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

When I first told a friend I was going to Sri Lanka, her first question was Are you going to climb that rock? That rock, she was referring to is called Sigiriya Rock, or Lion Rock. It’s the most visited historic site in Sri Lanka and one of the country’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sigirya Rock (Lion Rock) in Sri Lanka
And yes I did climb it!  Sigiriya Rock is an ancient palace that can only be reached by climbing the almost 200 metre massive rock massive.  Now seeing ancient palaces isn’t usually by goal of climbing mountains, but I was definitely game and this was definitely a unique experience, plus I LOVE castles…even if all that is left are palace ruins.

At one time Lion Rock was the capital.  King Kasyapa built his royal palace on top, which seems rather fitting for a king.  Or perhaps he was health conscious, or more likely he feared vengeance from his brother after he killed his father – oops!  Climbing up and down Sigiriya Rock  every day is a great way to stay fit!

After the king’s death the palace and capital were abandoned and later on it was used as a Buddhist monastery. As I made my  way up the seemingly endless stairs, I was greeted by several stray dogs whose ribs showed through.  If you’re an animal lover like me, it’s heartbreaking!

Fortunately though there was a mother who appeared to be taking excellent care to her clinging infant as she he clung to her chest and she kept her distance from tourists.

Today all that remains are the outline of where the palace once stood.   After you’ve ‘oohed’ and ‘ahhhed’ over the view of the lush plains stretching to the mountains, take a few minutes and plop yourself on one of the brick ruins (it’s allowed).  Take  a deep breath. I found Lion Rock to be serene and calming, whether it’s the leftover energy from the monks or the gratitude that you have for not having to climb anymore stairs, I don’t know.  But I do know that I as I started to make my way down, I was left with a All is right in the world type of feeling.

5 minutes later that changed. I had heard about the giant wasps and someone had pointed out their equally giant nests clinging to the cliffs but assumed they had been exaggerated.  As I entered into a swarm of wasps, I quickly realized the legends were true.  A local ahead of us instructed  to sit down and be quiet.  Apparently noise irritates the wasps.  We waited in silence for a few minutes and the wasps disappeared. Disaster averted! At the bottom there are vendors selling handicrafts and ice-cream!!!! Covered in sweat, I pulled out an equally sweaty 50 rupee.  At that moment I thought that ice-cream was as good as it gets…until I spotted several monkeys!

And that is as good as it gets for me…monkeys and mountains in one morning!!!

Make the Most of Your Visit to Sigirya
◾Go at 6:30 am when it opens. I know it’s early, but it gets really hot, so trust me, you’ll be happy you did!
◾Stop and check out Mirror Wall, it’s well labeled.  Look closely and you’ll see that it still retains some of its shine that it had 1500 years ago.
◾Directly above Mirror Wall look up and about halfway up you’ll see  the little remaining mural.  In King Kasyapa’s time, the entire wall was a mural.
◾When you come to the Lion’s Feet look to the left and you’ll see black things hanging to the side of the rock.  These are the wasp nests that I previously mentioned.
◾You can either return the same way down, or just before the Mirror Wall, take the stairs to the right.  This is where all the vendors are selling handicrafts…and ice-cream!
◾There are also historical gardens there, considered to be among some of the most important in Asia.  I didn’t visit them, but they looked lovely from the top of Lion Rock.
◾Expect it to be busy.  Remember this is Sri Lanka’s most visited historical site.
◾Bring water, you will sweat and there’s no place to buy it once you’ve started hiking up, until you’re at the bottom again.
◾Anyone in reasonably good shape can reach the top, just go slow and take breaks when you need them.  If you are extremely unfit, you may not get to the top.

Where to Stay
I stayed at Chaaya Village Habarana.  I really enjoyed the natural feel of this property where guests are greeted with cinnamon scented wash clothes and the open air lobby and restaurant.  The property  really does resemble a village with the thatched roof huts that guests stay in. Trees line the ample property and monkeys and giant squirrels are frequent visitors!  Even the paint used is in harmony with nature and is mixed with mud! If you’re seeking something more lavish, then try the Cinnamon Lodge Habarna. You can find both properties at Cinnamon Hotels.

How To Get There
Sigirya is approximately a 3 hour drive from Colombo.  If you’re short on time, then consider a Cinnamon Air flight, which only takes 30 minutes. Through October 2015 it costs $223 USD.   Note:  Thank you to Cinnamon Hotels for making my visit and stay possible.  As always, all opinions are my own.

Laurel Robbins – MonkeysandMountains

Blog Post – http://monkeysandmountains.com/sigirya-rock-sri-lanka

Laurel Robbins was hosted by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and SriLankan Airlines in partnership with the Professional Travel Bloggers Association for TBCasia – Asia’s First Ever Travel Bloggers Conference 2014 in Sri Lanka.

What to expect?

Night diving in Maldives is an experience not to be missed as the Maldivian waters come alive at night when the visibility is reduced just to the beam of your torch light. You will also find corals open up and water creatures leave their nests to find some food. If you’re lucky you can also catch a glimpse of larger fish like reef and nurse sharks, rays, large tuna and trevally

Where to go?

Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is one of the best dive sites in Maldives. This is obvious given that the resort is built on a coral bed with a diameter of almost a thousand meters and thirty meters in depth. So, you’re bound to see some beautiful sites if you choose to stay with us! An experience not to be missed while in Maldives is a Manta night dive where you can hopefully catch a glimpse of Manta rays, a majestic underwater creature and even swim with them.

One of the best dive spots in Maldives is the Orimas Thila, especially if you came for the big fish! With depths ranging from 14 to 30 metres, you can expect to see soft corals, sea fans, anemones, and clownfish, as well as guitar sharks, barracuda, jack fish, rays and more.

You must also not miss the Ellaidhoo House reef, one of the most sought-after dive destinations in all of Maldives. A wreck reserved exclusively for guests of Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon, the House Reef is just 25 meters from the beach and has a row of caves with sea fans, whip corals, schools of bannerfish, Napoleons, stingrays and moray eels. There’s even a small wreck that serves as a popular spot for night dives.

How can we help?

Dive & Sail are our long-time dive centre partner, with a team of international diving instructors on hand to guide you. From beginner level to expert, you will not regret taking the plunge at Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon! They will provide all the equipment necessary, including SeaQuest BCDs, aqualung regulators with octopus and console, Suunto dive computers, digital underwater cameras, underwater torches, 3 mm neoprene suits (shorties), masks, snorkels and fins as well as weight belts and weights. Once you’re geared up, dive into an underwater utopia and observe marine life as it goes about its nightly routine.
Apart from the great diving spots and sites on offer at the Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon. We will ensure you have the best diving experience, plush and luxurious lodging as well as the most luscious food experience you can imagine!

Our Cinnamon Care initiative is a unique safety and distancing protocol which has been implemented throughout all our hotels and restaurants to make sure that all our guests are safe from COVID-19.

She was first recorded by the Cinnamon Nature Trails team back in 2012 as a 20 month old female with vibrant looks. Over the years, she wore the scars of her efforts to hold her territory with a broken canine tooth and a part of her tail lost, in a skirmish.

This legendary leopardess raised two male cubs, the popular Lance and Lucas in 2017. Given her injuries and the missing canine making it difficult for her to hunt and provide meals for her cubs, it was considered a feat to have raised two male cubs to adulthood. Although Lance passed away in early adulthood, Lucas now dominates a large area in Yala and is a star among the most dominant leopards.

Sage was one of the most elusive and majestic creatures amongst all the leopards at Yala, her stately spotted coat of fur, hanging canine, and short tail made her distinctly different and easily identifiable amongst all the Leopards of Yala. Her maternal nature and predatory instincts allowed her to bring to life and raise beautiful leopards. She was seen with a cub of around 2 to 3 months even in as recent times as February 2021. Upon her passing, she’s left behind a young six-month-old cub whose future is uncertain without its guiding light – the mother leopard.

Although we may never see Sage in the wilderness again, we’re excited to witness the feats and adventures of her offspring Lucas and the new born. Her legacy will live on through them. So do visit the Yala National Park and enjoy the story of Sage continue through her descendants.

Yala is situated 195km away from Colombo and is around a 6-hour drive from Colombo. Make your stay worthwhile and comfortable by staying with us at Cinnamon Wild Yala which is situated in close proximity to the Yala National Park. We provide the perfect combination of comfort, luxury and nature. Let Cinnamon Nature Trails curate the perfect safari experience for you and let our inhouse naturalists and wildlife experts guide you through your adventures to catch a glimpse of Sage’s offspring and keep her memory alive!

Located in the Northern central region of the Anuradhapura District in Sri Lanka, lies the small yet picturesque city of Habarana. Home to many luxury boutique hotels that co-exist with the area’s abundant flora and fauna, it is the perfect destination for travellers looking to unwind in eco-friendly luxury. The city’s intriguing history and wildlife make it a must-visit, with so much to see and experience, when in Sri Lanka. Habarana is in close proximity to many places of cultural significance, including the Minneriya Sanctuary, Sigiriya- the famed eighth wonder of the world, as well as the Dambulla Cave Temple.

1. Enjoy the safari adventure of a lifetime.

Habarana is the ideal destination for those who thirst for adventure and are nature enthusiasts. With elephants and other species of exotic wildlife in Sri Lanka calling the city home, it is the starting point for most safari tours around Minneriya Sanctuary.

2. A bird’s eye view of Habarana by hot-air balloon.

Feed your wanderlust by taking a trip over Minneriya National Park by hot air balloon. The city’s beautiful landscape and abundant wildlife will make for an unforgettable experience.

3. A boat-ride or kayak adventure on the lake.

Galkandawala Lake in Harabana is a popular choice for those desiring to immerse themselves in nature and sightsee. Major hotel chains in the vicinity, including Cinnamon Hotels, offer kayaking or boat riding facilities to guests along with locals who are known to let visitors to the region to use their boats, sometimes at no cost to them!

4. Explore the village of Hiriwadunna.

Experience the simplicity of the lives lead by people in the area by paying the traditional village of Hiriwadunna a visit. In doing so, you will avail yourself of the traditional warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality and even enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan meal at the village.

5. Make a trip to the Ritigala Forest Monastery.

The Ritigala Forest Monastery is one of the Ritigala mountain range’s hidden treasures. If peaceful walks in verdant nature are your forte, there could be no better place than the Ritigala Forest Monastery to do so in.

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.

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.
–