L-R: Tan Chwee Lan, Katherine Chan, Lim Min Heng, Lim Ka Tin, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Ching Neng Bin, Gan Choi Geok, Song Poh. Picture taken at the airport in conjunction with the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011 held in Sri Lanka.
Day 1 (17.03.2011) KL to Colombo and Sigiriya
“Ayubowan” greetings from Sri Lanka. Eight of us on AirAsia flight AK255 arrived at Bandaranayke International Airport at 7.15am and was picked up by our driver Mr. Jaga with a 10 seat Nissan van which we have earlier booked for the 8 days trip at US125 per pax. This company is “destination srilanka tailormade Sri Lankan tours” managed by Mr Nimal de Silva http://dsltours.com/
After breakfast at a tea-shop outside the city, we drove 68.4km (2.5 hours) to the Dambulla Cave Temple. Entrance fee is Rp1200 or RM32 per pax. Dambulla Rock Temple was built by king Walagambahu in the 1st century B.C. and it is a World Heritage Site. It is the most impressive of Sri Lanka's cave temples. The complex of five caves with over 2000 sq. metres of painted walls and ceilings is the largest area of paintings found in the world. It contains over 150 images of the Buddha of which the largest is the colossal figure of the Buddha carved out of rock and spanning 15 metres.
After lunch in Dambulla town we proceed 10km to Sigiriya and climbed the 5th century Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the sky also known as 'Lion Rock' which is a world heritage site, built by King Kashyapa (477-495 AD). Entrance is Rp3330 or RM88 pp.
Stayed in Prince Inn, Sigiriya at Rp3300 or RM86 a room for 2 with breakfast.
“Ayubowan” greetings from Sri Lanka. Eight of us on AirAsia flight AK255 arrived at Bandaranayke International Airport at 7.15am and was picked up by our driver Mr. Jaga with a 10 seat Nissan van which we have earlier booked for the 8 days trip at US125 per pax. This company is “destination srilanka tailormade Sri Lankan tours” managed by Mr Nimal de Silva http://dsltours.com/
After breakfast at a tea-shop outside the city, we drove 68.4km (2.5 hours) to the Dambulla Cave Temple. Entrance fee is Rp1200 or RM32 per pax. Dambulla Rock Temple was built by king Walagambahu in the 1st century B.C. and it is a World Heritage Site. It is the most impressive of Sri Lanka's cave temples. The complex of five caves with over 2000 sq. metres of painted walls and ceilings is the largest area of paintings found in the world. It contains over 150 images of the Buddha of which the largest is the colossal figure of the Buddha carved out of rock and spanning 15 metres.
After lunch in Dambulla town we proceed 10km to Sigiriya and climbed the 5th century Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the sky also known as 'Lion Rock' which is a world heritage site, built by King Kashyapa (477-495 AD). Entrance is Rp3330 or RM88 pp.
Stayed in Prince Inn, Sigiriya at Rp3300 or RM86 a room for 2 with breakfast.
Dr. Sonali Nawanage from Sri Lanka working in University Hospital, KL. Ching Neng Bin met her in the plane as she is back to visit her parents.
Eight of us on AirAsia flight AK255 arrived at Bandaranayke International Airport at 7.15am and was picked up by our driver Mr. Jaga with a 10 seat Nissan van which we have earlier booked for the 8 days trip at US125 per pax.
Our first breakfast in Sri Lanka with hot tea in a shop on the road to Dambulla Cave Temple.
Fantastic string-hoppers for breakfast. A soft dough is made by mixing together rice flour and water, which is placed into a string hopper press and squeezed onto mats to make the noodle-like string hoppers.
Look at this giant size roti pratha for breakfast. Roti chenai also known as roti pratha is an Indian-influenced flatbread dish found in several countries in Southeast Asia.
Indian dhal curry is mild in spiciness yet rich in flavor can be served with rice and is loved by kids and adults alike.
Golden Stupa in front of Golden Temple of Dambulla.
The Golden Temple with giant golden Buddha statue guarding the flight of stairs leading to the Dambulla Cave Temple.
Lim Min Heng and Ching Neng Bin walking up the steps to the Dambulla Cave Temple. It took around 14 minutes to climb to the top. Punctured by pauses for photos, water, and to watch a group of cheeky monkeys running all over.
Giant Buddha image on the steps to the Dambulla Cave Temple.
Another view of Buddha statue of Golden Temple on the steps to the Dambulla Cave Temple.
The white face male monkey loitering around on the steps to the Dambulla Cave Temple.
The red face female monkey loitering around on the steps to the Dambulla Cave Temple.
Ching Neng Bin, Gan Choi Geok, Katherine Chan, Lim Ka Tin, Lim Min Heng, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Song Poh, Tan Chwee Lan on the steps to the Dambulla Cave Temple.
Song Poh and Ching Neng Bin at the viewpoint on the steps to the Dambulla Cave Temple.
Ching Neng Bin at the huge rock outcrop that house the Dambulla Cave Temple. Entrance fee is Rp1200 or RM32 per pax. Dambulla Rock Temple was built by king Walagambahu in the 1st century B.C. and it is a World Heritage Site. It is the most impressive of Sri Lanka's cave temples.
The huge exterior views of the Dambulla Cave Temple. The complex of five caves with over 2000 sq. metres of painted walls and ceilings is the largest area of paintings found in the world. It contains over 150 images of the Buddha of which the largest is the colossal figure of the Buddha carved out of rock and spanning 15 metres.
The bell at the veranda of the Dambulla Cave Temple.
One of the three 15m long reclining Buddha in the Dambulla Cave Temple.
One of the three 15m long reclining Buddha in the Dambulla Cave Temple.
Buddha images in the Dambulla Cave Temple.
Buddha images in the Dambulla Cave Temple.
Buddha images in the Dambulla Cave Temple. Almost every surface of the caves are painted with striking patterns and Buddhist murals in shades of red, yellow and white, many related to Gautama Buddha and his life.
The vividly coloured frescoes on the walls and ceiling of Dambulla Cave Temple, making this the largest antique painted surface in the world. Fresco is a technique of mural painting executed upon freshly laid lime plaster. Water is used as the vehicle for the dry-powder pigment to merge with the plaster, and with the setting of the plaster, the painting becomes an integral part of the wall.
The vividly coloured frescoes on the walls and ceiling of Dambulla Cave Temple, making this the largest antique painted surface in the world. Within the Cave of the Great Kings, over 1,500 paintings of Buddha cover the ceiling. There are also 157 statues standing, sitting or lying throughout the caves.
The vividly coloured frescoes on the walls and ceiling of Dambulla Cave Temple, making this the largest antique painted surface in the world. For thousands of years, these paintings and statues have been protected and preserved by monks, starting with the monks who first arrived in Sri Lanka in the 3rd century B.C.E.
