The Trekurious Blog

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Upul Nalaka from Village Riders

“I’ve been trekking through the forest for 6 years, but there are still parts of this place completely undiscovered. Did you know that just 10 minutes into walking about, you’ll encounter over 50 species of flora and fauna? And oh, don’t even get me started on the wildlife. This one time I was about to take a picture of a mushroom growing on a fallen tree, and I heard a shuffling behind me. There was a wild boar looking straight at me and then at the mushroom. That was pretty amazing as far as human and animal communication goes. It wasn’t just the boars though; I’ve had interesting encounters with chameleons, slender lorises, venomous snakes and even butterflies. A Tailed Jay once led me to a lovely spot off the beaten path and I could have sworn that was his intention all along.”

[trekurious]

Trekuriously Tested: The Lagoon Kitchen Hunger Games

It was high noon and the Trekurious Team decided to divide ranks and wage a culinary war against each other. It was prawn curry VS pineapple curry VS bean curry. The stakes were higher than usual; not only would we have to eat what we’ve cooked, but gloating privileges were up for grabs as well. The latter obviously being the most important.

While Talia, being guided by Dilmani, struggled to get the beans well-cooked yet slightly crisp, she came to the realization that maybe she should have spent less time playing the Sims 2 and more time helping her mum make beans. Who would have thought something like that would actually be a downfall? Deepak and Janith already had the upper hand- between Deepak being a home cook and Janith being a self professed culinary artist, Talia was clearly out of her league.

Next up was Deepak, 6”1, expert coconut scraper and thirsty to win. He chopped those green chillies and onions in the rhythm of the theme music from Jaws- this was somewhat harrowing as he was completely off-key. As the last ingredient was added into the pineapple curry and Dilmani clapped him on the back in congratulations, Janith stepped up to the plate.

Much to his chagrin, Janith had everyone jump in to help make the prawn curry. This included the driver. Dilmani led the way, instructing him on which ingredients to use and how to use it while everyone else added their two cents. However, much like the karate kid, Janith concentrated on just Dilmani’s voice and the bubbling prawn curry till the lid was placed over the pot marking the end of his fight. The food was, as far as everyone was concerned, cooked to perfection.

It was now time for the taste off. Weapons of cutlery were drawn, belts were loosened and the steaming curries were brought forward with rice and other condiments. We greedily filled up every ceramic inch of our plates and rubbed our hands together in anticipation. It was now win or die (of shame, mostly).

A battle cry was heard; Deepak yelled yummy in an aggressive tone and instantly proclaimed himself the winner. Sure the pineapple curry was delightfully nectarous and packed a spicy zing, but it was a biased decision and the afternoon was still young.

A bugle stilled forks and knives for a moment; Talia’s mmmm hummed steadily and persistently across the table. It was unanimously agreed that her bean curry was not just good, it was ‘3rd servingly’ good.

However, it was the silence that was most heard. Everyone was tucking into the prawns rather quietly. They were juicy, succulent and so fresh it just burst in your mouth halfway through a bite. Janith decided to serve us more of these god-like prawns and we were ‘served’ indeed. Each helping felt like a passive aggressive taunt. We shifted uncomfortably as our plates were piled high with his annoyingly tasty masterpiece. Every bite was a reminder of our defeat. It was painful. Deliciously painful. We avoided eye contact with him but felt his gloat-filled grin on us. The victor needed no official announcement.

After lunch, we patted our bellies and sauntered into the garden to relax by the pool. We wanted to push Janith in, but the effort it’ll take to do that would have required a plate or 2 less. So we enjoyed the rest of the afternoon lazily chatting about lagoon fishing and how the prawns lacked a teaspoon of salt. It was a good day.

[trekurious]

Trekuriously Tested:

Janith’s Little Oruwa Adventure at Oriole Villas

It was high noon and Janith, a member of the Trekurious Team, decided to venture out into the Manawatha Ganga on an Oruwa with a beefy guy making no attempt to hide a 32 inch machete or his displeasure, and the hotel director’s mother. In all fairness Janith was told about Somapala the resident river monster beforehand; mostly for legal reasons as it would have been rather unfortunate if a surprise introduction made him faint right on to the creature. So he set off and the rest of the team watched him float away without a hat or sunblock on, in 30°C weather.

When he finally returned an hour later he had quite the tale to tell, one which involved gathering wild Kurumba on the banks as a cruise refreshment, river bird watching, working on those t-shirt tan lines and snapping a few amazing pictures.

He was rather tight-lipped about Somapala though.

