KEEP GOING

Enjoy little things ❤️

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Lunugamvehera Reservoir

Lunugamvehera Reservoir is one of the major irrigation reservoirs in southern Sri Lanka. Located in the Hambantota District, it was constructed under the Lunugamvehera Development Project to provide water for agriculture and support the livelihoods of farmers in the dry zone. The reservoir plays a vital role in irrigation by supplying water to paddy fields and nearby farming areas throughout the year. Surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife, the area is also environmentally important and contributes to the ecological balance of the region. Lunugamvehera Reservoir stands as a significant example of Sri Lanka’s irrigation and water management development.

History of Lunugamvehera Reservoir

Lunugamvehera Reservoir has an important history connected to Sri Lanka’s irrigation and agricultural development. The reservoir was built under the Kirindi Oya Irrigation and Settlement Project (KOISP), which was started in 1979 to improve water management and farming in the dry zone areas of southern Sri Lanka. Construction of the reservoir began in 1981 and was completed in 1986.

The reservoir was created by damming the Kirindi Oya River, which originates near Ravana Ella in Wellawaya. The main objective of the project was to provide a reliable water supply for agriculture, especially paddy cultivation, and to support thousands of farming families living in nearby villages. The reservoir also helped supply drinking water and improve livestock and settlement development in the region.

Later, the surrounding catchment area was protected by establishing Lunugamvehera National Park in 1995. The national park was created to conserve wildlife, protect the reservoir’s water resources, and maintain the environmental balance of the area. Today, Lunugamvehera Reservoir remains one of the major irrigation reservoirs in southern Sri Lanka and plays a vital role in agriculture and environmental conservation.

The current situation of Lunugamvehera Reservoir is mainly influenced by the recent heavy rains experienced across Sri Lanka. Due to the increased rainfall in the Kirindi Oya basin, the reservoir has reached high water levels, and several spill gates have been opened by the Department of Irrigation to release excess water safely.

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Water World-Kelaniya

Water World Lanka is one of the largest and most popular aquariums and aquatic theme parks in Sri Lanka. Located in Kelaniya, near Colombo, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a wide variety of freshwater and marine life from around the world. The park is especially famous for its impressive underwater tunnel aquarium, where visitors can walk through and observe colorful fish and sharks swimming above and around them.

Water World Lanka also features bird parks, reptile sections, and educational exhibits that promote awareness about aquatic biodiversity and environmental conservation. It is a popular destination for families, school trips, and tourists who wish to enjoy both entertainment and learning in a peaceful natural environment.

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International Port-Hambanthota

Hambantota International Port, often associated with the nearby Mattala area, is one of Sri Lanka’s major deep-water ports located along the southern coast of the island. Strategically positioned close to one of the world’s busiest maritime routes in the Indian Ocean, the port plays an important role in international shipping, trade, and logistics.

The harbor was developed to strengthen Sri Lanka’s maritime infrastructure and to support economic growth in the Southern Province. It is designed to handle cargo ships, vehicle transshipment, fuel storage, and industrial activities. The port also contributes to regional development by creating employment opportunities and attracting foreign investment.

The lighthouse located near Hambantota International Port serves as an important navigational landmark for vessels traveling along Sri Lanka’s southern coastline. Standing tall against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, the lighthouse helps guide ships safely into the harbor, especially during nighttime and adverse weather conditions. In addition to its practical maritime function, the lighthouse adds scenic beauty to the coastal landscape of Hambantota, attracting visitors and photographers who enjoy panoramic ocean views and sunsets. The structure also symbolizes Sri Lanka’s long-standing connection with maritime trade and seafaring history.

Today, Hambantota Port stands as a significant symbol of Sri Lanka’s maritime ambitions and its strategic importance in the Indian Ocean region.

