Tips To Make the Most Scenic Journey of Sri Lanka Truly Special

The best way to cover Sri Lanka`s popular destinations is through a train journey. A journey by train is a must for all the train enthusiasts. Its incredible beaches, preserved wildlife and national parks along with comfortable way of transport will make your stay definitely memorable, easy, economical and outstanding. If you are applying for Sri Lankan ETA online then get ready to be onboard the most scenic journey of your life.

All the railway routes are offer spectacular view but the most picturesque journey in the teardrop island is the one to the hill country between Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. Taking the train is any day better than hiring a car because the train journey is not only faster but it also offers better views. So if you are willing to cover the distance via train then here are four tips to make your journey more comfortable:

1.       Buy tickets a day before to your journey- The best way to travel by train is to make sure that you get your tickets a day before or two prior to the day of your journey. Getting the tickets online is not always reliable; therefore it is better to buy tickets at the station you plan to board the train from. Second class and third class tickets however can be bought just half an hour before the scheduled departure. If you don`t want to miss out on this epic journey make sure that you apply for online Sri Lankan ETA on time.

2.       Pick the right class to travel- Train in Sri Lanka is segregated in three classes. First class is air-conditioned, has cushioned seats and limited seating. But unfortunately, some trains have only first class carriage. Second class has fans with cushioned seats. The windows remain open so the ventilation problem doesn’t occur. The fresh air keeps the passengers refreshed and relaxed. Second class is the busiest. Third class offers benches that can lead to sore rears and no fans. But the widows remain open and the seat fits three instead of two. So keeping your comfort into focus, choose the right class for you.

3.       Carry you own water and food- As the trains have no canteen or food carriages, it`s better to carry your own snacks and water bottle to keep yourself hydrated. All the stations do have some small shops at the platform to offer refreshments but the prices are really high. So if you don’t carry snacks, then be prepared to pay double the original price.

4.       Travel without much luggage- All carriages have overhead luggage racks and fits small backpacks and suitcases. So travel light if you decide to travel by train to make the entire journey comfortable.

So apart from the tickets, also carry wipes and sanitizer to keep you bacteria-free. The condition of the bathroom can be horrible, so be prepared for that. The train journey is really worth to give it a try once whenever you come to this island country. So plan to spend your next vacation here and apply for online Sri Lankan ETA by visiting our website www.sri-lankaeta.com .

5 Things You Should Not Do When Travelling to Sri Lanka

Summary: Are you travelling to Sri Lanka for the first time? Then read on our list of do`s and don`ts when you are travelling to the Pearl Of the Ocean.

With the tourism sector flourishing in its full swing, it has become extremely important that every visitor practices the art of ethical and responsible travelling. Before applying for Sri Lanka ETA visa, every visitor searches the internet about the places they must visit or the things they must do.

But it is extremely important to know about the things that you must not do when visiting a particular country. When in Sri Lanka, there are couple of things that you must abstain yourself from in order to have a memorable experience while being a responsible traveler. Here is a list that covers all the things that you shouldn`t do:

Don’t ride an elephant

If you love nature and wildlife, then do not ride an elephant. Although Sri Lanka has dozens of wildlife sanctuaries and national park to protect these mighty elephants, there are more than 200 elephants that are still under captivity because of the tourism purpose.

These elephants are kept under grave conditions, without being properly fed and are mainly used in religious processions as well as riding camps. So be a responsible traveler and head to some of the national parks instead to see these creatures enjoying and playing freely.  So if you have applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa, make sure you don`t support animal abuse.

Don`t encourage safari jeep drivers to chase animals

Seeing animals in their natural surroundings might be an enjoyable activity for some, but for the animals it becomes agonizing after a point. Things can get really ugly as sometimes the drivers chase them and get too close, which is another way of giving invitation to an unfortunate event. So respect animals by keeping a safe distance and do not encourage your driver to chase wild animals.

Cross the road carefully

The drivers in Sri Lanka drive rashly like a madman, thus it becomes really important for anyone who is travelling here, to be vigilant during dusk and at night. There are lots of blind corners, therefore it is essential that you use the designated cross walks if there is a lot of oncoming traffic.

Don`t compare Sri Lanka with India

Although both the countries are separated by a narrow channel of water, both the countries are pole apart when it comes to culture, places, food and weather. People speak different languages and the customs of the two countries are unique.

Don`t expect your international credit card to work everywhere

Sri Lanka, although is dotted with multiple ATMs, however in smaller towns and hotels cash is the king. So if you need to withdraw cash, look for Sampath Bank, Commercial Bank or People`s Bank branches, where the international credit and debit cards are easily accepted.

