The ‘Cinnamon Rainforest Restoration Project’ in collaboration with Ruk Rakaganno (The Tree Society of Sri Lanka), Forest Department-Sri Lanka, and John Keells Foundation aims to restore a deteriorated 50-acre plot over a period of three years after which nature will take over the regeneration process.

Here are 5 facts about the Cinnamon Rainforest Restoration Project:

1. Restoring and reforesting this 50-acre site will further enrich the ecological significance of the region which also consists of numerous waterfalls and places of cultural and religious significance. Restoring and reforesting this 50-acre site will further enrich the ecological significance of the region which also consists of numerous waterfalls and places of cultural and religious significance.

2. The rate of loss of green cover during the past 50 years is unprecedented in human history and World Environment Day is one of the largest movements for the environment. This year’s theme,“Only One Earth”, which was also its motto for its 1972 conference, reflects the need to live sustainably in harmony with nature.

3. Likewise, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is propagating a shift towards a greener lifestyle through policies and individual choices. The Cinnamon Rain Forest Restoration Project provides a role model for working with nature rather than against it.The 50-acre site is situated in the Ratnapura District, at a proximity of 3.5 kilometers from the biodiversity hotspot and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, one of the few virgin forests left in the world.

4. Interested guests from Cinnamon properties will be escorted by a trained naturalist guide to the site while encouraging them to adopt some trees. In time to come, the project also anticipates attracting environment lovers and students.

5. Natural systems are vital for our future. Nature not only provides us with food, water, clean air but it is also one of our strongest allies against the climate crisis. This World Environment Day, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts reflected on this initiative and placed a spotlight on this cause.

It is truly an honour for this little paradise island to have been identified as one of the Best safari destinations in the world. With the abundance of wildlife that Sri Lanka is home to, it is no doubt that some of the best safari experiences in the world can be found here. What makes it even better is the hospitality and comfort offered by Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts while you’re mesmerized.

Sri Lanka boasts some of the highest rates of biological endemism in the world – meaning that 16% of its fauna and 23% of its flora are unique to the country. It has an abundance of bird-life – more than 400 species – and has its very own ‘big five’: elephants, leopards, sloth bears, blue whales and sperm whales. It is also one of the few places where people can combine whale watching with land safari in the same day.

There are 26 state-owned national parks covering an area of 5,734sqkm (2,214sqmi), much of which is protected by the Sri Lankan Department of Wildlife Conservation.

Here are two of the best safaris in Sri Lanka. You can lounge and dine and in comfort with us at Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts while you visit the following Sri Lanka safari parks;

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is one of the most famous safari parks in the island right now covering an area of 378 square miles. Both locals and foreigners have been mesmerized by the breathtaking leopard-spottings in Yala. You can spot these while you’re at Yala; Sloth bear, Leopards, Sri Lankan Elephants and Wild Water Buffalo.

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 and we will curate you’re your Yala safari Sri Lanka, just as you desire.

Minneriya National Park

If you’re in love with the majestic creatures that Sri Lanka homes, do visit the Minneriya National Park to witness hundreds of Elephants roam and graze in their natural habitat. Safari through the grassland and along the lakes and be astonished by one of the worlds’ largest wild Asian elephant gatherings.

Minneriya is located 190 km away from Colombo which is approximately a 5.5-hour drive from Colombo. You can also book your stay at Cinnamon Lodge Habarana or Habarana Village by Cinnamon where our in-house naturalists will do the needful for a perfect safari.

Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts has much to boast about with its plush and comfortable living spaces, luxurious room, delectable and wide array of food, top notch service and much more.

The Elephant Gathering in Minneriya is a spectacle of nature. Elephants gather in groups called ‘female herds’ and over twenty herds gather to the banks of Minneriya Tank. More than three hundred wild pachyderms from Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks gather around this man-made reservoir to feed on the fresh grass, drink and bathe from the cool waters, socialize with each other making this an iconic experience for any onlooker. The interactions between the calves, males and individual elephants are nothing short of interesting. They gently wade into the water, splash the young ones, play and roam freely; a large family affair; a once in a lifetime opportunity for onlookers.