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Rampart Wetland Park- Kotte

Kotte Rampart Wetland Park is a unique urban wetland conservation area located in the historic city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. The park is built around the ancient defensive ramparts of the old Kotte Kingdom and serves as an important ecological and recreational space in Sri Lanka’s capital region

Surrounded by marshlands, waterways, and lush greenery, the park provides a peaceful environment for visitors while helping to preserve the biodiversity of the wetland ecosystem. It is home to many species of birds, butterflies, fish, and aquatic plants, making it an attractive destination for nature lovers, bird watchers, and photographers.

The wooden boardwalks and walking paths allow visitors to explore the wetland safely while enjoying scenic views of the surrounding landscape. In addition to its natural beauty, the park also carries historical significance because the area was once part of the fortifications that protected the Kingdom of Kotte during ancient times.

Today, Kotte Rampart Wetland Park stands as a symbol of the balance between urban development, environmental conservation, and cultural heritage in Sri Lanka.

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The Sacred City - Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is a significant ancient city in Sri Lanka that holds great historical and cultural importance. It was the capital of Sri Lanka for many centuries and is known for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. The city is home to various archaeological and architectural wonders, including stupas, monasteries, palaces, and ancient irrigation systems. Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors interested in exploring the rich history of Sri Lanka.

Ruwanweliseya

Ruwanweliseya is a magnificent stupa located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most iconic landmarks of the ancient city and holds great religious significance for Buddhists. The stupa was built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC and stands as a symbol of peace and unity. Ruwanwelisaya is an impressive structure, standing at a height of around 103 meters, and its dome is adorned with various decorative elements. It is a popular pilgrimage site and a must-visit for those interested in Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.

Ruwanweliseya is a significant stupa located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It was built by King Dutugemunu in 140 BC to commemorate his victory over King Elara. The stupa is an iconic symbol of Sri Lankan Buddhism and stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious history of the island.

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya

The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya is a sacred fig tree in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, considered one of the oldest living human-planted trees in the world. It is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists as it is believed to be a sapling from the original Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. The tree is highly revered, and the site surrounding it holds great religious importance for Buddhists around the world.

Jethwanaramaya

Jethawanaramaya is a remarkable stupa located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is an impressive ancient structure built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD. The stupa is one of the tallest ancient structures in the world and is known for its architectural grandeur. Jethawanaramaya is a significant historical and religious site, attracting visitors interested in exploring the rich heritage of Sri Lanka.

Rajanganaya Lake

Rajanganaya Lake is an important reservoir in Sri Lanka, located in the North Central Province near to anuradhapura city. It is a key irrigation source that plays a vital role in agriculture and water management in the region. The lake is known for its historical significance in ancient irrigation systems, reflecting the engineering prowess of the past civilizations in Sri Lanka.

Aukana Pilimaya

Aukana Pilimaya is a magnificent ancient Buddha statue located in Sri Lanka. It is a remarkable sculpture known for its exquisite craftsmanship and serene expression. The statue stands tall and is a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.The Aukana Pilimaya was created during the reign of King Dhatusena in the 5th century AD in Sri Lanka.

Samadhi Buddha Statue

The Samadhi Buddha Statue is an iconic sculpture located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is a significant representation of Lord Buddha in a state of deep meditation or samadhi. The statue is known for its serene and meditative posture, symbolizing inner peace and tranquility. It is a revered site for Buddhists and visitors seeking spiritual solace and reflection.

Kala Wewa

Kala Wewa is a historic reservoir in Sri Lanka, located in the North Central Province. It is a vital irrigation source that has been serving the region for centuries. The reservoir was built by King Dhatusena in the 5th century AD, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of ancient Sri Lankan civilizations. Kala Wewa continues to play a crucial role in agriculture and water management in the area.

Vessagiriya

Vessagiriya is an ancient archaeological site in Sri Lanka, known for its rock-cut caves and inscriptions. It holds historical significance and provides insights into the ancient civilizations that existed in the region. The site offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

Vessagiriya was associated with the ancient civilizations of Sri Lanka, showcasing the cultural richness and historical significance of the region. The site offers a glimpse into the lifestyles and practices of these past civilizations through its rock-cut caves and inscriptions.

