a hydrotherapy and water massage pool, sauna, steam and cold plunge pool. The male area is bathed in natural light during the day and the female area looks onto a private garden. There is also a beauty treatment area and a traditional barber’s shop. Adjacent to the Baths and positioned in a quiet part of the hotel gardens is a combined yoga and meditation pavilion.

AREA ATTRACTIONS

Amangalla is an integral part of Galle Fort. Here the narrow streets are lined with old houses, displaying their Dutch heritage with their pillared verandahs. The government offices of the Dutch and English period remain in use, in varied states of repair. The community within the Fort is abustle with daily chores and work. Along with the bullock carts and bicycles, the three wheelers and food carts, people socialize and shop, collect their children from school and stop to eat. Laughter, chatter, gossip and smiles abound within the rampart walls.

Address: Amangalla, 10 Church Street, Galle, Sri Lanka.
Airport: Colombo Bandaranaike Airport (CMB)

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Aditya Villa | Luxury Boutique Hotel | Rathgama |…

LUXURY BOUTIQUE HOTEL | TWELVE SUITES | SPA

Aditya is a small all-suite luxury boutique hotel on a hidden stretch of beach in Rathgama, southwest Sri Lanka. The property is located between the tourist playground of Hikkaduwa and the historic Fort city of Galle. It is approximately 100 km south of the capital Colombo.

The hotel is a small, intimate hotel with only twelve suites. Aditya feels as warm and welcoming as a home, and made out to be your own private luxury villa on the beach in paradise.

Aditya offers more than just luxury on the beach. It arouses the senses, stimulates the intellect, and draws the soul into a truly transcendent experience. The hotel boasts five enchanting Garden Suites, six fabulous Ocean Suites, and the stunning two-storey Grand Surya Suite. Each suite is uniquely appointed with authentic art and antiques drawn from Sri Lanka , the Subcontinent and the East Indies . The suites are not numbered – they are named after the twelve Adityas, the solar deities of Hindu mythology.

All suites are equipped with a full range of luxury and convenience features, including a private plunge pool, large-screen TV, DVD/CD player, minibar, safe, hairdryer, tea & coffee service, his & her sinks, vanity mirrors, and more.

But the suites themselves are anything but small. Guests find themselves in some of the most expansive accommodation available in Sri Lanka, cosseted in exquisite tropical art and antiques, lavished with every conceivable luxury, and indulged with service that looks after every need and desire. Guests can summon room service, laundry, and en suite spa treatment with an exiting and holistic spa menu.

Aditya is a boutique hotel in the finest sense of the expression. Located on one of Sri Lanka’s most pristine stretch of beaches, with a beautiful swimming pool and an en-suite spa service, Aditya provides an environment of true romance and authentic well-being that few boutique hotels can boast of. The hotel s a lot more than just luxury on the beach. It arouses the senses, stimulates the intellect, and draws the soul into a truly transcendent experience.

Aditya offers regular mini courses on subjects like Sri Lankan cooking, mask making, juggery making etc. Themed tours take guests off the beaten track to some of the area’s most fascinating experiences. Guests can make use of the Aditya’s Mini Moke for excursions to the historic attractions of Galle and the hedonistic pleasures of Hikkaduwa.

ACCOMMODATION

Ocean Suites
Fantastic views over the Indian Ocean, Aditya offers some of Sri Lanka’s most scenic beaches and also some of the world’s best sunsets. Few hotels can offer sunsets quite like these, enjoyed from purpose-designed private balconies. The beautiful décor, spectacular bathrooms, plunge pools, and comprehensive luxury amenities that are also part and parcel of these suites.

Garden Suites
The Garden suites are charming with own plunge pool, exquisite furnishings and all the expected luxury features. Each suite offers all kinds of serendipitous delights which include some celestial ceiling designs, dreamy verandas, and of course, private gardens with the kind of lush tropical foliage for which Sri Lanka is famous.

