The sound of low continuous chanting drifted into earshot from a nearby Buddhist temple rousing me from sleep at some time close to 5am, and in turn, enveloping the valley below. Since I’d left the blinds open in my bedroom, as I always do when I’m away, I was immediately struck by the pre-sunrise light, a moody […]

Browns Hotels & Resorts has redefined luxury wellness tourism with the unveiling of the stunning Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. The grand opening on June 6th marked a pivotal moment in Sri Lanka’s wellness tourism scene. Situated amidst 54 acres of pristine natural beauty, Ayugiri boasts 22 exclusive suites and is the country’s only luxury […]

By Ama H. Vanniarachchy Twenty-three centuries ago, a bhikkhu from the Mauryan Empire visited Sri Lanka and met the King of the island; this fateful encounter changed the fate of this little island. He, known as Arhat Mahinda, was the son of the Mauryan Emperor Asoka the Great. Arhat Mahinda taught the teachings of the The post The Mihindu influence appeared first on Ceylon Today.

By Ama H. Vanniarachchy ‘Salvator Mundi’ was once thought to be lost forever. The painting vanished from 1763 until 1900 when it was purchased by Sir Charles Robinson, who believed it was by Bernardino Luini, a follower of Leonardo da Vinci. It resurfaced at a Sotheby’s auction in England in 1958, selling for 45 pounds (around The post An enigmatic masterpiece appeared first on Ceylon Today.

By Ama H. Vanniarachchy Anuradhapura developed into a fortified city over the centuries, starting from the 9th century BC as a small village, known as Anuradhagrama. It became the capital city of Sri Lanka in the 5th century BCE and lasted till the 11th century CE, becoming home to more than 100 kings and queens. The post Anuradhapura: The city of Anuradha (Part XVIII) appeared first on Ceylon Today.

SriLankan Airlines recently organised the first-ever group of veteran journalists from top Nepali media outlets for a familiarisation tour of Sri Lanka, aiming to boost inbound tourism from Nepal. It offered the journalists a kaleidoscope of experiences, giving them an opportunity to immerse themselves in the island’s rich cultural traditions and scenic landscapes, and engage […]

Someday, when I return to Sri Lanka, I know exactly what I will do. I will sit on the ramparts of Galle Fort and watch Sri Lanka play India (if not, Australia will do). There will be a hat on my head, a hot dog and a cold shake in my hand, while the boys will chug their […]

By Ama H. Vanniarachchy Seruwawila, also known as Seruwila, is a significant historical and archaeological site located in the Trincomalee District of Sri Lanka. This site, primarily renowned for the Seruwawila Mangala Raja Maha Vihara, is deeply embedded in the cultural and religious history of Sri Lanka and offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s The post Revelation via excavation (Part I) appeared first on Ceylon Today.

By Ama H. Vanniarachchy Milk rice has an ancient history in Sri Lanka. According to the Thupavamsa and the Mahavamsa King Dutugamunu (161 – 137 BC) had offered milk rice to the monks on many occasions for many years. The milk rice he made was referred to as Diyanumusu Kiribath, which means milk rice made The post The auspicious rice (Part VI) appeared first on Ceylon Today.

Renowned marine biologist Dr. Asha de Vos joins the UN Secretary General’s Scientific Advisory Board as one of seven external members, becoming the first Sri Lankan to be appointed. “As the first Sri Lankan to EVER sit on this board, I marvel at how the Secretary General’s team scoured the planet and found me,” she […]

Translating to “Blue Water Pond,” Nil Diya Pokuna lies in Ella, Sri Lanka is an extremely off beaten gem. Unlike many natural attractions that bask in the glory of sunlight, Nil Diya Pokuna hides its beauty beneath the earth. This subterranean pond, filled with crystal-clear blue water, is accessible only through a narrow, winding cave. […]

By Ama H. Vanniarachchy The Anuradhapura Kingdom was enjoying a time of splendour and prosperity under the rule of King Dutugamunu (161 – 137 BC) after he united the country under one rule. He defeated the usurper Elara and brought Rajarata under his rule. Known as a great Buddhist king, Dutugamunu is the creator of The post Anuradhapura: The city of Anuradha (Part XV) appeared first on Ceylon Today.