Alongside these gentle giants are other animals of the National Park adding colour and vivacity of the event. An occasional spotted deer, a few jackals and a plethora of wetland birds such as Pelicans, Painted Storks and Black Headed Ibis can be seen amidst the crowds of playful elephants. The Gathering is an undisturbed and unforced sequence of events creating an exquisite illustration of nature at its finest and purest state.

Vimukthi Weerathunge is a Wildlife Biologist and a part of the Cinnamon Nature Trails team who has been a keen observer of this curious phenomenon. He calls this event of nature as harmonious as violence among the hundreds of elephants is non-existent. He points out how the Gathering shows the world the soft and gentle nature of the rough-skinned mammals often misguided to be aggressive. As per his experience, this phenomenon sheds better light on the persistent elephant-human conflict in Sri Lanka.

Vimukthi speaks on behalf of the giants. He states that witnessing the Gathering is peaceful, as the creatures participating in it unless their territory is violated or they detect a threat to their safety. “In order of evolution, these giants have been walking earth millions of years before us, making humans intrusive visitors in their home. Respecting their space and the laws of nature becomes our responsibility as species with advanced minds and the Minneriya Elephant Gathering is a reminder of it.” He adds on.

Vimukthi further speaks on the significance of this event. The land of the reservoir witnesses the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the world, ranking it the 6th animal spectacle on earth by Lonely Planet. He explains that every year from mid-June to mid-October the Minneriya and Kaudulla National Park becomes the location of a world-renowned wild-life miracle. Cinnamon Lodge Habarana ideally located in the close vicinity of the parks is a luxury resort built in harmony with nature, for those who find solace in epic greenery and wonders such as the Gathering. Safari rides to the National Park to witness the epic event are phenomenal, as it is curated in a manner where the best times and locations that offers the finest vantage point to witness this. Vimukthi and his team believes in co-existence with nature, so all activities here are scientifically designed with respect to preserve the homes of the animals, especially, elephants.

When nature collides with the epitome of hospitality and warmth, it is the holiday of a lifetime. If your next getaway is in search of serenity and peace only nature can offer, Cinnamon Lodge Habarana awaits your visit. Witness one of the greatest performances of nature while indulging in the luxury of Cinnamon Resorts. Learn the stories of nature, and let them offer you solace you are in search for. Indulge in the luxury of unsubdued nature. After all, that’s what the best holidays are made of, isn’t it?

Cinnamon Holidays together with HSBC Premier will bring together the biggest Wildlife show yet, presented by Chris Packham and Paul Goldstein on the 2^nd of April 2016 at the Stables at Park Street Mews. This event is part of their official tour to Sri Lanka with Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts which is bound to be a visual treat on Big Animals across the globes most enchanting wildlife theaters.

BBC presenter, author, wildlife evangelist and conservationist Chris Packham and the award-winning photographer, presenter and legendary wildlife guide Paul Goldstein will be dazzling Colombo with a one-off spectacular evening of wildlife anecdotes and lavish images. Friends and sparring partners, these two have worked together all over the world and both are at the top of their games. Packham’s pedigree in television is second to none and is often said to be ‘Attenborough in waiting.’

Goldstein on the other hand is one of the most sought-after wildlife guides in the world and a passionate conservationist promoting sustainable tourism. They both take extraordinary pictures and are brilliant raconteurs. Neither is afraid of making enemies and are massively driven to achieve change in the way we consider animals which makes this an extra ordinary presentation for wildlife enthusiast.

Cinnamon Holidays curates holiday experiences to celebrate the natural world, admiring traditions and heritage, diversity of people and places while treading lightly among the magical spaces on earth. ‘Wildlife Exposed’ will be the launch of the luxurious African safari guided by Chitral Jayatilake, specially designed to coincide with the great migration with many more tailor made holiday extensions.

“Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will have yet another opportunity to engage with two world class nature photographers and presenters at a special talk show which is probably the biggest wildlife event held to date in Sri Lanka.” –  Head of Wildlife Tourism arm at Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts hosted Lord of the Rings star Dominic Monaghan(Merry) who visited Sri Lanka last year. 

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts together with their eco-tourism arm Nature Trails brought yet another celebrity to Sri Lanka to explore and present Sri Lanka’s natural world to the world by facilitating a feature on Sri Lanka’s nature and biodiversity on the high profile ‘Wild Things with Dominic Monaghan’ show.