Surya Presidential Suite
An astonishing penthouse suite comprising two levels, the lower level boasts expansive living space with plush furnishings to stretch out, relax, watch a movie or entertain. The upper level hosts a magnificently proportioned bed that is splendid to behold, and even more splendid to occupy. Outside is a massive private sun-deck and an open air plunge pool overlooking the endless blue of the Indian Ocean and the million colours of the tropical sunsets. Surya is Aditya’s crowning glory, and arguably the most spectacular accommodation on offer by any boutique hotel in Sri Lanka today.

Cuisine
Aditya’s Restaurant offers a cosmopolitan menu, carefully chosen for discerning palates, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood. Guests may request custom-prepared meals, depending on the availability of ingredients. Our guests may dine whenever and wherever they choose. The Bar is stocked with a comprehensive range of wines and spirits, and serves up familiar and exotic cocktails.

Activities

Aditya offers ideal swimming and sunbathing conditions, with an expansive pool and a long, wonderfully secluded stretch of beach.
The En Suite Spa service brings in expert hands to banish stress and fatigue in total comfort and privacy
The fully-equipped Gym keeps the body in shape – the Yoga Room does the same for the mind.
The Library has an extensive collection of books, movies and music for all tastes.
The colonial port city of Galle, with its historic Dutch fort, is a ten minute drive south from Aditya. This atmospheric town is one of Sri Lanka’s premier attractions.
Hikkaduwa, just to the north of Aditya, has long been a traveller’s playground. It is famous for its coral gardens as well as its characterful beach restaurants and bars.
Ambalangoda, about a twenty minute drive north from Aditya, is a centre for art and crafts. It is renowned for its distinctive devil-masks, and is also one of the best places on the island to shop for antiques.

Check-in/Check-out Time Normal Check-in Time is 2.00 p.m. and Check-Out time is 12.00 noon. Earlier Check-in Time or later Check-out time could be requested on a case by case basis and the hotel may agree depending on availability.

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*Aditya may not be bookable online – Send us an email using the ‘Contact’ tab in the main menu above and we can confirm your reservations.

The Fortress Hotel | Galle | Sri Lanka

LUXURY RESORT | 2 RESIDENCES | 6 LOFTS | 41 ROOMS

The Fortress located on Sri Lanka’s southern coast just south of the historic city of Galle, sets the standard in luxury and quality on this island that already offers a diverse array of accommodation, both five-star and lesser hotels.

The company behind The Fortress fashioned Huvafen Fushi and Dhoni Mighili, which are atoll resorts in the Maldives and both considered as leading-edge in terms of design, amenities and service.

The resort is built to include some unique features including a glass cave housing an array of new and old world wines, a panoramic cocktail bar, an art gallery and a fibre optic lit pool. The hotel also features a traditional Ceylon T Bar where professionally trained staff serve an assortment of the best of the islands acclaimed teas.

The cuisine is exquisite while offering both International and traditional Sri Lankan. There’s Al fresco dinning by the pool, a pizzeria and tea room. The property also features its own Sen Spa offering both international and traditional ayurvedic treatments. To keep you fit, there’s a gymnasium, yoga pavilion and water sports centre. Other amenities include a library, turtle hatchery, wedding chapel, Little Adventurers Club, boutiques, art gallery and tours with the resort naturalist. Also available at an extra cost are bicycles, golf and tours of Galle and surrounding areas.

The most exclusive accommodation at the Fortress – the Residences -feature a unique and stylish cantilevered pool from their second storey balconies, so you can step out of bed, straight into your pool. The Fortress is designed to spoil yourself and enjoy a relaxed and pampered holiday in paradise.

ACCOMMODATION

Inspired by the Dutch Fort design, there are five distinct styles of guest rooms and residences, each creating sensual living spaces with a naturally modern twist. All are designed with either private courtyards or balconies, with views onto the magnificent gardens, water features or golden beaches of the Indian Ocean.

