The Origins of China Fort Beruwala’s Gem Trade

Rooted in the 8th century, China Fort’s gem trading legacy began with a cultural fusion as Somali and Arabian traders married local women. While lacking bustling gem mining operations, the neighborhood in Beruwala, originally known as Berbereen in the western province of Sri Lanka, resonates with a deep-seated gem trade tradition. China Fort has evolved into the largest market in Sri Lanka for cut and polished gemstones, drawing gem merchants from across the island and facilitating the global exchange of gemstones.

Generational Expertise: Gems of Wisdom Passed Through Time

In Beruwala, gem buyers and experts inherit a wealth of knowledge spanning generations. Growing up surrounded by gems, these individuals possess a unique skill set that often transcends formal education. The close-knit gem community has produced some of the island’s finest gem cutters and traders. While a trend towards formal gemology education is emerging, the traditional passing down of wisdom remains a cornerstone of this community. Chinafort Beruwala’s gem traders showcase an extraordinary talent—they can discern the authenticity and value of a gemstone with a mere glance or touch, a skill honed by their close relationship with gems.

The ‘Pathe’ Gem Market: A Vibrant Hub of Global Gem Trade

Situated in China Fort, Beruwala “Pathe” Gem Market is the epicenter of gem trading, drawing merchants from across the island. This is a place where a variety of rare and vibrant gemstones, sourced from both global and local mines, can be found. Every day, thousands of merchants, and buyers from around the world gather at Pathe Gem Street to trade and purchase the finest gems.

Gem Sri Lanka Exhibition: Showcasing Sri Lanka’s Gemstone Heritage at Cinnamon Bentota Beach

In celebration of Sri Lanka’s gem trade legacy and the vibrant gemstones found on the island, Chinafort Gem Trade Association (CGJTA), in partnership with the Export Development Board (EBD) & National Gem & Jewellery Authority(NGJA), hosts the Gem Sri Lanka Exhibition from 11th to 13th January 2024 at Cinnamon Bentota Beach, the luxury beach resort property of Cinnamon Hotel & Resort adjacent to Beruwala – the property mirrors the luxury and opulence synonymous with the country’s finest Gems and Jewellery.

In conversation with Rizwan Nayeem, Vice Chairman of China Fort Gem & Jewellery Traders Association, who boasts 30+ years’ experience in the gem trade industry, the Gem Sri Lanka exhibition is poised to be a celebration of the vibrant trade in precious stones within the extraordinary landscape of Sri Lanka. With the goal of harnessing the rich potential and presenting it annually to the world through showcasing a wide array of gemstones, the exhibition invites enthusiasts and experts alike to witness the splendor of Sri Lanka’s gemstone heritage.

For more information & registration for the exhibition, visit www.GSLFair.com

No holiday is complete without souvenirs to take home as a memento or to buy as gifts. While there are typical tourist souvenirs like local T-shirts printed with elephants, Sri Lanka has some distinctive souvenirs to enjoy and to treasure. 

1. Pure Ceylon Tea

Sri Lanka is the origin of Pure Ceylon Tea, acclaimed as the best in the world. The best Ceylon teas are known as “High Grown” coming from plantations at heights above 1,200m. For the sophisticated tea drinker, Orange Pekoe (OP), a long leaf tea from Uva or Nuwara Eliya, will thrill with its sublime subtlety of flavour when drunk without milk. For tea to drink with milk and sugar, look for Broken Orange Pekoe (BOP) or for a more robust taste, buy Fannings or Dust.

Tea can be bought direct from tea factories such as Labookelie, some170 km from Colombo on the road between Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. There are several specialist shops in Colombo selling brand name teas in a variety of attractive packaging. The Sri Lanka Tea Board has a sales centre of all Ceylon Tea brands at 574 Galle Road, Colombo 3, open from 09.00 to 19.00 except Sundays and Poya Days.

2. Exotic Spices

It was spices that first drew the attention of Western countries to the then Ceylon, with cinnamon being the most prized souvenir, and export. Today cinnamon is grown mostly in the lowland coastal areas from Kalutara to Matara.

