Osaka Food: Know What To Eat In The Streets Of Osaka 

BY  Sibashree Jul 7, 2026

With the One Love Reggae Festival returning to Bentota Beach, Sri Lanka is now preparing to be a vibrant cultural stage for music lovers from around the world.  The event is slated from 7th to 9th August, and with a laid-back coastal atmosphere, will function as a major tourism catalyst for Bentota.  Nevertheless, Bentota Beach has always been a popular, idyllic destination in Sri Lanka due to the calm waves of the Indian Ocean and soft golden sands.  Furthermore, it is a gateway to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Fort.  However, for me, the most striking thing about Bentota was the safari on the Bentota Ganga. With dramatic landscapes and surrealism awaiting you in every nook, this was one of the highlights of my trip to Sri Lanka.  Also, very close to Colombo, just a 2-hour drive away, this beach stands out even if tourists show more interest in popular variations such as Tangalle Beach and Mirissa Beach.  Here is more about why Bentota Beach is worth visiting and what the top attractions are.  What Are The Things To Do In Bentota?  The heavenly sunset views of Bentota Beach, the most anticipated boat safari on Bentota Ganga, and a relaxing experience in the Ayurveda Herbal and Spice Garden! Furthermore, if you want an adrenaline rush, you can take part in activities such as parasailing, banana boating, jet skiing, and more! 1. Water Sports At Bentota Beach Bentota has many beaches, such as the Ventura Beach or the Moragalla Beach, where the ocean meets the Bentota Ganga River.  However, together, they are known as the Bentota Beach, and together they look like a long stretch of fine white sand.  A specific stretch of sand is parallel to Bentota Lagoon, which is more commonly called the Bentota Ganga.  It is known as the Paradise Island, looking like a narrow and long peninsula stretching out into the ocean.  Also, it is ideal for the following watersports.  Windsurfing Waterskiing Diving Canoeing Snorkeling Fishing Moreover, centers such as Diyakawa Water Sports and Sunshine Water Sports Center help with the best gear, training, and guidance.  2. Visiting The Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project I mentioned the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project when visiting Kalutara.  However, it is way closer to Bentota, and it is situated at a distance of just 9 km. So, it is just a road journey of 9 km or 15 minutes south by road.  It remains open from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM, and the ticket price is LKR 500 for locals and LKR 1000 for foreigners.  It is a vital wildlife sanctuary on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. Established in 1981, it aims to protect endangered sea turtles from extinction caused by poaching and habitat loss. The hatchery monitors local beaches to rescue vulnerable eggs.  It buries them safely in protected sand nests until they hatch. Impressively, the project cares for all five sea turtle species that visit Sri Lanka. The Green Turtles Loggerhead Turtles Hawksbill Turtles Olive Ridley Turtles Leatherback Turtles.  The sanctuary also rehabilitates turtles injured by fishing nets. However, for me, the most exciting experience in the sanctuary was releasing newborn hatchlings into the Indian Ocean at sunset.  This hands-on experience funds the project while raising global awareness about marine conservation. Overall, it was a great experience learning about the marine ecosystem and how these adorable marine creatures play an important role in maintaining the balance.  If you want to watch and study them further, Sri Lanka has many other destinations such as the Dalawella Beach, Dickwella Beach, and Mount Lavinia Beach.  3. The River Safari On Bentota Ganga  While many people are more excited about the watersports, I visited Bentota for the water safari.  It was late afternoon, and the Sun was getting mellower. Fortunately, the hotel I was staying in had the provision for booking a boat safari.  The boat progressed through the jungle. Also, I could spot eagles flying high and some snakes in the water.  I was looking for crocodiles, but this time, I did not find one.  Moreover, the roots of the trees got entangled, and the roots created some eerie formations that looked straight out of Apocalypse.  Having said that, the river safari was not just an opportunity to spot the wildlife. I also saw the traditional fishing techniques and prawn farming in the wetlands surrounded by mangrove forests.  Another interesting stop was the Cinnamon Island. I spotted old and young men cutting sleek sticks of cinnamon. I bought a few bottles of cinnamon oil from them.  