Sri Lanka prides itself on having a great many temples. Like churches in Europe, they’re part and parcel of the communities all over the island, and where there is a village one is almost guaranteed to see saffron-robed monks sweeping the temple grounds at the crack of dawn.

There are, however, a few iconic temples that have shaped not just their communities, but the greater history and culture of the entire country. Exploring these are generally very cheap, but always wear clothes covering your legs and shoulder, and to remove your shoes.

The first is Kandy’s Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Temple of the Tooth. Legend has it that when Lord Buddha died, His body was cremated in a sandalwood pyre and his left canine tooth sent to the city of Dantapuri (in Odisha, or Orissa in India). It was said that whoever possessed the tooth possessed the divine right to rule the land, and so wars were fought solely to take possession of this relic. Eight hundred years later, facing an army of invaders hell-bent on destroying the tooth, a king sent his daughter and her husband with the tooth to Sri Lanka.

In Sri Lanka, great palaces were built to house the tooth relic, and it was moved all over the land for safekeeping, until at last it was housed in the Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy. Here it has rested since then, in a sanctuary at the heart of the complex. It is never taken out, not even for the great Esela Perehera, an annual procession of song, dance and worship that brings all of Kandy to a halt; the Perehera itself must make do with the silver relic casket, accepted as a substitute for the relic itself.

The Temple complex itself has grown over the years, with numerous architectural and cultural additions – the golden canopy that marks the main shrine; the octagonal Pathirippuwa; the Alut Maligawa, a secondary shrine housing stunning Buddha statues representing a fantastic variety of styles of sculpture, with paintings that depict the story of the Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Dambulla Temple

The Golden Temple, as is it called, is the largest and the most impressive cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, dating all the way from 100 BC. Outside, it is easily visible because of the massive golden Buddha statue that looks out over the entrance, facing the winding road. The statue fronts a vast rock that towers above the plain. Around this rock are over eighty documented caves, most of them natural grottoes that were excavated over the years.

The best exhibits lie in the five caves that lie under the rock. In the darkness, images on the cave walls and over 150 statues, hewn from the rock, point out landmark moments of the Buddha’s life. It is said that the cave temple began with King Valagambahu, who lived here for a decade and a half in exile before reclaiming Anuradhapura from South Indian invaders. In his gratitude, the king built the temple here, and over the centuries his successors added to it and restored what they could. Put together, the caves represent a work of worship over 20 centuries in the making.

Alu Vihararaya

The famous Alu Viharaya sits on the Dambulla-Matale road. The word “Alu” means “ash” in modern Sinhala, but once, it meant light. Here, the most important Buddhist scriptures in the word, the Tripitaka, were first committed to writing, after of existing purely in the minds and voices of monks. It is said that the same King Valagambahu who built the Dambulla Temple tasked 500 monks for this.

At its heart, the Alu Viharaya is a series of cave temples, linked by narrow stairs cut into the rock. The caves house a ten-metre long statue of a sleeping Buddha, and (respectively) sculptures of Buddhist hell, a cave temple to Valagambahu and the iconic Indian Buddhist scholar Buddhagosa and a bodhi tree apparently growing out of the rock. To the left is the International Buddhist Library and Museum, housing a copy of the Tripitaka as set down in ola leaves, in the tradition of what Sri Lankans call puskolapoth – apparently the same medium the Tripitaka was first written on.

Ambakka Temple

The Ambakka (or Embekke) Temple, in Kandy, is born from a strange legend, that of a drummer who, inflicted with an incurable skin disease, made the pilgrimage to Kataragama every year. At the last stages of his life, the god came to him in his dreams and instructed him to perform at a place where a miracle would happen. Soon, in a flower garden known as Ambakka, a tree began to bleed, and the drummer obeyed the god. Eventually he built a temple of branches around the tree, and the king of the region later ordered a huge temple built there and donated land and gifts to the temple.

The temple site itself is loosely divided into the inner and outer temples, and is built entirely of wood, without even the use of metal nails. Ambakka houses some of the greatest carvings in all of Sri Lanka, showcased on the pillars of the temple. These 126 carvings are all unique and are fantastic representations of Sinhalese art. Sadly, this site is nowhere near as cared-for as the older sites on this list.

