EXCURSION BOOKLET - Jetwing Hotels€¦ · Paddy field tour 9 Galle Fort - a journey to the past 11...

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LIGHTHOUSEGALLE

Jetwing Lighthouse,Dadalla,Galle,

Sri Lanka.

Tel: +94-91-2223744 Fax: +94-91-2224021

Email: [email protected]: www.jetwinghotels.com

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EXCURSION BOOKLET

LIGHTHOUSEGALLE

42

LIGHTHOUSEGALLE


Sri Lanka.

Tel: +94-91-2223744 Fax: +94-91-2224021


EXCURSION BOOKLET

LIGHTHOUSEGALLE

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© 2015, Jetwing Lighthouse

Trail research by Anoma AlagiyawaduText by Janek Seevaratnam and James McAdamInitial editing by Gehan de Silva Wijeyeratne and Chamin WickremasingeText added and edited by Sriyanie Miththapala

www.jetwinghotels.com

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CONTENTS

Introduction vii

Welcome to Jetwing Lighthouse ix

Jetwing Lighthouse Seashore Trail 1

Udawalawe National Park 3

Kanneliya Forest Reserve 7

Paddy field tour 9

Galle Fort - a journey to the past 11

Hiyare Rainforest 13

Boat safari down the Mahamodara River 15

Yala National Park 19

Places of Worship 21

Rumassala formerly Buona Vista 23

Whale and Dolphin Watching 25

A Taste of Sri Lanka 29

Jetwing Kurulubedda 31

Galle Market Tour and Sri Lankan Cookery Demonstration 33

Kottawa Forest Reserve (Arboretum) 35

Contact 37

Responsible Tourism 39

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We are delighted to welcome you to a Jetwing Hotel with a resident naturalist. We hope you will find something of interest in the enclosed programme of excursions – ranging from cultural and historical visits and walks to natural history tours. Some of our excursions are designed to involve the local community as much as possible for two reasons. Firstly, because we recognise them as important stakeholders who should share in the financial benefits of tourism and second, we believe it is important that the local community play a lead role in the conservation of our cultural and natural heritage.

Resident naturalists are employed at Jetwing Hotels with several objectives in mind. The first is that they are available to educate the guests of the hotel about the natural environment and the culture found in and around the hotel.

The second is that they are a part of a wider strategy to to illustrate the commitment to responsible tourism and minimising the impact of its activities on the environment.

Sri Lanka offers a visitor a range of destinations from golden beaches, majestic mountains, dense rainforests, mysterious mangroves and stunning vistas, to ancient ruins and a diversity of religions and cultures. Sri Lanka may be blessed with a great diversity of species and ecosystems but it is also besieged with a range of human-induced threats that affect the survival of these species and ecosystems. Tourism can place heavy, additional stresses on an environment already seriously over-used and over-stretched.

Jetwing Hotels integrate best practices for environmental management and play a significant role in creating environmental awareness, facilitating research and conservation. Jetwing is committed to sustainable tourism with each Jetwing hotel having a ‘Green Directory’ listing the activities it undertakes, in order to be an environmentally responsible hotel. These are available on the Jetwing website, on each hotel’s home page.

Jetwing Hotels, together with Jetwing Eco Holidays (the wildlife and luxury travel subsidiary), are also engaged in a campaign to impart information about the island’s fauna and flora to the local communities – especially to our school children. To this end, we have published a number of low-cost leaflets, booklets and posters. In order to make this information freely available, these publications have also been serialised in local newspapers. Jetwing naturalists also encourage school groups to join them on field trips and in classroom activities to stimulate further interest in conservation amongst school children.

We hope you will enjoy your stay with us and carry the message of sustainable tourism to others.

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Welcome to Jetwing Lighthouse‘A haven of tranquil luxury nestled by the ocean.’

Jetwing Lighthouse distinguishes itself as one of the works of the eminent architect, Geoffrey Bawa - often referred to as ‘the genius of the place’. Designing the hotel between 1995 and 1997, Bawa both confronted the relentless waves and provided contrasting areas of shade and tranquility.

In his book ‘Bawa - the complete works’, Dave Robson notes that Bawa’s architecture for Jetwing Lighthouse . . .’ provide[d] contrasting areas of shelter and tranquility . . . ‘ and that ‘. . . no single space in the hotel is self contained or complete: each is, in part, the consequence of a previous space and the anticipation of a subsequent one; each retains links with its neighbours and with the outside so that the eye is continually invited to explore. The architecture itself is muted, but offers subtle memories ofMoorish palaces, ocean liners, ancient manor houses and colonial villas.’

The hotel itself contains thematic historical pieces - the main being a spectacular and unique staircase, sculpted in beaten and welded copper and bronze. In this sculpture, Laki Senanayake - an old friend of Bawa - depicts the arrival of the Portuguese invaders being repulsed by the Sinhala king and his army. Laki achieves a visual sense of drama and motion rather than historical accuracy, mixing fact with fiction.