It was a 1.5-hour safari, and it cost around LKR 2500.  4. Exploring The Bentota Market  The Aluthgama town is around 3 km away from Bentota, and the Monday market here is amazing.  I had a talk with Manjula, a college student and a local vendor who helps her mother, Hiruni.  “People from different parts of the southwest coast come here. This is a market mostly dominated by women. So, I love being a part of the market.  The vendors sell various products, including clothes, vegetables, groceries, and other knick-nacks.  I also found the place to be a great spot for socializing. Women were interacting with each other when buying exotic fruits and fresh vegetables.  Moreover, I collected some cinnamon sticks, spices, and clothes as souvenirs.  5. Enjoying The Benefit Of Herbal And Spice Treatment  Bentota is famous for traditional Ayurveda and health treatment. The oils and massage solutions here have spices and local herbs.  The medicines and solutions also have cardamom, cinnamon, seeds, fruits, bark, and leaves.  So, if you want to enjoy the ultimate Sri Lankan spa experience, Bentota is the ideal place.  The big hotels and resorts have spas offering traditional treatments and therapies. Furthermore, there are some specialized Ayurveda centers.  Where To Stay In Bentota Beach?  From budget guesthouse Hotel Hemadan to 5-star hotel Taj Bentota Resort, the accommodation options in Bentota are diverse.  Furthermore, if you want an artistic and boutique experience, you can choose options such as Taj Bentota Resort and NH Bentota Ceysands.  Based on the accommodation you choose, the cost of staying in Bentota will be between LKR 13000 and 60000 per night. 

BY  Sibashree Apr 10, 2026

The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple is gearing up for the much-acclaimed “Walk for Peace” which will start from 21st April, 2026.  Respected Paññakāra Thero and 12 other monks from the Maha Sangha will lead the walk.  Furthermore, this walk, originating in the United States, will spread the teachings of Lord Buddha, “Caratha bhikkhave carikam bahujana hitaya bahujana sukhaya lokanukampaya.” It can be roughly translated as a monk should always wander forth out of their compassion for the world and for the happiness and well-being of many.  After the inauguration of the event at Anuradhapura and special observations at Ruwanweliseya premises, the walk will start from the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, and then it will slowly proceed to Kandy to continue the walk.  Now, it is no wonder that the Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple has been chosen as the starting point for the walk.  With a history that goes back to the 3rd century BCE, and home to the Buddhist mural paintings and 157 statues, it remains one of the most important Buddhist landmarks in Sri Lanka.  Here is a detailed guide on my experience at Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, its significance, history, entry fee, and more!  The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple: Quick Facts  “Dambulla is an important shrine in the Buddhist religion in Sri Lanka, remarkable for its association with the long-standing and wide-spread tradition of living Buddhist ritual practices and pilgrimage for more than two millennia.” UNESCO World Heritage Convention.  Here are some quick facts about the most well-preserved and largest cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. Number of Sanctuaries 5Buddhist Mural PaintingsAcross an Area of 2,100 m2Number of Statues157HistorySince the 3rd Century BCEThe Current Interior FormsBuilt in the 18th CenturyType of SculpturesPolychromeOwnership The Asgiriya Chapter of Buddhist monksMonument Protection “Protected Monument under the legal protection of the Department of Archaeology of the Government of Sri Lanka, which administers the Antiquities Ordinance of 1940 (rev. 1998) at the national level.”Entry Fee2000 LKRHours Open7 AM to 7 PM (The Ticket Counter Closes at 5 PM)Steps 300Average Climbing Time20 Minutes  Where Is The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple? (Along With Some Nearby Attractions) The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple is in Dambulla Town. Now, Dambulla itself is the gateway to many places to visit in Sri Lanka.  For example, the Hurulu Eco Park is just a distance of 45 minutes from Dambulla. On the other hand, it is just 52 minutes away from the Kaudulla National Park.  Furthermore, the distance between Dambulla and Kandy is around 73 km. So, many people include a visit to the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple in their itinerary of the things to do in Kandy.  