Koneswaram Temple

Koneswaram, the Temple of a Thousand Pillars, is a sprawling Hindu temple complex in Trincomalee, built upon a promontory overlooking the Indian Ocean. A major place for Hindu worship, the geography of the region is of great symbolic importance. The original temple, existing roughly since 300 AD, was a shrine to the Hingu god Shiva. King Ravana, the mythical ruler of Sri Lanka in the 4^th century epic the Ramayana, is believed to have worshipped Lord Shiva here.

Over the years, subsequent Hindu kings expanded Koneswaram, making the shrine part of three great temples that stood upon Swami Rock, as the promontory was called. The site was wrecked by the Portuguese in the 17^th century, in what has since been called the biggest looting of the temples of Asia, and restored in the 20^th century. There’s even a bit of Dutch history mixed in.

Koneswaram is a complex site, and home to many religious ceremonies and processions. Fantastic sculptures adorn the structures, carved in the classic Hindu tradition. It’s under renovation, which in itself is an interesting process to observe. Try to get there in the morning or in the evening, as the sun heats up the rock quite a bit.

Katharagama, situated in the far south of the island, is perhaps of the best examples of Sri Lanka’s fusion of cultures. Bordering the Yala National Park, Katharagama was once a capital of Sri Lankan kings, abandoned somewhere around the 13^th century and resurrected as a multi-religious town primarily dedicated to god Katharagama.

The god’s exact origins are a mystery – some sources claim that it an indigenous deity, other than he is a king who came to be worshipped as a deity, and others that he is a Hindu god, and judging by historical records, a great cross-pollination of mythologies has occurred around this being. In any case, the site houses shrines, a mosque and a stupa. It is believed that the Buddha, on His third and last visit to Sri Lanka, discoursed to King Mahasena, who ruled the area in 580 BC. The Katharagama temple was built upon this site. Be aware that there is always a huge crowd of pilgrims at Kataragama, and that getting in might involve standing in line.

Here’s the Sri Lanka Honeymoon Guide you’ve been looking for!

Sri Lanka has many honeymoon-worthy destinations on offer! Some of these include;

1.Bentota

The coastal town of Bentota in Sri Lanka is situated in the southwest region of the island and is known for its calm weather, relaxing beaches, dazzling marine life and has an overall idyllic atmosphere making it the perfect Sri Lanka honeymoon resort. We at Cinnamon Bentota Beach have many honeymoon packages on offer and will curate the perfect experience for you!

2.Trincomalee

Credit – Nikolina Koevska Kharoufeh

Trincomalee is situated 257KM north-east of Colombo, and is one of the world’s best deep-water natural harbors. It is also home to many tranquil and breathtaking beaches and, a place to spot some of your favorite marine mammals in their own beautiful habitats, filled with history and also the perfect destination for an excluded and laid-back honeymoon. Book your honeymoon stay with us at Trinco Blu by Cinnamon where we will ensure that you have the most comfortable and plush stay with the most delectable array of both local and international dishes.

3.Yala

If you’re a duo of wildlife enthusiasts and would love some adventure and activity during your honeymoon Cinnamon Wild Yala is the place for you two! Yala National Park is one of the most famous safari parks in the island right now covering an area of 378 square miles and is famous for adventurous safaris to see leopards, sloth bears and elephants that we have been endowed with in abundance. A wildlife tour in Yala is guaranteed to give you a heart-warming and jaw-dropping experience of close encounters with Elephants and Leopards. Let Cinnamon Nature Trails along with Cinnamon Wild Yala curate the perfect honeymoon experience for you!

4.Habarana

Credit – Travel with Wife

Whilst you stay with us at our locations in Habarana such as Habarana Village by Cinnamon and Cinnamon Lodge Habarana, we’re certain that your honeymoon will be one to remember. If you prefer a laid-back and relaxed honeymoon, Habarana has you covered with the beautiful and idyllic landscapes at our eco-friendly hotels which will make you feel as close to nature as possible. If you prefer activity, we’ve got you too! Climbing the sigiriya rock, and visiting the Minneriya National Park are only a few such adventures you may enjoy with your loved one.