[trekurious]

One of the best free views in Colombo: Galle Buck Lighthouse

  -  Free entry

-  Built in 1952

-  A great place to take pictures

Standing tall on an elevated base on Chaithya Road, the Galle Buck Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the beautiful Indian Ocean and is a distinctive city landmark that is seriously underrated. If you’re viewing it from the road, the lighthouse is a faded orange but from the sea side, the lighthouse is painted like a chess board in alternating black and white squares – it’s actually pretty funky! The entrance has 2 sets of steps that will take you up to a base that has four lion statues guarding it. The lighthouse is 29 meters high and its light is said to flash 3 times every 10 seconds

 A great view

From the lighthouse you get stunning panoramic views. It’s possible to see the port on the far right and parts of Galle Road on the left. There's a really nice sea breeze here as well and  it's a pretty awesome spot to chill out and get some fresh air. You can pop into the ‘Lighthouse Gallery’ located opposite the lighthouse for a light snack or a drink once you’re done.

The Buddha Jayanthi Chaithya ( a stupa built high up on a platform supported by two interlocking archers) can be seen from the lighthouse as well. It’s just down the road, so it’s worth checking out if you are in the area.

Did you know?

There is a naval gun battery located at the base of the lighthouse that is used for traditional gun salutes. Each year, on Independence Day, the Navy fires a ceremonial 25 gun salute to the nation from the lighthouse.

Best time to visit

Evenings or early morning would be the best times to visit the lighthouse since there isn’t really much shade from the scorching sun.

[trekurious]

Exploring the Forgotten Kingdom of Kotte

As you make your way through the hectic streets of suburban Kotte, it’s hard to imagine that what is now a bustling town was once a majestic citadel of fortresses, drawbridges, moats, watchtowers, and secret tunnels. The Kotte kingdom flourished for over 200 years and, although they hardly match other historical sites like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, it is still possible to see a few of the ruins today.

The transformation of Kotte from a frontier fort to a capital city took place towards the end of the 14th Century. The city was fortified by King Alakeshwara due to threats of invasion by the King in the North. It was one of the most successful kingdoms at the time in many aspects and was culturally advanced, contributing to what is considered the golden era of Sinhala Literature. The Kingdom was finally ceded to the Portuguese in 1580 by the weak Prince Dharmapala.

We visited 5 different sites of historical and archaeological importance in Kotte, each of them a few kilometers apart.

 1) Archaeological Museum

 - You aren't allowed to take photos here unless you have a special permit from the Archaeology Department.

This museum has a relatively small, but interesting, collection of artifacts. Some of the items don’t have English descriptions so it’s a bit difficult to understand what's being showcased. The museum displays clothing, maps, pottery, armour, swords from the Kotte era and many of the items have been donated from the collection of E.W Perera, the famous freedom fighter more fondly known as the ‘Lion of Kotte’.

 2) Alakesvara Ruins

These mounds were once believed to be the palace of King Alakesvara. There are 2 foundations here built of ‘Kabok’ stone. Artifacts such as grinding stones and water filters have also been unearthed at the site. The premises are locked up but there is usually a caretaker on-site who will open the gate for you and give you details about other significant locations in Kotte.

 3) Beddagana Veherakanda Ruins

If I had to choose, this site would probably be my favourite. Mounted on a rectangular foundation, there are two mounds of dagoba-type arrangements made of Kabok stone. The structures face the beautiful Diyawanna River and are believed to be the mausoleum of King Parakramabahu VI (the last king to unite all of Sri Lanka under one flag) and his consort, Queen Ranmenika.

 4) Kotte Tunnel

The tunnel is located inside the playground of Kotte Ananda Shasthralaya (a local school). There’s a caretaker who stays on-site so it is possible to visit after school hours. When it was in use, the tunnel is said to have had multiple openings that led to and from the palace and was used during enemy attacks and for Royal shenanigans. The tunnel is currently found in a fenced-off overgrown garden. There’s no description or any details about it, which a shame is given its great historical significance.

 5) Kotte Raja Mahavihara

This lovely temple was originally built by King Parakumbha VI but was destroyed by the Portuguese. In 1813, the ancient temple was found in ruins and restored to its present condition. The temple is quite spaced out and they even have their own tusker in the backyard. There’s a pretty cool yellow entrance adorned with elephants and other designs. The temple also has ancient (I must stress on ancient) drawings of Portuguese men, Sri Lankan kings, and other murals inside.

It’s hard to imagine that such a magnificent empire once existed so close to Colombo! While these sites are not as fascinating as others such as Anuradhapura, it is still possible to appreciate the relics and ruins; remains of a kingdom that contributed greatly to Sri Lankan history, culture, and heritage.

