Visit These 4 Stunning Places Related To Ramayana in Sri Lanka

Summary- Are you smitten by the legendary tale of Ramayana? Then why not spend your next holiday in Sri Lanka where you can see all the significant places mentioned in Ramayana. Read on to know more.

Although Ramayana is a religious book of Hindus, it is popular and considered significant all over the world. As the book not only depicts a royal tale full of adventures, thrills and war but also teaches world about the importance of sacrifice, family bonds, human struggles, compassion and empathy.

For those who believe in this epic tale of Ramayana, must have been looking for a chance to visit all the places where the entire event had taken place. Sri Lanka has played an important role in the whole Ramayana as it was a kingdom of the great Brahmin King Ravana. The country has locations scattered across the island with unbelievable mysteries, proven facts and miracles. So if you have applied online for Sri Lanka visa then let`s explore the connected places with strong folklores and the proofs:

1.       SITA AMMAN TEMPLE (where Sita was held captive by Ravana)

Located in Sita Eliya a small yet beautiful village, the temple is built with intricate architecture and rich in Hindu architectural details. The temple also features statues of Rama, Sita, Laxmana and Lord Hanuman. When the Ravana had taken away Sita forcefully, he held her captive in this region. According to the legend the river flowing next to the temple is where Sita bathed. There are footprints on the rock which is believed to be of Lord Hanuman.

2.       SITA KOTUWA (where Sita was imprisoned)

The place was said to be Mandodari`s palace who was the queen of King Ravana. The palace was surrounded by the beautiful waterfalls and streams. Later the place was called Sita Kotuwa as she stayed here.

3.       KOTHMALE (Where Sitha Devi scattered rice balls to help Rama find her)

When Ravana was taking Sita to Sitha Eliya on his chariot, he gave her some rice balls as refreshment along the journey. Instead of eating she dropped the rice balls to guide her husband Lord Rama to find her. Even today, the locals use rice balls as a cure for their stomach ailment and headaches. They also consider it as their lucky charm that brings prosperity.

4.       MUNNESHWARAM TEMPLE (Where Lord Rama Prayed to Lord Shiva)

The temple holds a lot of significance as it is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Sri Lanka. The place bears very close connections to Ramayana. After Lord Rama killed the King Ravana, he prayed to Lord Shiva asking for remedies after committing ‘Brahmahasti’ the biggest crime according to Hindu Dharma. ‘Brahmahasti’ means killing a priest which he did by killing Ravana who belonged to Brahmin caste.

To visit above mentioned places you must have a valid Sri Lanka visa. What are you waiting for? Visit our website sri-lankaeta.com for more information about the places and tourist destinations.

The Best 5 Cafes & Restaurants in Ella, Sri Lanka

Ella, the quaint, little mountain town in Sri Lanka is known for its beautiful hikes and scenic trails. Punctuated with tea plantations, waterfalls and plenty of natural landscapes, this region of Sri Lanka is a favorite among backpackers and nature lovers.

Irrespective of its compact size, the area has plenty of spots to chill, eat and admire the natural scenery all at the same time. So if you have applied for tourist visa for Sri Lanka and nervously looking around for the places where you can simply enjoy some drinks after sundown, check out our list of most amazing places:

1.       Café Chill

The most amazing thing about cafes in Ella is that they are easy to spot because of their location. Café Chill is also one of them and is an absolute space perfect to chill. Menu is vast; food is excellently prepared and served in a quick manner. But the clear winner is the ambience and the main reason why the café is so popular amongst the visitors.

Where - Cafe Chill, Wellawaya-Ella-Kumbalwela Highway, Ella

2.       Dream Cafe

The Dream Café is located just outside the guest house with the same name. The café is ideal to grab a quick snack, breakfast or even a meal. The seating is overlooks the road and serves typical café fare.

Where- Dream Café, Ella

3.       Matey Hut

“All the good things come in small packages” and Matey Hut is proving this age old adage true. The place might appear smaller in size and does not look like a café, but the place serves up lip-smacking rice dishes for which people don`t mind to wait for hours. As we said the place is small so there may be a wait, but it is completely worth it.

