SRI LANKA:
 After 41 years and a civil war

Jaffna airport welcomes first flight from Tamil Nadu
( Source: Express News Service )



The air services between Jaffna and Tamil Nadu, which were in full swing till the late-1970s, were suspended just before the Sri Lankan civil war.

Alliance Air’s flight from Chennai landed in Jaffna, Sri Lanka last month (October, 2019) marking a new beginning in the connectivity between the two countries. The water salute to the ATR aircraft was not just an honorary gesture. It also marked the resuming of flight services between Tamil Nadu and Jaffna after around 50 years.

The services between the south Indian state and Jaffna’s Palaly airport were suspended in the late 1970s just before the civil war broke out in the island nation. The airport was used as a strategic military base by the Sri Lankan armed forces to derive advantage over the now-defunct LTTE and to airdrop supplies to its own forces during the war.

Civilian flights resumed in Palaly airport from 2002. However, these services were domestic. Last month, the airport, renamed as Jaffna International Airport was thrown open to cater to international flights, with its first flight landing from Chennai, Tamil Nadu.

Following this significant development, Eastbound enthusiastically supports the efforts to re-launch Sri Lanka in a big way. We have handpicked a few newly launched hotels and experiences one shouldn’t miss out on:


HOTELS:

The Postcard hotel- Galle

Located above the waters of a beautiful blue lagoon, the hotel offers incomparable views of the Indian Ocean and Gin River. It’s also a stone’s throw from Galle Fort, a neighborhood filled with well-preserved architecture as well as local cafes and boutiques. With all of ten rooms, The Postcard Galle is just the place for cultural exploration as well as a bit of quiet by the sea.

The Postcard Galle is a perfect base to explore Galle’s architectural and cultural offerings, a vast range of beaches, secluded coves and lively bars. Among the experiences offered at the hotel is a visit to a tea factory and cinnamon fields, as well as biking tours along picturesque paddy fields.

For more information, please contact Eastbound or visit official website

Anasa Wellness Resort, Bandarawela

Translating to ‘peace’ and ‘harmony’ in Arabic, Anasa Wellness Resort was designed so that each guest is encouraged to achieve that sense of peace and harmony during their stay. Partake in a range of its spa treatments, fitness and recreational activities, each with its own purpose in helping you complete your wellness journey in Sri Lanka.

For more information, please contact Eastbound or visit official website






The Viceroy, Negombo

A brand new property that we are confident is going to challenge the hotels around is starting in Jan 2020. Stunning, exceptionally private, Wallauwa property is located within easy reach of Colombo and airport. A boutique hotel for relaxation in grand Sri Lankan style, indeed!

Note: The website has not been launched yet.

Villa Wambatu, Unawatuna

Fun and light-hearted in its conception, and bold in its design, this most particular holiday home, Villa Wambatu, was 6 years in the making. An enormous roof supported by huge Palmyra tree columns cover the main living area adjacent to a garden.

A sumptuous abode bedecked in pink and purple, this home-style can best be described as bold, contemporary, and tropical. No expense has been spared in creating the furniture and fittings by local craftsmen.

For more information, please contact Eastbound or visit official website

EXPERIENCE: Delft Island in Jaffna is a land of history with much to discover.

Exploring Delft Island:

Life on Delft is simple. The earthen homes are surrounded by coral walls. Catch a glimpse of the famed ‘Growing Rock’, which is said to naturally grow. It resembles the appearance of a serpent. There is also a sprawling Baobab tree, which is believed to be introduced by the Arabic traders.

The old Dutch Fort is a remarkable reminder of a thriving colonial era. The Queen’s Tower, which has functioned like a lighthouse centuries ago, is yet another monument belonging to the Dutch era. You will also encounter herds of wild horses roaming freely. And finally, relish a simple local lunch with your host.

Highlights & Features:

  • Explore an offbeat island in northern Sri Lanka.
  • Witness historic remnants belonging to the colonial era, rural village life and wild horses.
  • Enjoy a simple local lunch with your host.



Quintessential Jaffna:

Take a tour around the vibrant city of Jaffna where the lull of the village life and emerging traces of urbanisation create a unique and complex identity. An arch land of palmyra groves, explore Jaffna’s distinct landmarks with fascinating histories.

Highlights & Features:

  • Learn about this northern city through your local host.
  • Explore Jaffna’s key places of interest.
  • Learn about the history of this town and how it integrates with rest of the island.






Lesser known Jaffna:

Start your Jaffna expedition by visiting the Chunnakam market. The bustling market is a one-stop shop for local produce. Most noticeable are the handicraft items made from different parts of the palmyra and coconut trees.

Next, explore the ancient Naguleswaram Temple in Keerimalai. Believed to have been built in the 7th century, this is one of the five ancient Shiva temples in the country. The Keerimalai pool of spring water is also located in the premises of the temple. Wrap up your temple exploration by witnessing this natural pond, which is believed to contain medicinal properties in its water.

Highlights & Features:

  • Immerse yourself in the distinct Jaffna vibe with your local host.
  • Discover a bustling local market.
  • Visit a magnificent lesser known temple and a communal bathing pond.



Visit Nallur like a Local:

The Nallur Kovil in Jaffna is a sacred Hindu temple with a rich history and heritage. From within the town of Jaffna emerges the hallowed Nallur Kovil that traces its roots back to the 13th century.

Highlights & Features:

  • Explore one of the most revered Hindu Kovils in Sri Lanka.
  • Wear traditional attire and visit the Kovil like a local.
  • Get to know about the vibrant religious rituals of Hinduism.