RESORT CONCEPT & PHILOSOPHY

Recreating history, the architecture of The Fortress is styled after Galle’s famed Dutch Fort. Naturally modern design forges historic Dutch and Portuguese styles with Sri Lankan motifs, innovative architecture and designer amenities. Rising next to the seaside, the resort’s walls enclose verdant gardens sheltering hammocks, day beds and stunning water features. All of the 49 “naturally modern” guest rooms feature 7ft by 7ft super king beds, open plan bathrooms, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems with plasma screens, Bose DVD players and surround sound. The spa allows guests to experience Per Aquum’s signature treatments and the ancient South Asian healing art of Ayurveda.

DINE & IMBIBE

Pepper – Light, international cuisine and authentic Sri Lankan specialties. The main dining venue at The Fortress.

Wine3 – A glass cave with a breathtaking array of old and new world wines.

Heat – Serves delicious hot creations from the wood-fired pizza oven. Set in the lush Fortress gardens.

In-room dining – Twenty-four hour in-room dining is available for guests wanting to indulge within the intimate settings of their room, loft or residence.

T – An authentic experience where you will discover the various flavours of authentic Ceylon tea.

Sea Lounge – Beach cocktails under a starry night sky.

Destination Dining – Private dining experiences in secluded areas of the gardens within ‘The Fortress’ walls or on the golden sands of the beach.

LIME SPA

An inner sanctum reflecting the rich colours of the surrounding culture and nature close by. Sri Lankan culture incorporated through traditional Ayurvedic treatments. In addition, a menu of international spa therapies.

Before and after treatments, guests can indulge in complimentary ‘Degrees’ water therapies including sauna, steam and hydrobath.

Spa facilities include a Yoga Pavilion, Single and Double Treatment Rooms, and Ayurvedic Treatment Rooms with traditional steam beds.

Services :Spa with Ayurvedic centre, Yoga pavilion, Fully-equipped gymnasium, Free flowing swimming pool, SCUBA diving – PADI certified, offered off-site, Water sports centre, Business centre and meeting rooms, Boutiques, Little Adventurers Club, Bicycles for hire, Art gallery featuring local artists, Wedding pavilion, Turtle hatchery, CD & DVD library, 24-hour reception hosts, Luxury car service, Tuk tuk taxi services, Airport transfers, Butler service, Multilingual staff, 24-hour in-room dining, Poolside service, Wedding hosts, Resort naturalist, Wi-fi internet access, IDD telephone services, Laundry, dry cleaning and valet services, Pillow menu, Bath menu, Foreign currency exchange.

Check-in/Check-out Time Normal Check-in Time is 12.00 noon and Check-Out time is 11.00 a.m. Earlier Check-in Time or later Check-out time could be requested on a case by case basis and the hotel may agree depending on availability.

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Villa Rosa | Kandy | Sri Lanka – Boutique…

SMALL BOUTIQUE HOTEL | 4 DELUXE ROOMS | 2 STANDARD ROOMS | 1 FAMILY ROOMS | 1 SINGLE ROOM

Villa Rosa is a new and elegant small boutique hotel in Kandy. The villa caters to individual travellers who want to relax in privacy, but are also eager to explore the vicinity of the hill capital of Sri Lanka. The villa is unique, the view is exceptional, the food is special and it is the ideal place from which to explore Sri Lanka’s hill country.

The Hotel is run by a Sri Lankan team under German management. The team is young and very ambitious to create a place that is really special. Due to the small size of the property and probably the German training, the service is exceptional and still manages to be unobtrusive. The management team is supported by a group of 8-10 male and female employees who go out of their way to offer the best service and make your stay as comfortable as possible.

ACCOMMODATION

All rooms at Villa Rosa are equipped with modern facilities such as IDD telephones, satellite television and broadband internet to name a few. The rooms also have beautiful views facing the Mahaweli River (the longest river in Sri Lanka) that snakes through the valley below. The accommodation is a mix of large double rooms, single rooms and family suite.