Moreover, Sigiriya is just 17 km away. So, you can plan a combined trip of a visit to the Royal Cave Temple with a hike to the  Sigiriya Rock and Pidurangala Rock.  In addition, you will have a similar experience of exploring an ancient Buddhist monastery and its remains at the Ritigala Forest Monastery, at a distance of 35 km.  Also, if you are a cricket buff like me, don’t miss a visit to the Dambulla International Cricket Ground.  How To Reach The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple? Even if you are not staying in Dambulla, Habarana, or Sigiriya can be your base.  Habarana is just 22 km away from Dambulla, and Sigiriya is just 17 km away.  From both locations, you can take a private taxi or tuk-tuk ride to reach Dambulla Town, which has the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple in the heartland.  Furthermore, from Habarana, you will get Sri Lanka Transport Board - SLTB ICT buses to Dambulla.  Nevertheless, I took a tuk-tuk from Sigiriya to Dambulla, and it cost me around 2500 LKR.  What Is The History Of The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple? As I have mentioned, the history of the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple goes back to the 3rd Century BCE.  Buddhist monks started living here, and these natural caves started functioning as monasteries.  Furthermore, in 100 BCE, King Vattagamani Abhaya (Valagamba) fled his capital and took refuge here for 15 years.  Then, out of his gratitude, he built this majestic Dambulla Royal Cave Temple.  However, most of its constructions, including the sculptures and murals, are from the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods.  Also, the current interior we see is the outcome of the renovation in the 18th century. In addition, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991. Today, it is a part of the prestigious Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, along with Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya Rock Fortress.  My Experience Of Visiting The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple (Things To See And Top Attractions) Before I get into the details of my experience at the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, I want to give you a clear idea about the five main caves.  The Caves of The Dambulla Royal Cave TempleNamesMain Attractions Cave 1Devaraja LenaIt is the Temple of the King of Gods. The reclining Buddha statue here is mesmerizing.Cave 2 Maharaja LenaThis one is the largest among all caves, and it has 56 statues. Moreover, it is the Temple of the Great Kings, and don’t miss the sacred pot with the dripping water here. Cave 3Maha Alut ViharayaThe Maha Alut Viharaya is a wonderful example of 18th-century art. Furthermore, as the Great New Temple, it is home to 18th-century Kandyan-style paintings and statues.  Cave 4Paschima ViharayaIt is the western temple. Cave 5Devana Alut ViharayaIt is the second new temple in the temple complex.  However, to see these caves, you have to take 300 steps. You will not feel the fatigue anyway, as you will love the views and spotting the groups of macaques jumping through branches.  Also, once you reach the top, you will need to take off your shoes and further walk to the cave.  Here are some of the highlights of my visit to the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple.  1. Before Entering The Caves  I entered the cave temple complex, and a massive courtyard opened before my eyes. On one side of the courtyard, there was the shrine and the Bodhi Tree.  Furthermore, on the other side, there is the rock and the cave temples.  The Engraving Of Kirti Nissankamalla I found the engraving of the Kirti Nissankamalla before entering the first cave. Dated to the 12th century, it narrates the contributions of King Nissankamalla to Buddhism.  The engraving, however, is in ancient Sinhalese. So, you can ask a local guide or a local person to help you understand the details.  Or, you can read the translation of the engraving next to it.  2. The Caves  I have already introduced the caves to you. However, everywhere you look, you will find Buddhist murals, depicting the important figures and myths of Buddhism.  Furthermore, there are golden statues of Lord Buddha along the walls, and the lifelike paintings of Buddha-like figures evoke awe.  Moreover, with repeating patterns, the ceilings look kaleidoscopic.  However, the first time I experienced magnificence in these caves was when I saw the reclining Buddha statue.  The Reclining Buddha Statue (1st Cave) The reclining Buddha statue inside the first cave of the complex reminded me of the Lord Vishnu idol of Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Kerala, India.  