5 Famous Places in Galle That Make Sri Lanka Popular Tourist Destination!

Summary- Galle is a jewel, waiting to be explored. Sri Lanka`s capital city is a delight to explore on foot. Read on to know about the places, which are the perfect to take a refuge from your mundane life?

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle is a historic city of Sri Lanka. Built by the Dutch in the beginning of 1663, Galle is an old yet exotic trading port that is blessed with imposing Dutch-colonial buildings. Not just that, but the city is also punctuated with beautiful mosques, churches, museums and grand mansions.

If you have applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa, then incorporate Galle into your itinerary because it is here where you will pass quirky boutiques, stylish cafes, and perfectly restored old hotels while wandering through its rumbling lanes. Although the core of the city is its Fort that was built by the Dutch, here is a list of famous places that you must visit while you visit Sri Lanka:

1.       Flag Rock- Once a Portuguese bastion now a famous tourist landmark, Flag Rock is the southernmost end of the Fort. During the Dutch period it was used to warn the approaching ships of dangerous rocks by firing musket shots from the Pigeon Island, to further alert the ships from danger. Later on the Dutch built a lighthouse here and today it is the most popular place to catch a spectacular sunset.

2.       Meeran Mosque- Exuding a delightful combination of baroque, British Victorian and Islamic architectural detailing, Meeran Mosque is an amazing work of craftsmanship. This whitewashed building is well preserved with a façade which is more reminiscent of a Portuguese Cathedral than a Mosque. Complete with small decorative domes, there is also a wonderful little mihrab inside. A visit to this epic combination of church and mosque is a must. So apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa now!

3.       Dutch Reformed Church- The church although was originally built in 1640, the current structure dates back to 1752. The building comprises of the floor which is made from the gravestones from Dutch cemeteries. Its other attractions include an imposing podium which is made from calamander wood and topped by a hexagonal canopy.

4.       Marine Archeological Museum- Housed inside an old spice warehouse dating back to the 17^th century and built by the Dutch, the spacious Museum is a famous tourist attraction. Originally the structure was part of the main gateway to the fort and till date it forms part of its ramparts. There are many interactive videos and presentations that put lights on the city`s maritime past.

5.       Dutch Hospital- Once a place to treat and cure the Dutch who fell critically unwell due to the life in tropics and the voyage to Ceylon, the Dutch Hospital dating back to 18^th century has now been fully restored and home to myriad of boutiques and chic cafes. You can enjoy fabulous bay views from its upper balcony.

Make your Sri Lanka holiday special by visiting the historical city of Galle! To apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa on urgent basis, visit our website sri-lankaeta.com.

4 Unusual Places in Sri Lanka No One Knows About

Summary- Sri Lanka has some amazing places and unusual trails that the world is yet to find out. Keep reading to find out about these places to add them up in your bucket list.

Every place on the globe has some of its best kept secrets and a trove of hidden places that even locals are not aware about. Some off-the-beaten-track are the real gems that can`t be found in any guidebooks or tourist websites others can be found but are difficult to reach or slip by the way side.

Sri Lanka too has a list of these kinds of places that you did not even know existed. So if you are going to this amazing land and have applied for onlineSri Lanka visa then go through the compiled list of the unbeaten places:

1.       SRI LANKA AIR FORCE MUSEUM

Located in the southeast of Colombo and inland from Mount Lavinia is a museum which is different and unique in its own sense. Sri Lanka Air Museum is situated right next to the Ratmalana Airport and showcases the exquisite collection of antique airplanes and helicopters set up in a park-like area with walking trails along with a checkered patio in black and white. If you have a love for airplanes and helicopters, the place will have you amazed.

Where- Sri Lanka Air Force Museum, Ratmalana, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia 

2.       KOPI KADE

Colombo or Sri Lanka is rather famous for tea than coffee, but this little coffee shop which is located on an unsuspected street in Colombo is the mecca for coffee lovers. From Lattes to Mochas, this place definitely deserves a visit if you are a true coffee lover. Got your online Sri Lanka visa approved? Visit here if you appreciate good coffee.

Where- Kopi Kade, 15/3 Stratford Avenue, Colombo

3.       HELGA`S FOLLY, KANDY

Helga`s Folly is the chicest and the most outlandish place in Kandy. The location of the place is such that stumbling upon it by a sheer chance is exactly not possible. The restaurant is a brain child and the masterpiece of eccentric artist Helga Blow who saw the world from here own glasses. The restaurant offers extensive menu and the dishes that will have end up licking your fingers. You can book the restaurant or the hotel online.