One of the three 15m long reclining Buddha in the Dambulla Cave Temple.
We were all enjoying the local King Coconuts by the road side on the road to Sigiriya.
Entrance road to 5th century Sigiriya Rock Fortress a citadel of unusual beauty rising 200 metres from the scrub jungle.
The 5th century Sigiriya Rock Fortress was the innermost stronghold of the 70 hectare fortified town.
The moat and the renowned water garden ring at the base of the 5th century Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The water gardens are the first you pass through as you enter the Sigiriya complex; a symmetrical collection of pretty pools and water features, former bathing lagoons and island pavilions that are fed by a sophisticated network of underground ducts and hydraulics systems that were engineering marvels for the era.
This is what we term 'square peg in a round hole' in the garden of 5th century Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Two huge boulders act as entrance door, up the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. These boulders once formed the foundations of the monastery the monks of Sigiriya called home centuries ago.
Walking up the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Walking up the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Walking up the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Ching Neng Bin walking up the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
The world-renowned frescoes of the 'Heavenly Maidens' of Sigiriya, which are in a sheltered pocket of the rock approached by a spiral stairway. These frescoes are painted in earth pigments on plaster.
The frescoes of the 'Heavenly Maidens' of Sigiriya. In ancient times naked female bodies was not an issue!
The frescoes of the 'Heavenly Maidens' of Sigiriya depicting graceful bare-breasted maidens whose beauty inspired ancient graffiti. 21 beautiful, scantily clad women with rather ample bosoms offering fruit trays or flower petals painted right onto the rock face.
The frescoes of the 'Heavenly Maidens' of Sigiriya depicting graceful bare-breasted maidens whose beauty inspired ancient graffiti.
The frescoes of the 'Heavenly Maidens' of Sigiriya depicting graceful bare-breasted maidens whose beauty inspired ancient graffiti.
Looking down at the Mirror Wall from the Sigiriya Rock Fortress wall painting.
Walking down the spiral staircase from Sigiriya Rock painting wall to the Mirror Wall.
Unable to see anything at this Mirror Wall of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Once thought to be so polished that the King could see his own reflection in the stone, the mirror wall is a lot less shiny these days.
Steps and more steps up to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress Lion's paws. 
Remains of a pair of giant stone Lion's paws still guarding the staircase leading to the summit, once occupied by a royal palace. These are the paws that give Sigiriya its Lion Rock nickname; two gigantic lion paws that guard a narrow staircase. Once upon a time, the 5th century stairway would have led one up from these paws and into the gaping mouth of the lion.
The steps up the summit of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The Lion’s head collapsed long ago, leaving only these paws and initial stairs behind, though you can still see the various construction grooves or pegs were along the way!
The Palace ground at the Sigiriya Rock Fortress summit. Ruins of King Kasyapa’s fortified palace are scattered here.
From the Palace ground of Sigiriya Rock Fortress summit, you see the views of Pidurangala in the distance and lush jungle carpeting the plains below as far as the eye can see, it’s a breathtaking sight.
Ching Neng Bin standing at the highest point of Sigiriya Rock Fortress summit.
L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Song Poh, Lim Ka Tin, Lim Min Heng. Standing: Gan Choi Geok, Katherine Chan, Tan Chwee Lan at the Sigiriya Rock Fortress summit.
The Palace ground at the Sigiriya Rock Fortress summit.
Walking down fom the Sigiriya Rock Fortress summit is just as frightening as walking up.
The setting sun shines brightly on the rock surface of Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
The sunset view from the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Stayed in Prince Inn, Sigiriya at Rp3300 or RM86 a room for 2 with breakfast.
We had these savory egg apams for dinner in Sigiriya town.
We had these savory egg apams for dinner in Sigiriya town.
Day 2 (18.03.2011) Sigiriya to Kandy
After Prince Inn breakfast, we drove 100km south to Kandy. En route visited the Surathura spice garden in Matale to see the different spices for which Sri Lanka is famous for. Here, clients could see different spices and how some of these spices are grown and processed. A few of us bought to try it out, but, I doubt it works.
Afternoon, we arrived at Kandy City. Kandy was the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings and is a World Heritage Site. The name "Kandy" conjures visions of splendor and magnificence. Many of the legends, traditions and folklore are still lovingly kept alive. We drove around the Kandy Lake built by the last Sinhala king, Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe in 1798.
We visited the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Entrance is Rp1000 or RM26 pp. When King Wimaladharmasuriya I (1592-1604 A.D.) became King in Kandy; he searched for the Tooth Relic and the bowl Relic of the Buddha and found that it was kept at the Delgomuwa Buddhist Temple at Kuruwita, for more than 44 years, hidden in a grinding stone. The King had gone there personally and brought the Sacred Tooth Relic to Kandy in a procession accompanied by the King.
Evening at 5.30pm was the Dances of Sri Lanka by The Kandy Lake Club Dance. The Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show is a stimulating Sri Lankan Arts, Dance & Cultural Heritage Show featuring various dances and the fire walking. Entrance is Rp500 or RM13 pp.
After Prince Inn breakfast, we drove 100km south to Kandy.
Mr Jaga our smart looking driver and Ching Neng Bin getting ready for the next destination after breakfast.
After Prince Inn breakfast, we drove 100km south to Kandy.
Surathura Spice Garden, Matale
Visited the Surathura spice garden in Matale to see the different spices for which Sri Lanka is famous for. We could see different spices and how some of these spices are grown and processed. A few of us bought, but got scammed, end up buying fake overpriced "ayurevedic product" - so please don't go there, we were brought there by our driver.
Nutmeg is the seed or ground spice of several species of the genus Myristica.
The staff running through with us on the miraculous benefits of their herbs & spices.
Vanilla is a spice derived from orchids of the genus Vanilla, primarily obtained from pods of the Mexican species, flat-leaved vanilla.
Ching Neng Bin just took advantage with a little massage to the head by a worker.
Listening to the herbal doctor's misleading talk - spinning on his skills.
We visited the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. Entrance is Rp1000 or RM26 pp. When King Wimaladharmasuriya I (1592-1604 A.D.) became King in Kandy; he searched for the Tooth Relic and the bowl Relic of the Buddha and found that it was kept at the Delgomuwa Buddhist Temple at Kuruwita, for more than 44 years, hidden in a grinding stone. The King had gone there personally and brought the Sacred Tooth Relic to Kandy in a procession accompanied by the King.
L-R: Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Katherine Chan, Lim Ka Tin, Lim Min Heng, Gan Choi Geok, Tan Chwee Lan, Ching Neng Bin, Song Poh at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Huge bell outside the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Deep moat surrounded the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Paththirippuwa is an octagonal pavilion and one of three main structures which comprise the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa).
Sri Dalada Maligawa or the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a Buddhist temple in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, which houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha.
