The Cultural Triangle: Discover Sri Lanka`s Best Heritage Sites

The infamous Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of royal cities, ancient monuments and Buddhist Temples that once served as the significant landmarks of early Sinhalese civilization. The cultural triangle is marked by the island`s three historic capitals- hill capital of Kandy, the first Sinhalese capital Anuradhapura and the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa.


Within this area lies the spectacular rock of Sigiriya, the Buddhist center of Mihintale. Apart from these popular sites, there are also less popular yet significant spaces like the mysterious forest monastery of Ritigala, abandoned citadel of Yapahuwa, the rock-carved standing Buddha at Aukana, and the colourful cave temple of Aluvihara.

So if you are planning to travel to Sri Lanka, the Cultural Triangle is the best place to absorb the island`s incredible history and cultural heritage. But first apply for Sri Lanka`s ETA by completing Sri Lanka visa application form. Go through the brief description of the Cultural Triangle to know more about the places:

ANURADHAPURA

Established as the first capital of Sri Lanka in 377 BC, by the King Pandukabhaya, this ancient city enjoyed the capital status until 12^th century AD. When the city was at its peak, it was dotted with dozens of monasteries spread across the large expanse of the island`s Northern plains. In the present time, the city is the best way to get an insight into the country`s illustrious history. Although there are many monuments across the city but Anuradhapura's main sites are located within the complexes of the three great monasteries of Jetavana , Mahavihara, and Abhayagiri. The sacred Bo tree of Sri Maha Bodhi which is believed to be the oldest documented living tree in the world is located at the heart of Anuradhapura.  It is the site where Buddha received Enlightenment.

POLONNARUWA

Want to know about the medieval period of Sri Lanka? Polonnaruwa represents the country at its best. The city of Polonnaruwa took over the status of capital from Anuradhapura to become the capital of the country between 11^th and 13^th century after the destruction of Anuradhapura. The city is built in a more compact area beside the shallow reservoir of Parakrama Samudra. One can get a clear idea about the city and the culture of medieval time, as it has been well preserved. So fill your Sri Lanka visa application form to make sure that you travel this ancient city of island country.

KANDY

Nestled amidst the verdant highlands of Sri Lanka is located island`s second city with a rich country – Kandy. Situated beside the man made Kiri Muhuda Lake, the city offers great views. After resisting colonial forces for a long period of time, the city was captured by Portugal and Dutch. Kandy was the last citadel of Buddhist political power and regained its distinct culture, customs and artistic traditions. The city is a home to many Buddhist temples, shrines and also hosts impressive annual festivals annually. Don`t forget to visit temple of tooth relic which has a tooth of Lord Buddha enshrined in a golden casket.

SIGIRIYA

Rising from Sri Lanka`s dry zone, the fabulous fortress of Sigiriya sits atop a large gigantic rock measuring 200 meters in height. Also known as the Lion Rock, the royal palace occupies three acres on the peak with cave temples and beautiful water gardens.

DAMBULLA

The golden Temple of Dambulla is a cave monastery which lies on the way to Kandy. The site is considered pilgrimage with five caves adorned with beautiful Buddhist mural paintings and 157 statues, mostly of Buddha.

The caves were established in the 3^rd century and were refurbished again in the 18^th century. The largest of these caves is Maharaja Vihara Lena. Because the cave belonged to great Sri Lankan kings, Valagambahu and Nissankamalla, it is also known as cave of the Great Kings.

Incorporate Cultural Triangle into your travel itinerary if you are planning to travel to Sri Lanka. Download Sri Lanka visa application form from our website www.sri-lankaeta.com.

How To Experience Sri Lanka Like A Local

Experiencing Sri Lanka`s true vibe can only happen when you travel through local transport, eat local food and get mingle with people. To know how you can enjoy your stay here, continue reading.
Rising out of the ashes, Sri Lanka has strongly bounced back after a 30 year old civil war and the devastation of Tsunami in 2004. In recent years, the country`s natural landscapes, historical sites, white sand beaches and cultural attractions have been getting featured regularly on list of world`s hottest travel destinations.

People from all around the world are visiting the country in multiple folds. In 2016, more than 2 million people visited Sri Lanka- four times more than before Tsunami. Also because the country has introduced a system of online Sri Lanka visa which is easy to obtain. And like any other country, the best way to soak into the vibrant culture of Sri Lanka is to do as the locals do. Travelling all the way from you native country to Sri Lanka and locking yourself inside your room, would just be unfair with its natural reserve.

Sure brave the crowd and do visit all the popular tourist sites, including all the UNESCO world heritage sites such as Galle Fort, Sigiriya Rock Fort, and the ancient capital cities. But also take out some time to get around the city in a local transport, dine in family houses and visit local markets to get to know the real Sri Lanka.

BOARD THE TRAIN

Getting around the country in a car is what most of the people like to do, but that journey will lack pleasure and fun. In a country like Sri Lanka, it is way more interesting to book train-tickets because that will give you a chance to hang out with commuters. With tired feet hanging out the door, long grass kissing the worn-out soles of feet as the train passes through green terraced tea plantations; nothing can be as rejuvenating as this experience.