Where- Helga’s Folly, 70, Rajapihilla Mawatha, Kandy

4.       DELFT ISLAND, JAFFNA

Delft Island which is also known as Neduntheevu is an island that sits quietly in the Indian Ocean. Located off the coast of Jaffna, the island is reachable only via one or two boats in a day, and therefore not visited by many tourists. Apart from isolated, the Island is difficult to reach. You will have to travel north to reach Jaffna and then take either tuk-tuk or an early morning bus to reach the port to catch the navy boat that leaves at 9.30 am.

Where- Delft Island, Neduntheevu

So apart from visiting the popular destinations, you must include these places in your travel itinerary when in Sri Lanka. To apply for online Sri Lanka visa you can either visit a government website or can log on to our site sri-lankaeta.com.  

4 Most Popular Boutique Shops In Galle Fort, Sri Lanka

Summary- Galle Fort is famous for various restaurants and cafes but it is also one of the best places to satiate your craving shopping buds. Keep reading to discover some of the best boutiques to go for shopping.

One of the most integral parts of Colombo, the Galle Fort is one of the best places to spend couple of days when visiting Sri Lanka. Although the country throws mesmerizing views at every couple of miles and gorgeous beaches, a visit to Galle fort is must if you want to get an insight in the bygone era of this islandic country.

A small walled town which is dotted with hippest cafes and chicest restaurants to eat and luxury villas and budgeted hotels to stay also enjoys the title of perfect place to do some souvenir shopping. If you have got your onlineSri Lankan ETA approved, then check out these shops to take unusual souvenirs back home:

Barefoot Shop

Set inside an old restored house, Barefoot Shop is the little sister of the flagship store in Colombo and is one of the hottest spots for designer clothes in Galle Fort. The building has a lovely little courtyard which is perfectly manicured along with surrounding rooms. This boutique shop is famous for its wide collection of unique products that range from a traditional saree to home furnishing products to books to pretty postcards.

Exotic Roots

Not only by the name, but the store also showcases exotic collection of hand-painted artworks and painted pieces. Located on the lighthouse street, the shop was opened 20 years ago by a mother and two children and has been the focus of attention ever since then. It has been on the little lane lined with private restaurants and villas, since the beginning. Giving it a miss is next to impossible! Get your online Sri Lankan ETA approved and visit this amazing store!

KK The Collection

Located in the heart of Galle Fort, KK The Collection is a part of a boutique hotel chain which is set up in a large space full of men`s and women`s garments. Not just garments, the boutique shop also has decorative paintings, show pieces and trinkets. The boutique shop is quite large and when it comes to its exquisite collection it has a lot to offer. So take your time to explore the boutique, you will definitely find something lovely to wear.

The Three By TPV

If your heart jumps with excitement at the mention of exquisite piece of jewelry, beautiful pieces for home and unique artwork then The three By TPV is your place. One of the best places to store for some luxurious things, this boutique shop is quite famous in Galle Fort.

So make some memorable memories in Sri Lanka and take back amazing souvenirs with you back home! To apply for online Sri Lankan ETA, visit our website sri-lankaeta.com.

4 Famous Attractions In Mannar Island, Sri Lanka

Summary- Being one of the popular destinations, Sri Lanka is home to many panoramic places, including Mannar Island. A serene place, it is 50 square miles of an absolute nirvana. Read more to know about this paradise.

Mannar or Manar Island is part of the Mannar district in Sri Lanka. Spread across 50 square kilometers, it is linked to the main island of country by a causeway. With lots of white sand and palm trees, the island is a barren and dry peninsula and is connected to the mainland via dry zone. Although it is called an islet, Mannar Island is a peninsula in the shape of a tongue.

The westernmost tip of the island –Talaimannar, is almost connected to the easternmost tip of thepeninsula of Southern India, Dhanuskodi, by a reef of corals. The island has been referred historically by names such as Manthei”, Mahathiththa”, “Mathota”, “Mahaputu” and “Mawatuthota”. If you want to visit Sri Lanka and have applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa then incorporate Mannar Island into your travel itinerary. Here is a list of popular things to do at the island:

1.       Our Lady of Madhu Church- This mainland church is the holiest Christian monument. Its walls enclose Our Lady of Madhu, a diminutive but most hallow Madoona-and-child statue. The statue was brought here in 1670 by fleeing Catholics. The statue became famous after the word spread about its miraculous powers. Many people claimed that the statue protects from the snake bites. Later, the church also became a refuge for people who were fleeing the civil war.

