4 Reasons Why Should You Include Jaffna in Your Sri Lankan Itinerary!

With sky-kissing, rainbow colored Hindu temples and a spectacular coastline flanked by the calm and azure waters, coconut palms, Jaffna is a different world, altogether. The climate in the North of Sri Lanka is arid for most of the year and the fields sunbaked. From the language to the culture, religion to food, one can find lots of cultural difference in Jaffna as compared to the southern part of Sri Lanka.

The northern side of Sri Lanka is closer to Southern India as compared to its capital city, Colombo. If you have applied for online Sri Lanka ETAthen include Jaffna as it is located just 400 km away.

You can reach Jaffna either by bus, train or car. Although the place is filled with finest places, we have hand-picked some of the best places to visit when you visit this city:

1.       CASUARINA BEACH- Casuarina beach which is located at a distance from 20 km from Jaffna is the most beautiful beach. Describing it in just few words would be unfair.  Take a stroll on the sand and feel the softness under the feet while the view of crystal clear turquoise water will refresh your mind and soul. The shallow depth of the sea will allow you to go deeper in the sea.

2.       NAGA POOSHANI AMBAL KOVIL: An ancient Hindu temple, which is located in the Jaffna city. The whole architecture is tastefully done by using several colors. The highlight of this temple is its interiors which are believed to be the mirror reflection of things seen outside. The main attraction of this temple is its deity Naga Pooshani Ambal. This ancient work of art exhibits that the five headed cobra is protecting her. Witness its architecture by applying for onlineSri Lanka ETA.

3.       NALLUR KANDASWAMY KOVIL: It is one of the most significant Hindu temples in Jaffna. Just 1 km away from the city, Nallur is mainly famous for Nallur Kandaswamy temple. Built in 15^th century, the temple was created by the adopted son of Bhuvanekababhu, Sanpaha Perumal.

The temple holds a significant value as an important social institution for the Hindus and had to be relocated to several places due to the foreign invasion.

4.       NEDUNTHEEVU: Out of the 7 islands in Jaafna, Neduntheevu is the largest island and can be reached by ferry. The main attraction of this island is its shallow waters, sandy beaches and coral beds. The Dutch colonials called this a Deft Island. When here, try their local drink- Toddy, which is created out of the Palmyra trees.

Don`t wait for too long to visit this incredible place in Sri Lanka that will make your heart skip a beat. Travel made easy with online Sri LankaETA, which you can apply for by visiting to www.sri-lankaeta.com

3 Activities That Makes Sri Lanka a Perfect Vacay Destination for Kids!

An island like Sri Lanka that has plenty of things to offer, all year round, is a perfect destination to travel with kids. With strong trade winds swapping coasts for around 6 months of the year, offers a unique opportunity to enjoy this paradise on either coasts, both with exceptional experiences.

From amazing beaches that are home to beautiful calm azure waters, spectacular temples, abundant wildlife and serene pagodas, the country is a haven for kids as well as adults. There are numerous restaurants that serve fresh and utterly delicious food, thus you can enjoy food at your favorite restaurant too.

If being a parent, you are hoping for action, adventure, culture, relaxation, history, great food in a family holiday destination, then Sri Lanka is an ideal destination; all you have to do is apply for ETA Visa to Sri Lanka. Browse the number of activities that you can do here along with your kids:

Help Baby Turtles Glide into the Ocean

The magnificent beaches of Sri Lanka are home to five species of sea turtle – the Olive Ridley, Green Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle and Leatherhead Turtle. Most of the major habitats of turtles are located in the southern coast in the Galle District. Visit these turtle hatcheries that can be found along the southern coastal road, from Bentota onwards. Let your kids learn about the conservation and environmental protection, the dangers turtles face. Help them release baby turtles back into the ocean. So apply for ETA Visa to SriLanka for an unforgettable experience.

Go on fishing

The fishing in Sri Lanka involves a very unique approach that not only needs an eye of a smart hunter but also an excellent balancing skill. The local fishermen perched atop on stilts to get their catch of the day. These stilt poles are known as riti panna and can be seen stuck along the southern coast a few meters offshore in the water. A small bench is attached to the poles and this is where the fishermen balance. The entire process is used to catch small reef fish. Apply for ETA Visa to Sri Lanka and try balancing out along with your kids!  