The stunningly simple architecture, the jade green sea and the excellent service combine to produce a luxurious and peaceful atmosphere.

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Every perfect traveller alwayscreates the country where he travels.

Nikos Kazantzakis

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Jetwing Lighthouse Seashore TrailAn easy excursion just a few metres away from the hotel . . .

Sri Lanka is blessed with more than 1700 km of beautiful coastline. There are classic scenes of swaying palms and tranquil beaches.

However, for the adventurous, there is far more to see. Just off shore lies an abundance of reefs, which are home to a dazzling array of colourful fish. Sri Lankans have, of course, been aware of these maritime riches since ancient times. Indeed, fish-like symbols appear in Buddhist carvings dating back 1000 years and more. Foreign visitors too have long been fascinated by the great diversity of the Sri Lankan seashore and coral reefs.

A vast number of animal and plant species are found on this easily-accessible, ribbon-like strip, only a few hundred metres wide. On this strip are thousands of animals and plants. Jetwing Lighthouse is situated in an area where the diversity of coral reef and marine life is very high.

You will be able to explore the sandstone reefs and rock pools situated along the seashore trail of the Hotel beach.

What can be seen Marine flora: Marine algae (green, red and brown algae) and sea grasses; Fauna: Hermit crabs, mud skippers, seashells, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, sea stars (starfish) and reef fish.

Time and duration Dependent on the low tide; approximately one hour.

Distance from Hotel On the hotel premises, starting from the veranda and returning via the Spa.

What to bring/wear Comfortable clothes, cap/hat, rubber/plastic slippers or sandals (to walk on rocks and sandstone), binoculars, camera (if necessary), sunblock.

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Udawalawe National ParkSee elephants galore . . .

Udawalawe National Park is world famous for its Asian elephants. The park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants in all their glory. Whole herds, adults (including magnificent male tuskers) and calves can be seen bathing, playing in the water or feeding. Observing the herds is made easier by the fact that the main habitat in the area is grassland.

Two of the most striking features of the Park (which falls within the Sabaragamuwa and Uva Provinces) are the Udawalawe Reservoir and the Walawe River. The Balangoda, Kaltota and Haputale mountain ranges that surround the Park offer a breathtaking view of beauty.

This 30,821 hectare dry zone area was declared as a National Park in 1972. The area has an annual rainfall of 1524mm and an average temperature of 29 C° – 40 C °.

What can be seen Elephants. Resident birds, including the Serpent Eagle, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Black Eagle, Racket-tailed Drongo, Malabar Pied Hornbills, Woolly-necked Stork, Open Bills, Ibis, Shama, Stork-billed Kingfisher and Peacocks. Migrant birds, including Forest Wagtails, Indian Pittas, Terns, Whiskered Terns, Osprey and Sand Pipers.Other animals such as Spotted Deer, Sambur, Barking Deer, Grey Langur, Crocodiles, Wild Boar, Wild Buffalo, Jackal and Leopard.Daminiya and Mandoran - two endemic species of forest trees that are not found in any other park.

Time and duration Depart from hotel at 8.00 am and return between 9.30-10.00 pm.Return another hour later if you visit the Elephant Orphanage.

Distance from Hotel 130 km, 3-3.5-hour drive.

What is included Transport to and from the site; 4-wheel jeep for transport within the park; entrance tickets.

What is not included Lunch, tips.

What to wear/bring Comfortable earth-coloured clothes; snacks; insect repellent, sun block; caps/ hats; binoculars; camera.

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The question is, are we happy to suppose that our grandchildren may never be able to see an elephant except in a picture book?

David Attenborough

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Kanneliya Forest ReserveExperience the feeling of walking in a tropical rain forest . . .

The KDN Forest Reserve (Kanneliya-Dediyagama-Nakiyadeniya) is the second largest primary forest area in Sri Lanka and is renowned for its watershed value. The forest occupies the area between two rivers - the Gin Ganga and the Nilwala Ganga. The natural vegetation of the KDN complex is the lowland wet evergreen forest, which is a climax forest formation dominated by an association of Shorea, Dipterocarpus and Mesua.

Over 17% of the wet zone flora is confined to this area where the KDN forest is the most prominent. This region has been identified as one of the floristically richest areas in South Asia. The endemic flora and fauna of the southwestern wet zone, including the KDN, forms a relic of the biota of the Indian Plate with Gondwanaic ancestry. Therefore, the biota of southwest Sri Lanka, including the KDN forest complex, is of considerable scientific interest with respect to the biogeography. There is a high proportion of endemism amongst the identified woody plants, with 150 species being endemic to Sri Lanka.

There are 78 villages surrounding the KDN forest complex. There are small-scale cottage industries based on Fish-tail palm (Kitul), and many local people are involved in the collection of medicinal plants and plant products, as well as rattan to produce handicrafts and furniture.

