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!

3 Rare Experiences You Will Get Only In East Of Sri Lanka

Summary- Whether you are searching for a famous beach or a little less developed, you will always find a spot of your choice in Sri Lanka. If your search comprises of isolation then the East might just offer exactly what you are looking for.

Many people who come to Sri Lanka for few days end up extending their week long vacations into a month long expedition. The changes happen because of the places and surreal choices that the islandic country offers. The east of Sri Lanka is a little rough around the edges, a land where fishing is the primary occupation.

It is an amazing combination of various traditions that includes ocean-oriented Muslim communities, beautiful Hindu temples, bustling markets, crumbling colonial forts and a coastline of gorgeous beaches, hidden bays and extensive strip of white sand beaches.

The entire is well connected to the rest of the nation by smooth road, rail and bus, so if you have applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa, there is no reason to skip the many allures of the East. Here is a list experiences you must have:

UPPUVELI- A fun little coastal town, which is not exactly drop dead gorgeous, exudes an irresistible charm along with some good-value accommodation. Located at just 6 km from Trincomalee, Uppuveli consists of a fine beach of golden sand. The town has plenty of places to eat and stay, along with infinite supply of fresh sea food. With distinctively local charm and cozy vibes, the town is many travelers` favorite hang-out place. Apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa to explore this amazing coastal town. 

KUMANA NATIONAL PARK- Less frequented and less popular, unlike its famous neighbor Yala National Park, the Kumana National Park is nevertheless a perfect option for those who are looking to spot wildlife in a less zoo-like area. Spread across 357-sq-km, the park is never crowded even during the peak season. Although the density of animals is lower as compared to its counterparts, but there is always an opportunity to spot crocodiles, leopards, white cobras, turtles, wild buffaloes and flocks of birds. Also the park is home to many wild bears but they make for the rare sights.

DUTCH FORT- Built by the Portuguese in 1628, this once mighty-force is now home to many administrative buildings. Although the large sections of this fort are crumbling, there is something about it that makes the Dutch Fort an evocative sight. It has a large courtyard with old colonial buildings that are disheveled now. You can still find English cannons, watchtowers and a ruined bell tower. The fort offers magnificent views along the lagoon.

Sri Lanka has something for everyone! From the party goers to the peace seekers, the country is a small bundle of joy. Thus a visit to this country once in your lifetime is worth a while. If you have not applied for the Sri Lanka ETA visa yet, you can visit our website sri-lankaeta.com.

Sri Lanka`s Wellness Resorts: Explore The Best Ones!

When it comes to Sri Lanka, anyone who has ever visited the country can`t stop raving about its sparkling waters, pristine beaches, beautiful temples, abundant wildlife, lush tea plantations and of course it spa resorts.

The islandic country is all about relaxing, rejuvenating and chilling and with its array of wellness resorts and spa centers, regaining the mental wellness is not a difficult thing. So if you are stuck with your workstation and want to take a momentarily break, apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa!

While there are many accommodations to stay in Sri Lanka, the country also has specific wellness resorts that are famous for their exceptionally good services to give your health and well-being a much needed boost:

Kandy Samadhi Center

The beautifully constructed place inspires meditation. This meditation center is nestled away amidst the lush vegetation of the Kandyan Hills and is a complete refuge from the city and all the stress that it brings. Every suite is attached with a verandah that gives out to immense paddy fields, without compromising with your privacy. Surrounded by the Kandyan murals and ancient antiques, the Kandy Samadhi Center gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself into yoga.

Location- The Kandy Samadhi Centre, Kukul Oya Road, Kandy 

Sen Wellness Sanctuary

This wellness sanctuary truly believes that Nature is the best healer and keeping up to its belief, the center gives an exceptional chance to everyone who is looking to spend some time in the nature. Tucked within the Rekawa`s expansive lagoon, Sen Wellness Sanctuary is a spectacular healing hideaway that will take you away from the hustle bustle of city life. The sanctuary has a unique architecture which is especially designed to draw energy from the earth. Enroll yourself for a yoga session, Ayurveda therapy and delectable food. Apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa and spend some time in this haven!

