Enjoy the best of Nature, Adventure and Agriculture

A novel concept for the 1st time in Sri Lanka. Situated in a 1380 acre agriculture farm,
where the city dweller can experience the serenity and can educate himself on agriculture,
while admiring the beauty of the place and enjoying the surroundings.Windsor Park is an Agri Holiday resort situated in Hingurakgoda (in the North central Province of Sri Lanka), Sri Lanka which is about 203 Kilometers away from Colombo. Hingurakgoda, located near Polonnaruwa, which is a historical kingdom of the ancient rulers of Sri Lanka, is a distinguished centre of Sri Lanka’s agro industry. Hingurakgoda, claiming kinship to a glorious past, during which an age-old hydro-culture flourished could be characterized as an oasis of those industrious and energetic people who conquered nature.

The resort provides the luxury of relaxation with 7 cabanas provided with hot & cold water; air conditioned rooms, open verandah and a sitting area. All these cabanas are under fruitful tree shades to soothe your body & mind while the effect of the burning sun is dispelled by the winds that blow across the reservoirs. Restaurant allows you to taste all the Sri Lankan foods at your choice prepared with its own fresh herbs & vegetables picked from their own farmland. The daily rate of a single person is 65 US Dollars on Full Board Basis. The Inland reservoir & the ponds provide an excellent opportunity for the bird watchers to observe number of bird species for which are endemic birds to Sri Lanka. The flocks of peacocks that move about freely are the most spectacular natural sights in the Windsor Park.

Things to do in the Windsor Park
1. farming
Vegetable Farming

Mango Cultivation

Mango Cultivation

The first plants of a few varieties (specially Willard, Karthcolomban, Vellei Kolomban, Ambalavi and Neelum) which were planted in Sri Lanka, is in the Hingurakgoda farm. Hingurakgoda Willard, which is one of the popular mango varieties, was discovered at the Hingurakgoda Farm.

Plant Nursery
Banana Cultivation

Home Gardern
Paddy Cultivation
Dairy Farm
Cycling

...Because it’s a brilliant form of exercise, it’s green, clean and quiet...and 1001 other reason...

Cycling is not just a sport, not just a pastime, not just a means of transport. It’s all these, and much more besides. Cycling is a way of life, a human-powered means of seeing the world. It knocks spots off the infernal combustion engine.

Above all else, cycling is addictive. It has the power to convert doctors, MPs, house-wives, schoolteachers, judges, students - everybody - to get on their bikes.

Cycling is clean, green and quiet. It’s also a lot of fun.

Some of the very attractive features the Hotel Windsor Park offers are

• Elephants Safaris- Near Minneriya Wild Life Park
• Cycling through the farmland
• Experience the traditional techniques of farming
• Bird Watching
• Cultural Visits to the Ancient ruins

 How to Reach-

Chinese tourist number to Sri Lanka surges 56.6 pct in Q1

COLOMBO, May 8 (Xinhua) --
                                                              The number of Chinese tourists to Sri Lanka has increased significantly in the first quarter of 2013 by jumping 56.6 percent from the same period last year, though overall figures have failed to impress, latest data showed here on Wednesday.

Statistics revealed that the first quarter numbers of Chinese tourists have risen from 5,334 last year to 8,353 this year, who is becoming the largest group of travelers to the island from East Asia.

Japanese tourists posted the second highest growth for the region by growing 21.4 percent to reach 7,239.

The numbers are indicative of steps taken by the Sri Lankan government to increase awareness of the tropical island as a destination with plans to sponsor 100 Chinese travel agents this year.

The Economic Development Ministry has also been keen to invite media crews to do shows on Sri Lanka with a dozen teams visiting the country since December 2012.

However, the overall first quarter results of tourism showed the lowest quarterly growth since 2011, which is recorded at 10.9 percent, bringing in a total of 288,798 tourists to the country.

The industry is seen losing its momentum, showing low percentage growth for the quarter as well as the lowest growth rate for a month recorded since 2011 for the month of March, statistics released by the Sri Lanka Development Authority (SLDA) showed.

Since the end of a three-decade war in 2009, Sri Lanka's tourism industry has boomed attracting over one million tourists in 2012. It has set a target of 1.25 million for 2013 and hopes to attract more tourists in the near future. 

