4 Traditional Souvenirs to Buy In Sri Lanka

Souvenirs are the best way to keep memories of visiting a wonderful place alive and when it is Sri Lanka, it becomes mandatory. No trip to Sri Lanka is considered complete without bringing a tradition souvenir from the country. The local artisans of the country are well-known for their brilliant craftsmanship and high-quality production.

So if you have applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa, include a visit to Barefoot or Laksala into your travel itinerary to satisfy your shopping urges. The quality, quantity, designs and price that you will find here to take home are unbeatable. Discover the 4 traditional souvenirs that you must buy in Sri Lanka as gifts or personal mementos:

1.       Saris & Sarongs

Whoever visits Sri Lanka must have noticed the traditional wear for women and men. The traditional clothing is made up of saree for women while men wear sarongs. Thus if you feel inclined towards this elegant and colorful piece of clothing there are plenty of places to do so.  For sarongs and sarees you can find beautiful silk or batik saris in high fashion sari shops and local markets.

2.       Jewelry and Gems

Famous for its moonstones and sapphires, Sri Lanka is home to many mines that constantly supply precious and semi-precious stones. The mines in Ratnapura are the hub of the constant supply of gems, stones and semi-precious stones. The gemologists on the island also know where to import the best gems from as well. If you want to take back few gems and jewelry, make the best use of your bargaining skills.

3.       Moonstone Carvings

If you are interested in architecture, then you must have noticed moon stepping stones at the entrance of all Buddhist Temples. These stepping stones are the common entity in every temple and have been used as religious imagery for centuries. These beautiful carvings adorned with intrinsic details are now used in the parks and many other temples due to their historic quality and exquisite details. Small moonstone carvings are made as souvenirs for tourists and small home shrines. Bring these moonstone carvings back home if you have applied for Sri Lanka ETA visa.

4.       Tea

When in Ceylon, not getting back a taste of it will be considered injustice to the lush tea plantations of Sri Lanka. Ceylon tea is the original tea of the country and no one will let your forget it. The vast tea plantations in the hill country and shops where you can get this tea are admirable. The traditional tea of Sri Lanka is black tea, which comes in all sorts, depending on the altitude it is grown in. Apart from black tea, the other classics are also available like Earl Grey, English breakfast and some specialized teas like chocolate mint or peach and mint.

Let your loved ones back at home have a piece of Sri Lanka in the form of beautiful souvenirs that will remind them of this islandic country. If you want to apply for Sri Lanka ETA visa, visit sri-lankaeta.com.

6 Animals That Are Found In Sri Lanka

Summary- Sri Lanka is blessed with abundant wildlife that is properly protected and gives visitors a chance to get close with animals like leopards, jungle fowl and a lot more. Read on to know about the animals those are found in the country! 

Not only famous for beaches and natural landscapes, Sri Lanka is also famous for its beautiful and ferocious wildlife in abundance. The country`s national parks are famous for the large gathering of elephants and world`s fastest animal –leopard. Animal lovers will have a gala time here, exploring the dense forests and spotting sambar deer, toque macaques on jungle safaris.

If you want to take your kids on a memorable international vacation, Sri Lanka is the place to be. You can easily apply for Sri Lanka visa online to find out some of the most amazing animals mentioned below-

1.       Sri Lankan Elephants- The Sri Lankan elephants are one of the three types and the most popular ones among the Asian elephants. The country has the largest concentration of elephants which is most probably the major attraction for which visitors travel to this island. Elephants are also considered as sacred and therefore are protected in this country. You can see elephants in Minneriya National Park.

2.       Sri Lankan Leopards- Not everyone will be lucky to get a glimpse of Leopard on wildlife safari. Although they are solitary creatures, in the month of July-August, female leopards wander with their young cubs until they are old enough to hunt. The Sri Lankan leopards are the largest than other leopards and they are found in great numbers in this country as there are no lions and tigers around. Apply for Sri Lanka visa online in the month of July if you want to spot wildlife at its best.

3.       Peacock- Considered as one of the most beautiful birds, Peacock is a native bird of Sri Lanka. The male peacock with long feathery tail and mesmerizing blue neck looks appealing. Kids will love to see such a bird out in the open. If you will visit in monsoon, you might be lucky to witness a special dance performance by the male peacock.

4.       Sri Lankan Jungle Fowl- Although the bird looks a lot like a common rooster, the jungle fowl is the national bird of Sri Lanka and can`t be found anywhere in the world. The country also has postal stamps of Jungle Fowl. Bird watchers love to catch a glimpse of this colorful bird.

5.       Grey Hornbill- A native bird of Sri Lanka, the grey hornbill is the part of a hornbill family. Although it belongs to the same family, but what sets it apart is the absence of the top part of its beak.

6.       Sambar Deer- Relatively larger in size the Sri Lankan sambar deer outshines its other counterparts found in other countries. You can find them roaming in herds in national parks, especially in Horton Plains. The males have large antlers while the females do not have any. Visit Horton Plains to enjoy the mesmerizing views.

Take your kids to Sri Lanka for amazing international holidays with your kids. Enjoy landscapes, wildlife, fabulous beaches and cascading waterfalls. You can apply for Sri Lanka visa online weeks before your travel date to avoid any last-minute hassles. For visa related information, visit www.sri-lankaeta.com.

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.