Location- Sen Wellness Sanctuary, Rekawa Road, Netolpitiya

Talalla Retreat

A wonderful combination of meditation, relaxation and fun in the sun, the Talalla Retreat is located on the south coast. This retreat is an immensely beautiful place that offers its guests a chance to truly unwind themselves by healing their core by way of extensive yoga sessions, personal training, pampering, and Ayurveda wellness. The center also has experienced Ayurveda doctors and wellness specialists. The center is overlooking the sea; thus, let yourself go to the soothing sound of waves topping over each other.

Tri

Overlooking the scenic Koggala lake, Tri is a wellness resort that takes health and mental well-being very seriously. With solar heated water, green roofs and living walls, the Tri Resort is an exemplary of sustainability and a love for nature in the most luxurious form.

Location- Hotel Tri, Koggala Lake, Aladuwa Watte, Pelassa, Thitthagalle, Ahangama

So if you are looking for some mental wellness and peacefulness, visit one of the above mentioned spa centers in Sri Lanka. Apply for Sri Lanka ETAvisa from our website sri-lankaeta.com.

6 Best Things to Do & See in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Often referred to as ‘Little England’, Nuwara Eliya with its rose-tinted, vaguely colonial-village feel to it, is a small town that sits in the hill country. With eternal temperate winter, Tudor style hotels, pretty gardens, well-tended hedgerows and colonial-era bungalows, Nuwara Eliya is the favored cool-climate escape for the hard-working and hard-drinking visitors.

Located only a few hours from Colombo, here are the top things to see and do in the area:

Hike to the World`s End- Horton Plains National Park which is located higher up the mountains that also includes World`s End. The hiking trails in these plains are absolutely stunning and is a must if you like hiking. World`s End is a drop-off at the edge of a huge cliff at the end of the Horton Plains plateau. If you love hiking, apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa in time.

Take in the fragrance of flowers at Hakgala Botanical Gardens-The Hakgala Botanical Gardens are believed to be the highest altitude botanical garden in the world. On the road to Badulla, stop at the entry gate of this garden and visit the impeccably manicured gardens full of roses and tulips.

Take a hike on the Moon Plains- The Moon Plains of Nuwara Eliya is a latest addition to the bucket lists of many tourists. Moon Plains are an open area which is full of forests, fields, walking paths and surrounding mountains. The plains are perfect for those who love nature walks and want to spend day out in the open.

Admire St. Clair`s Falls- Nuwara Eliya is a hill country which also makes it a tea country. The place is home to hundreds of acres of tea plantations and tea factories to visit in the area. A little further away from the town is St. Clair`s Falls which is one of the widest falls in the country and is worth a visit. Make sure that you apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa so that you can witness the beauty of the country.

Eat strawberries at Adma Agro Farm- The best part of visiting Nuwara Eliya is that you can get to eat freshly plucked strawberries from the trees. No matter how many days to spend here, your visit will be incomplete without visiting the Adma Agro Farm and eating strawberries. Eat them off the plants or in the café with cream.

Stay at Grand Hotel- This beautiful structure was built in 1891 as the home of the governor of Sri Lanka, Sir Edward Barnes. The hotel is the perfect place to spend the night, if you are staying in Nuwara Eliya. The hotel offers brilliant dining options and a lovely high tea. They can also organize activities like fishing, trekking and sunrise safaris.

Discover this hill country of Sri Lanka this October! Apply for SriLanka ETA visa from our website www.sri-lankaeta.com and get your visa in just few hours.

Sri Lankan Visa: Everything You Need To Know About It

As we all know that from January, 2012, Sri Lanka has made it mandatory for everyone except the Republics of Singapore, Maldives, and The Seychelles, who is entering their country to apply for ETA for a short visit to Sri Lanka. The main objective of ‘Sri Lanka Visa’ is to facilitate the legal entry and to regulate the stay period of non Sri Lankans.