5.Kandy

If being close to nature sounds like your perfect honeymoon, Kandy is the place to be. From the moment you open your eyes at dawn, until it closes again at night, lush greenery, sparkling waters and mountainous landscapes of Kandy are guaranteed to amaze and mesmerize you and your special one! Apart from the breathtaking nature trails, Kandy being Sri Lanka’s last kingdom also offers its visitors a taste of the rich culture and heritage of this paradise isle. Let us at Cinnamon Citadel Kandy make the beginning of your journey together with your loved one all the more memorable with our honeymoon packages.

Cinnamon Island Weddings boasts of experience planning weddings and honeymoons for many happy couples who were made happier! Seek our expertise and experience with curating weddings and honeymoons to your needs and requests and we will not fail you!

Leave it to us and be mesmerized at your own honeymoon!

There’s so much to see and do in Sri Lanka, you’ll need to visit here on holiday several times to enjoy everything. Here’s our list to start you off.

1.         Watch the sunset from Galle Face Green

Galle Face Green is the lung of Colombo, an open stretch of grass beside the sea that links the old Colombo Fort area with the metropolis developed to its south. The Galle Face Green faces west and is the perfect place to watch the sun, as a huge golden orb, setting into the Indian Ocean.

It’s fun (and free) to stroll along the waterfront, as the citizens of Colombo do, enjoying the breeze, the camaraderie, the evening hawker snacks, and even buying a kite and having a go at flying it, as the sun sets.

2. Swim in the Indian Ocean

Head 60km south to the gorgeous beaches in the coves and bays along the west coast at Beruwala & Bentota and Hikkaduwa (98km)from October to April when the sea is invitingly calm.

From April to October, plunge into the Indian Ocean from the beaches along the East Coast, especially at Uppuveli just north of Trincomalee (257km from Colombo) or go south east to sport in the shallow waters at Passikudah (273km from Colombo).

3. Sample Sri Lanka’s rice & curry

Rice and curry is Sri Lankans’ staple and you’ll be offered it for lunch, dinner and even breakfast. It’s amazing what canbe served as a curry; not just meat or fish but vegetables,roots and even flowers too.

A good place to experiment is a hotel’s buffet which will usually have a rice and curry corner where you can sample the items you fancy. Once you have the taste for it, angle for an invitation to lunch at a village homestead where the curries will be rich in flavour and smoky from being cooked over a wood fire.

4. Stroll around the Galle Fort ramparts

Galle Fort (116km by road from Colombo) in the island’s southwest corner is the best preserved colonial sea fortress in the whole of Asia. It’s also a thriving residential community with 470 houses, ranging in style from Dutch colonial mansions with columns and deep stoeps to nifty, art deco town houses.

It’s Number 200 on UNESCO’s World Heritage List and there’s no fee to enter and stroll its cobbled streets, popping into the trendy gift shops and cafés, and mounting the ramparts to walk right around the top of the fort’s walls.

5. Tour a tea factory and drink fresh tea

Sri Lanka is the home of Pure Ceylon Tea and there are tea factories near Kandy and higher in the hill country that welcome visitors to see how tea is processed and to taste a cup near the garden where it was grown. In Colombo, sip serendipity in the tea house run by the Sri Lanka Tea Board in the restored Grand Stand of the old Colombo Race Course.

6. Visit the Temple of the Tooth

Not only is the journey to Kandy, 116km from Colombo by road, train or air taxi, spectacular and the former medieval kingdom city endlessly interesting, the visit to Kandy’s revered Tooth Temple (Sri Dalada Maligawa) becomes a unique spiritual experience.

The tooth, taken from the ashes after the cremation of Gauthama Buddha, is an object of veneration to Buddhists and of curiosity to visitors. You don’t actually see it, but can join locals in paying respects at the shrine.

7. Ride a hill country train from Nanu Oya to Bandarawela

One of the world’s great train trips. From Nanu Oya by train on the single broad gauge track that climbs to the rail summit at Pattipola 1,911m above sea level, and then wends its way through clouds with hill top views of rushing waterfalls and plunging valleys on a unique two hour journey to the hill sanatorium town of Bandarawela., 197km from Colombo.

8. Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Like a mushroom of golden-hued granite protruding 183m into the searing blue sky from a hot, flat wilderness of scrub land (transformed in the rainy season to a water garden) the Lion Rock at Sigiriya (168km from Colombo), is a formidable sight. Seeing the ruins of a palace built in the 5^th century (and awesome views) as well as ancient, voluptuous frescoes are a fitting reward for the climb.

9.  Experience Elephants

Elephants can be seen in National Parks, in the Dehiwela Zoo (10km south of Colombo) and thrillingly in the elephant orphanage at Pinnawela (on the way to Kandy) where visitors can watch elephants bathe and even help feed orphaned baby ones. Elephant riding in a howdah can be arranged at Habarana, 197km from Colombo near Sigiriya.

10.   Look for Leopards at Yala National Park

Leopards come out to play at Yala National Park (283km from Colombo) and, as well as elephants, sloth bears and crocodiles, can be seen during dawn or dusk jeep safaris of a few hours. Lots of chances to photograph wild life in the raw before enjoying a hearty breakfast or sundowner cocktails at your hotel. (The park is closed from 1 September to 16 October every year.)

Sri Lanka’s main attractions are accessible by train. If you consider the journey as an adventure, you’ll have fun enjoying the awesome scenery, and the people you meet.

There have been trains in Sri Lanka for 150 years, and some of the rolling stock is pretty old so don’t expect the efficient luxury of train travel in Europe, North America or Australia.

While steam engines were phased out several decades ago, some of the diesel locomotives and their rickety passenger carriages have been in service for more than 30 years. These run on the same lines as sleek, modern Chinese, Indian or Korean power sets, so you’ll need to do some research to catch the best.

Buying a ticket is simple. Turn up at the station at least 10 minutes before the train is scheduled to depart (or earlier so you can secure a seat if you’re boarding the train at its originating station), join the queue at the ticket office, buy a ticket, then wait patiently for the (often late) train to arrive.

It’s best to board the train at the nearest carriage, and then work your way along the aisle to find a vacant seat. If there is 2^nd class available, buy a ticket for that as it doesn’t cost much more than 3^rd class and the chance of getting a seat is better.

Some trains have seats bookable not more than 10 days in advance through Colombo Fort Railway Station. Privately run luxury, air-conditioned carriages with comfortable seats attached to some trains can be booked on line (www.rajadhani.lk & www.exporail.lk).

There is an efficient on-line railway timetable service run on www.gov.lk which gives train times and fares.

Here is our brief guide to Sri Lanka’s best train trips.

Colombo to Kandy

For a day trip, opt for the Intercity Express (ICE) that leaves Colombo Fort at 07.00 and rattles through lowland plains before climbing to reach the plateau crowning the former Kandyan kingdom at 09.30, a rail journey of 118km. The train leaves for the return trip at 15.00, arriving Colombo at 17.36.

There is also a morning ICE train leaving Kandy at 06.15 reaching Colombo at 08.52 and returning from Colombo at 15.35, reaching Kandy at 18.06. All the ICE trains have an observation saloon as well as a privately maintained, luxury air-conditioned carriage.

Colombo to Badulla

Real rail enthusiasts have a choice of traditional train travel or going to the hill country by the modern Chinese-built power sets that have air-conditioned 1^st class as well as 2^nd & 3^rd class compartments. These smart new trains leave Colombo at 05.55 and 09.45 daily to reach Badulla, a distance by rail of 290km (via Kandy), at 16.06 and 19.23 respectively.

A train with older carriages hauled by a diesel locomotive makes a departure daily from Colombo Fort at 08.30, by-passing Kandy to arrive at Badulla at 17.55. As well as an observation saloon, it also has 2^nd & 3^rd class carriages and air-conditioned luxury, privately maintained carriages. This train leaves Badulla daily at 08.30, reaching Colombo at 18.57.

The hill country rail journey is scenically impressive, with the most dramatic section of plunging valleys and misty mountains viewable as the train climbs to the track’s summit of 1,911m (6,266ft) above sea level at Pattipola (223 rail km from Colombo) on the journey from Nanu Oya to Haputale.

