During my visit to Nuwara Eliya, I made it a point to explore the Seetha Amman Kovil, a temple steeped in history and mythology. Located just 1 km from the serene Hakgala Botanical Garden, this unique South Indian architectural marvel is the only Hindu temple in Sri Lanka dedicated to Princess Sita from the epic Ramayana. As I arrived at the temple, I was immediately struck by its vibrant and intricate design. The surrounding scenery, with the lush greenery of Nuwara Eliya, added to the temple's serene atmosphere. A gentle stream ran close by, shimmering under the sunlight, and it’s…

Exploring Single Tree Hill in Nuwara Eliya was one of the most rewarding hikes ever. Situated at an impressive altitude of 6,890 feet, this hill offers scenic beauty, tranquillity, and adventure. The journey to the summit blended peaceful trails through tea plantations and moments of awe as the panoramic views unfolded with every step. Starting the Journey The hike began early in the morning when the cool mist lingered over Nuwara Eliya. The trails were surrounded by lush green tea plantations, and the rhythmic sounds of tea pluckers chatting in the distance added a cultural charm to the journey. I…

Visiting the Kanniya Hot Water Springs in Trincomalee was an experience that combined history, culture, and a sense of wonder. Nestled in a serene corner of Kanniya, this archaeologically significant site offers much more than its soothing hot water wells. It’s where legends, religious practices, and natural phenomena come together, creating a unique destination that deeply moved me. A Walk Through History As I entered the site, I was struck by its historical aura. According to local legend, these springs date back to the time of King Ravana, a figure from the epic Ramayana. It is said that Ravana, in…

Visiting the Gokanna Raja Maha Vihara Temple in Trincomalee was a profoundly enriching experience that combined history, culture, and spirituality. The temple’s unique location atop a hill within Fort Fredrick immediately caught my attention as I approached the site, offering breathtaking views of Trincomalee's coastal beauty. Exploring the Historical Roots Walking into the temple grounds, I felt an overwhelming sense of history. The original Gokanna Viharaya, built as early as the 3rd century, was a testament to Sri Lanka's Buddhist heritage. I learned that King Mahasen, a devout ruler, established the temple when Trincomalee (then Gokanna) was a thriving port.…

During my visit to the coastal city of Trincomalee, I stumbled upon the Maritime and Naval History Museum, which immerses you in Sri Lanka’s incredible maritime history. Set against Trincomalee’s natural harbour backdrop, the museum offered a captivating glimpse into centuries of trade, exploration, and naval prowess. The Historical Significance of Trincomalee Trincomalee has long been recognized for its strategic importance. Known as Gokanna in ancient times, this city has been a hub of maritime activity for centuries, serving as a key port for global trade routes. During colonial times, the Portuguese, Dutch, and British all left their mark here,…

As I approached the Trincomalee War Cemetery, I was struck by its tranquil surroundings—a place of quiet reverence amidst the bustling Trincomalee-Nilaveli Road. Walking through the cemetery gates felt like stepping into a solemn sanctuary where the past is preserved, and the stories of brave soldiers are honoured. A Tribute to Sacrifice The cemetery, established in 1948, serves as the final resting place for 303 soldiers of the British Empire who lost their lives during World War II. Each headstone tells a poignant story of courage and sacrifice, reminding visitors of the harsh realities of war. Soldiers of various ranks,…

As I approached the heart of Trincomalee town, the vibrant colours of the Pathirakali Amman Kovil instantly captured my attention. This magnificent Hindu temple, a vast complex of shrines located near the iconic Konesar Malai area, radiates an aura of divinity and cultural richness. The temple’s architectural beauty, blending Dravidian and South Indian styles, is a feast for the eyes, with intricate carvings and vibrant sculptures adorning every corner. A Journey Through Spirituality and Tradition Entering the temple felt like stepping into a world of devotion and history. The goddess Pathirakali, enshrined at the heart of the temple, is revered…

Walking through the gates of Fort Fredrick in Trincomalee, I was immediately struck by the air of history surrounding this remarkable site. Nestled atop Swami Rock-Konamamalai, the Fort is a testament to centuries of conflict, colonial influence, and cultural transformation. Built by the Portuguese in 1624, it carries layers of history shaped by Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. A Historical Marvel The journey began with a sense of awe, knowing that the very foundations of the Fort were constructed using rubble from the ancient Koneswaram Temple. This sacred Hindu shrine, once known as the "Temple of a Thousand Pillars," was…