Being attuned with nature and wildlife will definitely take your overall experience in Sri Lanka a notch higher. So travel responsibly, because if we will not care about our planet, it will be destroyed. To apply for SriLanka ETA visa, you can visit sri-lankaeta.com.

4 Best Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Spots in Sri Lanka for Adventure Seekers

Summary- Sri Lanka is not only popular for its beaches but also an array of exciting and thrilling water sports activities. Discover the best scuba diving and snorkeling spots in this beautiful country.

What Sri Lanka lacks in size, it makes up in its stunning beaches and other natural landscapes. The country not only is home to gorgeous sun-kissed beaches, verdant tea-plantations, ancient cities and diverse culture but also to some of the most amazing scuba diving and snorkeling sites that guarantees thrill.

Professionals can hit the beach straight, while amateurs can head towards PADI diving schools first to train themselves. So if you have applied for SriLanka ETA visa then check out the best diving and snorkeling spots in the country:

HIKKADUWA AND UNAWATUNA

These two places are considered to be the most popular on the island. Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna were the first among all to have a proper PADI dive center and PADI Training center. There are at least 10 coral reef dive spots that make it essential for anyone to visit here that has got Sri Lanka ETAvisa approved. There are also lots of shipwreck dives to check out and none of them are more than 30 meters deep and that makes them accessible for amateurs as well.

TRINCOMALEE

Located at the east coast of Sri Lanka, Trincomalee is the Nilavelli beach which is the launch pad for various dives in the area. Pigeon Island Marine Life Sanctuary, which is located few kilometers off the coast, is surrounded by the coral reefs full of vibrant and colorful fishes, nudibranch, anemone and more. Irakkandy, which is another diving spot in Trincomalee is an 18^th century steamer close to the coast.

MIRISSA

Although Mirissa was famous for whale watching, the beach is now gaining popularity for its great diving spots as well. Located on the southeast coast of the island, there are around five diving sites in Mirissa. There are training programs for beginners and for experienced ones as well at the Poseidon Diving Center and PADI centers as well. Thus, if you have applied for SriLanka ETA visa, include Mirissa in your travel itinerary.

PASSIKUDAH

Passikudah is another east coast diving hotspot. Most of the sites that are easily accessible from Trincomalee beach can also be reached from Passikudah, although the site has plenty of other diving spots too. Boiler Wrecks and Passikudah reef and the infamous wreck British Sergeant are some of the popular diving spots from Passikudah.

So get ready for the adventure and thrill that you are going to encounter in Sri Lanka. To visit the country in November, apply for Sri Lanka ETAvisa log on to sri-lankaeta.com now!

 

4 Non-Touristy Activities You Must Do In Sri Lanka

Summary- If you are looking to do some non-touristy things in Sri Lanka, welcome aboard! Along with many popular activities there are numerous things that are off the tourist radar, but equally enjoyable. Find them out.

Sri Lanka does not need any introduction. Once a subject of civil war and a formidable fate, the country is now back in tourism and receiving accolades for its abundance of natural reserves. Mostly, people come here to explore its beaches, national parks, wildlife, hiking trails and ancient cities. But the country offers many other things that are not as touristy and popular but can ensure a good time.

If you are visiting the country for the first time and have got an approval for Sri Lanka ETA visa then let us tell you about few things that are not touristy but still can assure you a good time:

Enjoy a cricket match

Cricket which is the national sport of Sri Lanka is also loved by people from other nationalities. So if you do consider yourself a cricket fan and have some time left in your hand, you can catch a live tournament going on in Galle. If you are lucky, you can also catch international tournaments going on. You can check out the information on website for the upcoming tournaments.

Experience a Poya ritual

Every full moon in Sri Lanka is a public holiday. Full moon in Sri Lanka is called Poya and every single of them is celebrated on a grand level at the Buddhist Temples. Some of them are more important than the rest of others like Vesak Poya. Vesak Poya is celebrated as `The Festival of Lights`, as it is believed that Lord Buddha was born, attain enlightenment and died on this day. If you want to be a part of this grand celebration, apply for Sri Lanka ETAvisa.

Visit Hindu Kovils & Buddhist Temples  

Buddhism is the main religion in Sri Lanka. There are plenty of Buddhist temples and Hindu Kovils that are popular in Sri Lanka. Some of the most Buddhist famous temples are The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, Dambulla Cave Temple in the Cultural Triangle and Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo. The unmissable Hindu Kovils are Sri Muthumariamman Temple in Matale, and Nallur Kandaswamy in Jaffna. When visiting a temple, always wear appropriate attire that covers your shoulders and legs.