Cinnamon quills are rolled from the dried bark of the indigenous tree Cinnamomum zeylanicum, and cinnamon can also be obtained in powder form. A bunch of the quills make a marvellous décor statement in a reed basket in any kitchen, as well as providing a source of flavour for meat and even sweet dishes.

Sri Lanka’s ground fresh black pepper corns add zest to cooking. The country’s cloves can be chewed as a breath freshener as well as used to spice up meat dishes. Nutmeg, mace and pungent cardamom are also part of Sri Lanka’s spicy heritage.

Spices can be bought in Spice Gardens along some of the main tourist routes but the practical shopper can find packets of various spices at much cheaper prices in branches of major supermarkets, like Keells.

3. Fresh Cashew Nuts

Cashew nuts grown here are plump and full of flavour and can be bought at supermarkets and specialists shops in Colombo and at the airport, but the fun place to buy cashews is just after Pasyala, at 44km from Colombo on the A1 highway to Kandy.

There, village belles in colourful blouses with bare midriffs and ankle-length wraparound skirts, offer shelled and roasted cashews at dozens of stalls beside the road. This hamlet is called Cadjugama (cadju is the Sinhala for cashew).

4. Genuine Gems

Sri Lanka has a long history as the source of precious gems and one of the many names for the country was Ratnadipa, island of gems. A great ruby given to the Queen of Sheba by King Solomon came from this island, as did the 400 carat blue sapphire in the British crown.

The most popular gem is the blue sapphire since the ruby has gone out of fashion. Other gems to be found include alexandrite, amethyst, aquamarine garnet, quartz, spinel, topaz, tourmaline, zircon and the attractive cat’s eye. No emeralds or diamonds originate here although imported diamonds are cut and polished for export.

If you have no knowledge of gems, buy from a gem merchant and jeweller in your hotel to make certain of its authenticity. Its genuineness can be checked, free of charge, at the National Gem & Jewellery Authority at 25 Galle Face Terrace, Colombo 3 (www.srilankagemautho.com). Local jewellers can create settings to your design or from patterns to make a souvenir to last for ever.

5. Coconut Cutlery

You will find household items such as spoons, cups and even ashtrays made out of coconut in some of the trendy stores in Colombo, but they will be much cheaper if you look for them in village hardware stores, which is where locals buy them. Hand-made out of sanded coconut shell with painted wooden handles, coconut cutlery makes a wonderful talking-point at the dinner table.

6. Hand-carved Masks

For a provocative interior design statement, take home a hand-carved mask as an unusual souvenir. Mask carving is a traditional craft of the West Coast, at Ambalangoda, 83km south of Colombo. These amazing masks are used in folk dance rituals practised in the low country.

The masks are carved out of wood that is light enough to be worn throughout a nightlong dance performance. Each mask is painted in vibrant colours and shaped with symbols according to what demon it is supposed to frighten away. Hung on a wall at home, they are brightly evocative of the traditions of Sri Lanka.

1. Majestic origins and timeless rituals: With an origin rooted in centuries passed, The Esala Perahera in Kandy is one of the oldest and most significant of all Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka. The Sinhalese term ‘Perahera’ refers to a procession of ceremonial musicians, drummers, dancers, singers, acrobats, whip crackers, flag bearers, sword carriers, fireball dancers and various other performers accompanied by a large number of elaborately adorned elephants parading the streets in celebration of a religious event. Primarily hosted to honour the sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, the Esela Perahera is also conducted with the intention of beseeching blessings from the divinities for bountiful rains and a prosperous harvest, as well as an intercession to shower blessings on the people.

2. The illustrious ten-day festival: commences with the ‘Kap Situveema’ – a ritual where young jackfruit trees are planted in the premises of each of the four ‘Devales’ (Shrines of God) dedicated to the four ‘Guardian Gods’ Natha, Vishnu, Katharagama and Pattini, and ends with the traditional ‘Diya Kepeema’ – a water cutting ceremony which is held at the Mahaweli River at Getambe in Kandy.