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The Galle Fort in Pictures

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Gallivanting through Galle Fort

Sitting on a rocky peninsula on the Southern tip of Sri Lanka, the Galle Fort is considered to be the cultural capital of the South. Built by the Portuguese, fortified by the Dutch, and passed onto the British, the Fort has undergone a series of transformations since its origins as a key port on a fundamental trading route. It is a historical, architectural, and archaeological gem waiting to be explored. Home to over 1,300 locals, the Fort is an ethnic melting pot of a culture and religion.

The Fort is seemingly frozen in time and walking through the narrow stone streets is really the best way to experience all that it has to offer. The different colonial influences have created an unusual combination of beautiful architecture and buildings.

 A few cool facts about the Fort:

Coral has been used as building material throughout the Fort. This unique technique used in the 1600's still looks really beautiful due to great preservation efforts made by the government.

It is the only ‘living’ UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Each lane/street has its own characteristic charm to it. The colours of the houses and buildings are also unusual, with pastel blues, oranges, and yellows blending in beautifully against the blue sky. The colours are amazing to photograph, especially in the evening light. 

You can watch a cricket match at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from the the ramparts of the Fort! Who needs tickets?!

  Places

The Fort has an eclectic mix of activities to offer. High end shops, cosy restaurants, and boutique hotels are scattered along the narrow streets. If you're into old-school stuff, The Church Street Gallery has a series of vintage posters (travel and movie) that are really awesome. Even if you don't plan on buying any, its definitely worth a visit.

Many of the old merchant homes and crumbling mansions of the colonial settlers have been restored into stunning boutique hotels.

The Fort Printers hotel, located on Pedlar Street, is a chic minimalist boutique hotel with a gorgeous interior.

Galle Fort Hotel is a 17th-century manor turned into a boutique hotel and restaurant. This property, which once belonged to a jeweler, has very interesting architecture. At first glance the buildings look more or less the same however, upon closer inspection, you will notice that the left side has tall columns initially spaced far apart, with the space between columns decreasing as it reaches the end. On the right side, the columns are evenly spaced and much shorter. This use of forced perspective makes the left side of the hotel look a lot bigger and more grand compared to the right side.

Once a spice warehouse, Fortaleza is now a stylish restaurant/hotel with a beautiful coral back wall. They've got a simple menu with really delicious food. 

Amangalla Resort is a charming manor-style boutique hotel overlooking the Fort Ramparts. Sit down for their scrumptious high tea and make sure you try the scones with fresh strawberry jam and cream – they are divine!

It doesn't matter how many times you've been inside the Fort, it seems you discover something new each time. Take your time to wander along the streets, you'll be surprised at what you find! If your in the mood to explore, take a tour with Juliet Coombe and discover the hidden secrets and some quirky facts about the Fort, it's a great way to experience all that the Fort has to offer.

More Photos:

[trekurious]

An Undiscovered Forest Monastery - Gothama Thapowanaya

Free entry

Look out for troops of monkeys swinging above in the tree tops 

A popular location for mediation retreats

Consists of a Vipassana meditation centre, a Bikkhu Training Institute, and an orphanage.

Dense tropical foliage, drooping banyan trees, bird calls echoing through the tree tops, small caves, and narrow footpaths; while this sounds like your typical outstation experience , you'd be surprised to find out that the Gothama Thapowanaya, located in Thalangama, is only a short 30 minute drive from the city.

This beautiful forest monastery, temple, learning centre, and orphanage is spread out across 12 acres of sprawling tropical jungle paradise.

So what's there to see?

As you walk along the stony footpath, you pass by enormous statues, a teaching hall, an enclosed shrine, a bo tree, and a mossy pond. What's nice about the place is that since you aren't bombarded by all the features all at once, you get to enjoy each aspect on its own.

After a few minutes of walking you eventually reach a large clearing. A seated golden Buddha statue is perched up on a couple of boulders and, next to it, the intertwined roots of a banyan tree have strategically created an arc-like passageway, under which you can walk. The surrounding trees encompass the clearing, making it dark and almost mystical. It really makes you feel like you've been transported to an enchanted garden from a classic Disney fairy tale!

If you continue walking along the winding paths, they eventually take you back to the entrance. So don't get too flustered if you think you're lost! There was a downpour during our visit and we were forced to take refuge in a small man-made cave. While it did become a bit more tedious to maneuver our way along the path, the sound of the rain falling, together with our surroundings, really did add to the entire 'forest' experience.

The Gothama Thapowanaya provides a place to find yourself, achieve inner peace, and explore parts of the city you didn't know existed! Plus, there aren't very many other enchanted gardens so close to the city! So next time you want to take some time off or meditate, you should definitely check this stunning place out.