A visitor should obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) / short term visa to visit Sri Lanka for a short term for tourism, business or transit purposes. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an online system which provides official authorization for short visits (up to 30 days), and is issued electronically. Those who wish to undertake short-term visits must obtain an ETA prior to their arrival in Sri Lanka.

There are three types of visas categories given below that can be made available according to your requirements:

BUSINESS VISA-  A Business Purpose Visa is issued to foreign nationals who visit Sri Lanka forbusiness purposes for a short period of time. This visa may be issued for single, double or multiple journeys.

Purpose for business visa- Conferences, meetings, seminars, business negotiations, workshops, short term training programs, participation in social events, religious events and symposiums!

Documents required to apply for Tourist ETA are given below:

·         ETA application form (you can download from  www.eta.gov.lk or www.sri-lankaeta.com )

·         2 recent passport size photographs

·         Passport with a validity of six months beyond the stay period in Sri Lanka

·         Air tickets(onward & return)

·         Covering letter from Indian organization

·         Photocopy of the passport front and last pages

·         As long as you do not intend to stay in the country longer than 30 days, you can take part in conventions and conferences as well as meetings whilst in Sri Lanka.

·         Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, if applicable

TOURIST VISA- A tourist visa is issued to those who are planning to visit the country for tourism purposes. A visitor can apply for ETAonline by going to the official ETA website www.eta.gov.lk or can visit www.sri-lankaeta.com to get Sri Lanka Online Visa application form. The Visa contains details of the period of time and the condition/s of the stay. 

Purpose for tourist visa- Holidaying, Sightseeing, excursions & relaxation, visiting family or friends, medical issues or treatments which includes yoga and Ayurveda treatment or participating in any kind of sporting competitions, events and activities.

Documents required to apply for Tourist ETA are given below:

·         ETA applicationform (you can download from  www.eta.gov.lk or www.sri-lankaeta.com )

·         2 recent passport size photographs

·         Passport with a validity of six months beyond the stay period in Sri Lanka

·         Air tickets(onward & return)

·         Your hotel accommodation or invitation from Sri Lanka in case you are visiting for a formal event

·         Photocopy of the passport front and last pages

·         For 90 days stay, consent from applicant explaining the reason for 90 days stay

·         Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, if applicable

TRANSIT VISA- Transit visa is issued to people wishing to transit through Sri Lanka who enters the country for short period of time or traveling to Sri Lanka to join a vessel as crew. A transit visa is not required if you fly out on the same aircraft and from the same airport at which you arrived or you stay in the transit lounge and do not leave the airport.

How to apply-

·         Online - Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) - up to 7 days

·         On arrival at Colombo Airport - up to 7 days

·         Sri Lanka Diplomatic Missions and Consulates – up to 30 days

If you are planning to visit the country for any purpose, the above information will help you to apply for online Sri Lanka visa. Visit our website sri-lankaeta.com to download the application form.

5 Hiking Trails of Sri Lanka for Adventure Enthusiasts

Summary- Sri Lanka has many hiking trails as the number of beaches. Globetrotters, who are looking to have some adventure in the country won`t be disappointed. Discover more about the best hiking trails in the country.

Sri Lanka serves different travel purposes for different people. Some travel to enjoy in the lap of nature while some wants to soak in the picturesque beauty of beaches. Some goes for snorkeling, while others go to Sri Lanka for trekking or hiking and let us tell you that Sri Lanka is a very special destination for that. If you have not applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa yet, you must do it now!

There are trails available for almost all sorts of experience. Whether you prefer easy walks or intense ones, this country has it all. It also has almost 400 waterfalls to keep you engages and amazed with its scenic beauty. So here are some of the best hiking trails that will make you fall in love with this islandic country.

LITTLE ADAM`s PEAK

Little Adam`s Peak is another trekking trail in the mountain town of Ella. An easy day hike, it is an ideal place for morning hikers. The views from its peak are of tea plantations and verdant rolling hills, covering in mist making for a spectacular site. Therefore, if your heels are already itching to climb to its peak, get your Sri Lanka ETA visa in less than 2 days!