2.       Dutch Fort- The fort is an impressive but shambolic Portuguese-Dutch construction which is situated right by the causeway to the island and is surrounded by a canal. Built in 1560 by the Portuguese, the ramparts of the fort consist of roofless remains of a chapel, dungeon and a Dutch bell tower along with atmospheric walls. Enjoy the panoramic view of the town and the Gulf of Mannar by climbing over the remains of the fort.

3.       Thirukketeeswaram Kovil- Established to protect the island from natural disasters, the famous five historical Sri Lankan Shiva temples is an imposing site. The temple is located on the mainland, 10km east of Mannar Town. The giant Shivalingam that was carved out of the granite stone was found by the archaeologists in the fifties and was believed to be destroyed by the Portuguese during their invasion of Mannar in the 16^th century. You will be delighted to visit the temple, therefore apply for SriLanka ETA visa in time.

4.       Baobab Tree Pallimunai- Quite an offbeat attraction, but the ancient baobab tree is quite a sight to behold. With a circumference of 20m, the tree is believed to be 700 years old. Allegedly planted by the Arab traders, the tree is called as the ali gaha (elephant tree) due to tis tough bark that resembles he skin of giant elephants.

Sri Lanka is a trove of off beaten places and things. Explore the islandic country by applying for Sri Lanka ETA visa in time. If you want any visa-related information, you can log on to our website     sri-lankaeta.com.

These 4 Hotels In Colombo Can Make Your Stay In Sri Lanka Incredible

Summary- Colombo is not only the capital city of Sri Lanka, but also a place where one can simply relax in exclusive and enjoy vacations without worrying about anything. Want to know about the best hotels? Keep reading.

Sri Lanka is a land of stunning landscapes, waterfalls and magnificent temples, but Colombo has its own personal charm to boast about. The attractions that the city offers to its visitors are mind blowing, making it a prime vacation destination across the Asia.

Earlier overlooked by the travelers, the city is now inhabited by luxurious chain of resorts and hotels that provide ultra-comfort to its guests. If you have received your online Sri Lanka visa and are planning to stay in Colombo, here is a list of swanky hotels you must stay at:

1.       Casa Colombo- Once a residence of a wealthy Indian family, the building has been undergone a renovation and transformed into a decked hotel with beautiful molded ceilings, arches and mosaic floors, you will keep staring at. The structure is not located very far from the city, yet the serene background will take you away in a peaceful slumber. A mélange of modern and traditional, Casa Colombo is the best stay in Colombo.

Location - 231 Galle Rd, Colombo 4, Sri Lanka

2.       The Ocean Front- See the wide ocean greeting you with gentle waves and cool breeze every morning, right from your window. Standing true to its name, the Ocean Front offers spectacular views from its luxurious rooms. With exceptional staff and amazing views of the ocean, this hotel offers unmatched services.

Location- 14 Sellamuttu Avenue, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka

3.       Lake Lodge- One of the swankiest places to stay in Colombo, Lake Lodge is a popular hotel owned by a family that offers twelve well-constructed rooms with elegant interiors and a garden suite. The hotel also houses a restaurant offering you delectable food with extensive menu. A home away from home, this is one of the best hotels in Colombo.

Location- 20, Alvis Terrace, Colombo 00300, Sri Lanka

4.       Galle Face Hotel Colombo- Built by British Entrepreneurs during the Colonial Era, Galle Face is the oldest hotel in Colombo with unmatched splendor. The interiors are sophisticatedly done and the entire property is designed uniquely. Thus if you have received your online Sri Lanka visa and looking for best hotels, go for this iconic landmark.

Location- 2 Galle Rd, Colombo 0300, Sri Lanka

If you want to stay comfortably with all the luxury amenities, Colombo has no dearth of such kind of places. You can book one of these hotels to make your stay memorable in Sri Lanka. If you want to apply for online Sri Lanka visa you can do it by visiting our website sri-lankaeta.com.

Kandy: A City Of Sri Lanka With 4 Thrilling Activities

Summary- When the best holiday destination stays as close as Sri Lanka then why to head to some far away country? Just apply for online Sri Lankan ETA and explore the beautiful city, Kandy!

A pearl in the crown of South Asia, Sri Lanka is every inch of paradise. Geographically blessed with idyllic places the country has lush tea plantations, sprawling beaches dazzled with clear blue water. It is a country that boasts of rich culture & heritage entwined with spirituality.