3. A flamboyant fusion of history, culture and religion: Exploring every facet of Sri Lankan culture and Buddhist heritage, the Esala Perahera features an endless variety of traditional local dances, including graceful Kandyan dances, striking whip and fire dances and many other folklore inspired performances. During each perahera, a myriad of festively dressed Kandyan drummers, eastern percussionists, singers and acrobats along with mahouts chaperoning dazzlingly embellished tuskers and elephants take to the streets to illuminate and enliven the procession. The entire route of the procession is decorated with countless lights which are beautifully synchronized with the proceedings and performances of each Perahera.

4. An idyllic base in the heart of the bustling festivities: Located 116km away from Colombo, in Sri Lanka’s scenic Hill Country, Cinnamon Citadel Kandy is nestled in the heart of the city of Kandy, making it the ideal base for those traveling from far and wide to view the Perahera. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Knuckles Mountain Range shrouded in varying degrees of mist, and built to resemble the majestic realm of the last Sinhalese kings, Cinnamon Citadel Kandy takes you on an enchanting cultural journey and tells you an ancient tale of its own. The resort bears many vivid features in the form of vibrant tones of red and traditional Kandyan art, which evoke a rich cultural presence and a true sense of regal luxury. Cinnamon Citadel’s ample verdant gardens which are located near a tranquil bend in the Mahaweli River offer a quaint and tranquil atmosphere for guests to relax and unwind after a long and exuberant day of crowding alongside the streets to witness the magnificent Esala Perahera.

5. This year, the Kandy Esala Perahera is scheduled to take place from 16th to 26th August in its usual series of colourful Kumbal Peraheras, Randoli Peraheras and vivacious ritualistic ceremonies – all of which will culminate in yet another iconic celebration of Sri Lanka’s authentic historical and cultural heritage.

Plan your stay in Kandy with Cinnamon Citadel via http://www.cinnamonhotels.com/en/cinnamoncitadelkandy

Celebrated by Lonely Planet, BBC, and CNN, the Great Elephant Gathering brings together hundreds of Asian elephants at Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks. It is also known as the 6th largest animal congregation in the world, and the largest gathering of Asian Elephants in the world, making it something all Sri Lankans’ should take pride in.

Every year, during the dry season, hundreds of wild Asian elephants congregate near the Minneriya Tank in search of water and lush vegetation. This awe-inspiring event typically occurs between July to September, drawing wildlife enthusiasts and photographers from around the world.

As the water levels in the tank recede, the vast grasslands emerge, creating an oasis for these majestic creatures. The sight of hundreds of elephants, from playful calves to mighty tuskers, wandering peacefully and interacting with each other is a testament to the harmonious coexistence of humans and wildlife in Sri Lanka.

The Great Elephant Gathering not only offers an incredible opportunity to witness these gentle giants up close but also serves as a reminder of the importance of conserving their natural habitats. Minneriya National Park plays a crucial role in safeguarding the future of these magnificent animals, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to be humbled by the wonders of nature.

Cinnamon Lodge Habarana is a 15 minute drive to the Minneriya National Park.

Surf the Waves:

Hikkaduwa’s beaches are a paradise for surf enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, the consistent waves and warm waters make it an ideal destination to catch some waves. Head to the main beach or nearby spots like Narigama Beach to rent surfboards or take lessons from local instructors. Surfing in Hikkaduwa provides an exhilarating experience, leaving you with a deep connection to the ocean and a sense of accomplishment.

Snorkel or Dive in the Coral Reefs:

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Hikkaduwa to witness its vibrant underwater world. Grab your snorkeling gear or join a diving tour to explore the coral reefs just off the coast. Encounter an array of marine life, including colorful tropical fish, turtles, rays, and even reef sharks. The Hikkaduwa Marine Sanctuary is a must-visit spot, where you can snorkel over shallow coral gardens teeming with biodiversity. Remember to practice responsible tourism and respect the fragile marine ecosystem.