Here's a short video of the location: http://bit.ly/thapowanaya

More Photos:

[trekurious]

Manelwatta Vihara

Free entrance

Conducts free training programs for Buddhist nuns (Bhikkhuni Academy)

Lectures on Pali & Buddhist Studies, conducted by the University of Kelaniya, take place on the temple grounds

This is a little different to your average temple. Opened in 2011, it's located on 16 acres of sprawling coconut plantations in Kelaniya. This part temple, part memorial hall (and soon to be university) really is one of a kind! We spoke to the resident monk to get some background information and, according to him, the premises are meant to be a replication of King Suddhodana's (Lord Buddha's father) palace. The monks even traveled to India to draw up the plans and figure out how to build it. There's also the standard stupa and collection of statues for worship and prayer found at any temple. The memorial hall and the surrounding area however, are rather interesting.

Memorial Hall

While the hall is meant to represent an ancient palace, it's definitely gotten a modern Chinese twist to it. The hall is surrounded by a body of water and is quite elaborately done up. There's a long paved pathway leading up to the hall. A grand entrance marked with Chinese symbols, banners, and statutes of Chinese dragons, welcomes you.

The surroundings and decor really are unusual – it almost makes you like you've been transported to China. A set of tiered steps, lined with mini asian Buddha statues on either side, leads up to the hall. The hall, decked out in red lanterns is quite massive and we are told it's used for teaching and educational purposes.

The gardens stretch out around the hall and are maintained well. To the right, a pier-type extension extends into the lake. A wooden chalet decorated with Chinese lanterns floats on the water and, once completed, would make an awesome meditation area.

We stumbled upon the temple quite by accident but we were really happy we discovered it. The gardens are a really nice chilled out area to relax or even read a book. The setting is really unusual, which probably explains why it's a popular location for wedding and commercial photo shoots.

[trekurious]

Kelaniya Temple

Free entry

Originally built in the 5th Century BC

It’s the starting point of the “Duruthu Perahera'' (Kelani Procession) held on the pre-Poya (full moon) day each January, attracting thousands of locals and tourists. 

One of the most important centres of faith for Buddhists as it is believed to be one of the 3 places in Sri Lanka  visited by Lord Buddha himself.

Situated on the banks of the Kelaniya river, about 10 km from Colombo, this beautiful temple has a lot to offer to its believers, as well as non believers. 

The temple has three separate entrances so it's slightly confusing as to which is the right one. The main entrance is the one located on the same side of the Kelaniya river. Once you climb up the steep rocky steps, the multiple elements of the temple stretch out grandly before your eyes.

Main Temple building (Image House)

There's a tiered fountain located in the centre and forming the backdrop is the image house, a grandiose pastel orange, palace-type building held up by tall columns. As you move closer, the finer details on the columns reveal themselves; elephants, astrological symbols, designs, and beautiful artwork all carved deep into the columns… it really is phenomenal!

This colossal building has four rooms with Buddhist artwork from the Kandyan Era displayed on its walls and high ceilings. The architecture is stunning and very different to that usually found at temples in Colombo. Some paintings are even said to date back to more than 600 years ago. There are also a couple of Buddha statues inside the main building where visitors can make offerings and say their prayers.

Bo Tree

To the left of the main building, a large Bo tree - a sapling of the sacred tree at Anuradhapura, offers shade and comfort to many. The atmosphere here is really nice. Around the tree, people are scattered in groups; families, friends and couples chanting, singing or praying out loud. There's a lot of burning incense and colourful flowers too!

Stupa

The 90 foot 'Kalyani Chaithya', a magnificent white stupa, towers over the temple complex. Embedded inside the Stupa is said to be a gem-studded chair or the carpet that Lord Buddha sat on during his third visit to the temple.

We visited the temple on a weekday and it was pretty crowded. It's supposed to be swamped with visitors on Poya days and on weekdays. You can take in a lot more when it’s quieter, so try and visit on a weekday. The Kelaniya temple is definitely one of the nicest temples in Sri Lanka with its remarkable design, history, and beauty. While it’s often thought as being far from Colombo, it's really not. Do check it out when you have the time as you definitely won't be disappointed.  

[trekurious]

A Village in the City: Crafts Village, Battaramulla

A UNESCO Heritage Site 

There are over 19 sectors of handicrafts here, such as: clay work, masks, cane, batik, leather, weaving, silver & brass, percussion drums, and lacework

Free Entrance

Craft Workshops available

The souvenir shops here are much cheaper than those in the city.

Located in Battaramulla, away from the hustle and bustle of Colombo, the crafts village instantly transports you to a typical rural village, with earthen huts and thatched roofs, encompassed in the shade of expansive trees. The huts are scattered across acres of land, each with a craftsman/woman and his or her apprentices, working away on a range of traditional arts and crafts. 