Time Travel at the Ancient Fort of Galle

The 17^th century Dutch Fort is the highlight of Galle. Built by the Portuguese in 1588, it was fortified later on by the Dutch from 1649 onwards. The fort which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site has been beautifully preserved and is a perfect place to know about Sri Lankan`s history. Explore the ramparts, narrow streets, old houses and historic churches with your children and see their eyes sparkling up with history of Sri Lanka.

From environmental protection to historical significance of Galle Fort, Sri Lanka offers hundreds of opportunities of enjoyment when it comes to family vacations. If you haven`t applied for the visa, you can visit our website sri-lankaeta.com to apply for ETAVisa to Sri Lanka, today!

Sri Lanka for History Buffs: 4 Historical Places to Visit

Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of not only natural vistas and tranquil beaches but of historical sites too. Read on to know about country`s many historical sights, if you are a history buff.

Sri Lanka`s palm-fringed beaches, flanked by Indian Ocean and panoramic vistas that are enough to give hard competition to the Swiss Alps are infamous for their unmatched beauty and serenity. But that is not all that this country has to offer. With its many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this small island country lets you hop on to its many museums, ruins and heritage sites to see. You can apply for tourist visa for Sri Lanka to visit the country.

Discover the most amazing places in Sri Lanka that are of great historical significance in our list:

Adam’s Peak in Central Highlands

This UNESCO World Heritage Site features several other sites that also include the Knuckles Range, the Horton Plains and Adam’s Peak. Although the site is home to endemic Sri Lankan leopard, it also has a cultural relevance as far as its historical significance is concerned. Adam`s Peak, standing at 2,243 meters above sea level has a large footprints that is believed to be Lord Buddha`s. The site is considered sacred by all the religions.

Natural History Museum

A perfect place to satiate the thirst of knowledge, National History Museum in Colombo is a treat for history lovers. You will come across the exclusive collection of antiques and artefacts from all over the country, as soon as you step inside the Italian-style mansion that is housing the museum. With more than 100,000 items on display and a vast collection of rare historical books here, you will have an amazing time in discovering the cultural and historical journey of the country. You can experience all this, only if you apply for tourist visa of Sri Lanka in time. So don`t delay, apply now!

Galle Fort

Blessed with incredible cultural wealth and unimaginable natural beauty, Galle is also adorned with numerous temples, sceneries and churches. Though there are amazing tourist attractions like Seenigama Temple and the Galle Lighthouse, the history sniffers must make their way to the ancient Galle Fort. Built in 1588, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was built by the Portuguese and was a trading port. The site was later modified in 1640, when the Dutch captured the city. Apply for tourist visa of Sri Lanka to visit these amazing places.

Dutch Period Museum

Explore the prestigious Dutch Period Museum, which was once the residence of the Governor in the 17^th century. Later, the building became a Catholic seminary only to be used by the military as a hospital later. In 1977, it was converted into a museum and today it houses colonial artefacts along with Dutch furniture.

History lovers, Sri Lanka has lots in store for you if you know exactly where to go and what to explore. So apply for tourist visa of Sri Lanka, from our website www.sri-lankaeta.com, today!

The 3 Best Bars In Colombo For Spectacular Evenings!

As Sri Lanka has risen from its conflicting past, its capital city Colombo has also become a popular destination. Considered as the one of the most intriguing capital city in Asia, it boasts of some of the most phenomenal bars and night life venues.

If you are planning to visit Sri Lanka with a group of friend, you can take your experience in Colombo to next level with a refreshing cocktail and magnificent view over the Indian Ocean. If you have applied for online Sri Lankaeta, you can take your pick from our top 3 bars in Colombo:

THE GALLERIE CAFÉ

Featuring an art gallery, The Gallerie Café is Colombo`s finest open air bar. With bunch of new places cropping up every now and then, this has managed to remained everyone`s favorite. Start your evening with few relaxed drinks at this café that stretches out over a lovely courtyard featuring a crystal clear pool and stunning decorations. The menu offers a striking combination of Asian and traditional Sri Lankan dishes. From locals to tourists, artists to diplomats, the café is visited by all, so if you have applied for online Sri Lanka eta, visit here.

Where:  2 Alfred House Rd, Colombo, Sri Lanka

GLOW BAR

If you want to party with elites of Sri Lanka, then the Glow Bar is the place for you. Part of Automobile Association of Sri Lanka, it is located in their building and is often frequented by the professionals and trendsetters of the country. Expect to see the esteemed crowd where men are dressed in white shirts and jackets, while women are dressed up in Prada, Gucci and other high fashion brands. True to its name, the place has a glow of its own, thus do not leave Colombo without visiting here.