Colombo City & Food

Colombo, commercial hub and capital of Sri Lanka is throbbing city that reflects the trade culture of the past and showcases some hostoric colonial buildings. It is situated on the east-west coast of Sri Lanka and its strategic position grabbed the attention of the traders some 2000 years ago. But the city grew to prominence in the 16th century when the Portuguese gained authority over the coastal line by offering to be its protector against invaders. The initial concern about trade security soon gave rise to a craving for colonial authority though. But then in the mid 17th century came the Dutch who evicted the Portuguese and took control of the city only to be replaced by the British in the late 18th century. It is during the British era that Colombo began to assume the shape it has today. Currently this urban city is the administrative and commercial center of Sri Lanka.
Tourists flock to the buoyant South Asian state to witness the wonderful Dutch Era and British era buildings. Then there is the Colombo Fort. The relatively new buildings epitomize the spirit of British and Dutch architecture but act as business houses.
The city served as the principal seaport in the past and it continues to do so. But the historical sites replete with colonial architectural marvels and ruins constitute the major attractions drawing thousands of domestic and foreign travelers every year.
With the end of the war Colombo has become the true reflection of the country's fast growth. Most of the lands are filling up with the high tall buildings with total change of facelift of the city appearance. It is a kind of place with lot offer for their guests. 
Colombo well well known for its versatality in every aspect. But we'll begin from the food. Colombo is well known for their different types of restaurants with many variety to serve from five star restaurants to normal boutique type eating corners.
Galleface is the place for many street food vendors in the Colombo City. In the evening Galleface  taste up with different type of ROTTI, especially NAAN ROTTI  with many curries mainly from Crab, fish, prawns & chickens. They serve those in open air with cool breeze weather with sounding wave of the Indian ocean. It is a kind of feeling that you would never to miss. Those food varieties & taste hard to find anywhere in the country with the same atmosphere. 

View of Galle face & its street food vendors
Colombo is a place for many eating outlets. As well as foreigners. local crowd also love to enjoy their meals at these outlets.
. There are a modest number of food courts in Colombo. The Crescat Boulevard located in Colombo-3 seems to be one of the more popular choices. It maybe that people can get great food at an affordable price and enjoy it in a relaxed atmosphere or that the range in the food variety available is quite attractive. Thirsty juice lovers head to the ‘Roots’ Juice stand while the hungry can choose between Pizza Hut, Sri Lankan, Mongolian, Chinese, Thai, Indian or even settle with ‘Fish and Chips’

The food court at the entrance of Odel, however is what draws the crowds-making it another popular food destination in itself. The array of food options available is actually quite enticing! Juice lovers such as I have Roots to quench our thirst, Harpo’s Pizza and Il Gelato give an Italian feel, The Elephant House Hot Dog counter brings back fond memories, Magic Corn draws those who seek new tastes and The Sandwich Factory gives anyone a good square meal. What’s appealing about this food court is that it is set outside-it is open, to some extent, to the elements unlike most food courts which are usually underground or in a closed setup. The food choices too cater to almost anyone, and are of good quality. What’s missing is that quick cup of coffee when you need it but even that could be found at Delifrance which is located inside, like the Sushi Bar and so technically isn’t part of the food court. Nevertheless it isn’t a long walk inside either!

Majestic City does not draw crowds to its food court. The original KFC outlet upstairs, with its mouth watering aroma which wafts even outside and is synonymous with many people’s childhood is the charm. Nevertheless, due to its popularity a KFC counter is also present at the MC food court downstairs. Roots seem to have an affinity for places with food conglomerations (aka:food courts!) and is present even here! :) In addition Thai Express, Malaysian, Sri Lankan, Indian and Western food is also available to be purchased and consumed according to your mood and taste.

Thrill seekers can satisfy their hunger at the Excel World food court. You can choose from Chinese, Mongolian, Thai, Western and of course to quench your thirst from all that excitement and screaming -Roots!-surprise,surprise!

The Urban Kitchen located at the Hyde Park Arpico outlet can also take its place in the list of food courts around Colombo. Urban Kitchens (UK) atmosphere combined with the food they serve is what is likeable about the place. During lunch time the UK transforms into an easy café-esque setting. People can come in their most casual attire and relax in the most laid-back of settings and enjoy a choice of food that would be served in fine dining restaurants. You can enjoy exquisite Italian food from Regina Margherita or choose from a wide platter created by the chef and his team to tantalize your taste buds. You may think that with food such as this, the prices are going to be high, but in fact they are quite reasonable and so everyone can come enjoy a quick bite or meal during the day or night. 

Your Food In indian way - Elite Indian restaurant is a kind of place that full fil your requirements.Perfect place to go for a filling lunch when you think you need to reward yourself; and not to feel bad about it afterwards.

The Buriyani they serve just hits the spot, tandoori or otherwise. Topped with their nothing-short-of-awesome Watalappan, it leaves you in a state of fulfillment that words can not describe. Best part is, this would only set you back somewhere right under Rs. 400. 

 

Menu at Elite Indian.

People here is quite friendly & professional. Highly recommend for your meals while your stay at colombo. easy to get on & it is very close to Bambalapitiya Junction.

DineMore, Zissle, delifrance, PizzaHut, KFC, McDonalds other leading food outlets that you'll comeacross in Colombo.

In the mean time if you are a CRAB lover "The ministry Of Crab" is the place you need to visit. It is located near the World Trade Centre  at old Dutch Hospital.

Food variety doesn't end up these few places. There are many more to serve fro your taste.

Sri Lanka-A country With Lot To Offer

Like it or not, you have to admit that we all love to go with what’s in vogue. Be it the latest in mobile phone technology, the latest fashion trends and even the TV series or movie that everyone’s going on about. Well, the same rule applies to holiday destinations and if you don’t know it already, Sri Lanka has been named by only the world’s renowned and largest travel publisher, Lonely Planet as the place to be in 2013.

Lonely Planet highlighted the growth rate of visitors to the island after the end of nearly 30 years of civil war in 2009 as one of the main reasons for it striking the numero uno spot on the list.