My visit to Uppuveli Beach, just 3km from Trincomalee town, felt like stepping into a coastal paradise. The soft golden sands, swaying palm trees, and vibrant waterfront bars created the perfect setting for relaxation and exploration. This beach is the ideal destination for anyone seeking tranquillity and liveliness. Why You Should Visit Uppuveli Beach One of the most magical moments I experienced at Uppuveli was watching the sunrise over the vast Indian Ocean. Facing directly east, the beach offers an unobstructed view of the horizon, where the sky transforms into a canvas of warm colours as the sun emerges. It’s…

During my visit to Kandy, I had the chance to step into the tranquil grounds of the Kandy War Cemetery, which holds profound historical and emotional significance. This serene space, formerly known as the Pitakande Military Cemetery, is more than just a resting place for soldiers—it’s a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during the world wars. A Journey Through History As I entered the cemetery, I was struck by its peaceful atmosphere, a stark contrast to the turbulent history it represents. The cemetery is the final resting place for 203 individuals who served in various capacities during the wars.…

Wandering through the vibrant streets of Kandy, I stumbled upon a gem that immediately drew me in—St—Paul's Church. Nestled close to the Temple of the Tooth, this historic site stood as a testament to Kandy’s colonial past and harmonious blend of cultures. The serene atmosphere around the church, juxtaposed with its towering terracotta brick walls, felt inviting, so I entered to explore its story. A Historical Gem in the Heart of Kandy The origins of St. Paul’s Church date back to 1825 when Reginald Heber, the second Bishop of Calcutta, saw the need for a dedicated church in Kandy. At…

During my visit to the charming hill city of Kandy, a trip to the Ceylon Tea Museum at Hantane was an unforgettable highlight. Located just three kilometres from the city, the museum was easily accessible with a well-maintained motorable road. As we arrived, ample parking and the picturesque surroundings immediately set the tone for a relaxing and enriching experience. Immersing in the History of Tea Production Walking into the museum, I was struck by the meticulous layout across its four levels, each offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s illustrious tea heritage. The ground and second floors showcased fascinating vintage machinery…

During my recent visit to Kandy, I had the opportunity to explore one of its most iconic landmarks—the Sri Maha Bodhi Temple at Bahirawakanda. Nestled atop a picturesque hill, this temple is renowned for its towering 88-foot Buddha statue that overlooks the entire city of Kandy. First Impressions of the Temple The journey to the temple itself was a treat. As I made my way up the hill, the scenery transformed into a tranquil landscape, with lush greenery surrounding the area. As I approached, the white Buddha statue became visible from afar, growing more majestic. The sight of this enormous…

History and Significance Walking through the enchanting city of Kandy, I was drawn to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, an iconic symbol of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage. Nestled near the ancient Royal Palace and the serene Kandy Lake, this temple, known locally as Sri Dalada Maligawa, carries immense historical and spiritual significance. The temple houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of Gautama Buddha, a revered object that has been a symbol of sovereignty for centuries. It was fascinating to learn about its journey from Kalinga in ancient India, brought by Princess Hemamala and Prince Dantha during King Keerthi Sri Meghavarna’s reign.…

As I stepped into the National Gallery of Singapore, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of its architecture. Housed within the Former City Hall and Supreme Court, the buildings are masterpieces, reflecting Singapore's rich history and evolution. Located in the heart of the Civic District, this gallery effortlessly blends old-world charm with modern creativity, making it a must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts. A Fusion of History and Art The gallery, spanning a vast 64,000 square metres, is the largest visual arts venue in Singapore and one of the largest in the region. Walking through its halls, I…

Stepping into the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands felt like entering a world where creativity meets innovation. Opened on 17 February 2011 and launched by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, the museum beautifully merges art, science, culture, and technology, offering visitors a one-of-a-kind experience. A Lotus of Design: The Architecture The ArtScience Museum's architecture is an attraction in itself. Designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie, its iconic shape is inspired by a lotus flower. Sheldon Adelson, Chairman of Las Vegas Sands, aptly described it as “The Welcoming Hand of Singapore”. The building consists of a round base with ten…