Stay overnight in a National Park

There are around 15 national parks in Sri Lanka and the most amazing part is that you can stay overnight in one. The most memorable parks are Minneriya, Yala, Gal Oya and Wilpattu. These parks are great for spotting wildlife. You can spot a leopard or elephant in Yala National Park. So camp in one of these national parks to experience elephant safaris and dining experience under the stars.

Sri Lanka is more than just sand, sun and sea. There are plenty of other things that will give you one-of-a-kind experience in Sri Lanka. So apply for your SriLanka ETA visa in time and travel to this amazing country hassle-free. For more visa related information, visit sri-lankaeta.com!

4 Places You Can`t Afford to Miss in Galle, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a pristine island country famous for its beaches, spiritual temples, iconic landmarks, ancient cities and tea plantations. And if Sri Lanka is a crown, Galle is its precious jewel. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is dotted with an infinite number of old trading port, Dutch-colonial buildings, churches, mosques and grand mansions – a city that is a treat if explored on foot.

Often considered as a halt by many tourists, Galle`s core is the fort which was built by the Dutch in the beginning of 1663. The sea-facing fort which is the major attraction often lures the visitors to its walled enclave surrounded by the ocean from three sides. If you have applied for onlineSri Lanka visa then do include Galle into your travel itinerary. Here are the places that are must exploring:

1.       FLAG ROCK- The rock which is located at the southernmost end of the Fort was once a Portuguese stronghold. Today the place is most popular with the locals and tourists similarly, to catch a sunset. During the daylight, you can see various visitors and locals jumping off the rocks straight into the water. During the Dutch period, the approaching ships were signaled from the rock about the dangerous rocks and this was how the rock got its name.

2.       DUTCH REFORMED CHURCH- The church that was originally built in 1640 is housed under the building that dates from 1752. The building features a floor which is made from Dutch cemeteries while the other appealing features include the organ and an imposing pulpit which was made from calamander wood which is topped by a grand hexagonal canopy. There is also a small carved window which is a memorial dedicated to a former Commander of Galle, Abraham Samlant. You can visit this church when in Galle and for that apply for online Sri Lanka visa on time.

3.       MARINE ARCHEOLOGICAL MUSEUM-Occupying the old spice colossal warehouse that was built by the Dutch, the Marine Archeological Museum was built in the 17^th century. Originally the structure was built as a part of the main gateway to the Fort and even today it forms certain parts of its ramparts. After getting neglected for decades, the building was shut only to be reopened in 2010 as a museum after two years of renovations.  

4.       AMANGALLA- Today the Amangalla houses a luxurious hotel with bar, lobby and restaurants that are open and worth a look, but originally the building was built in 1684. The building was a residence of the Dutch governor and officers initially but later on it transformed into New Oriental Hotel to accommodate the passengers travelling to and from Europe in the 19^th century.

Sri Lanka is although famous for beaches, but its cities are nevertheless famous too! Do visit Galle and the iconic Galle Fort to experience the bygone era. To apply for online SriLanka visa, visit our website sri-lankaeta.com.

7 Mind Blowing Facts About Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Sigiriya is the most popular site where a massive column of rock erects out from the green tropical forest. Tourists love this gigantic rock which is 660ft tall. Also known as ‘Lion Rock’ it has a lion carved out as a large façade and an ancient kingdom on top.

The site holds the top position on the list of most visited places due to the history and few dark facts, which are associated with the place itself. You can visit this place easily from Kandy. Make sure you book your tickets in advance and check your SriLanka online visa status to proceed with further reservations. This place will amaze you with its unbeatable frescos, construction and of course the ultimate facts that are mentioned below:

1.       The King Kasyapa who ruled from 477 to 495 CE, built the citadel that sits on the top of Sigiriya. Worried about the potential attacks from his brother Moggallana who was the rightful heir of the throne, Kasyapa chose this as his royal residence.

2.       The rock is 200 meters high and encompasses 1200 steps, divided amongst a number of staircases till the top.

3.       Born to a non-royal concubine, king Kasyapa`s life was full of controversy. Despite having no right to the throne, he carried a revolt against his father Dhatusena, imprisoning him and eventually killing him. After killing he got his father entombed in a wall.

4.       The rock was earlier used as a Buddhist Monastery, prior to Kasyapa`s using it as his residence. After his reign, it was once again used as a monastery till it was abandoned in the 14^th century.

