Kataragama is a town located in the south of the island nation of Sri Lanka that is a noteworthy pilgrimage destination for Hindus, Buddhists and the indigenous Veddah people alike. Even devotees from southern India come to this venerated site to pay their respects at the sacred shrines gracing the locale. The site of veneration is the Kataragama temple, known in the Sinhalese language as the Kataragama devalaya; it stands in honour of God Skanda-Murugan or Kataragamadeviyo as the locals call the deity. Tamil followers of the Hindu faith, both in Sri Lanka and southern India, call the location Katirkamam. The deity is variously known as Skanda-Murugan, Katiradeva, Subramanya, Kandasamy, Tarakajith and other names by the Hindu community. The god is depicted as having twelve …

The Korean cartoon and animation film industry is currently enjoying an upswing with about 120 animation studios collaborating with US and Japanese animation companies to provide input to TV shows and movies. A spate of recent animated feature films made in Korea proved to be huge family hits such as the 2011 movies “Leafie” and “A Hen into the Wild” and the more recent “The King of Pigs,” “Penguin Pororo” and “Mashimaro” helped boost Korea’s animation industry to third place in the world. The country’s first full length animated movie “Hong Gil-dong”, released in 1967, set the stage for animated movies. With the popularity at home of Korean cartoon and animated movies and with Korean animators and artists being increasingly involved in international hits, the …

Kandy is one of the Sri Lankan destinations that is very popular among both local and foreign visitors. The beauty of the city is due to one major reason for visitors to visit this city over and over again without getting bored. Known as the “Hill Capital” of Sri Lanka, this city is developed and modern but still preserves its ancient values. The cool climate will welcome all those who enter this ancient city of the kings. Kandy holds another record of being the last kingdom of the country. The lake located within the centre of the city, which is known as the “Nuwara Wewa” adds more beauty and tranquillity. Standing majestically in front of this lake is the “Temple of the Tooth Relic” also …

Bangkok is a modern city with one foot firmly in the past. Although the Thai capital maybe overrun with futuristic high rise buildings, it also has plenty of historic ones. While a majority of visitors come to Thailand’s cosmopolitan capital to enjoy the amazing shopping opportunities and vibrant nightlife, they all leave with a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich culture and coloured history. The city is steeped in ancient splendour and walking along its streets one will come across many interesting attractions. Tourists who want to learn more about Thai history and culture can try visiting Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (shortened to Ayutthaya), which is located around ninety five kilometres to the north of Bangkok. The city was established in 1350 and served as …

One of the best ways to experience a country’s culture is by witnessing local festivals and when in Hanoi the Chem Temple Festival is one such colourful event worth seeing. The festival takes place at the Chem Temple which can be found in Thuy Phuong village, around 12 kms from the city centre. If you are looking for centrally located Hanoi accommodation from which to set off on your excursions to such sites, then Somerset Grand Hanoi is worth considering. These Hanoi serviced apartments are near the Central Business District and makes a great base for both business and leisure. If visiting during May, make your way to the Chem Temple which has a celebration dedicated to the legendary figure Ly Ong Trong from the …

Singapore is a rich, vibrant landmark on Southeast Asia’s landscape. Visitors looking to participate in the exciting blend of local and international culture would enjoy a stay at any of the Apartments in Singapore. Guests looking for premier lodging in the heart of the city would enjoy one of the fine . One elegant option is the Somerset Orchard Singapore, and its convenient location and modern amenities make it ideal for business and pleasure visits. Head down to Bedeck reservoir to participate in the exciting celebration of the annual Dragon Boat (Danu) Festival in Singapore. Featuring lively boat races where participants can cheer for their favourite teams of 22 – all competing for rowing glory – and also give the intense sport a try themselves. …