Stepping into the Singapore Art Museum (SAM) felt like immersing myself in a world where art, culture, and contemporary thought seamlessly merge. As Singapore’s first art museum dedicated to contemporary art, SAM’s focus on showcasing Southeast Asian perspectives truly sets it apart. A Contemporary Hub for Art Lovers Since its opening in 1996, SAM has evolved into a cornerstone of contemporary art in Southeast Asia. Its exhibitions go beyond traditional art displays, exploring diverse themes that challenge perceptions and invite reflection. This time, my visit took me to the Tanjong Pagar Distripark, one of SAM’s new and dynamic venues situated…

Walking into the MINT Museum of Toys was like stepping into a treasure trove of cherished childhood memories. As Asia’s largest vintage toy museum, it boasts over 50,000 toys and memorabilia, each with its unique story. The thematic levels—Outerspace, Characters, Childhood Favourites, Collectables, and the enchanting enamel advertising sign collection at The Public Gallery Rooftop- immediately captivated me. Exploring the Levels of Nostalgia Each level offered a different world. On the outer space level, I admired the vintage robots and space-themed toys that captured humanity’s fascination with the cosmos. The Characters level was a homage to beloved icons—everything from superheroes to…

Why Visit the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum? Engaging Educational Programs: The museum offers a variety of interactive workshops, nature walks, and guided tours designed to spark curiosity and deepen appreciation for Singapore's and Southeast Asia's rich natural heritage. Perfect for schools, organisations, and families, these programs are tailored to inspire wonder in learners of all ages. Fascinating Biodiversity and Heritage Galleries: Explore the Biodiversity and Heritage Galleries to uncover stories hidden within the museum's diverse specimens. Knowledgeable guides lead participants through the museum, revealing the history, science, and tales behind the displays. World-Class Zoological Reference Collection (ZRC): Housing…

Why Visit the National Museum of Singapore Rich Historical Legacy: Established in 1887, the National Museum of Singapore is the country's oldest museum, narrating over 700 years of Singapore's history through its innovative exhibitions and immersive displays. Architectural Marvel: The museum’s Neoclassical facade, complemented by a modernist glass-and-metal extension, blends Singapore’s colonial past and contemporary spirit. Designated as a National Monument in 1992, it’s an architectural icon worth admiring. Captivating Galleries: Singapore History Gallery: Discover Singapore’s evolution as a British colony through the Second World War to becoming a modern metropolis. Innovative Technology: Engage with cutting-edge displays such as An Old New World:…

The Children’s Museum Singapore is the nation’s first museum dedicated to children aged 12 and below. It offers an immersive and playful environment where young minds can explore, learn, and engage with Singapore’s history and culture. Vision & Mission A Place of Wonder and Joy: Aiming to inspire and spark curiosity, the museum provides a space where children can learn through play. Partnership with Families and Communities: The museum collaborates with educators, experts, and families to create a holistic environment for learning and development. Harnessing the Power of Play: Activities and exhibits are designed to make education fun and memorable,…

The Asian Civilisations Museum (ACM) offers a unique blend of classic and contemporary elements housed in a historical building with a modern interior. Dedicated to exploring Asia's artistic and cultural heritage, ACM delves into the ancestral roots of Singaporeans while connecting visitors to the diverse traditions of Asia. Why You Should Visit Discover Timeless Stories Explore artefacts from across Asia, including treasures from an ancient Arab shipwreck and relics of Christianity and Hinduism. These exhibits celebrate human connection and shared histories. Immersive Experiences Interactive displays and multimedia showcases bring history to life. Highlights include: People of the River: A nostalgic…

The Changi Chapel and Museum (CCM) has been thoughtfully revamped to honour the stories of prisoners of war (POWs) and civilians interned in the Changi prison camps during the Japanese Occupation. The museum now showcases new content and artefacts in an intimate and engaging format centered on remembrance, resilience, and reflection. Artefact Highlights: Stories of Survival and Courage Across its eight galleries, CCM displays over 114 artefacts, many donated by families of former internees. Highlights include: Anthony Newsom's POW tag: A tangible reminder of identity amidst imprisonment. Arthur Westrop's diary: A firsthand account of life in Changi camp. Changi Cross…