Stroll along the Vibrant Hikkaduwa Beach:

Take leisurely strolls along the golden shores of Hikkaduwa Beach, dotted with lively cafes, bars, and restaurants. The beach offers a vibrant atmosphere, especially during the evening when locals and tourists gather to enjoy the breathtaking sunset. Relax on the sand, soak up the tropical ambiance, and treat yourself to delicious seafood delicacies at the beachfront eaterie and stay at Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon.
Unwind with Ayurvedic Treatments:

Hikkaduwa offers a range of Ayurvedic spas and wellness centers where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and massages. Embrace the healing power of Ayurveda, an ancient holistic system of medicine, and let expert therapists ease your mind, body, and soul. The tranquil surroundings and therapeutic treatments will leave you feeling revitalized and ready to embrace the rest of your journey.

Hikkaduwa is a captivating destination that beckons travelers with its natural beauty, rich marine life, and diverse cultural experiences. From surfing the waves to immersing yourself in underwater wonders and unwinding with Ayurvedic treatments, this tropical paradise promises an unforgettable vacation. So, pack your bags and set out on a remarkable journey to discover the top five things to do in Hikkaduwa!

1. A Masterpiece of Landscape Architecture:

Brief Garden is the masterpiece of Bevis Bawa, the talented brother of Sri Lanka’s legendary architect, Geoffrey Bawa. Bevis transformed this once modest rubber estate into a living canvas of artful gardens and captivating vistas. Every turn within the garden reveals a meticulously crafted space, featuring sculptures, statues, fountains, and other art installations thoughtfully placed amidst a breathtaking natural backdrop.

2. Stunning Botanical Diversity:

Nature enthusiasts and horticulture lovers will be awestruck by the diverse collection of plants and flowers within Brief Garden. The garden boasts an impressive array of tropical plants, exotic orchids, and rare foliage, each thriving in its unique microclimate. Visitors can stroll through winding pathways lined with lush greenery and immerse themselves in the vibrant colors and fragrances of this tropical paradise.

3. Artistic Delights at Every Corner:

Brief Garden is a living testament to Bevis Bawa’s artistic vision. Throughout the garden, you’ll encounter an eclectic mix of sculptures, statues, and quirky art installations, all carefully integrated with the surrounding nature. From abstract art to traditional sculptures, each piece adds an element of surprise and delight, making every step a new adventure.

4. Unraveling the History:

Beyond its stunning aesthetics, Brief Garden holds a rich history waiting to be uncovered. Visitors can learn about Bevis Bawa’s life and contributions to Sri Lanka’s architectural heritage through guided tours or by exploring the garden at their own pace. The stories behind the garden’s creation add an extra layer of appreciation to its beauty.

5. Photographic Paradise:

Photography enthusiasts will be in their element at Brief Garden. Every angle presents a new photo opportunity, whether it’s capturing the play of light and shadow on the foliage, framing the artistic sculptures, or photographing the exotic blooms in their full glory.

In conclusion, a visit to Brief Garden in Bentota is a remarkable experience that combines art, nature, and history in an exceptional setting. This living masterpiece of landscape architecture has the power to captivate travelers of all ages, leaving them with unforgettable memories of Sri Lanka’s enchanting beauty. So, make sure to add Brief Garden to your travel bucket list and get ready to be spellbound by the allure of this tropical paradise.

According to Google Trend data, solo travel has increased by 760% since 2021 and online searches capturing the term ‘solo travel’ have increased by 267% since 2020. These statistics indicate how solo travel is poised for a major boom this year. Known for its scenic surroundings with picturesque backdrop, breathtakingly beautiful islands, house reefs, vibrant marine life, crystal clear waters and thrilling adventures, the Maldives is one of the go-to destinations for solo travelers to relax, refresh and unwind.

Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, a surfer’s paradise located minutes away from the classic surf break, Pasta Point, offers an array of exiting and unforgettable experiences for solo travelers. Located in the North Malé Atoll, 13 KM away from the Velana International Airport, this tranquil resort sits in the midst of an exclusive park of picture-perfect waves and is synonymous with surfing in the Maldives. This resort is ideal for those with a yen for adventure or seeking freedom to self-reflect while soaking up the sun.