Colombo to Anuradhapura

The Northern Line is being extended to Jaffna and is popular for tourists visiting the ancient city of Anuradhapura. Scenically the journey is not as dramatic as a hill country trip as the train speeds across plains, but it delivers a fascinating insight into rural life.

Fast trains have an air-conditioned observation saloon while the 16.20 departure from Colombo Fort which arrives at Anuradhapura at 20.06 has a privately-operated luxury carriage. That train returns from Anuradhapura at 06.40 arriving Colombo Fort at 10.25.

Colombo to Trincomalee

At present only one train a day (and that’s overnight) runs between Colombo and the prominent East Coast port of Trincomalee, a journey of about 295km by rail. The journey begins as the train follows the Northern Line route to the interior town of Maho and then branches off through forests and plains to the East.

The train has a privately-operated luxury air-conditioned carriage on Thursday, Saturdays and Sundays, with a return from Trinco on Friday, Sunday and Tuesday. It leaves Colombo Fort at 21.00; arrives Trinco at 05.10; and from Trinco at 19.30, reaching Fort at 04.05.

Colombo via Galle to Matara

This is a super trip by rail since the line runs alongside the West Coast beaches from Colombo to Galle, and then along the South Coast to Matara. There are several trains a day but only one (the 06.55 departure from Colombo, arriving Galle at 09.26; returning as the 14.10 departure from Matara and departing 15.30 from Galle) has seats bookable in advance on-line in a private air-conditioned luxury rail car.

Using this train it’s possible to make a day trip of 62km by rail to Bentota (for the beach) or 116km to Galle (for the irresistible charm of the old walled Fort). It’s an easy and enjoyable trip, even though you’ll have to get up early.

In the 1867, the fortunes of British-governed Ceylon, as Sri Lanka was then known, were enhanced by the building of the first railway track to Kandy and the planting near Kandy that same year of the first field of tea.

Tea & Trains

Tea turned out to be the freight that made the railways profitable, while without the availability of rail transport to the Colombo harbour for its shipment overseas, Ceylon tea would never have reached the outside world.

This year, 2014, Sri Lanka Railways celebrates the 150^th anniversary of the country’s first scheduled train journey. This took place on a sunny day in October 1864, when the first train to make a scheduled journey in Sri Lanka steamed into Ambepussa station, 54km from Colombo. Three years later, in 1867, the railway line to Kandy officially opened.

The idea of building a railway was first mooted in 1845. Then a bullock cart averaged 12 days to make the tedious journey of 115km (72 miles) from Colombo to Kandy, climbing from sea level to 488m (1,602ft). Coffee planters wanted a railway to transport their crop but it was not until 1856 that an ordinance was passed for the construction of a railway line between Colombo and Kandy.

A Briton, W F Faviell, who had previously helped construct railways in India, was contracted by the government in 1863 to begin building the line. It was a difficult job and the 3,000 men constructing it were hampered by malaria and cholera, monsoon rains, floods and landslides as well as rocky, hilly and steep terrain.

Yakada Yaka

Once the track was laid, rail travel by train became very popular, with the puffing steam engines becoming known as yakada yakada. Although the words mean Iron Devil in Sinhala, they are also onomatopoeic, capturing the sound made by the engine as it gathered rhythm and rattled over the points: yakada…yakada.

The first engine to steam into Kandy was manufactured in England by R Stephenson & Co and went on to serve the Ceylon Government Railway (CGR) for 60 years. The passenger coaches were uncomfortable four wheeled carriages, the only luxuries being projecting sun shades, bonnet-type side ventilation, glass drop windows and a double roof with coconut oil lamps.

The railway opened 11 years after the first line in India and reached Kandy just 52 years after the once-unconquerable hill kingdom had fallen to the British. The rolling stock at the beginning consisted of 15 goods engines with 65 coaches and 200 goods wagons.

Scenic Journeys

With the opening up of the hill country by planters there was soon a demand for the railway to be extended to keep pace with the spread of tea. As a result, the line from Peradeniya was laid to Gampola by 1873 and, in 1885, to Nanu Oya (205 km from Colombo) for Nuwara Eliya.