Walking through the ancient city of Anuradhapura, I stumbled upon Eth Pokuna or the Elephant Pond. At first glance, its sheer size left me awestruck. This massive man-made pond, once used by monks of the Abhayagiri Monastery, seemed more like a small lake. Eager to learn more, I spoke with a local guide who had been explaining the history to a group of tourists. The guide shared that Eth Pokuna is 159 meters long, 52.7 meters wide, and 9.5 meters deep, with the capacity to hold 75,000 cubic meters of water. Built during the height of Anuradhapura’s hydraulic engineering era,…

Walking through the historic city of Anuradhapura, I was drawn to the towering Jetawanaramaya Stupa. Its colossal size stood out even among the many ancient monuments in the area. Standing before this massive structure, I was struck by its grandeur and the sense of timelessness it evoked. Curious about its history, I approached a nearby guide who eagerly shared its significance. Historical Significance of Jetawanaramaya The guide explained that Jetawanaramaya was built in the 3rd century AD by King Mahasen, a ruler known for patronising Mahayana Buddhism. At its peak, the stupa was one of the tallest structures in the…

As I approached the Isurumuniya Temple, nestled near the tranquil waters of Tissa Wewa in Anuradhapura, its unique setting immediately caught my attention. Built into a natural rock formation, the temple exudes an ancient charm that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Eager to learn more about its significance, I joined a group of visitors led by a local historian who brought the temple’s story to life. The historian began by explaining that Isurumuniya was built during the reign of King Devanampiya Tissa in the 3rd century BC. Initially established as a monastic complex to house newly ordained monks, it…

The Malé Friday Mosque, also known as Malé Hukuru Miskiy, is a historical and architectural masterpiece in the heart of Malé, Maldives. Built-in 1658 during the reign of Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar I, this Sufism Sunni Islam mosque is the oldest and most ornate mosque in the Maldives. Historical Significance Constructed over an earlier mosque from 1153, the Hukuru Miskiy showcases the Maldives' deep-rooted Islamic traditions. Its foundations predate Islam, possibly originating from a sun temple. The current mosque replaced its smaller predecessor to accommodate a growing number of worshippers. Unique Coral Stone Construction This tentative UNESCO World Heritage site features…

During my visit to the serene Matale District, Sera Ella Waterfall quickly became one of the most captivating highlights of my trip. Nestled near Laggala and embraced by the majestic Knuckles Mountain Range, this enchanting waterfall offered me breathtaking views and a unique adventure that I’ll cherish forever. The Journey to Sera Ella The drive to Sera Ella was an adventure in itself. Starting from Matale, the scenic route through lush greenery and rustic villages brought me closer to nature. As I neared Illukumbura, the road turned slightly rugged but was manageable for most vehicles. I decided to park about…

Sri Muthumariamman Kovil, nestled in the heart of Matale town, Sri Lanka, is a vibrant and historically rich Hindu shrine devoted to Mariamman, the goddess of rain and fertility. This temple, a remarkable cultural and architectural gem, attracts both Hindus and Buddhists, reflecting Sri Lanka's harmonious blend of religious traditions. History of Sri Muthumariamman Kovil Temple - Matale The origins of this revered temple date back to the 19th century. Initially, it was a small shrine beneath a tree, used by local Hindu devotees. Over time, the temple grew in prominence thanks to the community's efforts. In 1852, a paddy…

Nestled along the tranquil Ohata River in the Shimokita region, Yagen Onsen is often referred to as the "Honshu Hot Spa." Surrounded by lush forests of cypress, beech, and maple trees, this serene escape offers a harmonious blend of nature and relaxation. The 4.4 km walking trail from Yagen to Oku-Yagen leads visitors through verdant landscapes adorned with cascading waterfalls, creating an idyllic setting for a rejuvenating retreat. Why You Need to Visit Yagen Onsen Kappa-no-Yu and Fufu-Kappa-no-Yu The highlight of Yagen Onsen is its open-air bathing areas. Kappa-no-Yu is a free-to-use outdoor onsen offering a truly immersive natural experience.…