Percussion Instruments - Use of authentic drums dates back almost 2500 years. Nihal, the main man in the hut, produces exceptional percussion drums (Bere or Beraya in Sinhala). He produces an extensive variety of drums from the Geta Bera to the Thammatamma (twin drum) to Congo drums. Cattle hide (more durable) and goat hide are used for different drums and Nihal explains that both skins produce different sounds. It’s also interesting how the wood used in the production, such as Kohomb and Kithul, affects the sound. Nihal’s masterpieces range start from Rs. 8,000 and onto Rs. 25,000 for the bigger drums (the cost also varies depending on the wood used).

Above: Drums in the early stages along with some cattle hide

 Weaving - An ancient tradition that began with Padurus in the Dumbara region, near Kandy. These artisan weavers make wall hangings, cushion covers, table mats and more! They’ve all been made with the brightest colours you could possibly imagine and the weaving creates intricate designs - a real feast for the eyes! Their wall hangings sell for around Rs. 12,000 (to locals) and Rs. 25,000 (to foreigners)

Coconut Shell Crafts

This was such a cool shop.They sell colorful beads and jewellery, all made from dried coconut husk! The craftsman has even produced a coconut shell handbag… I don’t think I’ve ever seen one of those before!

The coconut is sandpapered to give it a shine and then painted with acrylic dyes. Coconut crafts are highly durable and the craftsman stated that it can last up to a 100 years.

Silver & Brass Craftsman

The skilled silver artisan is dedicated to creating beautiful pieces of jewellery by adding value and meaning to his pieces. Many of his pieces have won awards both locally and internationally, and it’s not hard to see why. His intricate designs are out of this world! Rings, necklaces, and pendants have been designed to represent symbols of Buddhist and Sri Lankan culture. His passions are revealed through his elaborate designs. Just take a look for yourself!

Below: Unique rings designed for war veterans

Below: A necklace inspired by the 'Anguli Mala' Bhuddist story

The Crafts Village is an awesome place to appreciate the simple, yet intricate traditional handicrafts. They’ve got awesome trinkets and souvenirs to take home as well. These handicraft skills have been preserved throughout history, practiced by generations, and are one of our country’s greatest legacies. Don’t miss out on a chance to experience this awesome place.

[trekurious]

Colombo Guided Art Tour with Saskia Fernando

For a city that's rich in beautiful artwork, the art scene remains largely unappreciated, particularly, that of the 43 group. The 43 group was an exclusive collective of the country's finest artists, founded in 1943. Their work is relatively unknown to most, given their immense contributions to modern art in Sri Lanka.

The Trekurious art tour will look at the work of influential artists such as George Keyt and Harry Pieris, members of the 43 group and others, who were instrumental in revolutionizing modern art in Sri Lanka. The tour will also include visits to three of Colombo's prominent galleries: Sapumal Foundation, Paradise Road Gallery, and The Barefoot Gallery.

The tour will begin at Saskia Fernando Galley on Dharmapala Road - a chic space resonating with sophistication and class. Surrounded by impressive paintings and sculptures, it is the perfect place to commence the tour.

1)George Keyt's Mural at Gothami Vihara, Borella

Gothami Vihara is tucked away on Gothami road, in Borella. The temple itself is quite beautiful although, the main attraction is definitely George Keyt's mural. Keyt was one of Sri Lanka's finest modern artists who was part of the 43 group and renowned for his linear drawings.

The painting of the mural took a staggering four years to complete (1938-41) and remains a reflection of Keyt's hard work and efforts. The recognized beauty of the mural has made it a protected archeology monument. The mural depicts over sixteen stories significant to Buddhism. One of the last paintings on the mural depict Lord Buddhas defeat of the Mara, a pivotal moment in attaining enlightenment. The faces of the warriors are painted much like the Picasso style, revealing the influence of Picasso on Keyt's drawings. The fiery oranges, yellows and red of the mural further enhance its beauty.

2)Sapumal Foundation

Once the home of the talented Harry Pieris, this bungalow currently houses the largest collection of the 43 group collectives paintings. The foundation was originally established in 1974 to further advocate and develop the contemporary art scene in Colombo. Although the building could do with a few touch ups, the art on display here are some of the best examples of modern art in Sri Lanka, since the 1920's.

3)Paradise Road Gallery

Formerly the office of Geoffrey Bawa, this space was transformed by Shantha Fernando to the stylish gallery it is today. The classical open architecture of Bawa has been retained throughout the gallery, making it one of the most prominent galleries in Colombo.

4)Barefoot Gallery

Barefoot is a popular chill-out spot for many. Beautiful artwork by eminent artists such as Druvinka and Barbara Sansoni have occupied the gallery space. In addition to artwork, the amazing photography of Dominic Sansoni and the Three Blind Men group are also showcased here. A definite must visit if you're looking to explore modern art in Colombo.