What can be seen Over 100 bird species, 16 of which are endemic to Sri Lanka (such as the Green-billed Coucal, Blue Magpie and Spot-winged Thrush).Over 15 species of endemic fresh-water fish.Many other endemic reptiles, amphibians and butterflies can also be seen in the area.

Time and duration Depart from Hotel at 7.00 am, return at 3.00 pm if following the Anagimala Ella trail.Return at 4.00 pm if following the Narangas Ella trail.Return at 6.00 pm if trekking to Kabbale Mount.

Distance from Hotel 46.5 km, a 90-minute drive.

What is included Transport to and from the site, entrance tickets.

What is not included Picnic lunch, tips.

What to wear/bring Comfortable earth-coloured clothes, walking shoes, bathing costumes (if necessary), insect repellent, sun block, rain caps or umbrella, binocu-lars. camera.

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Paddy Field TourSee a verdant green field of paddy . . .

Rice (Oryza sativa) is the staple food of nearly all Sri Lankans. Traditionally, it signifies prosperity and abundance, and in some form, is eaten on almost all auspicious occasions. Rice – the starchy kernel found within the rough, gold husk and bran of the paddy seed - is obtained by grinding or pounding these seeds. Grains of rice are then either cooked in water or milk and eaten or powdered to make flour, which forms the base for a variety of traditional foods.

Paddy is cultivated throughout the country - in both the wet and dry zones. During each year, traditionally, there are two major seasons in which paddy is cultivated: the ‘Maha’ season ranging from October to March and the ‘Yala’ season spanning April to September. Rice is the staple food of majority of Sri Lankans. Paddy cultivation provides livelihoods to more than 1.8 million farmers. The total paddy area under cultivation is about 600,000 hectares in the Maha season and 400,000 hectares in the Yala season.

Although mechanisation is replacing traditional methods of cultivation, depending on the time of year, you may be lucky enough to see fields being ploughed by buffalo or seeds being sown or planted by rows of women. At Jetwing Kurulubedda, you are assured of this. Here, paddy is grown organically, using traditional methods for ploughing, sowing and harvesting.

Visit Jetwing Kurulubedda and experience first-hand any of the above activities. Jetwing Kurulubedda is also a good place for spotting birds, butterflies and dragonflies.

What can be seen Depending on the time of year, ploughing of the field, sowing, harvesting and threshing.

Time and duration After breakfast, half a day.

Distance from Hotel 750 m and 10-minute walk from the Hotel.

What is included Lunch.

What to wear/bring Comfortable clothes, hats/caps, camera, insect repellent, sun block.

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Galle Fort: a journey to the pastSee the remnants of a Dutch past at a

World Heritage Site. . . .

Galle has been the emporium of foreign trade since the dawn of commerce. The Dutch Fort, which has been declared a World Heritage Site, surrounds the older part of the town and is situated on a headland of which three sides overlook the sea. The ramparts of the Fort are over 2.5 km in circumference and provide a pleasant and interesting walk.

The historian Sir Emerson Tennant claimed that Galle was the ancient biblical city of Tarshish. This city is said to have traded with King Solomon, the Persians and the Egyptians. In 1505 a Portuguese fleet led by Lorenzo de Almeida heading for the Maldives drifted accidentally into Galle. It is said that on hearing a cock crowing (cock means ”Galo” in Portuguese) they gave the town its name. Another explanation for the name is from the Sinhala name for rock ‘Gala’, plenty of which are found in the harbour area.

When the Portuguese arrived the town was already a thriving trader’s port and an entrenched settlement in the lowland territory of the Kandyan Kings. It was however not until 1587 when the Portuguese were able to control Galle. The Dutch then arrived, overthrew the Portuguese and took control of Sri Lanka in 1640.

It was the Dutch who had a major impact on Galle and the town still retains its characteristic Dutch architecture, the streets differing little from the times of Dutch occupation. There is Leyn Baan Street (Lijnbaan meaning rope walk in Dutch), Lighthouse Street (previously known as Zeeburg Street) and Great and Small Modarabaay Streets (Modderbaai meaning mud bay).

The Galle Fort built by the Dutch in 1663 was handed over to the British in 1796 ‘in a state of complete repair’ as certified by the officer taking charge. The British did not alter Galle as they concentrated their efforts on Colombo. Therefore the Fort remains a significant monument from the Dutch era.

What can be seen The Ramparts; National Museum of Galle and the National Maritime Museum; All Saints’ Church; the Dutch Reformed Church; Galle Natural Harbour; Old Lighthouse; the English gate built by the British in 1873; the Dutch gate where the British Court of Arms is seen carved on the outer side and the VOC monogram on the inside of the stonework; the Dutch prison; Dutch houses; the Dutch ‘factory’ and hospital that have now been converted into government offices.

Time and duration Option 1: After breakfast, depart from the Hotel at 9.00 am and return around 12.30 pm. Option 2: Depart from the Hotel at 3.00 pm and return to the Hotel after sunset, around 6.30 pm.