Well known for his character as Merry the Hobbit in the famous movie ‘Lord of the Rings’, the actor and wildlife enthusiast Dominic Monaghan’s  show features on Travel Channel and is one of the most watched wildlife television shows around the world. Sri Lanka will be featured on the 6^th episode of the all new third season.

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts has yet again sustained its commitment to putting Sri Lankan on the global tourist map by bringing down yet another celebrity to Sri Lanka who will popularize Sri Lanka’s flora and fauna through his wildlife show. During his stay in Sri Lanka, the celebrity experienced signature Cinnamon hospitality at Sri Lanka’s biodiversity hotspots.

Dominic Monaghan explores some of the most remote corners of far-flung countries across the globe such as Brazil, Zambia, Thailand, Japan, New Zealand and Australia, in search of dangerous and elusive creatures of the planet. In Sri Lanka, the celebrity came in search of the Spectacled Cobra, while also focusing on other creatures such as the Russell’s Viper, Indian Rock Python and the Giant Scorpion.

Nature Trails had chalked up an exciting itinerary for Monaghan which included stilt fishing and a visit to the turtle hatchery, Kandy, Sigiriya and the Hyare and Udawathtakale forest reserves. He also spent time on a farm in Habarana and experienced how local farmers tend to their crops. His highly rated wildlife show ‘Wild Things with Dominic Monaghan’ takes the viewer deep into the country the episode is shot in, offering insights into the flora, fauna and biodiversity of the land.

Cinnamon has kept up a steady momentum of creating significant value for Sri Lanka, and Dominic’s shoot in Sri Lanka is yet another landmark event for Cinnamon.

Let’s first get the curiosity of the name out of the way. Yes, the island did derive its name because of a pigeon population residing happily there. These pigeons are similar to the feral pigeon and are called rock pigeons; it is a rocky island after all.

In addition to being the home to these wild bird Pigeon Island is also a marine national park. It is best known for diving (Ahoy all you snorkelers out there!) and is not far from the shore of Trincomalee, with only a 20 minute journey from Chaaya Blu Trincomalee.

It also has a healthy coral reef. A word of importance through, if you are going on a snorkelling or scuba diving expedition DO NOT stand on the coral reef since it will destroy them. The island also has a healthy marine population with marine eels and fish of vibrant colours.

Here’s 4 interesting facts about Pigeon Islands that you should know!

1. Pigeon Islands is one of two only marine national parks in Sri Lanka which contains some of the best coral reefs in the island. The other is in Hikkaduwa on the Southern Coastal belt.

2. It was used as a shooting range during the colonial era

3. It is home to over 100 species of corals and 300 types of coral reef fishes

4. The Black Tip Reef Shark is popular siting around the island’s rich marine life along with the many colourful coral fish species and turtles around.

Important Information:

• Opening Hours – 7am – 5.30pm
• Entrance Fees – $15 Approximately

• Cinnamon Nature Trails offers an accompanying naturalist, snorkelling gear and boat ride from Chaaya Blu Trincomalee for $40 per person (2-3pax) and $30 per person (4-5pax).
  *This excludes entrance fees mentioned above.

They’ve almost completely surrounded us now. There are four behind us, five to the left and one 12 foot tall mammoth to the right. Foot by foot they converge on our jeep. Their deep growls reverberate into my chest. Their prehistoric trumpets pierce my ears. They stare at us with unwavering blood red eyes. In them I see myself. I see panic. I see an animal ready to take flight for its life.

Suddenly the engine roars. But as the jeep thrusts forward, the heard begins to charge.

The driver instantly slams on the break and we glide to a muddy stop. The heard pauses, their eyes determined, their stance aggressive.

I can sense the drivers fear now. He yells towards the big one, half demanding and half pleading for it to stop it’s advance.

But the standoff continues. Seconds seem like minutes. I consider my possibilities. I could run towards the lake. I might not make it but it might buy some time for my fellow travel bloggers to escape.

I can’t take it anymore.

Yala, yala, drive! I scream like an angry Egyptian cab driver, looking ahead towards our only escape.
The driver hits the gas. For precious seconds the tires spin helplessly in the mud. Suddenly the jeep catapults us forwards.  And then by some divine hand, the elephants are held back. The jeep races to safety. We escape, but our racing hearts are still trapped within the elephants crosshairs.