The tour welcomes all art lovers and will give you an insightful experience into the contemporary world of art. So don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity. Await dates for this brand new experience.. coming soon.

[trekurious]

What’s the difference between a Lager and Ale?

All beer essentially falls into two categories: Lager or Ale. It might seem unlikely when you’re trying to choose from the seemingly endless array of beers today, but it’s true. There are a few hybrid styles which use traditional brewing methods of both but even these are eventually identified as a lager or ale.

I spent a very chilled-out evening at Colombo Courtyard in the company of Michael Beamish and his Master Brewer, Janaka, as they revealed the colourful history of beer along with some interesting facts. The night was accompanied by a lavish flow of six yummy beers and finger food.

Michael had prepared a fun and informative presentation to talk us through the evening. He began with stories about the origins of beer. Mesopotamia is said to be the birthplace with the first use of beer traced as far back as the 5th Century BC, during the Sumerian civilization. He explained howbarley grains are the most commonly used grains but any starch product can be used, including rice!

Michael then outlined the steps involved in the production. Far too many for me to explain in detail but it begins with germinating barley seeds in a process called malting. A few additions, such as hops are added for flavour and aroma (back in the day when there were no refrigerators, hops served as an effective preservative). Alcohol (the part most of us enjoy the most) is actually given off as a byproduct of yeast, when it respires anaerobically - who knew.

Each beer has its own balance of characteristics and flavour profiles. Figuring out ‘the best’ is really more subjective than it is objective. For the tasting, we were served six different brews: three local and three imported.

Local

Three coins – A pale lager with a high proportion of malt. Smooth and light on the palette but a bit too bitter for my liking. Pale lagers are the most widely consumed and commercially available style of beer today.

Irish Dark (Red ale) – This is definitely an acquired taste. The barley grains are roasted after germination which gives it… well, a roasted taste. The flavours are complex; there was a difference between the first taste and the finish. It was drinkable, but perhaps a lil’ too strong.

Pilsner – A type of pale lager named after the town Pilsen, now modern day Czechoslovakia, it is one of the youngest styles of beer in the world. The flavour is simple; the finish is clean and refreshing.

Imported

Peroni (Italian) – A refreshing smooth lager, with a slight bitterness.

Miller Genuine draft (U.S.A) - Cold-filtered. Clean and crisp taste. Technically speaking, draft beer is beer served from the cask in which it has been conditioned. It has been applied, loosely, to any beer served from a large container, or bottle these days.

Grolsch (Holland) – Slightly bitter. This lager is double hopped, once for aroma and once for taste.

  So what is the difference between a Lager and Ale? Reverting back to the question at the start, the difference lies in the type of yeast used. Lager uses bottom, cold fermenting yeasts whilst the ale uses the top fermenting variation. Ales are generally stronger, and more forceful in taste than lagers because of their relatively fast and warm fermentation.

Michael and Janaka’s infinite beer wisdom is remarkable. This is definitely a must for all beer lovers and the perfect way to warm up for a weekend of alcoholic indulgence.

[trekurious]

Things to do in Colombo : Learn to Make the Perfect Cup of Coffee with Coco Veranda

Coffee is an integral part of any morning ritual, providing a much needed kick-start to the day, and a welcome break from the desk as the afternoon sets it. It's more than just a drink; it’s a lifestyle, a social lubricant, and an addiction to many.

My Barista Experience

Before we began, we were given the 101 on coffee. The differences in coffee lingo across countries was brought to our attention. For instance, did you know that a long black is just another name for an Americano? We were also enlightened about the origins of coffee and the different types available today. We then headed behind the counter to become barista's for the next hour.

The perfect Espresso (which translates to ‘express' in Italian)

The road to becoming the perfect barista begins at the espresso. Once you have mastered this, the rest comes easy. The ground beans are tamped down to promote even penetration by water (and to preserve the flavour). Tamping is done in a particular way and getting it wrong could seriously jeopardize the taste of the espresso.

If you lockdown the correct technique, an almost syrupy beverage drips out of the group handle, like honey off a spoon. A layer of crema (dense golden coloured foam) forms at the top and is an indicator of a perfectly brewed espresso.

Foaming

When foaming/steaming milk, there are a few things to keep in mind. The milk and the pitcher need to be cold, steam must be released from the nozzle BEFORE to ensure there’s no condensation from the milk, and the nozzle needs to be fully immersed in the milk. After you’re done, gently tapping the base of the pitcher will separate the foam and milk. The foam should be meringue-like; thick and dense. And, most importantly, there should be no visible air bubbles.