In fact, in some traditions of the Hindu religion, Buddha is the ninth of the ten Avatars or incarnations of Lord Vishnu. Here, the connection felt real.  The serene expression of Lord Buddha with his head resting on a pillow made me feel peaceful. I offered some fresh lily flowers that I bought on the way up the steps.  Furthermore, the lotus flowers drawn on Lord Buddha’s feet or Buddhapada symbolize spiritual awakening, and these are among the 108 holy marks that represent the holy journey of Buddha on the earth.  The Natural Spring (The Second Cave) It was amazing to find a natural spring in the second cave, and even in the dry season, it has water.  The water of the spring drips through the ceiling, and the drops are collected in a vessel.  Furthermore, it has 56 Buddha statues, and it is the most aesthetic with stunning murals and paintings.  The Series Of Buddha Statues (The Second Cave) Again, inside Cave 2, I found a series of similar Buddha statues in a seated position, and the next one was always a bit bigger than the previous one.  However, instead of the Dhyana mudra or the meditation gesture, the statues here were seated in a Bhumisparsha mudra or as the earth witness. Thus, these statues stare directly into your eyes.  These statues looked more vibrant, and with an earthy tone, they complemented the overall aesthetics of the cave temples.  Also, don’t miss the little lily pond just outside cave 2.  The Stupa Inside The Cave (The Second Cave) The second cave has an entire Stupa built inside it.  Furthermore, the stupa is adorned with an orange robe. Various statues of Lord Buddha in a seated position surround the stupa, and these are accompanied by nagas.  These nagas or snakes play the role of a protector or guardian when Lord Buddha is meditating. Moreover, they symbolize the subjugation of worldly desires and spiritual awakening.  The 3rd cave also has many statues, and the fourth one is smaller with a stupa inside. After exploring the 3rd, 4th, and 5th caves, I finally approached the end of the cave.  You know what stayed with me, that the temples are still alive and they have made people from a different millennium, with humans of today in the same row with the thread of devotion, peace, and love.  Once again, with non-violence and peace having so much power, the current geopolitical situations only look like futility.  3. The Viewpoint  As I got out of the caves, I found a quaint viewpoint behind the entry counter. I saw many young tourists flocking there, and the views from there were simply amazing.  I stopped and took some snaps.  4. The Golden Buddha Statue  I consciously chose a different route while getting down from the caves. I found many aesthetic lampposts along the way.  However, I did not follow the lamp posts and took the left to walk down, and the road was quite steep.  However, the reward I got at the end of the road was absolutely worth it.  There was a magnificent golden Buddha statue on the elaborately designed building of the museum complex.  I could not explore the museum due to a time crunch, and I did not want to dilute what I saw and how I felt at the cave temples. What Is The Best Time To Visit The Dambulla Royal Cave Temple? In a day, early mornings, from 7 AM to 9 AM, or late afternoons, after 4 PM, are the best hours for visiting the Dambulla Royal Cave.  Furthermore, December to February are the best months for visiting these cave temples due to dry and pleasant weather conditions.

BY  Sibashree Mar 31, 2026

From enjoying a train ride on the Nine Arch Bridge to Ella Rock, Ella has endless adventures to offer.  Exploring the things to do in Ella is also easier as the Ella Hotels offer the most comfortable and safe accommodations.  As a backpacker, I chose to stay in a hostel on my first visit. However, you can find many budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels in this beautiful hill country town.  So, here is a list of the best hotels to stay in Ella.  What Are The Best Ella Hotels?  I have divided the best Ella hotels into three different categories. So, you will find a good mix of luxury hotels, mid-range hotels, and budget hotels. Furthermore, I have also included the hostels and the eco-stays here.  And here are the details.  1. Luxury Ella Hotels There's a quiet magic when birds sing in the morning, and mist hangs on the tea bushes.  Moreover, Ella has upgraded its luxury offerings, blending colonial roots with modern sustainable design. • Nine Skies: Colonial Elegance Just outside Ella in Demodara, Nine Skies is a five-bedroom tea bungalow restored from old stock.  