Main entrance into the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Painted ceilings and walls adorn the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Main shrine on the ground floor - the chamber housing the tooth is open for viewing once a day from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Museum on the top floor Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Museum on the top floor Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Replica of the tooth relic in the Museum on the top floor Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Looking down from the upper floor of the temple onto Kandy Lake is the King's Island and Queen's Bath
We ended the day with Dances of Sri Lanka by The Kandy Lake Club. We were treated to 12 traditional dances and the program opened with the Magul Bera, the ceremonial drums. The Kandy Lake Club Dance started in 1982 with the view of having a cultural dance performance bringing together all Sri Lankan dance types to one platform. It is the first Cultural Dance Show of its kind to be established in Sri Lanka. Hence it has been performing continuously for the last 29 years.
The Pantheru Natuma dance is akin to tambourine. Rhythm is also provided by accompanying drums. The dance itself shows Sinhala warriors on their way to battle. The pantheru is manipulated with great skill and dexterity by the dancers who create a series of vigorous acrobatic and rhythmic forms.
The Devol Natuma, is a dance sequence performed for general immunity from evil, as well as for healing. Part of ceremony connected with folk religion, it is derived from the dance forms of southern Sri Lanka.
The tourists at the Dances of Sri Lanka by The Kandy Lake Club Dance.
Dances of Sri Lanka by The Kandy Lake Club Dance.
Dances of Sri Lanka by The Kandy Lake Club Dance.
Dances of Sri Lanka by The Kandy Lake Club Dance.
Dances of Sri Lanka by The Kandy Lake Club Dance.
The 2nd part of the Kandy Lake Club Dance is out in the open - a fire walking and fire eating.
Dinner was in Kandy, as usual tosai, vadai, apom and dhall.
Dinner was in Kandy, as usual tosai, vadai, apom and dhall.
A bakery shop in Kandy.
Kandy relics from the colonial past .... 
Local beer for supper - chilling out before bedtime at Comfort Lodge in Kandy.
Overnight in Kandy at Comfort Lodge - the best accommodation we had in Sri Lanka.
Stayed in Comfort Lodge, Kandy at Rp3300 or RM86 a room for 2 with breakfast.
Day 3 (19.03.2011) Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
After Breakfast we visited Peradeniya botanical garden, which was first built as a pleasure garden by a Sinhala king and was expanded by the British. A 147 acres in extent and provides an amazing variety of trees, plants and flowers. Entrance is Rp1086 or RM29 pp.
We then proceed 75km to Nuwara Eliya. En route visited a tea plantation and tea factory, where the best tea in the world is produced. Here you could observe all about the process of manufacturing tea. You can also see how tea is graded.
Afternoon, visited Nuwara Eliya because of its invigorating mountain climate and scenery is Sri Lankas most popular hill resort. Nuwara Eliya is also the heart of Sri Lankas tea country producing a significant share of the world’s best tea. Sri Lanka highest mountain Pidurutalagala (8282 feet) is located here. Nuwara Eliya also has one of the finest 18 hole golf courses in South Asia. Evening was walking around the town.
Stayed in Single Tree Hotel at Rp3600 or RM94 a room for 2 with breakfast.
On the way out of Kandy we took some scenic shots of Kandy Lake near our hotel.
We then proceed 75km to Nuwara Eliya. En route visited a tea plantation and tea factory, where the best tea in the world is produced. Here you could observe all about the process of manufacturing tea. You can also see how tea is graded.
Afternoon, visited Nuwara Eliya because of its invigorating mountain climate and scenery is Sri Lankas most popular hill resort. Nuwara Eliya is also the heart of Sri Lankas tea country producing a significant share of the world’s best tea. Sri Lanka highest mountain Pidurutalagala (8282 feet) is located here. Nuwara Eliya also has one of the finest 18 hole golf courses in South Asia. Evening was walking around the town.
Stayed in Single Tree Hotel at Rp3600 or RM94 a room for 2 with breakfast.
On the way out of Kandy we took some scenic shots of Kandy Lake near our hotel.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya are about 5.5 km to the west of the city of Kandy in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. It attracts 2 million visitors annually. It is near the Mahaweli River. It is renowned for its collection of orchids.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya is a choice spot for wedding shots.
The newly wed couple with Ching Neng Bin and Tan Chwee Lan at Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Ching Neng Bin at Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Katherine Chan and Lim Min Heng at Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Sala tree with fruit and flowers at Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Sala tree with fruit and flowers at Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Song Poh and Ching Neng Bin standing at a tall tree in Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Conical shape is the Tembusu tree in Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Another unique candle tree in Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya. Parmentiera cereifera, the candle tree, is a species of tree in the family Bignoniaceae. This tree grows up to 6 meters tall. The oppositely-arranged leaves are each made up of three leaflets.
The fattest and tallest tree in Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
The fattest and tallest tree (4 person to circle it) in Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya.
Pentadesma butyracea is a tree native to the forests of tropical Africa from Sierra Leone to Cameroon. It has multiple uses, the main one being the manufacture of a kind of butter called "kpangnan butter" similar to shea butter. The timber is used in cabinetmaking and construction.
Pentadesma butyracea is a tree native to the forests of tropical Africa from Sierra Leone to Cameroon. It has multiple uses, the main one being the manufacture of a kind of butter called "kpangnan butter" similar to shea butter.
Giant Java Willow Tree at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Perandeniya.
This is the most spread out Giant Java Willow Tree at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Perandeniya.
Ching Neng Bin at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Perandeniya.
Even the Giant Java Willow Tree branches have to be supported at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Perandeniya.
Making friends with local girls and exchanging email at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Perandeniya.
Gan Choi Geok in a tree hole at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Perandeniya.
Mike Khaw Eng Aun with the giant bamboo collection from Burma at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Perandeniya.
An unusual palm tree at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Perandeniya.
We then proceed 75km to Nuwara Eliya. En route visited a tea plantation and tea factory, where the best tea in the world is produced. Here you could observe all about the process of manufacturing tea. You can also see how tea is graded.
Walking through the Blue Field tea plantation on the road to Nuwara Eliya.
Blue Field Tea Centre and Tea Museum at Nuwaraliya road, Ramboda, Sri Lanka
Blue Field tea factory at Nuwaraliya road, Ramboda, Sri Lanka
L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Tan Chwee Lan, Lim Ka Tin, Song Poh, Katherine Chan, Gan Choi Geok, at Blue Field tea factory.
The street of Nuwara Eliya at an altitude of 6,128 ft is cold at night.
The cool misty Nuwara Eliya is the "Little England" of Sri Lanka.
This guy was creating such a ruckus stir frying chicken and rice "kottu" in the restaurant we had for dinner in Nuwara Eliya.
Stayed in Single Tree Hotel at Rp3600 or RM94 a room for 2 with breakfast.