Where- Matey Hut, Ella

4.       Ceylon Tea Factory

Built to resemble a tea factory, the Ceylon Tea Factory is the latest addition and the newest eating spot in Ella. The theme of the restaurant is based around tea manufacturing and drinking. You can find both, the authentic Sri Lanka cuisine as well as the western food of very high quality. If not for the breathtaking views of nature, apply for tourist visa for Sri Lanka to try their Sri Lankan food, which is worth dying for!

Where- Ceylon Tea Factory, 39 Passara Rd, Ambagollapathana, Ella

5.       AK Ristoro

This Italian restaurant that is located a little off the main road serves a lot more than just Italian. Some dishes are better than others, while some are completely unmatched. So if you are looking to eat something on a lighter side, try this.

Where- AK Ristoro, 73 Passara Road, Ella

Ella is a much popular hill town to spend some quiet moments and when you have an array of cafes and eating joints, serving mouth-watering cuisines, the entire trip becomes memorable. So apply for tourist visa for Sri Lanka, today. If you haven`t applied for the visa yet, you can simply do it by visiting our website sri-lankaeta.com.

5 Major Things You Can Do In Tangalle, Sri Lanka

If all you want to do is get lost in the rumbling sound of the waves gushing towards the white strip of sand then Tangalle is the place to be. A live example of paradise on earth, this picturesque beach town is Sri Lanka`s answer to heavens above.

Yes, Sri Lanka, that small islandic country, which may appear like a small dot on the world map but large enough to keep you entertained for couple of months. The place is serene with gorgeous beaches, spiritual places, ancient cities, national parks and plenty of hiking trails adorned with cascading waterfalls that explains why thousands of the Europeans apply for SriLanka ETA visa.  

But here we are talking about Tangalle, a perfect medicine for the wintertime blues. It is a gateway to open and wide beaches and spaces of southeast of Sri Lanka. It is the last town before Hambantota and exudes some old world charm that lures hundreds of visitors every month towards it. Those who are looking to find their favorite beach will definitely get couple of spectacular beaches.

When you are done with glaring at never ending ocean and roaring waves, here is a list of other things you can do:

1.       Mulkirigala Rock Temples- Built on a 205 meter high, gigantic natural rock, Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara is an ancient Buddhist Temple in Sri Lanka. The temple is surrounded by four rocks that are known as Benagala, Bisogala, Kondagala and Seelawathiegala. Formally recognized by the archaeological site in Sri Lanka, the temple features number of large reclining Buddha statues along with smaller standing and sitting figures. Make sure you apply for SriLanka ETA visa so that you can experience this ancient rock temple.

2.       Rest House- For those who would like to experience the history of Sri Lanka can check out Rest House, which was once home to the Dutch administrators. One of the oldest rest houses in the country, it was originally built in 1774.

3.   Water Sports- There are many tourist spots available for swimming, surfing and other water sports activities that are popular around the area. They are provided in the villages in Tangalle such as Medilla, Pallikaduww, Mawella and Seenimodara.

4.       Turtle Watching- The beaches of Kahandamodara and Rekawa are the places that are famous for turtle watching, and is situated some 10 km east of the town. The turtles storm the beach at night to lay their eggs between April to September in the year.

5.       Enjoy Sea Food- Tangalle is known to have some of the best spots for sea food and other delights. Take recommendations from your guide or you can ask from locals to learn about the places offering drool-worthy sea food.

Visit this beach town and relax for few days in complete natural surroundings. If you haven`t applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa then visit sri-lankaeta.com to download the application form, now!

Sri Lanka: Stay in These 4 Boutique Hotels in Galle That Once Had a Colonial Past

A great place to spend few days, Sri Lanka is an ultimate holiday destination for those who are looking more than sea, sun and sand. Although the southern city of Galle is famous for the Galle Fort, the area is an outcrop of land which is encompassed by fortified walls, shops, streets and is full of quaint hotels and shops.