Distance from Hotel A 2 km, 10-minute drive from the Hotel.

What is included Transport to and from the site.

What is not included Entrance tickets, tips.

What to wear/bring Comfortable clothes, hats/caps, camera, insect repellent, sun block.

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Hiyare RainforestA little gem a stone’s throw away from Galle town . . .

Hiyare is a reservoir bordered by 243 hectares of secondary lowland rainforest. The reservoir was established in 1911 and covers 22 hectares. It is managed by the Galle Municipality. The Forest Department also has jurisdiction as the reservoir adjoins the Kottawa Kombala Forest Reserve.

Even though this is a small patch of forest, because it was once a part of the Sinharaja-Kanneliya forest complex, it is home to a great many species – birds, butterflies, mammals, fish and plants - and a remarkable number of endemics.

A volunteer organisation called the Wildlife Conservation Society of Galle has established a unique biodiversity breeding centre for threatened species and an animal rescue programme for injured wildlife. They also maintain a plant nursery, and conduct regular conservation education programmes for students and laypeople.

This little gem of a forest is an excellent spot for watching birds, butterflies and dragonflies.

What can be seen Over 80 species of birds, including the endemic Sri Lanka Spurfowl, , Brown-capped Babbler, Spot-winged Thrush, Black-capped Bulbul, Grey Hornbill and Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot.Mammals, including Giant Squirrels, Palm Squirrels, Toque Monkeys, Purple-faced Leaf Monkey, Golden Palm Civets and Sambar About 70 species of butterflies including the Blue Mormon, Common Sailor, Crimson Rose, Bluebottle and Blue Oakleaf.Many species of dragonflies.

Time and duration Option 1: Depart from the Hotel at 7.30 am and return around 11.30 am. Option 2: Depart from the Hotel at 3.00 pm and return to the Hotel around 7.00 pm.

Distance from Hotel 18 km, 30-minute drive.

What is included Transport to and from the site, packed breakfast or a snack,.

What is not included Tips.

What to wear/bring Earth-coloured clothes, hats/caps, camera, binoculars, insect repellent, sun block.

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Boat safari down the Mahamodara RiverGlide down a scenic river and see scores of water birds . . .

Glide in a boat on a 12km journey along the Mahamodara river up to the Wakwella bridge.The Mahamodara river is a major tributary of the mighty Gin Ganga, which originates from the Rakwana hills and heads south via the Sinharaja World Heritage Site, finally falling into the sea just outside the city of Galle. In fact, the Mahamodara tributary falls into the sea almost at the doorstep of the hotel.

This safari, meandering through lush vegetation, will doubtless be a memorable and rewarding experience for every nature lover. The placid waters of the river are home to numerous species of water birds, butterflies and water monitors, as well as habitats of mangroves and variously coloured lilies.

Sri Lanka is home to about 19 species of mangroves, and one could easily observe about seven of these species during this excursion. These highly adapted, salt-tolerant woody plants are found in saline areas such as mud flats of lagoons, estuaries and deltas. These are highly productive areas where numerous water plants can be found. Among these, Hairy Water Lilies (Nymphaea pubescens) and Scared Lotuses (Nelumbo nucifera). Both these water plants are valued in Ayurvedic medicine and some underground parts are also used for culinary purposes.

Among the trees on the river banks is Sea Mango (Cerbera mangas). Soft wood from this tree is used to carving masks - a traditional livelihood of the southern area.

Enjoy the serenity, tranquility, vegetation and the fauna of this wide, unspoiled river. After the boat ride, take a gentle, nature walk at Jetwing Kurulubedda.

What can be seen Many water birds including Purple and Grey Herons, Large and Little Egrets, Indian Shags, Common Kingfishers and Indian Pied Kingfishers.Forest birds including Spotted Doves, Pompadour Green Pigeons, Bee-eaters, Parakeets, Coucals, and Barbets.Birds of prey including Brahminy Kite and the White-bellied Sea Eagle.Animals such as Purple-faced leaf Monkeys and Water Monitors.

Time and duration Option 1: Depart from the Hotel at 6.30 am and return at 9.30 am for a late breakfast. Option 2: Depart form the Hotel at 3.30 pm, return to the Hotel at 7.00 pm.

Distance from Hotel 200m, approximately 5-minute walk.

What is included Boat and boat fee.


What to wear/bring Comfortable earth-coloured clothes, hats/caps, insect repellent, sun block, camera, binoculars.

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One way to get the most out of life is tolook upon it as an adventure.

William Feather

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Yala National ParkOne of the best places in the world to see leopards . . .

Yala National Park (also known as Ruhunu National Park), is well recognised as one of the best parks in the world to observe and photograph leopards, the dominant carnivore in the park. The park is said to have one of the highest densities of leopards in the world.

Yala consists of scrub jungle, brackish lagoons and stunning rock monoliths scattered throughout the park. The eastern boundary is the coastline.