Stayed in Single Tree Hotel at Rp3600 or RM94 a room for 2 with breakfast.
Day 4 (20.03.2011) Nuwara Eliya to Horton Plains to Adam’s Peak
Woke up early and drove 33km to Horton Plains National Park for the 9km Worlds End trekking. Entrance is Rp2117 or RM56 pp. After that we drove 95km to the foot of Adam’s Peak and relaxed till 2 am in Slightly Chilled Family Guesthouse for the climb up to Adam’s Peak for sunrise view.
Stayed in Slightly Chilled Family Guesthouse at Rp4000 or RM105 a room for 4 no breakfast. http://slightlychilled.tv/
New Zealand cattle grazing on the road to Horton Plains National Park, looks like we are in NZ
Visited Ambewela Yoghurt produce in this farm - taste very good by Gan Choi Geok, Tan Chwee Lan, Katherine Chan, Lim Ka Tin, Lim Min Heng, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Song Poh and Ching Neng Bin.
Ambewela Wine Store selling "arrack, malt and toddy".
Pattipola railway station is the 62nd station on the Main Line, and is 224 km away from Colombo.
Pattipola railway station is the highest railway station in Sri Lanka with an elevation of 1,897.5 m high above mean sea level. The station has one platform with a second track as a siding loop.
Pattipola entrance to Horton Plains National Park.
Horton Plains National Park is a national park in the central highlands of Sri Lanka that was designated in 1988. It is located at an elevation of 2,100–2,300m and encompasses montane grassland and cloud forest.
Along the road in Horton Plains National Park, we saw this Sri Lankan Sambar Deer (elk).
L-R: Katherine Chan, Tan Chwee Lan, Lim Ka Tin, Gan Choi Geok, Ching Neng Bin, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Song Poh, Lim Min Heng at the Horton Plains National Park car park all geared up and raring to trek.
The 9km Horton Plains National Park walking circular trail starts and ends here.
The 9km Horton Plains National Park walking circular trail starts here and ends here.
The 9km Horton Plains National Park walking circular trail starts and ends here.
Gan Choi Geok and Ching Neng Bin taking a break at a beautiful stream with rolling mist behind us. From the entrance the trail heads across undulating plains dotted with rhododendrons.
The trek to "End of the World" on 9km Horton Plains National Park walking circular trail.
An eroded trek up the hill on Horton Plains National Park walking trail.
After about 1.5km you reach 'Mini World’s End' and the long line of cliffs bounding the southern edge of the park and marking the long cliff between the hill country and the plains below. Noticed the dense mist in the background and also patches of the dense cloud-forest which are such a feature of the Horton Plains.
L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Lim Ka Tin, Lim Min Heng, Song Poh, Katherine Chan, Gan Choi Geok, Tan Chwee Lan, Mike Khaw Eng Aun at 'Mini World’s End', Horton Plains walking circular trail.
From here, it’s a short walk to the park’s attraction, the stunning 'World’s End' viewpoint, located at the point where the cliffs plunge for over 800m to the plains below.
Ching Neng Bin is at the "End of the World" experiencing nice feeling standing at the edge Horton Plains. The view here is astonishing, stretching all the way to the southern coast on a good day and along the line of jagged summits lining the long cliffs including the island’s 2nd (Kirigalpota 2395m) and 3rd (Totapolakanda 2359m) highest peaks.
Next trek is to Baker's Fall which is 1,700m away from this view point on the Horton Plains walking trail.
Beautiful yellow flowers along the Horton Plains walking trail.
The breathtaking view of the misty landscapes and the serenity vegetation on Horton Plains walking trail.
The misty landscapes and the serenity vegetation on Horton Plains walking trail.
The misty landscapes and the serenity vegetation on Horton Plains walking trail.
The breathtaking view of the misty landscapes and the serenity vegetation on Horton Plains walking trail.
The misty landscapes and the serenity vegetation on Horton Plains walking trail.
The breathtaking view of the misty landscapes and the serenity vegetation on Horton Plains walking trail.
The breathtaking view of the misty landscapes and the serenity vegetation on Horton Plains walking trail.
The rain came and after that, it was the drown-rat look!
Baker's Falls is located in the Horton Plains National Park, on a tributary of the Belihul Oya. The height of the Baker's waterfalls is 20 metres. The falls were named after British explorer and big game hunter, Sir Samuel Baker.
The waterfall has been named after Sir Samuel Baker who was a famous explorer at the time and who also happened to discover Nuwara Eliya.
Baker’s Falls is situated in Horton Plains National Park on an affluent of the Belihul Oya. It stands at a height of 20 meters.
A beautiful stream runs across the Horton Plains National Park.
We finally ended the Horton Plains trek with the much needed hot tea and biscuits at the canteen.
Stayed in Slightly Chilled Family Guesthouse at RM105 a room for 4. http://slightlychilled.tv/ at the foot of Adam's Peak.
View of Adam's Peak from our room - the 8km meandering trek is lighted up from Nov to Apr each year and every monk in Sri Lanka must make a climb during this period.
View of Adam's Peak from our room - the 8km meandering trek is lighted up from Nov to Apr each year and every monk in Sri Lanka must make a climb during this period.
Day 5 (21.03.2011) Adam’s Peak to Kitulgala
We woke up at 1am for some bite and hot drinks before starting the walk at 2am. It was a tough 8km (5,200 steps) walk up and it took us 4 hours to reach the peak (2,243m) and another 4 hours for the return journey. The path is well lited up and lined with stalls selling food, water, hats and souvenirs. Although tough, we enjoyed the stunning views and sunrise at the peak an experience not to be missed.
Returned back to guesthouse at 10am for breakfast and continued our 50km journey to Kitulgala. We arrived at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala for lunch and then went for the white water rafting in the afternoon at Rp2000 or RM53 pp.
Stayed in Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala at Rp1500 or RM39 pp (Lunch+BBQ Dinner+breakfast+room) The best deal so far.
We woke up at 1am for some bite and hot drinks before starting the walk at 2am. It was a tough 8km (5,200 steps) walk up and it took us 4 hours to reach the peak (2,243m) and another 4 hours for the return journey.
This is the Makara Thorana the dragon gate to Sri Pada temple at Adam's Peak, it is the start of the 5,200 steps up to the Peak. Adams Peak is a holy mountain in Sri Lanka.
One of the many tea vendors along the Adams Peak trek and he is 70 year old .
The pilgrims taking a rest along the Adams Peak trek.
After 4 hours of hiking, we finally reached Adam's peak (2,243m) at about 6am just in time for the sunrise.
When we arrived Adam's peak at about 6am, we could see many people were already there.
The breathtaking sunrise view at Adam's peak.
The breathtaking view of the magnificent landscape of the highlands below Adam's Peak.
Ching Neng Bin at Sri Pada Temple on top of Adam's Peak.