Cappuccino versus Café Latte

The only real difference between a cappuccino and latte is the ratio of milk and foam used (since they both have the same concentration of coffee). Cappuccinos (less milk, more foam) have gained immense popularity throughout the world due to the thick foamy layer on top, which makes it light and easy to drink. Less milk also means that the flavour of the coffee is enhanced. Lattes (more milk, less foam) are for those dairy fans who aren’t too concerned with the taste of the beans.

Once you master these skills, Ameen and Arafath demonstrated how they create beautiful designs on the foam. A perfect opportunity to let the inner artist in you run wild once you’re done brewing your cappuccino!

The verdict: I have to admit that my attempts at tamping were quite pathetic. Steaming the milk; required less skill, so that wasn’t too bad. Topping up my latte with caramel sauce and guzzling it down was effortless, of course. I wouldn't say I've quite mastered the art but I'm getting there. One thing’s for sure, I’ll be using my newly acquired skills to make a cappuccinos or a café latte next time! No Barista required!

[trekurious]

Ussangoda National Park

Sri Lanka's newest National Park

A designated archeological site

Considered the 'Horton Plains' of the South

Try the pol rotti and fresh juices served at the huts by the entrance - amazing!

Concealed on a byway lane, off the main Hambantota road, Ussangoda National Park is a hidden gem. Shrouded in mystery about its exact origins, the park is an awesome place to let your imagination run wild (and a great place to take lots of photos).

Mysteries...

According to Hindu mythology, it is the site where King Ravana landed his peacock chariot. Once you arrive, it's hard to deny the mystical vibe created by the strange landscapes. The unusually flat coastal plateau boasts stunning topographical formations, which are not found in surrounding regions. The first striking feature is the deep red soil covering the vast expanse of land. Some suggest that the colour may be attributed to a meteorite crash, which occurred several years ago. The barren soil, peculiar vegetation patterns, and strange rocks found here certainly fit with this idea. Remains of ancient civilizations have also been uncovered in the nearby Godawaya region.

Topography

As you wander across the dreamy meadow, a surprising view of the coastal line abruptly emerges at the horizon. You find shrubs, hedges, cacti, among other varieties; a strange combination of trees all growing in the same space. Some species of herbs and plants have also been found growing in the Himalayan regions.

The edge of the plateau is encircled by steep cliffs with bizarre colours and formations. Isolated beaches and white sands stretch out far into the distance. The sea is a dazzling blue, its wave’s crash violently onto the shore and while you may fancy a dip, it's probably not the best idea. 

Before saying goodbye, take a moment to absorb the surreal allure of the national park. Was it the landing site of Ravana's flying peacock chariot? Did a meteorite strike the area? Whatever the mysteries are surrounding its existence, one can only embrace the overwhelming feeling of awe and intrigue that its landscape evokes.

More Photos:

  By Tashiya de Mel

[trekurious]

Mulkirigala Rock Temple

Rs 200/- for tour guide

Best time to climb would be early morning, before the sun heats up the rock

Try the Belimal tea (herbal flowers boiled in water) and fresh woodapple drinks sold at the entrance

20km from Tangalle.

Offered as an experience from Ranna212 resort.

After driving through flat landscapes of terraced paddy fields, forests, and lakes, the sudden appearance of Mulkirigala Rock rising perpendicularly into the air; comes as a surprise. This majestic monolith lays off the beaten track, towering 680 ft above the Hambantota district. The rock bears some resemblance to the famous Sigiriya and houses an impressive series of cave paintings, much like those at Dambulla Rock Temple. Its similarity with two of the country's most iconic locations, coupled with its historical significance and unrivaled setting, makes it a must-see.  

History in a nut shell

The rock temple has a rich history tracing as far back as the 1st century BC. Much of its history has been learned from Sanskrit and Ancient Sinhalese inscriptions carved on the sides of the rock. The temple is also referred to as Mulkirigala Raja Mahaviharaya (meaning a religious place that received royal patronage).

Inscriptions on the rock indicate that numerous kings such as King Saddatissa (137 BC-118 BC) and King Datusena  (461-479 AD) built stupas and relics on the rock. A Bo sapling from the sacred Bo tree is said to have been planted atop the rock by King Mahanaya (King Devanampiyatissa's brother). Internal conflicts and neglect resulted in the temple being damaged and restored several times over the years. The present development began in the 1700's with King Kirti Sri Raja Singha, the second king of Kandy. Today, the terraced rock has been transformed to a religious complex consisting of a Dagobae, Bo tree, shrine rooms, rock caves, preaching halls, and resident quarters for Buddhist monks.