There are spacious common areas; a library, breakfast room, dining room, garden, viewing platform with wonderful views over the surrounding mountains. The villa also shares the swimming pool at a hotel near by.

CUISINE

Your breakfast can be taken anywhere you please: in your room, on your balcony, on the terrace or down on the viewing platform. A mostly western menu includes fresh fruit and cereals, breads and toasts, jams and marmalade. The hotel is German-owned and you get cold meats and a cheese platter; you can have pancakes, too. In the evenings, the chef comes out to talk you through the menu and take your orders, then disappears and cooks your supper exactly how you wanted it: hot curries, mild curries, perhaps a fresh salad.

There’s a five-course European dinner menu, but they’ll do you an omelette if that’s all you want, and if you give them enough notice, they’ll tailor-make the following day’s dinner for you.

THINGS TO DO

The Villas friendly staff will give you a ride down the hill into Kandy town, then bring you back up at the end of the day (the hotel has its own trishaw/tuk tuk). Golf can be arranged if you so wish; so can bicycle tours and elephant rides. Visit the botanical gardens in Peradeniya, or go trekking to the hills, past tea plantations, old colonial mansions, paddy fields and temples.

Head north 60km and climb the Sigiriya rock fortress. Also visit Dambulla for its magnificent Golden Temple – 157 incredible statues of Buddha, imperious ancient wall paintings – it’s been a sacred site for pilgrims for over 2000 years and is Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave temple. Polonnaruwa is 80km away, the country’s 13th-century capital, is a little further away, but well worth the effort.

Or you could opt to stay at the house and relax – have a massage, some ayurvedic treatment or try your hand at cooking a Sri Lankan curry under instruction from the chef.

Products & Services: Your bedroom includes a fan (it’s quite cool in the mountains), a mosquito net, TV and IDD is available along with internet connection. The spacious bathrooms come with bathtubs (in the three deluxe rooms) shower with hot and cold water.

Address: Kandy, Sri Lanka

Airport: Colombo International

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Step into colonial chic | A review by Royston…

Resort Report By Royston Ellis

“We were very surprised to find a hot water bottle and some lovely flowers on our bed,” wrote Mr & Mrs Struychen of Holland in the guest book at the Bandarawela Hotel.

Beds adorned with tropical flowers are not unusual after the evening turn-down service in Sri Lankan hotels, but the presence of a rubber hot water bottle to warm the sheets is evidence of a more caring, traditional style of hospitality. It is no surprise to learn from the directory entitled Bandarawela Hotel – Since 1893 placed in every bedroom that it was originally called The Grand Hotel, Bandarawela. The hotel was once owned by the father of Nesta Brohier, late proprietor of the erstwhile (and much lamented) New Oriental Hotel in Galle Fort.

The hotel’s pedigree is apparent on approaching it up the steep drive above the town, next to the post office. The first sight is of a gateman in the khaki uniform and hat of a 1950s’ ranger. A classic Wolesley car is parked outside the hotel and a genuine BSA motorbike stands by the entrance steps. The receptionist wears broad black braces as part of his uniform and there is an old British-built iron safe on display behind him. Colonial chic governs the hotel, giving it character that contemporary boutique hotels cannot match.

One industry expert suggested that if the hotel were to charge five times its current room rate, it would be packed by trend-setting fashionistas bragging about the experience of staying at this quaint and original hotel. However, for that to happen, the bathrooms would have to be brought into the 21st century.

Every one of the hotel’s rooms has a bathroom ensuite, with the added feature of a back door remaining from the days when, according to the directory, “There were two lavatory coolies (who) used the back door to the bathroom to change the toilet of every guest. In the evening, the bath boys used to deliver two buckets of hot water so guests could bathe before dinner.”