The breathtaking view of the magnificent landscape of the highlands below.
This is Sri Pada Temple - Puja day is on 19th Mar which is jam packed with pilgrims.
Sri Pada Temple shrine sit on top of Adam's Peak with a footprint believed to be from the Buddha.
Tan Chwee Lan and Gan Choi Geok at Sri Pada Temple on top of Adam's Peak.
If you have climbed up once, you can only hit the bell once, Ching Neng Bin just did!
The shadow of Adam's Peak cast by the morning sun.
The last 200 almost vertical steps up to Adam's Peak is the hardest climb.
Going down is almost as tough as climbing up. Walking down 5,000 steps put enormous pressure and generate a lot of impacts on your knees. If you have sensitive knees, consider bringing a hiking pole.
Going down is almost as tough as climbing up. Walking down 5,000 steps put enormous pressure and generate a lot of impacts on your knees. If you have sensitive knees, consider bringing a hiking pole.
The breathtaking view of the magnificent landscape of the highlands below Adam's Peak.
Walking up to Adam's Peak is so tough, what about carrying a gas-tank on your head.
Walking down from Adam's Peak is very tough.
A breathtaking view of the Adam's Peak from below.
The pilgrims taking a rest along the Adams Peak trek.
A look at Adam's Peak trail with slaps of rock and the eroded trek.
A beautiful pagoda on the Adam's Peak trail.
The many stalls enroute to Adam's Peak.
Returned back to guesthouse at 10am for breakfast and continued our 50km journey to Kitulgala. We arrived at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala for lunch and then went for the white water rafting in the afternoon at Rp2000 or RM53 pp.
Our rooms are just by the scenic Kelani River at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
We arrived at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala for lunch and then went for the white water rafting in the afternoon at Rp2000 or RM53 pp.
We were swimming in the scenic Kelani River at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Ching Neng Bin listening to the lovely sound of the roaring Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Lim Ka Tin, Katherine Chan, Tan Chwee Lan, Gan Choi Geok, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Lim Min Heng, Song Poh. We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala. Ching Neng Bin, Gan Choi Geok, Katherine Chan, Lim Ka Tin, Lim Min Heng, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Song Poh, Tan Chwee Lan
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala ended with the 1km swim at the end.
Ching Neng Bin was honored to light up the campfire followed by burst of fireworks at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Ching Neng Bin was honored to light up the campfire followed by burst of fireworks at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Ching Neng Bin was honored to light up the campfire followed by burst of fireworks at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
What a BBQ feast! Best food we had so far and glad to have stayed in this Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Best onion dish in this Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Best BBQ fish in this Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Best BBQ chicken in this Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
A bottle of arack (whiskey) and few bottles of palm toddy to end the evening in this Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Day 6 (22.03.2011) Kitulgala to Bentota
Had very good breakfast at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala before continuing our 130km journey south west to Bentota a sea side town and relaxed at the beautiful beach. Bentota is a resort town on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast. Its long Bentota Beach stretches north, where it becomes a sandy strip known as Paradise Island, parallel to Bentota Lagoon. Coral-rich dive sites include Canoe Rock. On Bentota River, centuries-old Galapota Temple has a large Buddha statue. Southeast is Lunuganga, the estate and gardens of architect Geoffrey Bawa. Northeast is his brother Bevis's Brief Garden.
Stayed in Tamarin Beach Hotel at Rp3000 or RM78 a room for 2 with breakfast.
Ching Neng Bin at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
This is how you handle the rabbit at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
This is how we relaxed and waiting for our breakfast to be served at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
We had western breakfast and also typical Sri Lankan breakfast at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala breakfast was rice cooked with milk and pressed into something like nasi empit then served with dhall curry with 2 types of onion sambal - very delicious!
Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala breakfast was milk rice - rice boiled with milk.
Ching Neng Bin was ready to move on! This young guy was one of our water guide at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Stayed in Tamarin Beach Hotel at Rp3000 or RM78 a room for 2 with breakfast.
Stayed in Tamarin Beach Hotel at Rp3000 or RM78 a room for 2 with breakfast.
The strong sea breeze and the waves at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
The strong sea breeze and the waves at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
The strong sea breeze and the waves at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Enjoying King Coconut at Tamarin Beach Hotel before going for traditional herbal body massage in Bentota town. Ching Neng Bin, Gan Choi Geok, Katherine Chan, Lim Ka Tin, Lim Min Heng, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Song Poh, Tan Chwee Lan
Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center in Bentota for traditional herbal body massage.
Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center in Bentota for traditional herbal body massage
Bentota Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center herbal body massage - guys in a row massaging on the buttock first.
Bentota Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center herbal body massage.
Bentota Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center herbal body massage.
Bentota Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center herbal body massage - fantastic massage on this anus part!
Swimming time at the beautifu beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset with beautiful rolling waves splashing at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset with beautiful rolling waves splashing at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset with beautiful rolling waves splashing at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset with beautiful rolling waves splashing at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Lovely sunset and cool breeze at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till night fall at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Gan Choi Geok took us to town for dinner and came back by tuk-tuk.
Mike Khaw Eng Aun also took us to town for dinner and came back by tuk-tuk.
Evening fellowship was good supper and good chatting at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Fresh egg apams with hot tea is the best at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Stayed in Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala at Rp1500 or RM39 pp (Lunch+BBQ Dinner+breakfast+room) The best deal so far.
We woke up at 1am for some bite and hot drinks before starting the walk at 2am. It was a tough 8km (5,200 steps) walk up and it took us 4 hours to reach the peak (2,243m) and another 4 hours for the return journey.
This is the Makara Thorana the dragon gate to Sri Pada temple at Adam's Peak, it is the start of the 5,200 steps up to the Peak. Adams Peak is a holy mountain in Sri Lanka.
One of the many tea vendors along the Adams Peak trek and he is 70 year old .
The pilgrims taking a rest along the Adams Peak trek.
After 4 hours of hiking, we finally reached Adam's peak (2,243m) at about 6am just in time for the sunrise.
When we arrived Adam's peak at about 6am, we could see many people were already there.
The breathtaking sunrise view at Adam's peak.
The breathtaking view of the magnificent landscape of the highlands below Adam's Peak.
Ching Neng Bin at Sri Pada Temple on top of Adam's Peak.
The breathtaking view of the magnificent landscape of the highlands below.
This is Sri Pada Temple - Puja day is on 19th Mar which is jam packed with pilgrims.
Sri Pada Temple shrine sit on top of Adam's Peak with a footprint believed to be from the Buddha.
Tan Chwee Lan and Gan Choi Geok at Sri Pada Temple on top of Adam's Peak.
If you have climbed up once, you can only hit the bell once, Ching Neng Bin just did!
The shadow of Adam's Peak cast by the morning sun.