A place fit for an excellent accommodation, one can find plenty of luxury villas and boutique hotels. Galle spreads inland from the Fort and is a perfect place to spend a few days where anyone can soak up the sun while taking walking tours to various amazing places. When it comes to hotels, you will get plethora of options. While applying for Sri Lanka ETA visa, have a look at the following hotels where you can pamper yourself, making your stay memorable:

GALLE FORT HOTEL

Once neglected and in complete ruins, the Galle Fort Hotel has now awarded the Asia Pacific Heritage Award of Distinction by UNESCO in 2007. Originally a Dutch mansion, now the hotel has a long list of elite guests completely smitten with its impressive architecture and an impeccable synthesis of old and new. The hotel is located right in the middle of the humdrum of the city and the upcoming tourist quarter. It has a pool in the courtyard and one of the beautiful suites at the Galle Fort Hotel.

TAMARIND HILL

The beautiful mansion that belonged to Sri Lankan aristocrats and to the British Admiral of the Peninsular and Orient Steam Navigation Company has been transformed into a heritage hotel. Located on the outskirts of the Galle Fort, the elegant manor has been an epitome of nobility. Refurbished as a boutique hotel, it has 10 rooms all with tastefully done interiors, four poster beds and contemporary furniture. Bathrooms are equipped with amenities that are inspired by Ayurvedic medicine to make your nerves soothe and relax.

FORT BAZAAR

Located in the heart of the Galle Fort, the Fort Bazaar was originally an antique house. Refurbished to suit the taste of modern travelers, the beautiful traditional antique house boasts of a central courtyard and large archways. The large rooms are spacious and designed elegantly that will make anyone to stay a little longer. Part of the Teardrop Hotels family, it is one of the favorite boutique hotels in the Galle Fort.

MANGO HOUSE

As refreshing as its name, the Mango House Hotel is a fresh take on typical hotel stays. Once a cinnamon factory, the villa was then refurbished, restored and decorated to give it a modern touch. This Dutch colonial villa has seven unique rooms. Each room designed with exquisite interiors. The entrance is punctuated with mango trees, palms and a beautiful lounging lawn. Located amidst a completely natural environment, this hotel makes for a perfect stay. If you apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa, stay in this colonial villa for a comfortable stay.

Finding an accommodation in a foreign land can be difficult. But Galle has no dearth of stunning boutique hotels and villas. So book a hotel in advance and apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa without worrying about getting a comfortable hotel. For splendid vacations and visa information visit sri-lankaeta.com!

5 Irresistible Dishes of Sri Lanka You Must-Not Miss

Every traveler travels to Sri Lanka for the sake of exploring new places and discover new stories on the entire journey. But if you ask a food lover, he will swear by his favorite dish and will tell you that the only aim with which he travels is to taste amazing Sri Lankan food.

Sri Lanka has numerous landscapes for which globetrotters visit the country from across the globe. But when it comes to food, Sri Lanka is no less than a smorgasbord. Although its national dish is undeniably rice and curry, you will be amazed to find several kinds of curries. If you are a big foodie and want to eat sumptuous looking food on your holidays, apply for your Sri Lanka ETAvisa now.

If you haven`t applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa yet then go through our list of traditional Sri Lankan dishes below that will water your mouth while you begin applying for the visa:

1.       Sri Lankan chicken curry- The most admired, adored and loved, Sri Lankan chicken curry can be easily found on the island. Cooked with curry leaves, roasted curry powers, plenty of chilli and some lemongrass to enhance its taste, this staple dish is a must-try when it comes to choosing curries for a rice and curry spread.

2.       Potato Curry- Potato curry is a light and homely cooked dish which is best eaten with the string hoppers. Usually enjoyed in breakfast, the curry is delightfully creamy with firm potato chunks and bits of onion.

3.       Beetroot Curry- Along with usual fish and chicken curries, this one particular vegetable curry is absolutely fantastic. Uncommon and unmatched in taste, its unique flavors are attained by cut it into thin slices and cooked in the usual delicate spices of vegetable curries. The dish is crunchy, spicy and little sweet, altogether at once, a unique taste that will not let you stop after just one bite.

4.       Fish Curry-Fish curry is one of the most classic dishes of all. Although the curry tastes similar to the chicken curry, but the major difference that makes fish curry a lot more distinguishable is that it is a bit juicier as compared to the chicken curry. The dish is prepared by using coconut milk and mackerel that provide it the thick and creamy texture.

5.       Dhal Curry- Dhal curry is the staple food just like rice in every Sri Lankan household. Cooked by using all the spices like fenugreek and turmeric along with other spices, creamy Dhal is made with orange split lentils to give it an exceptionally delicious flavor.