I’ve felt threatened by animals before, by alligators in Australia and crazy monkeys in India. But I’ve never experienced the kind of primitive fear that a heard of angry wild elephants can invoke. It was terrifying yet awe inspiring, and it provoked a renewed respect for the natural world and these incredible mammals. I have never felt more alive and more grateful to be alive. If you’re looking to roam among wild elephants, Sri Lanka’s Kaudulla National Park is where it’s at.

This awesome elephant encounter is thanks to Travel Blog Conference Asia 2014. It’s a 5 day conference/tour with 50 other travel bloggers hosted by the PTBA, Sri Lankan Airlines, Cinnamon Hotels & Sri Lanka’s only domestic airline, Cinnamon Air. It’s the first time I’ve ever taken a tour or traveled with a group and I love it more than my beloved sugar cane juice.

Lefi Harum – TheRunawayGuide

Leif Harum 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.

Award winning Photographer Jon McCormack spent the weekend in Yala with the Cinnamon Nature Trails team.

Chitral Jayatileke who heads Cinnamon Nature Trails said that the team had a very good trip with Jon where they had been lucky enough to have 11 leopard sightings in a single weekend!

Chitral – “I was delighted to be introduced to Jon McCormack by National Geographic photographer Ami Vital.Jon with his IT expertise has spent much time in exotic areas rich with wildlife around the world and his passion to photograph leopards brought him to Sri Lanka.

My time with Jon was an extraordinary experience,  as Jon was more than a great wildlife photographer. His keen interest on Community assistance while being the co-founder of the “Kilgoris” project in  Kenya made us connect with ‘Project Leopard’ spearheaded by Cinnamon Nature Trails based at the Cinnamon Wild Hotel.

One of the highlights of my work is the luxury I have to spend time in the natural world with like-minded people and this weekend ranked among the best game drives at Yala studded with 11 leopard sightings to remember.”

Jon also posted about the trip on his blog www.jonmccormack.com and was kind enough to give us permission to use it on Cinnamon U as well.

Thank you Jon!

The Leopards of Yala

by Jon McCormack

“Block 1” of Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park has more leopards than any other place in the world. Over 60 leopards inhabit a mere 40 square miles – about 1 ½ cats per square mile. This amazing density comes from a perfect combination of habitat, water and prey. Since there are no other big cats in Sri Lanka the leopards get to hunt the abundant wild boar and deer by themselves. The hunting is easy because much of Yala is dense bush, a habitat that these stealthy cats love. Finally, there is an abundant water supply for both leopards and their prey. Interestingly, much if this water collects in irrigation ponds built by the inhabitants of the kingdom of Ruhuna before they moved on 1200 years ago.

This “leopard nirvana” is also a wildlife photographer’s paradise. I spent the weekend with the extraordinarily talented Chitral Jayatilake of Cinnamon Nature Trails and the leopard sightings we had were beyond belief. Well, to me they were beyond belief … I overheard Chitral on the phone telling a friend that the sightings were “OK, but nothing spectacular”. I guess it all depends on your perspective. In 15 years of traveling to Africa I’ve only seen 7 leopards – 3 of which were close enough to photograph. In one weekend in Yala I had 11 leopard sightings – 6 of which were photograph-able. If you love wildlife, Yala needs to go on your list.

Chitral also works with local farmers to help them manage the interaction between cats and cattle. Yala has so much game that leopards generally wont attack fully grown cattle, but they will attack calves. Cinnamon Nature Trail’s “Project Leopard” provides protective cages to farmers so they can protect calves during the danger period.

If you decide to go to Yala, I’d recommend staying at Cinnamon Wild. The accommodations are lovely and the naturalists are world class (don’t just take this from me, the BBC’s Natural History Unit uses them when they’re in town!)

A BRIEF (AND SAD) ELEPHANT MOMENT

As inspiring as the story of Sri Lanka’s leopards is, Sri Lanka’s elephant population fills me with despair. Normally 80% of make elephants have tusks. Startlingly only 6% or male elephants in Sri Lanka have tusks. This anomaly comes from elephant hunting. Tusks are genetic and during the 150 years of British rule so many tusked elephants were shot that the gene pool was catastrophically altered. Epically sad.