The last 200 almost vertical steps up to Adam's Peak is the hardest climb.
Going down is almost as tough as climbing up. Walking down 5,000 steps put enormous pressure and generate a lot of impacts on your knees. If you have sensitive knees, consider bringing a hiking pole.
Going down is almost as tough as climbing up. Walking down 5,000 steps put enormous pressure and generate a lot of impacts on your knees. If you have sensitive knees, consider bringing a hiking pole.
The breathtaking view of the magnificent landscape of the highlands below Adam's Peak.
Walking up to Adam's Peak is so tough, what about carrying a gas-tank on your head.
Walking down from Adam's Peak is very tough.
A breathtaking view of the Adam's Peak from below.
The pilgrims taking a rest along the Adams Peak trek.
A look at Adam's Peak trail with slaps of rock and the eroded trek.
A beautiful pagoda on the Adam's Peak trail.
The many stalls enroute to Adam's Peak.
Returned back to guesthouse at 10am for breakfast and continued our 50km journey to Kitulgala. We arrived at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala for lunch and then went for the white water rafting in the afternoon at Rp2000 or RM53 pp.
Our rooms are just by the scenic Kelani River at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
We arrived at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala for lunch and then went for the white water rafting in the afternoon at Rp2000 or RM53 pp.
We were swimming in the scenic Kelani River at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Ching Neng Bin listening to the lovely sound of the roaring Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
L-R: Ching Neng Bin, Lim Ka Tin, Katherine Chan, Tan Chwee Lan, Gan Choi Geok, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Lim Min Heng, Song Poh. We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala. Ching Neng Bin, Gan Choi Geok, Katherine Chan, Lim Ka Tin, Lim Min Heng, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Song Poh, Tan Chwee Lan
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala.
We did the 10km whitewater rafting down Kelani River at Kitulgala ended with the 1km swim at the end.
Ching Neng Bin was honored to light up the campfire followed by burst of fireworks at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Ching Neng Bin was honored to light up the campfire followed by burst of fireworks at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Ching Neng Bin was honored to light up the campfire followed by burst of fireworks at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
What a BBQ feast! Best food we had so far and glad to have stayed in this Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Best onion dish in this Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Best BBQ fish in this Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Best BBQ chicken in this Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
A bottle of arack (whiskey) and few bottles of palm toddy to end the evening in this Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Day 6 (22.03.2011) Kitulgala to Bentota
Had very good breakfast at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala before continuing our 130km journey south west to Bentota a sea side town and relaxed at the beautiful beach. Bentota is a resort town on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast. Its long Bentota Beach stretches north, where it becomes a sandy strip known as Paradise Island, parallel to Bentota Lagoon. Coral-rich dive sites include Canoe Rock. On Bentota River, centuries-old Galapota Temple has a large Buddha statue. Southeast is Lunuganga, the estate and gardens of architect Geoffrey Bawa. Northeast is his brother Bevis's Brief Garden.
Stayed in Tamarin Beach Hotel at Rp3000 or RM78 a room for 2 with breakfast.
Ching Neng Bin at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
This is how you handle the rabbit at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
This is how we relaxed and waiting for our breakfast to be served at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
We had western breakfast and also typical Sri Lankan breakfast at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala breakfast was rice cooked with milk and pressed into something like nasi empit then served with dhall curry with 2 types of onion sambal - very delicious!
Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala breakfast was milk rice - rice boiled with milk.
Ching Neng Bin was ready to move on! This young guy was one of our water guide at Adventure Base Camp Kitulgala.
Stayed in Tamarin Beach Hotel at Rp3000 or RM78 a room for 2 with breakfast.
Stayed in Tamarin Beach Hotel at Rp3000 or RM78 a room for 2 with breakfast.
The strong sea breeze and the waves at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
The strong sea breeze and the waves at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
The strong sea breeze and the waves at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Enjoying King Coconut at Tamarin Beach Hotel before going for traditional herbal body massage in Bentota town. Ching Neng Bin, Gan Choi Geok, Katherine Chan, Lim Ka Tin, Lim Min Heng, Mike Khaw Eng Aun, Song Poh, Tan Chwee Lan
Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center in Bentota for traditional herbal body massage.
Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center in Bentota for traditional herbal body massage
Bentota Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center herbal body massage - guys in a row massaging on the buttock first.
Bentota Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center herbal body massage.
Bentota Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center herbal body massage.
Bentota Ayurvedic Herbal and Spice center herbal body massage - fantastic massage on this anus part!
Swimming time at the beautifu beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset with beautiful rolling waves splashing at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset with beautiful rolling waves splashing at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset with beautiful rolling waves splashing at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset with beautiful rolling waves splashing at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till sunset at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Lovely sunset and cool breeze at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Swimming till night fall at the beautiful beach of Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Gan Choi Geok took us to town for dinner and came back by tuk-tuk.
Mike Khaw Eng Aun also took us to town for dinner and came back by tuk-tuk.
Evening fellowship was good supper and good chatting at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Fresh egg apams with hot tea is the best at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Day 7 (23.03.2011) Bentota to Negombo
After breakfast we drove 95km to Negombo via Colombo city for window shopping.
Colombo like many capital cities in developing countries is fast changing its face. Almost overnight, skyscrapers arise from where old buildings once stood. Yet in some parts, the old world charm is retained. For example, there is a 100-year-old clock tower and several British built colonial buildings. Other places of interest are the Pettah bazaar - where one can shop for bargain, residential areas where you find the stately homes of the affluent, the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall - an outright gift to Sri Lanka from the People's Republic of China.
Negombo situated by the shores of a lagoon by the same name once has been a trading port for Portuguese and Dutch and is an ideal place for those who want quick access to and from the airport. Attractions in the city are the old Dutch fort gate built in 1672 now a part of the prison, the Dutch Canal which was then a supply route to the Dutch administration, old churches and fishing villagers.
Stay in Dephani Hotelo, Negombo at Rp1800 or RM48 a room for 2 with breakfast.
This morning beach walked towards the fishing village from Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Early morning beach walked towards the fishing village from Tamarin Beach Hotel. Lim Min Heng in his sarong.
A dog on the beach walked towards the fishing village from Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Morning beach walked towards the fishing village from Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Morning beach walked towards the fishing village from Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Fishermen back from sea after the night catch in Bentota.
After breakfast we drove 95km to Negombo via Colombo city for window shopping.
Colombo like many capital cities in developing countries is fast changing its face. Almost overnight, skyscrapers arise from where old buildings once stood. Yet in some parts, the old world charm is retained. For example, there is a 100-year-old clock tower and several British built colonial buildings. Other places of interest are the Pettah bazaar - where one can shop for bargain, residential areas where you find the stately homes of the affluent, the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall - an outright gift to Sri Lanka from the People's Republic of China.