Vessagiriya has yielded a variety of artifacts that provide valuable insights into the ancient civilizations that existed in Sri Lanka. These artifacts include rock-cut caves, inscriptions, and other archaeological remnants that shed light on the cultural heritage of the region.

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Sri Dalada Maligawa

The Dalada Maligawa is a really famous Buddhist temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It's also known as the Temple of the Tooth because it houses a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. People from all over the world visit to pay their respects and experience the beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.

The history of Dalada Maligawa is quite fascinating. It was constructed in the 16th century by King Vimaladharmasuriya I. Throughout its existence, the temple has faced destruction and rebuilding due to various invasions and natural calamities. However, it has always been restored to its former glory. The temple holds immense cultural and religious significance as it houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. It's truly a remarkable place with a rich history.

Elephants in Dalada Maligawa, play a special role in the temple's history and cultural traditions. During the annual Esala Perahera festival, which is held to honor the sacred tooth relic, you can see beautifully adorned elephants parading through the streets of Kandy. It's a mesmerizing sight to behold. The elephants are considered sacred and are an important symbol of power and majesty in Sri Lankan culture.

Almsgiving at Dalada Maligawa,is a beautiful and meaningful tradition. Devotees offer alms to the Buddhist monks as a way of showing respect and gratitude. This act of generosity is believed to bring blessings and merit. People gather early in the morning to offer food, flowers, and other necessities to the monks. It's a humbling and spiritual experience, witnessing the monks receiving these offerings.

Kandy lake is also situated near by the Dalada Maligawa. It also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, is a beautiful man-made lake located in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It was built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe as a part of the royal pleasure garden. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene atmosphere for leisurely walks and boat rides.

At Dalada Maligawa, there are four Dewalas, or shrines, dedicated to different deities. The four Dewalas are Natha Devale, Vishnu Devale, Katharagama Devale, and Pattini Devale. Each Dewala has its own unique significance and is associated with specific rituals and ceremonies. Natha Devale is dedicated to the deity Natha, Vishnu Devale to Lord Vishnu, Katharagama Devale to the deity Katharagama, and Pattini Devale to the goddess Pattini. These Dewalas add to the spiritual and cultural richness of Dalada Maligawa.

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Peradeniya Botanical Garden - Sri Lanka

Peradeniya Botanical Garden is such a beautiful place in Sri Lanka! It's located near Kandy and is known for its stunning collection of plants and flowers. You can take a leisurely walk and admire the colorful orchids, towering palm trees, and exotic plants.

The Javan Fig Tree in Peradeniya Botanical Garden is truly a sight to behold.It's a massive tree with sprawling branches and aerial roots that create a mesmerizing canopy. This ancient tree is believed to be over 150 years old and has become an iconic symbol of the garden. It's a perfect spot to find shade and take some stunning photos.

The Orchid Yard in Peradeniya Botanical Garden is absolutely enchanting! It's a dedicated section filled with a stunning variety of orchids from all around the world. You'll be amazed by the vibrant colors and delicate beauty of these flowers. The Orchid Yard is a paradise for orchid enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. You can stroll through the garden, admire the different species, and even learn more about their cultivation.

The sightseeing of the Mahaweli River to Peradeniya Botanical Garden is absolutely breathtaking! As you cruise along the river, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. The Mahaweli River is the longest river in Sri Lanka and offers stunning views of the countryside. You'll get to enjoy the tranquility of the water and the beauty of nature as you make your way to the botanical garden.

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Heathrow Airport- London

Once we travel to USA, we have to chose Heathrow International Airport as our transit. It was a long stay around 18 hrs. We spend nearly a day inside the Airport. It was a kinda peculiar experience.

Heathrow Airport is one of the busiest and largest international airports in the world, located in London.It is situated west of Central London, in the London Borough of Hillingdon.

Heathrow has two parallel runways and five terminals: Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Terminal 4, Terminal 5, and the older Terminal 1, which closed in 2015.Terminal 2, also known as the Queen's Terminal, reopened in 2014 after a major renovation.