It wasn’t until 1894 that the line was cut through the hills, rising to its highest point of 1,898m (6,226ft) above sea level just beyond Pattipola station, to Bandarawela (197km from Colombo). This section is still regarded as one of the world’s great scenic railway journeys as well as an amazing engineering achievement.

The railways spread northwards with spurs to Matale from Kandy in 1880 and another from Polgahawela to Kurunegala in 1894, reaching Anuradhapura (206km from Colombo) ten years later. A line was also laid southwards from Colombo 116km along the coast to Galle and on to Matara (160km). By the end of the 1920s, the total network consisted of 1,530km and the railway was making a profit. A decade later, as road transport improved, that profit had turned to a loss.

Steam Memories

A hundred years after its inauguration, the inventory of CGR had expanded to 225 steam engines and 120 diesel-powered locomotives and rail cars. Fifty years later there were only four steam locomotives remaining in operating condition. However, travel in a train hauled by a steam locomotive dating from the 1920s or 1940s is still possible by special charter of the Viceroy Special train on journeys to Galle and Kandy.

Relics of the early days of railways can be seen in the small Railway Museum, just a short walk eastwards along Olcott Mawatha from Colombo Fort railway station. (www.railwaymuseum.lk).The museum consists of a hall with some railway station furniture, including a Tyers Patent Train Tablet Apparatus over 100 years old, and a station platform called Colombo Terminus, and a couple of cute steam locos. Admission is free and the museum is open from 08.00hrs to 16.00hrs every day except public holidays and weekends.

Traveling undoubtedly is one of the most exiting experiences in life. Be it with family, friends, or by yourself, traveling and exploring new destinations can awaken one’s mind, body, and soul. While a solo vacation could be the perfect escape from the daily hustle and bustle, it could also be the best gift one could give oneself to rejuvenate, refresh and restart. Today, solo travelers have become a key emerging group in the travel industry. Maldives, a destination known for its romantic backdrop and homely atmosphere has always been one of the most preferred destinations among honeymooners, couples, as well as families. With the popularity of travelling solo well on the rise, this tropical paradise has gained the attraction of solo travelers as one of the safest and most convenient tropical wonderlands with wholesome immersive experiences.

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, 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.

Trinco is the land of the rising sun, with graphic sunrises, golden beaches and an altogether slower pace of life. Coming here forces you to relax, unwind and rejuvenate. But there are other things about this harbor town, things that you ought to know if you’re planning on heading to Sri Lanka’s beautiful North East coastline.

1. The World War II Memorial Cemetery

You might miss it if you aren’t looking for it, but somewhere between Trinco town and Nilaveli beach sits this magnificent green lawn, strewn with gravestones of many brave men, of different nationalities who fought and fell in the Second World War. Falling under the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, this place in Trincomalee is one of 11 burial grounds strewn across the island and each with a similarity in terms of landscaping, headstone structure, layout and a significant cross that looms over each cemetery, known as the Cross of Sacrifice.

2. Sperm Whales & Spinner Dolphins

Scuba diving adventures and boat trips are a must when you’re in Trincomalee. Why? Because since of late, Trinco’s deep blue becomes the migratory home of one of the biggest pods of sperm whales in the world. Add to that the spectacular marine life including spinner dolphins and a vibrant shore reef and the world underwater might seem even better than the breathtaking sunrise.

3. Spotted Deer at Fort Fredrick

Trincomalee is home to the age old Fort Fredrick; built by the Portugese, reconstructed by the Dutch, claimed by the British and currently occupied by the Sri Lankan military – and a small herd of spotted deer! It is said that a couple of spotted deer were shipped here by the British as pets for their militia stationed here. Since the fort is opened to the public however, the incorrect disposal of waste and feeding the deer have caused the herd to get sick. If you are visiting the Fort, remember not to feed the animals and merely observe them from a distance.

