During the month of April, Sri Lanka celebrates a festival known as the ‘Sinhalese and Tamil New Year’, which is a major anniversary celebrated by most Sri Lankans. It is a time in which not only Sinhalese, but all Sri Lankans come together as one to celebrate. Astrology Astrology plays a rather important role in Avurudu, as the dawn of the new year doesn’t take place at a specific time every year. The auspicious or ‘nakath’ time is specified according to astrological calculations. The duration of time between the old year and new year can take as long as 12 hours and 48 minutes, this is because of the sun crossing he astrological border of the House of Pisces to House of Aries. Every part …

A main Buddhist religious festival celebrating the triple anniversary of Lord Buddha. In Sri Lanka, a majority Buddhist country, this festival brings about brightly lit streets full of creative and intricate lanterns to admire. What is Vesak? The birth, attainment of enlightenment and passing away into Nirvana are the three notable events that Vesak symbolizes. The day is spent in reflection, with devotees offering flowers, lighting lamps and burning incense in the name of God. Several traditional ceremonies occur throughout the island on and before the days leading to Vesak. The day of celebration varies each year. How is it celebrated? Numerous roadside stalls are erected in the evenings, distributing passers-by free drinks and refreshments! Performances and theatre performances close to various temples are a …

Since Christianity isn’t a popular religion in Thailand, Christmas may not come across as unconventional in this country. New Year, on the other hand, is a celebration that goes big in the local community. Tropical Christmas Christmas may not be an official holiday in Thailand, nevertheless, the day is celebrated even though not on a grand scale. What’s unique in Koh Samui is that Christmas has a tropical feel to it rather than the usual wintery feel. If you are curious to know if Santa visits Koh Samui, well, he certainly does and in the most eccentric ways at that!   Things to know Since the rains hit Thailand in November, this weather condition can carry on to December as well. However, the weather may …

Away from the lavish lifestyles and the bustling capital city is the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple which comes across as an idyllic escape where we can seek spiritual fulfilment. Historic appeal Being one of the largest temple complexes in Colombo, the Gangaramaya Temple is well-known for hosting the most colourful Vesak festival annually. It was established in 1885 and has a rewarding history of 120 years. The surrounding areas of the Beira Lake were once a swamp and now it has turned out to be a significant complex including this temple, the breathtaking lake, and the assembly hall. Location Located in the heart of Colombo, the Gangaramaya Temple has always been at the forefront of protecting religious values of the country. For those who are holidaying …

When it comes to New Year’s Eve Krabi has plenty to put forward to travellers, from lush greens to busy markets. Ride around Hire a car or bicycle and head off. Krabi has amazing scenery, and a bike ride is the best way to truly enjoy it all. From the lush green forests to limestone karsts that jut out from the deep sea, it’s a sight for the sore eyes. Warm dips Located in a small jungle, close to the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve, the hot springs are pools that have been created from the water in smooth rocks, with the hot water passing through volcanic chambers. Beach parties Beach parties are an obvious hit when it comes to New Year Eve plans …

Amongst the many landmarks often visited by locals and tourists alike, the famous shopping precinct, Arcade Independence Square has a history that is quite intriguing. A Building with an interesting history The Arcade Independence Square is housed in the former Jawatte Lunatic Asylum along with several other buildings renovated as a part of the Independence Square Redevelopment Programme undertaken by the government at the time. As the years went by… The Jawatta Lunatic Asylum was built under the guidance of the then British Governor, Sir William Gregory in order to replace the existing asylum in Borella. The building consisted of two wings accommodating around 400 patients. Later the occupancy of the building was taken over by several government institutions including the Sri Lankan Broadcasting Corporation …