It is now known that the Sri Lankan leopard is an unique subspecies, distinct from its Indian relatives.

This area was declared as a protected area in 1938. The Park covers an area of over 100,000 hectares and is divided into five blocks. Block I and Block III are open to the public.

Normally, the temperature ranges from a low of 26°C to a high of 45°C depending on the time of year. The drier season falls between May and August. The Park is closed fora short time during September and October.

What can be seen Birds: The bird life of Yala comprises over 120 species and ranges from Lesser Flamingos to Paradise Flycatchers, Crested Hawk-eagles, Black-necked Storks and the endemic Sri Lankan Junglefowl.Migrant birds include Garganey, Brown shrike and various waders.Animals: There is a substantial elephant population along with many herds of Spotted Deer, Sambur, Wild Buffalo, Sloth Bear, Jackal, Crocodiles and Monitor Lizards.Trees: Among plants are species of dry zone trees such as Milla (Vitex altissma), Palu (Manilkara hexandra), Weera (Dryptes sepiaria), Wood apple (Limonia accidissima), and the Mustard Tree (Salvadora persica).

Time and duration Departure from hotel at 7.00 am , return between 10.00 -10.30 pm.

Distance from Hotel 190 km, 4-4.5 hour drive.

What is included Transport to and from the site; entrance tickets. 4-wheel drive jeep for transport within the Park.

What is not included Lunch and tips.

What to wear/bring Earth-coloured, comfortable clothes, caps/ hats, binoculars, camera, insect repellent, sun block, snacks (if needed).

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Places of WorshipExperience the religious diversity of Sri Lanka ...

Galle is a town of great religious diversity where the four major religions of Sri Lanka - Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism and Islam - are all practised. This tour provides an exclusive opportunity to visit several places of worship of all four religions.

The Wijayananda High Temple of Monk Education was founded in 1851 by Rev. Akmeemana Sobitha Maha Thero. A famous American theosophist, Colonel Henry Steel Olcott - a devotee of this temple - became a Buddhist in 1880 and was instrumental in promoting Buddhist culture in a milieu of British colonialism. As well as being an educational institution for about 1000 students, the temple is also a residential home for about 30 priests who follow religious education. This temple has historical value, as Colonel Olcott’s campaign for Buddhism originated here.

The Dutch Reformed Church was built by Casparus de Jong in 1952. It is said that the church was built as an offering of thanks for the birth of his daughter as he had been childless for several years. The architecture of the church is unique and boasts of the first Dutch gables ever to be erected in any building in Sri Lanka. The church also has an exquisitely carved wooden pulpit.

All Saints’ Church - for Anglican Christians - was built in 1871 where the town Court House stood previously. Gothic in style, this is the only church in Sri Lanka which has not been altered since it was first built in 1871. The structure remains in its original form, built mainly of wood and granite, and decorated with wooden carvings. The granite altar is believed to have been built over the gallows.

The Nattukkottai Nagarathar Sri Kathirean Kovil is dedicated to the Hindu God of war Skanda, built in 1790. The temple walls are adorned with century-old paintings depicting events from the lives of the Hindu Gods. The annual Vel Procession (Vel is the name given to the trident of Skanda), which involves a great gilded cart drawn by hundreds of devotees, is celebrated at this kovil.

The Meera Jumma Mosque was first established in Galle in 1505 during the Dutch period because Muslims were not permitted to build mosques within the town during the Portuguese Period. In 1904, the mosque was rebuilt by an Italian Christian architect. Here on Friday, the Muslim Sabbath, the faithful assemble for prayers.

Time and duration Depart from Hotel at 9.00 am, after breakfast, return around 11.00 am.

Distance from Hotel 1.5 km. 5-minute drive.



What to wear/bring Clothes suitable for visiting religious places, headwear and footwear must be removed before entrance to the buildings.

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Rumassala formerly Buona VistaBuona Vista - beautiful view . . . the name says it all.

Rumassala (formerly known as Buona Vista), the only mound-like region adjacent to the sea in Galle, is an unique place. Not only does Rumassala provide an exceptional view, as its former name implies, but also affords the traveller the opportunity to see wet zone plants and animals in close proximity to coastal species.

The root of this diversity is entrenched in legend, which describes the era of King Rawana of Sri Lanka and King Rama of India. The powerful kings are said to have entered into battle regarding a dispute over a beautiful maiden, Sitha. After Rama’s brother Lakshman was wounded in battle, Rama dispatched the Monkey God Hanuman to retrieve from the Himalayas a herb, which possessed healing powers. Hanuman forgetting which herb he needed, is said to have torn off a chunk of the mountain range and returned to Sri Lanka. Once the herb was taken from the chunk, he flung away the rest of the mountain. Part of this landed in Rumassala. It is believed that it is because of this that Rumassala has not only such rich diversity but also so many medicinal species.