For those solo travelers yearning for thrilling escapades, the resort offers both motorized and non-motorized watersports and other special excursion including dolphin watching, an excursion where solo travels could witness the stunning views of dolphin pods diving together in the Maldivian waters, sunset fishing, a one of a kind fishing experience in a Dhoni, a traditional Maldivian boat whilst the sun goes down, turtle snorkeling, a guided tour to discover the majestic turtles swimming right beside you. Huraa excursions where solo travelers could experience the Maldivian culture and lifestyle, photo flight, a thrilling experience to witness the ocean while flying above the resort, seasonal Manta snorkeling, where solo travelers could snorkel along Mantas and experience the hidden beauty underneath the turquoise waters.

In addition to these excursions, other in-resort activities include table tennis, badminton, billiards, tennis, and beach volleyball. Travelers could break a sweat at the fully equipped, modern gymnasium or rejuvenate and indulge themselves in a range of Balinese spa treatments at the Mandara Spa.

Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives is the ideal destination to lift one’s spirit and calm one’s soul. The resort has been designed to accommodate solo travelers and offers seven fabulous room categories, from garden bungalows to beach and water bungalows, to suit every need. The resort is equipped with five lively and cosy restaurants and bars with bustling and energic vibes.

Experience Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives, a bucket list destination, all by yourself and create postcard-perfect memories of a lifetime. Be it surfing, relaxation, snorkeling, exploring life underwater or simply soaking up the Maldivian sun, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives got you covered.

Idyllic Breakfast Stop: Cinnamon Bentota Beach

Combining local culture and renowned architecture, Cinnamon Bentota Beach makes an inspiring breakfast stop. Designed by one of Asia’s most influential architects of his generation – Geoffrey Bawa – the resort is nestled between the Bentara River and Bentota Beach. Experience breakfast while watching either the waves or the river birds over gourmet waffles or Sri Lankan egg hoppers.

Sri Lankan Mask Workshop: Ambalangoda

In Ambalangoda, make a small detour to the Traditional Mask Workshop & Museum for an immersive experience of local art. Explore ancient collections related to rituals and dances, participate in workshops, or take home unpainted masks as souvenirs. Cinnamon Bey Beruwala can help arrange this experience for your convenience.

Exploring Galle Fort: Galle

The magnificent Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site built by the Portuguese in 1588, is en-route to Mirissa. Take a leisurely stroll along the grassy ramparts or cobbled streets, and don’t miss visiting the charming shops and cafes that serve everything from coconut ice cream to king coconut. Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon can arrange a guided walking tour with prior notice.

Galle Fort is about an hour’s drive away from Mirissa Beach, so you can spend a little longer exploring the Fort or ask around to book an experience at Mirissa itself – ideally whale watching in Mirissa during season. While Mirissa is renowned as a beautiful destination, the journey there adds an extra dimension to your trip.

Let’s dive into the depths and meet some of the amazing turtles you may encounter during your visit to Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives:

Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas): The most common species found around the Maldives, the green sea turtle boasts a captivating olive-green shell, hence its name. They are herbivores and play a vital role in maintaining the health of coral reefs by grazing on seagrass, helping to prevent overgrowth. With their streamlined bodies and powerful flippers, they gracefully navigate the depths of the ocean.

Hawksbill Turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata): Sporting a distinctive beak-like snout, hawksbill turtles are truly a sight to behold. These elegant creatures have intricate patterns on their shells, resembling the intricate patterns found on hawks’ wings. They primarily feed on sponges, playing a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of the reef ecosystem.

Loggerhead Turtles (Caretta caretta): Loggerheads are the largest hard-shelled turtles in the world, known for their strong jaws and reddish-brown carapace. These majestic beings roam the ocean, covering vast distances in search of food. Their diet consists mainly of crabs, mollusks, and other marine invertebrates.

Observing Turtles in their Natural Habitat

As ambassadors for our reefs, we stress the importance of observing these turtles in their natural habitat while ensuring their safety and well-being. Here are a few tips from us to make sure you have fun while being respectful and safe as well.

Keep a Respectful Distance: When snorkeling or diving near turtles, maintain a respectful distance of at least three meters. This allows the turtles to go about their daily activities undisturbed and ensures a harmonious coexistence.