ADAM`s PEAK

The hike to Adam`s Peak is more like a pilgrimage than a hike. After climbing up 5200 steps to a height of over 2000 meters, it will give the most stunning view of sunrise. Mostly the peak is famous for its sunrise views; people from all over the country as well as tourists throng the place day and night.

ELLA ROCK

Ella rock is located above 1000 meters above the sea level and is a day hike from Ella Town in the highlands. It is best to leave your guesthouse or hotel early in the morning if you want to do trekking peacefully. Leaving early can also save you from afternoon drizzle which is a usual business here.

MEEMURE

If you are an experience hiker, Meemure is the most suitable trail to hone your skills further. An expedition to Meemure is an unforgettable experience as it is the most isolated village in Sri Lanka. Hikes of more than two days are easier if you are an experienced hiker. The highlight of this trail is a looming mountain over the village.

KNUCKLES RANGE

The Knuckles Range is located between the regions of Kandy and Matale in the Central Highlands. The range of mountains has obtained the name ‘knuckles’ because of their shape from certain vintage points. This range has plenty of options for all types of trekkers and hikers. You can go for a day-hike to one of the lowest peaks, rest there and come down a different way or you can take three, two night’s expedition to Meemure. You can experience all types of ecosystem here.

Thus pick up your trekking shoes and get your SriLanka ETA visa this year. Give a healthy twist to your vacations. For more details visit www.sri-lankaeta.com!

5 Amazing Ways to Spend Christmas in Sri Lanka!

SUMMARY- Christmas calls for great celebrations! And when it`s in Sri Lanka, the day becomes even more special. Discover why you should head to this islandic country this Christmas.

Bored with White Christmas and want to do little different in 2018? How about having a tropical Christmas this year? Spend this Christmas in Sri Lanka, ‘the pearl of Indian Ocean’ to experience the joy of celebrating the day by the sea. Galle is the city located in south of Colombo. It’s a sunny city blooming with liveliness, enriched with history and culture. Here you can spend your few lazy days at peace during your escapade in Island country.

If you are ready with your tickets, accommodation and online SriLanka eta, then here are some ideas on how to spend your 25^th December in Galle:

Delve into the Beautiful Tradition

Great traditions that might tickle your taste buds and makes you want to sip in the popular Ceylon tea on a Christmas Eve. Head to Amangalla Hotel for a high tea experience paired with delicious pastries. This is an experience that can be enjoyed with kids as well. The taste of tea and pastries is supreme and guarantees for an unforgettable time.

Explore the Ramparts of the Fort

Characterized by its tall and thick walls, the Galle Fort is encompassed by them. The walls are so thick that you can walk on top of them to enjoy the scenic view of high waves crashing against the cliffs, the fort and the iconic lighthouse. You can also go to the Maritime Museum. Sip on the coconut water from the street vendors before moving on to your next destination. Do not miss out on this unique experience! Apply for online Sri Lanka eta, in time.

Shop till You Drop

What is Christmas without Christmas shopping? For that head towards Galle Fort! This area of the fort is walled and aligned with boutique hotels, souvenir shops, coffee shops and jewelry shops. You can pick souvenir for almost everyone as the place has plenty of amazing stuff to offer. From batik dresses to demon masks, handmade notebooks to ruby and sapphire earring you can pick anything. If you want to buy all this for someone back at home, the shopkeepers will be more than happy to pack it all up for safe travel back home.

Try Surfing at Unawatuna

If you don`t want to spend your day lazing around, you can catch some waves at Unawatuna. If you don`t have your own surf boards, you can borrow it on rent. If you are not an expert, they can show you the ropes with fun boards.

Dinner and fireworks at the Beach

After exploring the hidden gems of Galle Fort, take a few hours break to enjoy a lavish dinner at Unawatuna beach which at short distance from Galle Fort. There are plenty of good cafes and restaurants with drool-worthy menu, so you will be spoiled for choice.

There are plenty of ways to spend your Christmas in this beautiful city. So why don`t you go and explore it yourself? Apply for your online Sri Lanka eta by logging on to www.sri-lankaeta.com .