Let the serendipity of its beauty cast a spell over your senses as its charm and peaceful ambience will give you unforgettable experience. All you have to do is apply for online Sri Lankan ETA which takes almost 2-4 hours to be granted and have a memorable time.

Set on plateau and surrounded by the mountains, Kandy is a large city in central Sri Lanka. Known for spirituality and its unavoidable laid back charm, Kandy has everything peaceful and serene about it. Snuggled between the verdant peaks and sky-high mountains, there are some of the most mind-blowing places to visit in Kandy. Some of them are mentioned below:

1.       PINNAWALA ELEPHANT ORPHANAGE- If you love animals you can plan your day out with wild Asian elephants at this orphanage. A popular breeding ground of 90 plus elephants, Pinnawala is a place where abandoned elephants are raised. You can watch these adorable elephants taking bathe, sprinkling water from their trunk. You can also show some love by feeding them fruits.

2.       HULU RIVER & WATERFALL- Just 30km away from Kandy, Huluganga falls on the Hulu River, in the quiet and peaceful town of Dumbara.  Escape into this wonderful 75-meter high waterfall originating from the scenic Knuckles Mountain Range which is a nature`s allure. A visit to this waterfall can refresh you from inside out, thus make sure that you do visit the country by applying for online Sri Lankan ETA.

3.       KANDY LAKE- The Kandy Lake is one of the best places to visit. Adjoining most of the popular eateries, markets with a lake view, this place is always enthralling with the tourists. It is an ideal place to laze around when you are on your vacation, as the lake offers panoramic views that will leave you asking for more.

4.       THE TEMPLE OF TOOTH RELIC- One of the prime Buddhist attractions, ‘the temple of tooth’ is considered to be one of the most important Buddhist temples. Located to the north of the city, a sacred tooth of Lord Buddha is enshrined in the temple in a golden stupa-like structure. The room encompassing the tooth is open to devotees to offer prayers.

Visit the wonderful city of Kandy that will leave you spellbound with its magnificent temples and fascinating scenery. Don`t wait to apply for a onlineSri Lankan ETA and hop on to the tomorrow`s flight. If you haven`t applied for the visa and still looking some assistance, visit our website sri-lankaeta.com and speak to our customer care representative.

3 Amazing Places For Camping In Sri Lanka

Summary- Are you looking for an adventure trip but only have a week in hand? Sri Lanka is a perfect place to indulge into some adrenaline rush. Read on to know about all the places where you can spend nights in a camp.

Getting on an adventure trip sometimes can give you the much needed refreshment. Spending couple of nights under the blanket of stars, surrounded by nature can fill your lungs with fresh air and whisk away the fatigue. Sri Lanka is a country where you can find every aspect of nature in its purest form.

 From beaches to rainforests, hills to tea plantations to riverside, you can simply decide where would you want to camp for the night. Hence, if you and you partner are one of crazy adventure seekers, apply for online Sri Lankan ETAas we tell you about the ideal camping sites:

1.       Yala National Park

Brighten up your every morning by opening your eyes to the most panoramic view. Yala National Park is an amazing camping site where you will find nothing but lush vegetation, freshwater lakes, cool breeze, rocky pools, snaking coastline and wild animals like leopard, beer, elephants, crocodiles and more. What`s more? You can take part in bird watching or can opt for wild safari to explore the wildlife. You can also simply relax in your luxury tent to enjoy the serenity.

Best time to visit- Either in May or June – Or from September to October. Avoid rainy season.

2.       Willpattu National Park

Willpattu National Park is the oldest and largest national park in Sri Lanka. The fact that you will get an opportunity to reside inside one of the most famous national parks is the country itself fills you with excitement. The park is home to some of the world`s endangered animals such as leopard, elephants and the sloth bear.

Best time to visit- From February to October is the best time to visit for camping

3.       Udawalawe National Park

Serving as a shelter home for the abandoned, orphaned and injured elephants of the country, the Udawalawe National Park is sprawled across 31000 hectares of land with approximately 600-700 elephant population. The injured elephants are treated here and are released back into their natural surroundings. Not just elephants, but the national park is home to other wild animals like Sambar deer, wild boar, jackals, toddy cats and monitor lizards. Make Udawalawe National Park your camping site and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Best time to visit- This place is perfect to visit throughout the year

Gear up for a thrilling adventure with your partner in the lap of nature. There are many camping companies that will arrange everything for you and will assist you to make you stay comfortable. If you haven`t applied for online Sri Lankan ETA yet, you can do that by visiting our website sri-lankaeta.com.