First Terrace -There is a Bo tree, Dagobae, and twin cave temples with two 14m Buddha statues in the state of Parinirvana ( eternal release from the suffering of the cycle of life, death & rebirth). The interior walls and ceilings of the caves are covered in stunning Buddhist depictions and designs painted with vibrant earth pigments. These paintings have been layered with new colours over the years but are said to date back more than 300 years.

Third Terrace - A steeper ascent takes you up a flight of steps hewn from the solid rock to reach the largest terrace and the location of 4 cave temples. The main temple houses a 15 m recumbent Buddha statue. This temple is believed to be one of the 64 temples erected by King Kavantissa, father of King Dutugemunu (161-136 BC), of Ruhuna.

A large, wooden cupboard at the entrance of the main cave temple is said to be where the key commentary of the Mahavansaa was discovered by George Turner, in 1827. It was Turner's translation that made the vast repository of knowledge found in Pali text accessible to English scholars.

Beyond the cupboard, a remarkable faded mural from the early Kandyan period (18th century) stands out. Painted in the national colours, its depictions have been updated with a touch of colonial influence. It is said to be the only known mural to feature a bare breasted female drummer in Sri Lanka.

Below: Bare breasted female drummer painted in the middle

A panoramic view from the third terrace of the summit reveals the stunning surrounding beauty. Grassy fields, hillocks, and ponds stretch out for miles - A Great photo op. 

Mulkirigla is one of the most underrated rock temples in Sri Lanka. If you are visiting the Tangalle/Hambantota region, make sure you go check it out.

More photos:

Below: Start of the 500 carved steps

Below: Second Terrace

Below: Entrance to the 3rd terrace

Below: Entrance to a cave on the 3rd terrace

Below: Cave Paintings

By Tashiya de Mel

[trekurious]

Brass Making in Angulmaduwa

Ranna212 offers you a unique opportunity to visit a traditional brass making workshop in Angulmaduwa, and observe skilled artisans at work.

Traditional brass adornments have added beauty to households for centuries. They are considered a symbol of prosperity in Sri Lanka, with the brass pahana (oil lamp) ubiquitous at every ceremony.  Angulmaduwa is believed to be one of the oldest villages of brass craftsmanship. Here, the craftsmen still engage in the traditional 'lost wax' method of production. Although it is highly labour and time intensive, it produces exceptionally fine quality and detail.

Rohana, a skilled brass maker in the area, showed us his authentic workshop made of clay walls and thatched roof to explain the exhaustive procedure.

Properties

Brass is a malleable alloy of copper and zinc.

By varying the proportion of the two ingredients, a range of brass, of different colours can be produced, of which golden yellow brass is the most popular.

Copper is added first, then the Iron and heated at around 1100°C.

History

Sri Lanka's brassware industry, now very much a part of the country's culture and national crafts, is widely believed to have originated during the Dutch colonial era. It is also possible to have arrived from the Indian Subcontinent.

Legend has it that king Dutugamunu, developed the brass industry in the Angulmaduwa region for the production of brass armaments, to defeat his nemesis, King Elara. Sadly, the brass industry in the area is declining rapidly and is now centered around the Pilimatalawa area, close to Kandy.

There are 5 main processes involved in Brass Making:

There's 2 ways of casting unpolished brass:

1)a)Creating mould using the 'lost wax' method

The model required is made using a mixture of clay and sand. It is then sculpted in wax and covered in clay. A hole is made at the top so that when it is baked; the wax melts out, leaving behind a clay mould. Molten brass is then poured into the clay and left to harden. This entire process can take up to 10 days since the clay needs to be completely dry before it can be baked. Once the mould is made in this manner, it can be used for a very long time.

Below: Clay and Sand mould being shaped

b) Moulding can also be done using a mixture of silica, bentonite clay, and sand. The mixture is moistened, typically with water to develop strength and plasticity and to make the aggregate suitable for moulding. The models are placed in an open box frame and filled to the top with the mixture. A mould cavity is created by compacting the mixture around the models. Molten brass is then poured into the mould cavity through a small hole made in the mixture and left to harden.

Below: Mould cavity being made

2) The moulded pieces are combined together with wire.

3) The welding process coalesces and joins the pieces together. Welding brass is not as straightforward as other metals because copper and zinc have very different melting points (zincs is much lower). The zinc content determines the strength of the flame needed to weld. 

4)Shining -The unpolished item is scraped with a blunt chisel like tool as it rotates on a mounted wheel. This process takes only around 5 minutes.

5) Polishing - The item is scraped against a vibrating wheel to reveal a golden glossy surface. Different wheels are used to attain different finishes. The sparkly Brass items are now ready for sale!

Make sure you check out Rohana's showroom if you're looking to purchase funky brass ornaments.

  By Tashiya de Mel