5.       King Kasyapa created a ‘mirror wall’ so finely polished that it would reflect his own reflection as he walked by. 140 meters long and 40 meters high, was once covered with the paintings of women. There are few instances left as well and can be seen today. The graffiti is of great significance for the historians, as it represents the development of Sinhala language and script.

6.       The smart, advanced and impressive hydraulic system consists of lakes, canals, bridges, fountains, dams and underground water pumps still provide water to the site`s manicured gardens till today.

7.       Kasyapa built a façade on the plateau halfway up in the form of a huge lion with a staircase emerging out of its mouth. This is why the place is also called ‘Lion Rock’.

When you have decided to visit the country, do not forget to witness this great piece of marvel which has so many interesting facts about it. Now you can apply for ETA visa online and can also check Sri Lanka online visa status on our website sri-lankaeta.com.

Visit These 4 Best Art Galleries Of Sri Lanka

For the love of art, Sri Lanka has developed a distinctive art scene and a bustling culture life. The capital city Colombo is home to the annual Colombo Art Biennale along with the Kala Pola festival which makes it one of the liveliest cultural destinations in South East Asia. Many tourists apply for onlineSri Lanka visa to visit these amazing art centers.

If you are an artsy person and would like to visit best places to check out the growing contemporary art scene of Colombo, here is a list:

Sapumal Foundation- Founded in 1974, this art gallery is located in the district of Cinnamon Gardens. The gallery has a remarkable Heritage and was founded by the late Harry Pieris who was one of the members of the acclaimed group. The gallery is located in what used to be its founder`s home. The gallery features an exclusive collection of 200 artworks that depicts the country`s artistic development from the 1920s up until the present day.

Location- Sapumal Foundation, 32/4 Barnes Place, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Barefoot Gallery- The Gallery is as much famous for its collection as it is for adapting and changing names. Formerly known as the Colombo Gallery from 1967 to 1972, it was then reopened in 1991 as Gallery 706 Colombo. Later the gallery adapted its current name in 1999. Considered to be as one of the most dynamic galleries in the country, you can find fantastic artworks from local as well as international artists. It also features concerts, poetry readings, installations, performances and film nights. The gallery has remained an influential member of the city`s art scene with its roster of exhibitions that keeps changing from time to time.

Location- Barefoot Gallery, 704 Galle Road, Colombo 3, Sri Lanka

Red Dot Gallery- Displaying the most innovative and experimental art in the country, the Red Dot Gallery was opened in 2007. Located in Sri Jayawardena Pura Kotte the gallery is run by an independent on-profit organization –Theertha International Artists. The organization acknowledges and facilitates the innovation, dialogue of the local arts and exchange arts of the community. The gallery also hosts a variety of solo and group exhibitions as well as an ambitious international residency program. Make sure you apply for online Sri Lanka visa to attend one of its exhibitions.

Location- Red Dot Gallery, 39/4A D.S. Senanayake Mawatha, Borella, Colombo 8, Sri Lanka,

Art Way Gallery- Housed in a stunning colonial manor house known as a ‘Walauwa’, Sri Lanka`s most exciting and impressive art spaces is located. The gallery which is located in the suburbs of Nugegoda was opened in 2009 by artists Sudath Abeysekara and Achala Gunawardene. You can find a vibrant diversity of Sri Lankan contemporary art and cultural scene, portraits, installations to still life, sculpture and everything in between. It organizes workshops and promotes Sri Lankan art by arranging exhibitions.

Location- Art Way Gallery, No.66 Old Kesbewa Road, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka

So all the art lovers pack your bags and apply for Online Sri Lanka visa by visiting our website sri-lankaeta.com to witness some of the most spectacular art pieces from across the world.

These 4 Luxury Villas Of Sri Lanka Are Breathtaking!

Old is gold! And as Sri Lanka is becoming a hottest destination in the world, we can see this old adage absolutely coming true. With its raging popularity amidst the travelers, the island`s old historic buildings and architecture are being restored into the most stunning villas and boutiques for private vacation rentals.

The number of villas on the island is not only located on the beach, but you can find them all over the country. Thus, if you are craving for unmatched luxury then apply for your online Sri Lankan visa because what we are going to unfurl is some of the most stunning villas of Sri Lanka, you will ever find anywhere else in the world:

·         3 Sisters- Located on the southernmost tip of the island, the 3 sisters is a luxurious beach house which is close to the city of Matara. The beach house has three bedrooms, tastefully done in Sri Lankan style interiors, with a touch of traditional and modernity in a perfect balance. If you are travelling with a group of friends or family, you can have a splendid time here.