Negombo situated by the shores of a lagoon by the same name once has been a trading port for Portuguese and Dutch and is an ideal place for those who want quick access to and from the airport. Attractions in the city are the old Dutch fort gate built in 1672 now a part of the prison, the Dutch Canal which was then a supply route to the Dutch administration, old churches and fishing villagers.
Stay in Dephani Hotelo, Negombo at Rp1800 or RM48 a room for 2 with breakfast.
This morning beach walked towards the fishing village from Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Early morning beach walked towards the fishing village from Tamarin Beach Hotel. Lim Min Heng in his sarong.
A dog on the beach walked towards the fishing village from Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Morning beach walked towards the fishing village from Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Morning beach walked towards the fishing village from Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Fishermen back from sea after the night catch in Bentota.
Fishing boats back from sea after the night catch in Bentota.
Fishing boats back from sea after the night catch in Bentota.
Ching Neng Bin with the fishing boat donated by Rotary Club of Colombo North in Bentota.
Mike Khaw Eng Aun with the fishing boat donated by Rotary Club of Colombo North in Bentota.
Ching Neng Bin holding a baby lobster from the night catch in Bentota.
Fishermen back from sea after the night catch in Bentota.
Fishermen back from sea after the night catch in Bentota.
Harvesting toddy in Bentota. Toddy is the sap from the flower of palm tree. It ferments naturally over a few days. The mixing of toddy with yeast becomes Arrack, the fiery spirit beloved by Sri Lankan men.
The challenge is walking from tree to tree on ropes and holding on another rope without safety line in order to tap and collect toddy.
Once a large amount of sap has been collected, the toddy in the pot is being lowered down and be drunk directly.
Once a large amount of sap has been collected, the toddy in the pot is being lowered down and be drunk directly.
The toddy in the pot is being lowered down and be drunk directly.
Add caption
Nice garden breakfast by the beach at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
Nice garden breakfast by the beach at Tamarin Beach Hotel in Bentota.
After breakfast we drove 95km to Negombo via Colombo city for window shopping.
After breakfast we drove 95km to Negombo via Colombo city for window shopping.
After breakfast we drove 95km to Negombo via Colombo city for window shopping.
Colombo waterfront view.
Colombo city centre.
Colombo city
Situated in 26 church street, Colombo Fort St. Peter's church was constructed in 22 May 1821 Colombo Fort. It is considered as one of the oldest functioning churches in Sri Lanka.
Every where in Sri Lanka you see this ICC Cricket World Cup advertisement board.
Sri Lanka is home to one of the world's top cricket teams.
Stay in Dephani Hotel, Negombo at Rp1800 or RM48 a room for 2 with breakfast.
Stay in Dephani Hotel, Negombo at Rp1800 or RM48 a room for 2 with breakfast.
Stay in Dephani Hotel, Negombo at Rp1800 or RM48 a room for 2 with breakfast.
Taking lunch in Dephani Hotel, Negombo.
After lunch in Dephani Hotel Negombo, we explore the beautiful beach.
After lunch in Dephani Hotel Negombo, we explore the beautiful beach.
Swimming time at the beautiful beach.
We made it here by swimming in the Indian Ocean.
Gan Choi Geok and Ching Neng Bin making new friends at the beach.
A kayak at the beach.
Sunset view at the beach.
A sumptuous tandoori chicken for dinner at Dephani Hotel, Negombo.
A sumptuous dinner at Dephani Hotel, followed by one for the road - enjoying our favorite Lion drink.
Sleeping with mosquito netting in Dephani Hotel, Negombo.
Day 8 (24.03.2011) Negombo to Malaysia
Mr. Nimal our driver, drove us to the Airport at 6am. for our 8.15am flight back to KL arriving at 2.30pm.
One of seven mythical creatures that supposedly haunt Sri Lanka.
Mr. Nimal our driver, drove us to the Airport at 6am. for our 8.15am flight back to KL arriving at 2.30pm.
Time for refreshing our adventures in the plane and planning for the next trip.
Mr. Nimal our driver, drove us to the Airport at 6am. for our 8.15am flight back to KL arriving at 2.30pm.
One of seven mythical creatures that supposedly haunt Sri Lanka.
Mr. Nimal our driver, drove us to the Airport at 6am. for our 8.15am flight back to KL arriving at 2.30pm.
Time for refreshing our adventures in the plane and planning for the next trip.
Total expenses for 8 day was RM1,585 each.
RM 479 - Air Asia
RM 719 - Food, hotel and other expenses
Rm 387 - Van with driver
---------------------
Rm1,585 - Total
---------------------
RM 479 - Air Asia
RM 719 - Food, hotel and other expenses
Rm 387 - Van with driver
---------------------
Rm1,585 - Total
---------------------
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Mr. Ching... why no pictures this time??
ReplyDeleteHi Waterfall Survivors, I am quite busy as I just came back from a 29 days trip to China. Will upload the photos soon.
ReplyDeletebeautiful pictures Mr Ching
ReplyDeleteHi Ching
ReplyDeleteThank U for sharing your beautiful snapshots and story lines, and U guys definitely had a wonderful time and stay in beautiful Sri Lanka!
Keep the energy going! Stay well .....
Best wishes
Kuan
Hi,
ReplyDeleteI always feel very jealous when U post all these nice photos, make me 1 2 do a better one to show off like U too. Ha...ha...
Anyway, I enjoy watching. keep it up.
Regards,
Jo
Howdy Ching,
ReplyDeleteWow! It looks like U guys are having a good time of your life! Fantastic photographs and well put together. And as always TQ for sharing. Blessings!
Cheers
Bai du
Dear Mr. Ching,
ReplyDeleteYou are a very good traveler. Enjoy while you can. There will be no more time when one gets old. Thanks for your blog.
Always enjoy all your posting & write up of your travels. Thanks.
ReplyDeletehi Mr. Ching,
ReplyDeletethanks for great photos and stories on Sri Lanka. After reading i can have a good understanding as if i have been there. Really enjoyable...... Thank you once again.
Hi Ching,
ReplyDeleteThanks for the write-up !
Good camaraderie for a group who embarked on adventure as strangers & parted as friends !
Seeing Drambulla & Lion's Rock was spectacular for me. Trekking through Horton Plains & Adam's Peak was an outright challenge which really pushed me to do what I deem was an "un-do-able". The unexpected stop by the Kelani River, Kitulgala was a surprise pleasant bonus. To conclude trip chilling out by the Indian Ocean ... that's food for the soul.
An experience which I can recollect with pride & fondness when I am old & withered ! :)
Looking forward to our next trip together.
Warm regards,
Gan
ps Special thanks to Ching for tipping me off about the trip and Song Poh for allowing me (a complete stranger) to tag along.