Where:  Automobile Association Building 3rd Floor 42A Sir Mohamed Marcan Marker Mawatha, Colombo

CLOUD RED

Want to go to the best outdoor bar? Cloud Red is your go-to place. Situated on the 26^th floor of the Cinnamon Red Hotel, it offers 360 degree picturesque views over the capital. The bar, standing true to its name has interiors that are dominated by red tones and provides a warm and lively atmosphere. With breathtaking scenery and comfortable seating, the café allows you to enjoy many of its scrumptious beverages, ranging from tapas to fusion dishes.  Bringing a whole new vibe to Colombo this amazing café should definitely be your go-to place.

Where: 59 Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha, Colombo, Sri Lanka

So to enjoy your stay at Colombo, do visit the above mentioned bars. In case you are still struggling to apply for online Sri Lanka eta, visit our website sri-lankaeta.com.

4 Destinations in Asia That Are Amazingly Cheap!

Every continent has its own attractions and highlight, but when it comes to Asia, travelers expect the unexpected. Whether it is the colorful desserts of India or the nomadic steppes of Kazakhstan, breathtaking beaches of Sri Lanka or the chaotic streets of Hanoi, Asia is a continent that exudes charm, mysticism, adventure, solace and spirituality that has besotted and confounded the travelers for centuries.

What makes it one of the best destinations to visit? Affordability and unparalleled beauty! If you want to make it to some of the cheapestdestinations around Asia, have a look at our list:

Sri Lanka

This small country that offers quadruple in scenery what it lacks in its size, Sri Lanka is the best Asian destination for those who are looking to have a peaceful time amidst the nature. With an easy online process to obtain Sri Lanka ETA visa, the country has made it easy for all the globetrotters who are willing to experience this South Asian country. From National Parks to UNESCO Heritage Cities, monuments to serene temples, gorgeous beaches to whale watching, this country is a complete package. Also the country is extremely affordable with a daily budget of around 6,000 LKR.

If you want to apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa, visit our website sri-lankaeta.com.

Indonesia

From idyllic beaches, gorgeous lakes and volcanic landscapes, Indonesia offers lots of variety, with plenty of historic highlights, such as Borobudur and bustling cities. While the prices on different islands can vary extensively, Indonesia is an over-all budget friendly country in Southeast Asia. You can keep your budget under check, by picking up few islands such as Lombok, Sumatra and Bali, instead of cramming up every island in your itinerary. The average per day budget to spend in Indonesia can be around 435,000 IDR (approximately 30 USD).

Malaysia

 Home to beautiful beaches, glorious national parks, architectural gems and modern shopping malls, Malaysia has become one of the most beautiful and cheapestdestinations around Asia. Catering to the needs of different types of travelers, visiting Malaysia is cheaper than visiting Thailand. Peninsular Malaysia is cheaper as compared to Malaysian Borneo. The peninsula includes the capital of Kuala Lumpur, Cameron Highlands, Quaint Malacca and the lovely island of Langkawi. A private room in a guest house may cost from 43 MYR (approximately 10.56 USD) for a night, while meal in an inexpensive restaurant will cost around 10 MYR (2.45 USD).

China

China is a country with stark differences between its urban cities and rural villages. China`s tourist attractions are the best in Asia and will never cease to impress those who are visit the country. From the Great Wall of China to the Bund in Shanghai, Pandas in Chengdu to Terracotta Warriors, China is one of the most diverse nations on the planet. A reasonably daily budget to explore China is 300 CNY (44 USD).

 If you want to experience a little of everything you have ever dreamed of, Asia should be your next destination.

Anuradhapura: 5 Stunning Temples & Monasteries to Visit Here!

Sri Lanka has plenty of amazing landscapes and 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites under its kitty, but the best of them is the ancient city of Anuradhapura. The first capital of Sri Lanka in the 4^th century, it is located about 200 km in the north of Colombo and an integral part of the infamous Cultural Triangle.

Anuradhapura is so large that most of its sites can be covered via tuk-tuk. This ancient city has lot of historical significance and if you have been planning to experience Sri Lanka to its fullest, it must be included in your itinerary. If you have applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa, read on to find out the best things to do in Anuradhapura:

Sri Maha Bodhi Temple

This 2000-year old tree is the main attraction in the first capital city of Sri Lanka. Shri Maha Bodhi Temple is visited by thousands of tourists and pilgrims every year, especially on full moon holidays.