Now there is plenty of piping hot water but the shower is an appendage suspended above an ancient cast iron bathtub with lion paws feet, and the floor is red polished concrete. The washbasin is in the bedroom. While modern touches like a television set and a minibar have been introduced into the bedrooms, the furniture remains appropriately ponderous.

The beds, relics from the days when the hotel catered for those taking rest cures, are adjustable with a profusion of brass knobs. Each has only one slim pillow, but there are spares in the room’s almirah. A mosquito net envelops the twin beds to create the illusion of a curtained four-poster.

The hotel spans two floors embracing three inner courtyard gardens overlooked by the room corridors. In 1993, Nesta Brohier recalled: “I remember that another row of rooms was built at the back of the Grand Hotel, Bandarawela, during our childhood about 70 years ago, to enable planters (strictly Europeans) to stay over night.”

The old public bar that used to be the haunt of carousing locals and accessed by a flight of steps behind the post office, now has a pool table and a karaoke facility and is open only to residents. Drinks are brought to it from the lounge bar but a log fire is lit on request and guests can sit on the old wooden stools defiantly designed for broad backsides. Next to it, the linen room has become a conference hall.

The hotel has formidable public rooms with a long lounge with polished floorboards and reproductions of old photographs on its walls. The cosy lounge bar used to be a reading and smoking room. Smoking is no longer permitted in the public areas because the hotel has more than 30 rooms. A notice quoting the law appears on every coffee table.

The restaurant resounds with the tread of sarong-clad stewards hurrying across the wooden floor to serve visitors. Four kinds of freshly baked bread are offered with the table d’hote dinner and there is a satisfying wine list with a knowledgeable wine steward on hand. The a la carte menu features attempts at traditional dishes like Shepherd’s Pie. Portions are massive. I had Scotch Egg (a hard boiled egg coated with sausage meat and deep fried) as a starter and it was enough for a full meal.

With over 60 possible excursions to local places of interest listed in the room directory, the Bandarawela Hotel is a convenient – and inexpensive – place to stay while exploring lesser known Sri Lanka. And it lives up grandly to its slogan “where time stands still”.

Bandarawela Hotel

Bentota Beach Hotel soon to become Cinnamon Beach

Located between Bentota’s white beach and the tranquil Bentara River, Bentota Beach Hotel is just about one and a half hour’s drive from Colombo. This magnificent structure designed by world famous architect Geoffrey Bawa is nestled within 30 acres of well landscaped coconut plantation.

The entrance to this hotel is shaded by a roof made of metal and with an embossed design of the sun made of copper under it. The car park and a shopping arcade are situated on this floor. The Reception is situated on the first floor with six oil presses [sekku gal] beside the staircase.

The Reception has a large lobby with the entire ceiling made of batik. The left side of the reception is covered by glass doors with a large pond at the other end.

The room on the top floor facing the Indian Ocean on one side and the calm waters of the river lagoon on the other faced a beautiful setting. The golden sandy beaches allow you to soak up the sun, entertain children, maybe take a beach stroll or enjoy a stunning sunset, all in one day.

There is an ayurvedic spa for guests seeking an excuse to de-stress at the end of the day with a top-to-toe treatment.

Arranged over 3 floors, the hotel has 105 Standard rooms including 15 Superior rooms, 6 Deluxe rooms and 4 Presidential Suites. The floors were tiled, keeping the rooms cool in the midday sun. Light day curtains mask the large bay windows onto the balcony, offering views over the gardens and out to sea or over the river.

The interiors had predominantly teak furnishings with generic fabrics. The rooms enjoy more space with a sitting room for private relaxation. The impressive Presidential Suite has pleasant views from its large windows.

Presently known as the Bentota Beach Hotel, and shortly to be renamed Cinnamon Beach this is ranked amongst one of the friendlier. “We have different kinds of theme nights such as European, Indian, International, Chinese, BBQ, Indonesian, Malaysian and Sri Lankan too.