What can be seen Birds such as Black-capped and White-browed Bulbuls, White-breasted Kingfishers, Common Mynahs, Spotted Doves, Tailorbirds and Brahminy Kites. Butterflies such as the Blue Mormon, Glassy Tiger, Common Jezebel,Tawny Coster and Crimson Rose.Reptiles such as Land Monitors and Green Garden Lizards.Animals of the seashore such as Sand Crabs, Mudskippers, Oysters, and Mussels.

Time and duration Option 1: Depart from the Hotel at 7.00 am and return around 11.00 am.Option 2: Depart form the Hotel at 4.00 pm, return to the Hotel around 7.00 pm.

Distance from Hotel 5 km from the Hotel, approximately 15-minute drive.

What is included Transport to and from the site, picnic breakfast if Option 1.


What to wear/bring Comfortable earth-coloured clothes, walking shoes, hats/caps, insect repellent, sun block, camera, binoculars.

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Whale and Dolphin WatchingSri Lanka - ‘Best for Blue’

Sri Lanka is probably the best place in the world to see Blue Whales. It is almost certainly the best place in the world to see both Blue Whales and Sperm Whales together. Several years ago, Dr. Charles Anderson, a British marine biologist, resident in the Maldives, developed a theory that there was a migration of whales between the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea which took them near the shores of Sri Lanka. He believed that whales, especially Blue Whales and Sperm Whales, would travel past the southern coast of Sri Lanka in December-January from the Arabian Sea to the Bay of Bengal. In April, he predicted that they would reverse this path on the return journey travelling West to the Arabian Sea, passing Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Observations, since 2001 have proven him right. As author Philip Hoare says ‘It is a unique situation: nowhere else [in the world] do these whales come in so close to land, or are so reliably seen.’ Gehan de Silva Wijeyeratne popularised whale-watching in Sri Lanka and coined the phrase ‘Sri Lanka - best for blue’.

Blue Whales (Balenoptera musculus) are the largest living mammals and the largest animals that ever lived. Growing to a length of 27 m and weighing 150 tonnes, a single Blue Whale weighs the equivalent of 50 elephants or three of the largest dinosaurs. Blue Whales are filter feeders, lacking teeth, but sporting enormous plates of thickened, horny skin hanging from roofs of their mouths known as baleen plates. In a single mouthful, they can sieve 40-60 tonnes of water!

Sperm Whales (Physeter macrocephalus) are ‘toothed whales’ and have teeth on its lower jaw. They feed on fish and other animals such as squid. Sperm Whales are the deepest diving whales reaching to depths of two kilometres or more. They can also hold their breath for over an hour.

Spinner Dolphins (Stenella longirostris) are one of the commonest of the species of dolphins found in Sri Lankan waters. They are undoubtedly the most spectacular, leaping out of the water and spinning in the air – hence its common name.

Time and duration Depart at 5.30 am from the Hotel to Mirissa harbour.The boat leaves at 7.00 am from the harbour, and the sightings of whales and dolphins may occur after a one-hour ride in the boat.Spend an hour at sea just watching whales and dolphins, and return thereafter.The total duration at sea is about 3-4 hours.The total duration for the excursion is 5-6 hours.This tour is seasonal, and operates only from October to April each year.

Distance from Hotel 35 km from the Hotel to the harbour, 45-minute drive, distance travelled at sea is around 7-10 nautical miles.

What is included Transport to and from the site, boat fee, picnic breakfast and bottled water.


What to wear/bring Comfortable clothes, hats/caps, sun block, camera, binoculars. If equipment is brought on this trip, water-proof covers are essential.

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We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.

Native American Proverb

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A Taste of Sri LankaA delicious culinary experience . . .

At Eco Village, experience a ‘Taste of Sri Lanka’ – a traditionally cooked Sri Lankan meal. Sri Lanka has long been renowned for its spices and each curry may have as many as ten different spices. Most Sri Lankan cooks do not follow a recipe so that each cook’s curries are always different.

The main dish is always steamed rice served with many different curries, most of which are cooked in coconut milk. Each of these curries have their own distinct taste: some lack chillie but are cooked in a thick coconut gray (white curries); some are seriously spicy and fiery with loads of chillie; some are fried. A particular Sri Lankan speciality is the ‘sambol’ a spicy salad, not for the faint-hearted! The result is a feast for the eyes and the taste buds.

This tour takes you meandering on a catamarang (a log boat, literally meaning a tied log) through mysterious mangrove vegetation, past an ancient temple to reach Eco Village, on the edge of Dodandoowa lagoon. Mangroves surround the lagoon, giving it a picturesque setting.

The Eco Village has a beautiful conservatory with exotic plants and an aquarium, exhibiting different breeding habits of fish.

What can be seen Mangrove vegetation.Water birds, forest birds, monkeys and reptiles such as Water Monitors.An ancient temple with an imposing sculpture and a close up view of an internationally famous island hermitage.