4. Early Chinese Settlers

Something that’s not often known about Trinco is that it was once home to Chinese settlers brought here by the Dutch and Portugese during their colonial rule of the region. They were brought via the Trincomalee harbor into the island on the pretext of working on cinnamon plantations here. China Bay that sits a short drive away from Trincomalee town is thus named for those who stayed with the island long after the colonials left, having been away for too many generation with nowhere else but Ceylon to call home. Walk through the narrow streets of Trinco town and you just might find a family run Chinese restaurant serving the most authentic Chinese food in the region.

5. Multi-Ethnic Community

The many comings and goings, and the original settlements here combine to make Trincomalee a cornucopia of ethnic delights. Despite hundreds of years of occupation and a 30 year war, Trinco’s many faiths and cultures thrive here. On some days the church bells, temple chants, the Islamic call to prayer and kovil sounds emanate simultaneously in a glorious spiritual cacophony that could rival most other countries in the world. Trinco is a shining example of how people from different walks of life can live in harmony.

Photo Credits: Wikiepedia, Lucy Calder

If you’re ever left wondering for ‘things to do Sri Lanka during a long weekend?’: we’ve got you covered right here. There’s so much to do in Sri Lanka, and so much to see, we promise all your experiences will be made a tad bit better with Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts! Book your long weekend stay with us now and avoid disappointments. You can plan ahead and we will ensure your stay is just as you had wished, hoped and planned for!

Here are some experiences not to be missed;

1. Elephant and Leopard encounters; the wild side!

A rich and diverse collection of mammals have found their homes in Sri Lanka including the elusive Leopard and the majestic Elephant. Being one of the finest wildlife watching countries in South Asia, a wild life tour in Sri Lanka is guaranteed to give you a heart-warming and jaw-dropping experience of close encounters with Elephants and Leopards. Enjoy it in comfort by staying with us at Cinnamon Wild Yala.

2. Fun under the sun; its beach time!

Want to make your friends and family ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ at the wonders of your travels in Sri Lanka? Make sure you post that Insta-worthy picture of you swinging over the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka on a palm-tree swing. Swing over the ocean and capture that effortlessly picturesque moments on camera! Stay with us at any of our beach locations such as Cinnamon Bey Beruwala, Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon, Trinco Blu by Cinnamon and Cinnamon Bentota Beach.

3. Visiting the Sigiriya Rock Fortress; a Rock-star!

The Rock Fortress in Sigiriya said to be built by King Kashyapa is considered to be the 8th wonder of the world. It is also one of the most valuable historic monuments in the Island and the hike is definitely worth the view at its peak. Sigiriya is one of the most visited sites in Sri Lanka and it’s no surprise why! The climb, the view and everything in-between makes for the perfect Sri Lankan experience. Stay with us at Cinnamon Lodge Habarana or Habarana Village by Cinnamon to add that special flavour to your Sigiriya getaway!

4. Treat yourself to some water sports; let the adrenaline flow!

Whilst Sri Lanka provides a perfectly relaxing getaway, it is also the place to be for all the thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies out there! The water sports in the coastal areas of Sri Lanka are a must try and you can do so to your hearts content while you stay at Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon, Cinnamon Bey Beruwala or the Cinnamon Bentota Beach. There is no better place to head out to sea and observe majestic creatures like the Whales in their own habitat than in Mirissa. Journey into the deep seas and experience the vivacity of Sri Lanka’s marine life. Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon offers the best and definitely the most comfortable Marine Mammal Safari’s out there giving you the 5-star treatment you deserve.

5. Experience the Hikkaduwa Nightlife; let’s party!

The vibrant party atmosphere of Hikkaduwa attracts all the thrill-seekers and party animals to Hikkaduwa. With its perfectly relaxing atmosphere, ocean waves in the background and the sandy beach beneath, the party never stops! Dance until your legs are sore and experience the nightlife in Hikkaduwa at its best!

6. Getaway to the city; a sweet escape!

It is no wonder that a cup (or two, or many?) of the famous Ceylon Tea is a must try in Sri Lanka. So treat yourself to some of the best local teas, scrumptious tea-time savouries and some mouth-watering sweets at the Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo or Cinnamon Grand Colombo. Eat your cares away and wash away your weariness with a comforting cup of tea with us during the long weekend. Here in Sri Lanka, there’s nothing a cup of tea cannot fix!

