Tuesday, February 23, 2010

The Grand Hotel - Nuwara Eliya


The Grand Hotel in the hill station Nuwara Eliya has a heritage exceeding a 100 years. The former residence of Sir Edward Barnes, Governor of Sri Lanka from 1830 to 1850, the Grand Hotel is an excellent example of a mansion from the Elizabethan era. It retains the stateliness and grandeur of a Colonial Mansion and rightfully claims its place as one of the best hill country hotels in Asia.

Like a misplaced bit of Europe set in the centre of a tropical island, the hill country resort town of Nuwara Eliya nestles in a cradle formed by three mountains at an elevation of 6,182 feet (1,884 meters) above sea level. Known as “Little England” or “Switzerland of the East,” it is situated 170 km. east of Colombo in the Central Province. Carpets of fragrant green velvet tea cover the hills, while majestic waterfalls tumble down from their source high in the mist-shrouded mountains.

Tudor style architecture and Victorian homes set amidst Boxwood and Firs overlook the calm waters of Lake Gregory, flowers bloom in parks and gardens, hunting and fishing trophies decorate the walls of old buildings transporting you back in time to the tranquility of a bygone era….




Sunday, February 21, 2010

Talking Drums in concert on the beach


Reverberating rhythms – Talking Drums in concert on the beach
The rhythmic tête-à-tête of eclectic beats will penetrate the southern air as the local maestros of drumming take the stage at Bentota Beach Hotel on the 27th of February 2010 from 8.30 p.m. – 11.00 p.m. The evening promises to be a refreshing break from the usual uniting a myriad of Sri Lankan drumming traditions from across the country and also featuring the well known ‘Elephant Foot’ and ‘Triloka’ with the aberrant flare of Pabalu.
Twenty handpicked young professionals from around the island will represent folk drumming from the Northern, Southern, Central and Sabaragamuwa traditions. Known collectively as ‘Rhythms of the Isle’, this group represents a rhapsody of Sri Lankan rhythms that tells the story of the age
old tradition of percussion which is original and ecstatic.
Triloka’ lives up to its name of three worlds by amalgamating the traditions of Sri Lankan folk music, Indian raga, jazz and rock. The band officially entered the field in 2006 and since then Triloka has gained recognition not only for its distinctive beats but also for the use of unique musical instruments. The band partnership is made with Harshan Gallage on drums, Uvindu Perera on bass, Sarani Perera on guitar,
Eshantha Peiris on Keyboards and Pabalu Wijegoonawardane on percussion.
As the night thickens rhythmic beats of the transcending styles of drumming will resonate. ‘Elephant Foot’, a collaboration created in the neighbouring shores of Hikkaduwa is influenced by the multitude of drumming styles found globally. Pioneering into the world of fusion drumming the irrefutable technique and
talent of this group has won the nod of approval from many.
Be entertained by the multitude of talent displayed by the three performances and
enjoy a night of the traditional rhythms and fusion drumming.
For more details call John Keells Hotels Reservations 2439049 - 51

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Wild Grass -Nature Resort Sigiriya



Nestled in the heart of an enchanting forest, amongst the whispers of trees and magical birdsong, there exists a slice of paradise.

Welcome to WildGrass - an unforgettable experience for the soul that longs utopian bliss. Tucked away deep within the jungles of Sigirya, our tranquil haven is designed to captivate both heart and mind, cocooning you in the warm embrace of Mother Nature’s best.

Indulge in untold luxuries, away from the cacophony of city life as you release all worldly worries in utmost seclusion cloaked by breathtaking natural scenery and the haunting music of the wild.

Step into the enchantment of a luxurious jungle hideaway.

Step into WildGrass.

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