Time and duration Option 1: Depart from the Hotel at 7.00 am after an early breakfast; catch a train to Dodanduwa and then take a catamarang to Eco Village; take a nature walk through mangroves, and settle down for a scrumptious lunch. Return around 1.30 pm by vehicle.Option 2: Depart from the Hotel at 11.00 am, catch a train and a boat, eat lunch and return after lunch by vehicle. Option 3: Depart from the Hotel at 4.00 pm, catch a train and a boat, eat an early dinner and return after dinner by vehicle.

Distance from Hotel 1 km and 5-minute drive to the Galle railway station, a 20-minute train ride and a 60-minute boat ride.

What is included Transport to and from the site, railway ticket, boat fee, selected meal.


What to wear/bring Earth-coloured comfortable clothes, hats/caps, insect repellent, sun block, camera, binoculars.

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Jetwing KurulubeddaA home away from home . . .

Just fifteen-minute gentle walk away from Jetwing Lighthouse is Jetwing Kurulubedda.

Jetwing Kurulubedda comprises two dwellings in a quiet little village near the river. Here, there is a conscious effort to get-away from the hotel-holiday life style. Jetwing Kurubedda has its own organic paddy field and vegetable plots from which the Chef plucks ripe vegetables to cook for his small Jetwing family of guests. The rice is harvested twice a year from the field.

Also part of the property, are marshes with mangroves trees, and a ramp leading to the Kepu Ela (a short waterway of the Gin Ganga). Bordering the river banks are Sea Mango (Cerbera mangas) used for making masks, Mangrove Apple (Sonneratia) from which the Chef will make you a delicious drink, and Oriental Mangrove (Bruguiera gymnorhiza) with stumpy breathing roots that stick out of the mud like knees.

This is an ideal walk for someone who is interested in people and nature, as you will see a Choir Mill, Temples, village life as well as a range of birds, butterflies and other animals.

What can be seen Over 50 species of birds, including water birds such as Purple and Grey Herons, Large and Little Egrets, White-breasted and Common Kingfishers.Forest and home garden birds such as Spotted Doves, Pompadour Green Pigeons, Drongos, Bee-eaters, Tailor Birds, Flowerpeckers, Coucals, Barbets, Parakeets and Yellow Billed babblers. Birds of prey such as Brahminy Kites, White-bellied Sea Eagles and Tank Eagles. About 12 species of mammals, including the endemic Purple-faced Langur.Also 20 species of butterflies, 6 species of dragonflies, 25 species of fresh water and brackish water fish, 10 amphibian species, and 15 species of reptiles.

Time and duration Option 1: Depart from the Hotel at 06.30 am and return at 09.30 am for a late breakfast, best for birders.Option 2: Depart from the Hotel at 3.30 pm and return around 6.00 pm.Option 3: Depart from Hotel at 11.00 am, lunch at Jetwing Kurulubedda and return around 03.00 pm. Not for nature enthusiasts! Option 4: Depart from Hotel at 3.00 pm return to the Hotel at 06.00 pm, after an evening bird walk and tea at Jetwing Kurulubedda.

Distance from Hotel 1 km from the Hotel, 15-minute walk.

What is included Meals according to the option chosen.


What to wear/bring Earth-coloured clothes, walking shoes, hats/caps, sun block, insect repellent, camera, binoculars.

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Galle Market Tour and Sri Lankan Cookery DemonstrationBuy and cook your own food . . .

Experience the hustle and bustle of trading in Galle when you visit area where fish and vegetables are sold. In the areas where fish are sold, you may actually see fishermen casting their nets. See the selection of freshly caught marine fish and seafood, and select what you would like to eat. The fish seller shows you how the fish is gutted, cleaned and how seafood is cleaned.

The next stop is the vegetable market, with a wide range of vegetables and fruits.

Come back to the Hotel to join the Chef as he demonstrates how to chop and cook the items that you bought, showing what spices he uses and why.

After the demonstration, just settle down and enjoy the food!

What can be seen Various species of edible fish such as mullet, tuna, swordfish and seer fish, and seafood such as shrimps, cuttlefish and crabs. Local vegetables such as snake gourd, bitter gourd, loofah, ash plantains, banana flowers.

Time and duration Depart from the Hotel after breakfast at 9.30 am and return about 10.30 am. The cooking demonstration begins thereafter and ends around 12.15 pm,.

Distance from Hotel 1 km from the Hotel, 5-minute drive.

What is included Transport to and from the site, cooked meal, apron and chef’s hats.


What to wear/bring Comfortable clothes, walking shoes, hats/caps, sun block, insect repellent, camera.

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Kottawa Forest Reserve (Arboretum)Majestic trees everywhere . . .

The Kottawa Forest Reserve is found northeast of Galle along the main road to the Udugama township. Although only about 15 hectares in size, this isolated patch lowland rainforest is an ideal spot to observe the main characteristics of typical lowland rainforests. The canopy of the forest is dense and little light penetrates to the forest floor. Therefore, many trees grow tall as an adaptation to obtain the required sunlight. The bases of many of these trees are buttressed. On the ground is a thick layer of leaf litter. Hitching a ride on trees to find light are a range of ferns, orchids and mosses.