Hi Ching,
ReplyDeleteGreat photos & as always, very informative. Enjoy reading them. Looking forward to being a participant rather than just a reader. hahaha
Dear Ching,
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for the photos of your Sri Lanka trip. Brings back nostalgic memories of my 3 years stay in Sri Lanka as Head of Public Bank, Sri Lanka Branch. I had visited most of the places that you had and your group visited and enjoyed the sights tremendously. Looks like nothing much as changed outside Colombo. Thanks once again for sharing your photos.
Sudha
Dear Mr. Ching,
ReplyDeleteAs always with your other travelogues, your trip to Sri Lanka is very well written and photographed, articulately blogged and beautifully presented.
The world is really your paradise.
Keep on travelling.
Hi! Ching,
ReplyDeleteI've been enjoying looking at all the photos. It is such a great place and hope to joint you guys someday when I am back to Malaysia. Now we are busy starting new life in Toronto. Thanks and do keep me posted with all your photos. Bye and take care.
Regards
Suney
Dear Neng Bin,
ReplyDeleteWOW...very nice. thanks very much for sharing. Found new Dr. girlfriend on the plane huh.!!!!! Roti pratha and Dhall looked GREAT.....you made me hungry already. Really enjoyed myself looking at your pics.....I didn't know that Sri Lanka is such an amazing place, really beautiful. And hey, not only in ancient time .... I got no problem with naked women too... hahaha ...
Hi Ching,
ReplyDeleteI wanted to write a comment on your blog but silly me, I don't know how to go about it!! I must ask someone to teach me!
As usual, you did a great job with the photos and the write up. It was a great trip, ya. I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I hold this trip dearly in my heart ... you know, it being my first backpacking and trekking trip and all!
Thank you for welcoming a newie like me into the group and being a friend throughout the trip. I sure am looking forward to more trips like this in the future.
Warmest regards,
Kat
PS - I'm looking forward to seeing your photos and write up on your recent trip to China! Sounds like you all really had a great time!
Thank you very much for your travel photos and story. I am really curious on how and why you got to my email because I do not think I know you. Anyway, my wife and I do travel a lot and it is good to see that you have a group of travel mates. We usually travel in two as we do not have travelmates like you do. We also do our own travel ie I plan the trip myself with the help of internet. So fun. Last September my wife and I hired a car and drove 4500 miles covering LA, SF, Fresno, Yosemite NP, Yellowstone, Salt Lake City, Zion NP, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon (north and south rim), Red Rock Sedona and Las Vegas. It was a very lovely three week trip. By the way we are Malaysian but lived in the UK for over 30 years. I am now retired and I very much like to join your travel club but I am a vegetarian so may be a bit inconvenient? I apologise for my intrusiveness.
ReplyDeleteKee
Thanks Neng Bin, such an enjoying moment going through so many beautiful pictures. Send me a note if you are planning another destination.
ReplyDeleteBest regards
Siok-Kiat.Koh@my.ey.com
Ayubowan guys,
ReplyDeleteAfter our 8 days together, we are already kindred spirits - no need to be so "hark hei" with each other ! Yes, thanks to all ... Song Poh for leading the pack & allowing me to tag along, Mike/Ching for the being MOF (Ministry of Finance) ps Ching - your banker's past has not escaped you!, Katherine for being a good room and at times even "bed mate", Mrs Lim for keeping me company on my seemingly unachievable climb to Adam's Peak & both husband/wife keeping me company again on my descent, and, lastly to the whole group for the friendly banter and camaraderie. The company contributes much to the trip other then the sights/ activities!
We came together as strangers and now we are a new group of friends.
Kath - you are very efficient leh, I baru sorting out the photos.
My address:
8 Lorong Enggang
off Jalan Meru
41050 Klang
Selangor
Till, we meet again (hopefully next Oct for Annapurna base camp) .... here's wishing everybody blue skies & everything nice ! Au revoir ....
Gan
"Life is not a race but a journey"
Hi Ching,
ReplyDeleteSaw your Sri Lanka coverage on blogspot. Fantastic. I am planning to cover Sri Lanka and appreciate to have your advice on the visa.
The Sri Lanka official web page stated visa on arrival for Malaysian. Don't have to go embassy to apply in advance. Do you recalled your arrival visa application? Was there a need to declare the fund you carry in?
Do they required the credit card statement standing / bank account statement? Also the need to declare on hotel address?
Hi TSN SS
ReplyDeleteI was there less than 30 days, so no Visa required. If you intend to stay for more than 30 days, you can apply at the airport visa office. No need to declare the fund carried or any financial statement. As for hotel, I always use the name of the place I fly in: e.g. if you fly into Colombo I use Colombo Hotel,
if you fly into Hanoi I use Hanoi Hotel and so on.
If you have any doubt, do not hesitate to call me any time at 012-5053199
Dear Mr. Ching Neng Bin,
ReplyDeleteThis is Oh Teik Hean of Teluk Intan saying "Hello" to you again. I find that your 'backpacking adventures' are beneficial to me as well as many others. It is through your unselfish contribution that many like me can get an insight of all the beautiful countries you have visited. In short, you have saved us much time and energy in our preparation for any trips.
My wife, Susan, is a keen tour organizer. She had contacted you and found you to be very friendly and helpful. For this, we sincerely thank you. She intends to organize a trip to Sri Lanka for a group of 24 in February 2012. She may have to consult you on certain matters while doing the planning. So if you don't mind, please tell us the time when we can 'disturb' you on your house phone.
Your friends,
Teik Hean & Susan
Mr Ching,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed your adventures and I think that you're really make the most of your life.
I'm planning for a trip to Sri Lanka from 9th Sept to 18th Sept for 6 people & I want to follow your itinerary. I really appreciate if you give me some advice regarding the following : -
1) Is the travel agency that you used recommendable?
2) For extra 2 days, which place I should visit (which you haven't) or spend more day?
3) Should I just book for the transport or transport + accomodation?
Thank you very much. Hope to hear from you.
regards,
Moh
Mr Ching,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed your adventures and I think that you're really make the most of your life.
I'm planning for a trip to Sri Lanka from 9th Sept to 18th Sept for 6 people & I want to follow your itinerary. I really appreciate if you give me some advice regarding the following : -
1) Is the travel agency that you used recommendable?
2) For extra 2 days, which place I should visit or spend more day?
3) Should I just book for the transport or transport + accomodation?
Thank you very much. Hope to hear from you.
regards,
Moh
Mr Moh, could you write to my email: ching2662@yahoo.co.uk
ReplyDeleteThanks.
Ching
Hello Ching, the photoes and the information of Sri Lanka you have posted are so good .One gets an exact idea how to go around and how much it will cost.
ReplyDeletePlease post the china trip photoes too. I love traveling but cannot because of my age but when I see your blog I get the satisfaction of being there myself.
Thank you and waiting for your future travel photoes.
Shubhada