Every night we organise a live band, piano music, cultural show, firing and disco for our guests’ entertainment. There are some excursions near the hotel such as Lunuganga, Brief Garden, Turtle hatchery, Meetiyagoda gem mine and Madu ganga also”, General Manager of the Hotel, Sanjeewa Perera said.

The hotel has three restaurants and the main restaurant is called “Peacock”. The Fine Dining restaurant is named Araliya and another restaurant located in the garden covered by Sooriya trees called “Sooriya” restaurant beautifies the culinary area.

When one stays at this hotel he can enjoy the special boat ride called “Pontoon” on the Bentota River. Even special dinner nights are arranged on some days on this Pontoon journey.

This hotel is very famous among Sri Lankan and tourists alike due to the array of water sports on the Bentota River which is a major draw card for the holiday enthusiast. This river is especially suitable for all kinds of water sports.

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New Ramada Hotel opened at Katunayake

Hotel Ramada Katunayake a 4 star Hotel comprising 68 rooms opened yesterday (11, Sep08) at Negombo Road Seeduwa, a 10 minutes drive from the airport on the Negombo – Colombo highway.

Being in the vicinity of the airport, it is ideally suited for airline crews and transit passengers for restful stay before they embark on their next journey. Being in close proximity to the free trade zone and the investment promotion zones of Ekala and Biyagama, factories can utilise this hotel for their expatriates accommodation and get-togethers.

Rooms are equipped with high speed internet, flat screen T.V, mini bar, as standard features. They also have a pool, gym, business centre, banquet halls, travel desk, a bar and a 24 hour coffee shop.

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Hemtours re-branded as Diethelm Travel Sri Lanka

Hemtours, one of Sri Lanka’s largest Destination Management Companies and part of the Hemas Group, will now operate as Diethelm Travel Sri Lanka from 01st September 2008.

This new partnership was announced at the ITB in Berlin in March this year following an MOU signed between the two companies to re-brand and re-launch Hemtours as “Diethelm Travel Sri Lanka” (DTSL) with a specific focus on the in-bound tourism markets.

DTSL will continue to be operated by the same experienced Hemtours management and staff with renewed vigour and dedication to offer a newer and wider range of products and services to a larger network of clients.

Abbas Esufally, Group Director, Hemas Holdings PLC, said : We recently sought to strengthen our Sri Lankan business by finding a partner with a truly global distribution reach. From day one of entering dialogue with DTG, it was clear we had found a like-minded, service-oriented, company with strong ethics and financial resources.” We will be expanding our footprint to the Maldives in the near future.

Chief Executive Officer of Diethelm Travel Group, John Watson, said, “Our international clientele has been requesting for a ‘Diethelm Travel’ presence in Sri Lanka and the Maldives for quite some time. We are happy to have found an excellent partner in Hemtours, one of Sri Lanka’s time tested, well regarded, and quality tour operators”.

Managing Director, DTSL Harith Perera says, “I have no doubt that the fusion of synergies between the Diethelm Group and Hemtours will result in an excellent product which will not only be a win-win situation for us both, but also, a boon to the entire Sri Lankan tourist industry and the region”.

The Diethelm Travel Group counts over half a century’s experience of providing full travel services within the Far East region. DTG is a subsidiary of Diethelm Keller Holdings, headquartered in Zurich, a closely held family company principally owned by fourth generation descendants of the founders.

DTG’s extensive network has fully licensed and insured offices in Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam. It enjoys an international reputation as a first-class travel service provider. The Diethelm Travel Group employs over 700 multi-lingual staff and serves hundreds of quality tour operators across the globe, enjoying exceptional relationships with travel suppliers and government departments across the board.

One of Sri Lanka’s largest destination management companies, Hemtours has been a part of the Hemas Group of Companies, one of Sri Lanka’s top public quoted blue chip companies. With over 30 years of extensive experience in the sector, Hemtours enjoys affiliation with some of the world’s largest tour operators.

Source: diethelmtravel.com

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