If you love food and love experimenting with your taste then apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa because the country will not only offer you panoramic views but also plenty of mouth-watering dishes. You can also apply for visa from our website sri-lankaeta.com.

Polonnaruwa: Your Short travel Guide to Ancient City in Sri Lanka

Although the ancient city of Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa comes second to Anuradhapura when it comes to historical significance. Most of the people visit Sri Lanka, to visit its serene beaches and tea plantation unaware about many cities that are enriched with historical value.

Polonnaruwa is one of the cities that served as the island`s capital from the 11^th to 13^th century. After the army of Tamil Cholas invaded and looted the city of Anuradhapura, the capital was moved to Polonnaruwa for the next 77 years. One can encounter a lot of interesting historical facts when in Sri Lanka. Apply for your Sri Lanka ETA visa online, to visit the country.

The new city had a mix of south Indian Hindu and Sinhalese Buddhist cultures since its inception. Later on the valiant king Vijayabahu I defeated the Cholas and drove them out of the island in 1073. He retained the city as his capital. In 1161, Parakramabahu I captured the city and assumed control of the whole island.  The city has number of must-visit places that will surely capture your attention:

1.       Polonnaruwa Museum- Most of the ruins of the city is well protected and guarded within a specially fenced off archaeological site. The museum is worth a visit as it displays the golden days of the ancient capital and some fine exhibits including a number of superb Chola bronzes recovered from the site. Apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa in time and dig more into the Sinhalese past.

2.       The Quadrangle- The terrace of the tooth relic which is also known as the Quadrangle, is located in the center of the ancient city. The place was the sacred precinct and epicenter of ancient Polonnaruwa, home to most important cluster of religious shrines. The quadrangle is highlighted with a circular shrine which is immaculately decorated with its outer walls adorned with friezes of lions, dwarfs and lotuses at each of the four entrances.

3.       The Lankatilaka- The huge Lankatilaka is impressive with its 17m high walls. Although the roof is completely destroyed, the structure still has a cathedral-like feeling about it, and the aisle leads to a huge standing headless Buddha.  A section of the walls outside is adorned with finely carved reliefs of flamboyant multi-story houses topped with domes. 

4.       Gal Vihara- The Temple is home to four magnificent Buddha statues carved out of a one slab of granite by unknown artists. The highlight of the temple is the reclining statue of Lord Buddha which is 46ft long depicting the state of nirvana.

So book your tourist Visa to Sri Lanka easily by filling up the application online. For further assistance kindly visit our website www.sri-lankaeta.com .

Sri Lanka ETA Processing Time

Traveling is made easier now for the Indian Passport Holders who are planning to visit Sri Lanka in the near future. You can travel to Sri Lanka by applying for either tourist, business or a transit visa, depending completely on your requirements.

From 1 January, 2012, Sri Lanka has made it compulsory to carry to apply for ETA on-line through Sri Lankaonline visa application form before travelling to Sri Lanka. The process is easy and entirely electronic. The application can be submitted online and the approval will be returned by the officials through e-mail within 2-3 hours.

Let us throw in some light upon the concept of ETA that will clear out any doubts regarding its processing time and the documents:

1.       As the process is entirely electrical, the applicant does not require submitting his original documents or passport.

2.       Your visa will be processed even if you will submit a copy online.

3.       The applicant is required to download a copy of Sri Lanka online visa application form and submit it on http://www.eta.gov.lk .

4.       If the form is filled completely and without errors, it takes 1-2 hours to get the approval from the designated authorities.

5.       Processing time could be extended if the information provided by the applicant contains incorrect or false information or having any criminal record against him.

6.       ETA is valid for 30 days and allows you 2 entries in the country.

7.       To apply for an ETA applicant must be outside Sri Lanka and should hold a passport that is valid for at least 6 months period.

8.       Applicant must apply for ETA with the passport & passport number you will be travelling to Sri Lanka with; as the ETA will be linked to that same passport number.

9.       As the visa will be linked to your passport number, therefore no stamp or label will be placed or is required to be placed, in your passport. 

For further information kindly visit our website www.sri-lankaeta.com or their official website of Sri Lanka www.eta.gov.lk .