See you soon for a long weekend getaway like no other. has you covered with a plethora of experiences and hotels to choose from!

If you’ve missed out on all the action at the Cinnamon Travel Blogger Awards 2016, here’s the full list of Bronze, Silver and Gold ‘Award Winners’.

Find out more information on the Cinnamon Travel Blogger Awards 2016 and the independent judging panel with just a click.

Follow the #TBCasia on Instagram and Twitter!

The Travel Bloggers Conference Asia- more commonly known as CinnamonTBCasia, was initiated and conceptualized by Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in collaboration with the Professional Travel Bloggers Association(PTBA).

In 2014 and 2016, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts together with Sri LankanAirlines organized Asia’s first ever Travel Blogger Conference in Colombo Sri Lanka.

TBCAsia 2016 is on the lookout for thought leaders, trend watchers, travel innovators and other experts in the world of travel to contribute their knowledge as a speaker at the Cinnamon Travel Bloggers Conference in June 2016, happen on the paradise island of Sri Lanka. If you have an inspiring story to share with some of the region’s top travel writers and industry experts, then we’d love to hear from you.

ABOUT CINNAMON TBCASIA 2016 

TBC Asia has been dubbed the event of a lifetime for travel bloggers and industry leaders alike as Cinnamon Hotels in partnership with the Professional Travel Bloggers Association and SriLankan Airlines deliver a one-of-a-kind itinerary combining experience with learning opportunities at every turn. It is also a platform to share ideas and create new ways in which to engage with travellers the world over, enticing them with the best that exotic Asia has to offer. Initiated in 2014, the conference will be coupled with the first ever Cinnamon Travel Blogger Awards in 2016.

WHO WILL ATTEND THE CONFERENCE?

60 of the Top Travel Bloggers from across the region will be in attendance at the conference; 30 of who are also recipients of Cinnamon Travel Blogger Awards. The audience will total 250 that will also include key tourism industry stakeholders in Sri Lanka.

WHAT ARE THE DATES & FORMAT OF THE CONFERENCE?

A pre-conference tour will begin on the 2^nd of June 2016 until 6^th of June. This will be followed by an all-day conference on the 7^th of June, followed by a gala dinner and the Cinnamon Travel Blogger Awards 2016.

The conference is structured to involve two parallel programmes; one for travel bloggers and one for industry leaders.

WHAT’S THE BIG IDEA?

As an industry, we want to encourage more people to travel – and the best way to that is to inspire them. This is why the core theme of the 2016 conference is “Inspiring Stories” – something to keep in mind when developing ideas for your talk.

YOUR ROLE & CONTRIBUTION

Should you be selected as a speaker for TBCAsia 2016, our requirements from you are as follows:

• Send us an email no later than 30^th March 2016 with the topics or ideas you propose to speak on along with any video links of previous talks, if available
• An inspiring 35 to 40 minute presentation on a topic of your expertise in relation to the conference’s main theme of ‘Inspiring Stories’
• Arrive in Sri Lanka no later than 6^th June 2016
• Be present at the speaker briefing to be held on the evening of 6^th June
• You may also be requested to participate in a panel discussion in addition to your own talk

WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU: 

• Return flights from any destination in Europe and Asia that SriLankan Airlines flies to and from
• A 5 day Pre-Conference tour of Sri Lanka, with 4 itineraries that you can choose from
• Full board accommodation, all domestic transport and excursions will on the house.
  Full Board accommodation for 2 nights in Colombo on the day and day prior to the conference
• Airport transfers.

CONTACT US:

Please email us with any further clarifications. You may have or to send us your speaker proposal for consideration –

Mevan Peiris
Assistant Manager,
Events & Social Media – Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts
Email: mevan@cinnamonhotels.com
Mobile: +94 77 815 6746

Dileep Mudadeniya
Head of Brand Marketing – Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts
Email: dileep@cinnamonhotels.com
Mobile: +94 71 534 4744

DOWNLOAD SPEAKER BRIEF

For more details on speaking at TBCAsia, please download our speaker pack here.

HURRY – A FEW SLOTS LEFT!

We have just a handful of hosted slots remaining for the conference so hurry and email us with your details!