Skyscape of Heathrow International Airport

Heathrow Airport has a rich history that spans several decades. Heathrow Airport was initially used for military purposes during World War II. The British government requisitioned the land in 1944.After the war, the airport, originally named London Airport, began civilian operations in 1946. It initially served as a secondary airport to Croydon Airport, which was the primary airport serving London at the time.

In 1966, the airport was officially renamed Heathrow Airport. Heathrow saw rapid expansion in the 1950s and 1960s, with the construction of new terminals and runways. Terminal 1 opened in 1968, Terminal 3 in 1970, and Terminal 4 in 1986. In 1986, the British Airports Authority (BAA) was privatised, leading to changes in the management and development of Heathrow.

Heathrow Airport was continually exploring and adopting various technologies to enhance efficiency, security, and passenger experience.

Robotic, Automation and Usage of AI are very interesting technology usages at the airport. Those are so eye catching and marvellous. The airport has explored the use of robotics for tasks such as cleaning and guiding passengers. Automated cleaning robots and information kiosks were introduced to improve operational efficiency.

Information Kiosk

Cleaning bot

Heathrow Airport offers a wide range of shops, providing passengers with a diverse selection of products and brands. The shopping areas are typically found in each terminal, offering everything from luxury goods and high-end fashion to travel essentials and souvenirs. My favourite is Harry Potter's shop. It is so cool collection for harry potter's fans.

Heathrow Airport offers a diverse range of dining options, from quick bites to fine dining, catering to various tastes and preferences. The food stores are spread across the different terminals, providing a mix of international cuisine. We both are coffee lovers. So we decided to enjoy a coffee at the airport.

coffee lovers

We enjoyed the stay at Heathrow. It provides all the facilities and best service to the passengers.

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Sri Pada/ Adam's Peak

Adams Peak, also known as Sri Pada, is a sacred mountain in Sri Lanka. The pilgrimage season begins on Poya day in December and ends on Vesak Poya in May. During this time, the mountain is lit with lights that illuminate the path.

There are six trails to reach the peak: Hatton-Nallathanni, Ratnapura-Palabaddala, Kuruwita-Erathna, Murraywatte, Mookuwatte, and Malimboda. The most popular is the Hatton-Nallathanni trail. It's the steepest but also the shortest, taking about 2-4 hours to climb.

At this time bunch of my friends decided to take the route Ratnapura- Palabaddala scene tic route to worship Sri Pada. First of all we visited to the Rathnapura Maha Saman Dewalaya to take the blessings of God Sumana Saman before we start the journey. It is a kind of ritual of Buddhists.

Saman Dewalaya-Rathnapura

Then we bathe at a river to clean ourselves before start the journey. With the blessings of God of Saman, we started our trial in the evening. It is about 12 kilometers from Palabaddala Rajamaha Vihara to Udamalu. Also, excluding the plains and rocky descents, the steps are approximately 11250. The following milestones can be seen in the route.

Pawanella

Uda Pawanella

Snow limit

Kokatiya Kanda

Lihinihela

Lihinihela Ambalam

Katukitula Bend In a knot the flag 4740

Kalugagana Start Diyabetma

Gajamansala / Gajaman Ambalam 5820

Getthampana needle stick Climbing

Dharmarajagala

The top of Dharmarajagala

Sitagangula

Haramitipana Ambalam

Galwangediya Junction

Makarathorana

Mallamalakandura

Adiyamalatenna Ambalam

Ehela Kanuwa Kade

Mahagiridambaya

Udamaluwa

Sitagangula

Sripada Mountain

The Gang

After worshipping udamaluwa we used the same route to come back. It was a kind of tiring trial but with the enthusiastic feeling of worshipping to budhha's foot print gave us the strength. Even though we thought it as a pilgrimage, many tourists around the world come there as a mountain trial.

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Keep Calm and Paddle On...