What was also highlighted was the number of eco-tourism hotspots across the country in addition to the wide variety of activities and atmospheres that make it one of the planet’s best value destinations.

Whitewater rafting the Borderlands way

Rubber and tea plantations

The drive from Colombo was quite relaxing and scenic, with gradual transitions from urban city backgrounds to the vast rubber and tea cultivations of the hill country.

View of the tented accommodation from the river

When we arrived in Kitulgala, we met Gwen, sales and marketing manager for Borderlands who introduced us to the Borderlands team and showed us around the 10 stilted VIP tents that overlook the waters of Kitulgala.

Braving the rapids

Once we put on water shoes and stored our valuables in the safe care of the staff, we were led to the equipment store that lies just along the main road. We then donned our lifejackets, helmets and collected an oar before we climbed aboard the Borderlands 4×4 that took us on a bumpy but exciting ride to the start off point.

By the waters, we were all given safety briefings and tips by Mahesh and Supun, our guides for the day, who then led us to the chilly but refreshing waters. Once we were comfortable with our equipment, we were divided among two rafts and we were off.

Kitulgala only found its way into guidebooks after the major Hollywood movie – The Bridge on the River Kwai – which was filmed here in 1956. From then on it’s become the centre for white-water rafting in the island.

Scene from 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'

While we had the occasional running aground due to the opening of the sluice gates every Sunday further downstream, it didn’t mar the experience at all.

After breaking downstream and taking part in a few awesome games including assisted flips into the water off our upturned raft, we began our uphill trek. Even though the track we were on was in regular use by fellow rafters, it seemed very much an unbeaten track.

We later descended carefully on all-fours over slippery rocks to a gorge with pools of varying sizes where we were about to experience a true challenge of mind and body.

Canyoning

Taking 12 foot plunges into pools of water, sliding down natural waterslides, and cheering each other on across the finish line, it was truly an unforgettable experience  and to me, the highlight of the excursion. We later made our way back to our rafts and raced each other back to camp. Some of us seeing that the water was calmer downstream got the go-ahead from our guides to jump back into the water and swim back. Others were just playfully thrown out.

We ended the evening with steaming pots of rice and curry that were waiting for us as soon as we got to camp, which we in turn wolfed down.

As Kitulgala is named after the Kitul tree, a strange looking tree from which treacle is collected, no visit to Kitulgala will be complete without the purchase of sweet Kitul jaggery which was readily

available at a roadside shop. Too bad there wasn’t any left by the time we reached home.

Pure Kitul Jaggery

Enjoy Kandy -A Photo View Of Kandy

Temple Of Tooth

KANDY, home to the Temple of the Tooth,  must-see when touring Sri Lanka .The blessing ceremony (puja) either morning or evening is very moving, but be aware that the crowds are huge! You can see the Kandyan Dancers and Drummers one evening with great fun at Avanhala close to temple of tooth or at YMCA-KAndy. Also you can visit  the lovely Botanic Gardens on the outskirts. Highly recommend a night visit to Kandy, as the lights around the lake are lovely. During daytime, just walking round Kandy is very interesting and take a look at the old Queens Hotel in the centre, where you can enjoy afternoon tea (very colonial) for next to no cost. 


Budhdha statue At Bahirawakanda

This statue situated at the highest point of the Kandy City on one end. This statue you see from everywhere in the city angle. You can ask for Three wheel driver to get there, walking may be little difficult as you need to climb lot.

In the mean time PUB at bake house at city centre gives you very colonial feeling with lot of gatherings & shaking beer mugs with different kind of people & guests. foods are so good, liitle bit expensive, but it is a kind of feeling you need to have while your stay at Kandy.





View Of Bake House PUB

Kandy market place is also a place to visit while your stay in Sri Lanka. You can see the true Sri Lankan life style with different types of stalls from fish , meat, vegetables to spices, clothes, bags etc. It is a one of the most busiest place in the Town. the experience in market place is true Sri Lankan & you'll never get it any where.







Kandy Market Place


Kandy lake is the pride of kandy City. The beauty it adds to the City  is countless. Either morning walk around the lake or night walk around the lake in nice breezy weather will give you a life time memorable pleasure. You can have a walk around the lake less than 40 min. In the night with 
glooming lights of the temple the view is superb.

 Kandy Lake & Dalada Maligawa

 Lake At night

If you are looking for meal  Devons , White House, delight & bake House highly recommended. In addition to there are so many pastry shops in the city in every corner basically you can rely on them for your meals. My personal favorite is Muslim Hotel where you can have spicy meals from Rotti , kottu to rice & Curry. It is quite busy place & food Hygiene is Average.



Kandy City Centre is meant for the high end consumers with big spending capacity. Most of the shops are belongs to branded items, quite compact area with all the supermarkets , banks & shops. If you are looking for quality, Kandy City Centre is the place to visit.



Kandy view point is a place where you can see whole town from the most highest point of the city. The view is much beautiful at night with all the lights.


View from the Kandy View point



Elegant queens Hotel





Busy dalada Veediya


Kandy Map