This is an ideal place to experience walking through a tropical rainforest. There is a wide pathway that meanders through the middle of the forest, and the slope along this is very gentle, making this an easy walk.

What can be seen Trees: over 170 species of trees, of which 100 are endemic to Sri Lanka. Many of these trees have been identified with name boards.Birds: About 70 species, including 12 endemics such as the Spot-winged Thrush, Sri Lanka Grey Hornbill, Yellow-fronted Barbet and Brown-capped Babbler. Mammals: Purple-faced leaf Monkey, Toque Monkey and Giant Squirrel Butterflies: Sri Lanka Bird wing, Sri Lanka Tree Nymph, Clipper, Blue Oak leaf.Lizards: The endemic Rough-horned Lizard.Fishes: Many endemic fishes.

Time and duration Option 1: Depart from the Hotel after an early breakfast at 7.30 am and return around 11.30 am.Option 2: Stop to visit a tea estate and tea factory on the way back and return to hotel at 12.30 pm.

Distance from Hotel 18.5 km, 30-minute drive.


What is not included Entrance tickets and tips.

What to wear/bring Earth-coloured, comfortable clothes, walking shoes, hats/caps, sun block, insect repellent, camera.

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For all tours contact

Anoma Alagiawadu - Resident Naturalist, who has over 15 years of research experience of terrestrial and marine fauna.


Sri Lanka.tel: +94 91 2223744,

mobile: +94 77 7265730email: [email protected]

• Guestscanbuyusefulfieldguides,books,leafletsandchecklistsfromtheHotel shop , located on the ground floor.

• Allexcursionsmustbeconfirmed,by6.30pmthedaybefore.

• Formoreinformation,contacttheReception.

• EveryFridayattheCoatsofArmsBar(onthe2nd floor) Anoma gives presentations about natural environment, excursions and the culture found in and around Jetwing Lighthouse. These talks are free.

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Responsible Tourism

Jetwing Hotels is committed to practising responsible tourism and have pledged to take forward the concept, focusing on local culture and environment.

Because unregulated visitation and inappropriate behaviour by tourists can cause serious damage to ecologically and culturally sensitive areas - we offer the following guidelines to our guests.

In Natural -Protected Areas:

• Pleaseobtain the services of anofficial trackerwhen entering a national parkorreserve, and listen to his instructions.

• Youareenteringthedomainofwildanimals.Pleasetreatthemwithrespect.Donotcrowd or annoy them to get the perfect photograph.

• Thebestwaytoobserveanimalsistobequietandavoidsuddenmovements.Point,rather than speak. Keep mobile phones on silent mode!

• Avoidwearingbrightcoloursonbirdwalks,asbirdsrespondtocolourandflyaway.Earth-coloured clothes - browns and dull greens - are the best colours.

• Adhere to specified speed limits and time limits when visiting national parks orreserves.

• Refrain from off-roading and drive along prescribed paths. Off-roading damageshabitats. Unless permitted, do not get down from the vehicle.

• Donotpickorcollectanyspecimens.• Refrainfromfeedingwildanimalsandusingheadlights,flashlight,soundsorcalllures

to attract animals.• Refrainfromsmokingortravellingundertheinfluenceofliquorintothenationalpark

or reserves. At historically/ culturally important sites:

• Archeologicalsitesandhistoricalplacesareuniqueandirreplaceable.Destructionof a site is permanent and irreversible. Never climb, sit or stand on archeological structures or remains.

• Neverremoveanythingfromanarcheologicalsite.Ifyoupicksomethingupfromthe surface, return it to the same spot before you move on. It is best not to pick anything up. Also remember that removing objects from archeological sites is illegal.

• Attemples,dressmodestlyrespectfullycoveringkneesandshoulders;removeshoesand hats/caps.

• At temples and religious sites, photography and filming are usually permitted.However, please note that persons should not be seen posing in front of any religious sites, statues or temples for the cameras as it is considered disrespectful.

Entry fee you pay at the entrance to the historical/archeological sites you visit contribute to the maintainence and upkeep of the sites. Visitors should respect the feelings and beliefs of the local cultures and communities; and respect the letter and spirit of laws meant to ensure protection and conservation of both the natural and human heritage of all protected areas.

Take only photographs, steal only time, leave only footprintsAnon

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EXCURSION BOOKLET

LIGHTHOUSEGALLE

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LIGHTHOUSEGALLE


Sri Lanka.

Tel: +94-91-2223744 Fax: +94-91-2224021


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EXCURSION BOOKLET

LIGHTHOUSEGALLE

EXCURSION BOOKLET - Jetwing Hotels€¦ · Paddy field tour 9 Galle Fort - a journey to the past 11...

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