·         Aathma Colombo House- A fusion of the old and new, Aathma Colombo House is a masterpiece of their owners which was under construction from three years. A villa and a boutique hotel in one, it is nested on a small island situated on the shores of Diyawanna Lake which is only 10 minutes from central Colombo. The rooms that can be booked individually are done with magnificent tile mosaic motif, while you can also book the entire property which is an ideal choice if you are travelling with family or a large group. It’s the latest addition to the list of fabulous stays in Sri Lanka.

·         Taru Villas – A 19^th century English merchant house, Taru Villa is located in Rampart Street. Laced with luxury modern amenities, the property has only four rooms that are done with antique décor. It also has a master suite that has one large bathroom completed with luxurious interiors and a tub overlooking the fort and the ocean. The wooden armoires and four-poster beds will surely transport you to the colonial era. Lounge by the pool side with a chilled glass of drink and your favorite book by your side. Before booking any villa it is recommended to apply for onlineSri Lankan ETA to avoid any changes in your travel plans.

·         Villa 14 Bolgoda – Bolgoda Lake which is a breeze of fresh air located in the middle of the Colombo suburbs. The Villa 14 is located on the private Ruskin Island encompassed by lotus ponds and wildlife in abundance. Perfect for birds watching, all the rooms in the villa are overlooking the lake and are accommodated to suit everyone`s needs. With an onsite chef, you can treat yourself with lip smacking food.

Travel to Sri Lanka this summer to have a luxury stay in one of the villas. If you find out something new, do let us know about it and we will feature it in our blog. For any enquiry regarding online Sri Lankan ETA, visit our website sri-lankaeta.com.

4 Absolutely Soul Satisfying Things To Do In Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Nuwara Eliya which is famously known as Little England of Sri Lanka is a city located in the tea country hills. The city is a beautiful mélange of exotic beaches and misty hills, making it a perfect destination for those who like to have the best of both worlds.

So get ready to explore this gorgeous city that never fails to impress its admirers with its colonial architecture and charm. If you have got your OnlineSri Lanka visa, then here is a list of the activities that you must do when in Sri Lanka:

1.       Take blessings at Seetha Amman Temple- The temple which is believed to be built on the place where according to Hindu mythology Seetha was kept after forcibly taken away by Ravana is an epitome of purity and serenity. The temple is set amidst scenic landscapes along with a refreshing stream flowing nearby. The stream is believed to be the place where Seetha bathed every day during her captivity. Therefore the temple has religious significance and is among the most soul satisfying experiences in Sri Lanka. 

2.       Take plunge in the waterfalls- Ramboda falls, Devon falls, Glen falls and Laxapana falls are some of the most picturesque waterfalls of Sri Lanka. If you are travelling from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, you can visit these spectacular waterfalls. Take a refreshing dip in one of these waterfalls to feel rejuvenated.

3.       Venture out on a Tea Factory Tour- Layered with sprawling tea estates; the city has so many things to offer that it definitely deserves a visit when you are in the country. Before you plan out all the activities, double check your approved online Sri Lanka visa as without it you won`t get the permit to enter the country. The verdant tea plantations add up to its beauty. Get up close to know more about the famous Ceylon tea of Sri Lanka. From extraction of tea leaves to its refinement and conversion, the extensive process of producing tea will surely give you an insight behind the aromatic flavor of tea.

4.       Enjoy a journey to Ella by train- Be ready to experience the most beautiful and scenic journey of your life by train. Taking you from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, the journey will present to you the most scenic and cloud-kissed town of Ella. From green seas of plantations, to the jaw dropping views of lush hills, tunnels to cottony clouds, this journey will prove to an epic one.

That`s not all! There are many more activities than we have mentioned here. But these activities are for you to explore. So do these activities when travelling to Sri Lanka and let us know about your experience. Also to avoid any hassles, it is advised to apply for your online Sri Lanka visa before a week from your date of travel. You can book your visa from our website sri-lankaeta.com.

Is there any visa required for Sri Lanka?

Explore the unexplored land of Sri Lanka with ETA Visa SriLanka online. Now whether you have a business conference or you want to travel the country just to discover its beauty, you can simply apply and receive your visa in just few clicks with us!

Solution :
You will need a visa to enter Sri Lanka. You can get a short stay read more...

If you still having any query regarding Visas for Sri Lanka   

Just make a call on :02031425150
or 
Visit: sri-lankaeta.com