Kayaking is such a thrilling experience!Kayaking gives me a sense of freedom on the water! It's like gliding through the waves, feeling the cool breeze, and being one with nature. We can explore beautiful lakes, rivers, and even the ocean while paddling our way through. It's a great way to relax, get some exercise, and connect with the outdoors.

One day I went to tangalla lagoon in Sri Lanka to gather that experience with my husband. That activity was arranged by the resturant called Rawan-Tangalla. I highly recommended that place to collect some memories to your life.

Tangalla Lagoon in Sri Lanka is a stunning natural attraction. It's a large lagoon surrounded by lush greenery and mangrove forests. The calm and serene waters of the lagoon make it a perfect spot for various activities like kayaking, boating, and bird-watching. You can rent a kayak and explore the lagoon at your own pace, taking in the beautiful scenery and spotting different bird species that inhabit the area. It's a peaceful and tranquil place to connect with nature and enjoy some outdoor adventure. If you ever find yourself in Sri Lanka, don't miss the chance to visit Tangalla Lagoon!

Kayaking has a fascinating history that dates back thousands of years.It's believed that the Inuit people of the Arctic region were the first to use kayaks for transportation and hunting. They constructed these lightweight boats using wooden frames covered in animal skins. Over time, kayaking evolved into a popular recreational activity enjoyed by people all around the world. Nowadays, kayaks are made from various materials like fiberglass, plastic, or even inflatable materials. It's amazing how this ancient mode of transportation has transformed into a thrilling water sport loved by many.

So enjoy your kayak experience. If you visit srilanka don't forget to collect this experience in thangalla.

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Trip to Mannar- Sri Lanka

In recent year, I went to trio to Mannar-Sri Lanka with some of my relatives. It was an one day trip. We enjoyed a lot and had amazing experiences.

With a history of over 400 years, the Madhu Church is one that has seen strife and conflict of the most brutal kind. With the arrival of Portuguese missionaries from India, Roman Catholicism started taking root in the island. Albeit the persecution that followed, the Catholic Church continued to grow. During the Dutch invasion of the island, devotees met in the area of Madhu and installed this beautiful shrine with the treasured statue of Our Lady of Good Health.

The first governor, Frederick North, 5th Earl of Guilford was the son of British Prime Minister, Frederick North (2nd Earl of Guilford). The house was planned by the governor himself, the building was later known as 'The Doric' due to the architectural design of the columns which was similar to the Ancient Greek Doric order style. It was built at the beginning of the nineteenth century (between 1801-1804) to revive and supervise the pearl fisheries. Other than being used as the residence for the governor, it was later used by "other governors, government agents, and other officials, including superintendents of pearl fishery.

Robert Knox, English sea captain and famous British prisoner of the Kandyan King Rajasinghe II, and his companion escaped after nineteen years of captivity and reached the Arippu Fort in 1679.

Baobab Tree (Adansonia), an indigenous tree in Africa is a landmark in Pallimunai in*Mannar located on the northeastern tip of Mannar Island about 1.5 kilometers away from Mannar town. A popular tourist attraction in the town, Baobab Tree in Mannar is about 700 – 800 years old (according to a study conducted in 2003).

Mannar is one of the four districts of Sri Lanka’s Northern province. Mannar Island is connected to the northern mainland through a causeway. A mere five kilometres from its main town, Keeri Beach is known to locals for its sunny location and excellent swimming spots

Back in time ferries used to transport passengers from Talaimannar to Dhanushkodi on the southeastern Indian coast as part of the railway service that connected Ceylon and India, and back again. Today, this service has ceased to operate, a casualty of the keenly watched, deeply fraught, and highly militarized maritime boundary between India and Sri Lanka. 

In July 1932, during British colonial rule, plans were drawn up to build a causeway (the Mahadeva Causeway) across the shallow waters of the Jaffna lagoon, linking Sangupiddy, near Poonakari, with Karaitivu, near Navatkuly. The plans weren't implemented fully due to protests from local fishermen and salt producers. The partially built causeway was nevertheless used by locals until the civil war prevented them doing so.