Avoid Touching or Chasing: As tempting as it may be to reach out and touch these gentle beings, resist the urge. Touching turtles can cause them distress and disrupt their natural behaviors. Avoid chasing or following them closely, allowing them to swim freely without feeling threatened or scared, as gentle as they are, they are known to bite if threatened.

Snorkel Quietly: When snorkeling with turtles, be mindful of your movements and avoid making excessive noise. Sudden movements and loud noises can startle them, leading to stress and potentially harming their well-being. Instead, embrace the tranquility of the underwater world and let the turtles approach you at their own pace.

Responsible Photography: If you wish to capture a magical moment with a turtle, do so responsibly. Maintain a respectful distance and use underwater photography techniques that minimize disturbance. Remember, it’s essential to prioritize the welfare of these magnificent creatures over getting the perfect shot.

Listen to the Experts: Pay close attention to the safety briefing provided by your guide. They will offer valuable insights on how to approach and interact with turtles, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience while safeguarding the well-being of these incredible creatures.

Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives offers a gateway to a world teeming with vibrant marine life, where the enchanting sea turtles take center stage. By adhering to responsible snorkeling practices and paying close attention to the advice of our colleagues at Dive and Sail, we can marvel at these magnificent creatures while preserving their natural habitat for generations to come. Remember, it’s our collective responsibility to ensure the well-being of sea turtles and the delicate ecosystems they call home. So, while we invite you to dive into the crystal clear waters, embrace the wonders of our beautiful reefs, and embark on an unforgettable journey to snorkel with these amazing creatures, let’s leave only ripples behind as a testament to your adventure.
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May in Sri Lanka is about coming back to life. The heat begins to reduce ever-so-slightly and the rains come pouring down. This month trees are in full bloom and fruits lay heavily burden to branches. And a world of amazing experiences are in store for you this month if you happen to be in Sri Lanka

1. Experience the Colours of Vesak

The birth, death and enlightenment of Lord Buddha is celebrated in maddening colours, lanterns and lights all across the country in a festival we call Vesak. No matter where you are during May’s full moon, heading out is most advised. Don’t forget to look out for Pandols, a traditional outdoor art installation that tells stories from the life of the Buddha.

2. Make a Vesak Lantern

The reason Vesak is so colourful owes much to the vibrant and conceptual lanterns that come together. Why don’t you try your hand at making one? Pick out some of your favourite colours when you buy the tissue paper, get yourself bendy straws or bamboo sticks and gather around the usual suspects: glue, scissors, tape, rope and of course your imagination. Having a local show you the ropes is also a good bet.

3. Indulge in a Rain Bath

After many months of endless heat, you’ll find our sheets of rain this May a perfect cool down in the tropics. Don’t be shy, get out from under the comfort of indoors and let our rains wash away our scorching days.

4. Surf’s Up!

Arugam Bay at the heart of Sri Lanka’s East Coast begins to come alive in May. Surfers from all across the world come here in hope of riding the perfect wave. This familial gathering of surfers also means that the nightlife in Arugam Bay becomes the stuff of legend.

5. Escape Inside the City

If you want to get away and still be close the conveniences of the city, plan an escape at one of Cinnamon’s 3 city hotels. Cinnamon Lakeside is especially designed to create the air of a far-away resort!

6. Immerse in our History

Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle is strewn with many historical sites housing the stories of ancient kings and powerful mythology. Anuradhapura and Pollonnaruwa are particularly recommended.

7. Sunrise Season

May begins our East Coast season and if you’re here this month we recommend you start at Yala and make your way up to Trincomalee, capturing the sunrise on your way.

8. Tuk-Tuk Rides

Travelling by 3-wheeler or tuk-tuk (especially outside city limits) is a must-do experience and the best mode of short distance travel in the country

9. Go Gallery Hunting

Sri Lanka’s contemporary art scene is spectacular, so we most certainly recommend that you spend a rainy afternoon inside one of Colombo’s many concept galleries.

10. Under the Sea

For the most daring of you, the best sights await. Ask for a try-dive or dedicate a few days to a PADI licence and you’re on your way to Sri Lanka’s kaleidoscopic underwater paradise and it’s haunting shipwrecks.