Isurumuniya Vihara

Famously known for its beautifully sculpted stone carving, Isurumuniya Vihara carries lots of legendary tales that are interesting as well as equally intriguing. The carving was originally located in the royal pleasure palace, but later on brought in the temple. Legend has it that the figures carved on the stone are Prince Saliya and his lover Asokamala. Apply for SriLanka ETA visa to visit this wonderful temple.

Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba

Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba is the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka which is also the epicenter of the main Buddhist monastery. Considered as one of the most important Buddhist sites on the island, the stupa is well preserved and is in great condition. This stupa holds the largest quantity of Buddha relics in the entire world, which is why it is considered to be the vital site for Buddhism. Experience the tranquility of this stupa by applying for SriLanka ETA visa on time.

Thuparama Dagoba

After the Buddhism was introduced as a new religion, the Thuparama Dagoba was the first stupa which was built in Sri Lanka. Surrounded by three concentric circles of columns, it was built to house Buddha`s collarbone. Some of these columns are leaning over, making the entire structure look more appealing. Best time to visit here is during the night, as the entire stupa is decorated with twinkling lights.

Abhayagiri Vihara

Home to the Abhayagiri Dagoba and the famous moonstone, the Abhayagiri Vihara is a popular tourist attraction. The Abhayagiri Dagoba is the second largest in Sri Lanka and the moonstone is one of the most important. You will have to visit here to believe the stunning sculpture and architecture of the monastery.

Experience the gorgeous monasteries and temples of Sri Lanka by applying for Sri Lanka ETA visa on time. To apply for visa, visit www.sri-lankaeta.com.

The 4 Best Villas to Admire the Enchanting Beach Town in Negombo, Sri Lanka

Negombo is one of the most sought-after destinations in Sri Lanka. When you are visiting the island, visiting this town is a must. Discover the most amazing accommodations in Negombo.

Negombo is a modest beach town that is located just 10 km away from the Colombo airport. Its close proximity with the capital city of Sri Lanka makes it a famous tourist attraction. This beach town is extremely gorgeous, adorned with amazing hotels and resorts, decent restaurants to suit all pockets, friendly locals and a reasonable beach, Negombo is a small town and a place much easier to connect with.

If you have applied for online Sri Lanka eta then check out our list of carefully chosen resorts and villas in Negombo that will leave you with some unforgettable memories:

Paradise Villa and Hostel, Negombo

With central location and its close proximity with popular tourist attractions that also include St. Mary`s Church, paradise Villa and Hostel is an ideal place for those who are travelling with a large group of people. The villa offers everything that you would require to make your vacations completely memorable. The villa has three-bedrooms, a living room and a fully functional kitchen. The interiors are tastefully done with a large garden free Wi-Fi connection, 24-hour front desk to help you organize your sightseeing plans.

Yoho The Blue Pearl Family Cottage

One of the popular vacation rentals in Negombo, this hotel is located 7 km away from the infamous Negombo Lagoon. The rooms are equipped with all the amenities and the tariff is tailored to suit every pocket. The rooms are decked with free Wi-Fi, Flat TV, a lounge area at sharing basis, play-ground for children, shared kitchen and garden. To make your stay absolutely comfortable there is 24x7 front desk. The cottage also has two bedrooms with attached bathrooms for each room. If your online Sri Lanka eta has got an approval, check-in to this hotel.

Villa Hundira

This contemporary style villa is the best place to stay when in Negombo. The villa has an outdoor pool that offers a complete relaxation and fun to the guests. The rooms come fitted with every basic amenity and the Villa is located in the heart of the town which makes the popular tourist attractions like the Ave Maria Convent, St. Anthony’s Church, Angurukaramuula Temple, and Hamilton Canal easily accessible. Book a room here if you have got your online SriLanka eta approved, as the villa fills up real quick.

Greenbanks

Greenbanks is located in the prime location of Negombo due to which the property is close to almost all the popular tourist attractions like St Anthony’s Church, Angurukaramulla, St. Mary’s Church, Maris Stella College and the Bandaranaike International Airport. Stay here if you want a comfortable chilled-out vibe. The villa has four bedrooms with a living room and TV room along with a private pool to double up the fun.