Hawkers and vendors selling mouth-watering snacks and local food make an incredible part of the journey. Friendly conversation with local fellows travelling along in the same coach will keep you entertained with their simple but interesting chatters.

LIVES ALONGSIDE CANAL

The most wonderful way to witness the serenity is to visit the Dutch canal in Negombo which is located 40 kilometers north of Sri Lanka`s largest city Colombo. Get a hang of how the locals spend their days in the country. Women wash their linens along the banks, children splashing water and taking bathe while shirtless fishermen repair their nets. If you have received your online Sri Lanka visa, spend few days in local sightseeing.

STROLL AROUND THE MARKET

To experience a city in true sense, visiting the local markets is the best way to know a place. Negombo Fish Market will not disappoint you. Take a help of a local guide and he will show you around the stalls offering the wide range of seafood including prawns, parrotfish, squid, and swordfish. Along with the seafood, you can buy some fresh vegetables as well.

Do like locals to experience the city in the most amazing way. You will have the most enjoyable time of your life in this country. Get your online Sri Lanka visa by visiting our website www.sri-lankaeta.com.

A Travel Guide To Port Fairy, Australia

A coastal town in South- Western Victoria, Australia, Port Fairy lies on the Princess Highway in the Shire of Moyne. The bay was named by the crew of the whaler ‘The Fairy’ in 1828. In early years of 19^th century the rugged coast was mainly used by the seal hunters and whalers. 

Port Fairy is one of those delightful towns where you would like to extend your stay by another day to find a whole extra world of things to see and do. There famous museums, amazing stretches of coastlines which are perfect for long strolls, a fascinating harbor and arrays of perfectly constructed cottages exuding the old world charm that gleam under the warm ray of sun. Want to explore more? The don`t wait and apply for online Australia ETA and if you have already then check your Australia ETA Status by visiting our website.

How to reach Port Fairy?

From Melbourne- Located at 3 and half hours southwest of Melbourne, the journey is quiet enjoyable with its scenic coastline running parallel along the iconic Great Ocean Road touring route. Although the Great Ocean Road is itself a popular destination, Port fairy is the last stop on this alluring route. The Princes Highway is the second route which is the shortest and quickest route that will take you to your destination in just 3 and half hours.

From Sydney- If you are travelling from Sydney you can take flight or internal transport like train, bus or car to reach there. The road trip will take you approximately 18 to 19 hours. If you have your online Australia ETA approved, you can buy cheapest flight tickets to visit here.

Things to do

Although there are plethora of activities to get indulge in the most popular ones we have listed below:

1.       Historic Walks: There are more than 50 historic buildings in Port Fairy which makes it a perfect site for historic walks. The visitor information center has intrinsic details and information about the town.

2.       Griffiths Island: Walk across a footbridge which is located in South of Gipps Street and will lead you to Griffith`s island. This is the most constructive way to spend few hours. There is a track around the island which includes the lighthouse on the island`s eastern extremity and the Mutton Bird Viewing Point.

3.       East Beaches- When in Port Fairy, there are many popular beaches waiting to be explored. East beach is one of the safest beaches in Victoria. It has kilometers of sand enclosing the crystal clear water. The relaxing atmosphere and melodious sound of waves makes it a perfect spot for those who love taking long walks across the beach.

4.       Killarney Beach- Located just ten minutes from the park, Killarney Beach is another popular tourist destination. Perfect for snorkeling, the gentle nature of this beach attracts many visitors. It is also a great place for fishing spot.

Hidden from the hustle-bustle of the city, Port Fairy is a great destination for those who want to walk the less-travelled roads. Rush now and obtain your online Australia ETA by applying it on our website www.australiae-visa.com .

Sri Lanka Imposes Strict Visa Sanctions On North Koreans

After the recently conducted nuclear tests and missile launch by North Korea, Sri Lanka imposed enhanced visa restrictions for the citizens of North Korea entering the country. The government of Sri Lanka has taken this step in compliance with the U.N Security Council`s sanction against the country`s nuclear and missile development.

It was North Korea`s 6<sup>th</sup> Nuclear test and according to the satellite images that were taken before and after the tests were conducted, there was a slight change in the height of ‘Mount Mantap’. The test was said to be so powerful that it has sink a roughly 85-acre area on the summit of the mountain above the tunnels. According to the experts there have been significant changes at Mount Mantap`s peak elevation. The U.N Security Council has condemned this recent nuclear test considering it as a threat to the world.

The Sri Lankan government has imposed strict visa requirements on all North Korean nationals who wish to visit the country. According to the implementation report for Resolution 2321 which was sent to the Security Council on September 15,”North Korean nationals are no longer eligible to apply for visas through Sri Lanka online ETA.” Also the immigration and emigration authorities of Sri Lanka were ordered to exercise vigilance as well as to ensure that individuals on the sanction list are prohibited from entering the country.

“In addition, all Sri Lankan missions and posts overseas have been instructed to refer all North Korean visa requests to go under government`s scrutiny”, according to a report. The Resolution 2321 was adopted by the Security Council in November last year against the North Korea`s fifth nuclear test in September.

For more fresh updates and visa guidelines for Sri Lanka, visit our website www.sri-lankaeta.com.