Furthermore, it sits like a piece of the English Lake District transplanted into the tropics.  Also, you begin your day with a Sri Lankan breakfast and then swim in an infinity pool that stretches over endless tea fields.  Moreover, the lifestyle is classic tea country, wrapped in a dream-like hotel setting. • 98 Acres Resort And Spa: Eco-Luxury Overlooking Little Adam's Peak, 98 Acres stands out as the region's top hotel.  Furthermore, the chalets use upcycled railway sleepers and local granite, with genuine, hands-on design.  Moreover, their spa features treatments with herbs grown on-site. Just a 15-minute walk from the Nine Arch Bridge, it's ideal for morning shots.  So, what else is there to say about this place? • Hide Ella: Modern Panoramic Views Hide Ella sits right into a 60-degree slope.  Every room faces the Ella Gap with clear, sweeping views.  The pool dips into the trees like you are floating through the canopy. It's a clean, sharp design, with no frills. Furthermore, it offers just pure view-focused living.  Why would anyone want anything else in Ella? 2. Mid-Range Ella Hotels For a bed that works, a shower that flows, and a balcony with real views, without the honeymoon price!  Ella's mid-range picks offer the best trade-off. Most focus on the view, which is Ella's strongest selling point. • Chill Ville Viewpoint Hotel It is set into the mountainside, and it is the most welcoming.  Cabins are clean, modern, with wood and concrete finishes.  They even include Yoga mats for stretching in the morning light.  If you want to go early to the Nine Arch Bridge, this is your only real shot, and it's just 800 meters away.  It seems like a good fit for quiet travelers who value space and scenery. • Country Homes Ella  It looks more like apartments than hotels.  Warm pine decor gives each suite a cozy feel.  The wide valley view from your room makes it hard to leave. In particular, when you know breakfast is often brought right to your balcony by the owners.  You get coffee at the same time clouds drift through the gap, arguably one of the most consistent perks in town. • Boutique Vibes: Morning Dew, EKHO, And Tip Top It seems to be a recurring motif in Ella. These hotels offer really amazing views and somewhat old-fashioned rooms.  Morning Dew, EKHO Ella, and Tip Top Boutique Hotel are, to some extent, this kind of hotel.  The furnishings in these places might give the feeling of the 1990s, but the rooftop pools and jacuzzis with a stunning view of Ella Rock offer a 5-star experience.  One of the advantages of choosing Tip Top is that you get the opportunity to see the train passing the Nine Arch Bridge from your private balcony. 3. Budget-Friendly Ella Hotels  Guesthouses once pulsed with life in Sri Lankan tourism.  Staying with a local family still gives the truest view of Ella.  You learn how daily routines move through the village. Nobody makes curry like a Sri Lankan grandmother. • Rowinrich Cottages: The Jungle Hideaway These loft-style cottages sit above a valley wrapped in jungle.  Backpackers find them ideal, glamping without dorm-sharing.  Forest sounds carry through at night.  Sunrises stretch across your terrace each morning. Just be warned: the road up is narrow and full of potholes. It's not easy to drive. • The Original Homestays: Idyll And Chamodya Idyll Homestay opened early in town.  Anil, who once worked on tea plantations, now manages one of Ella's most trusted homes.  Chamodya offers a clear view of Ravana Falls.  Both serve breakfasts packed with string hoppers, dhal, and fresh fruit, more than enough for hiking up Ella Rock. 4. The Hostels In Ella: The Most Happening Social Hubs  Like my trip to Jaffna, I also chose a hostel to stay in Ella.  The hostel scene in Sri Lanka has really taken off over the past few years.  Nowadays, staying in a hostel is not only about finding a cheap bed; it is also about experiencing a community, having superfast Wi-Fi, and going on shared adventures.  • Bunk Station A fairly new place in a peaceful and friendly atmosphere.  It's a quiet location away from the noise, but you can still walk to the town in ten minutes.  • Hangover Hostel Being part of a well-known chain of hostels in Sri Lanka, it is the best place to experience a social atmosphere. You will get AC rooms here, and the location is very central near the train station. • Backpacker's Paradise  If you are looking for the genuine "simple life" experience, you can camp in tents that are set up under thatched roofs.  Moreover, it is a very basic, cheap option, and they even have their own little dogs as residents.  So, what else do you need? 5. Eco-Friendly Stays In Ella  Ella is a place that feels like home.  Furthermore, Ella's environment is delicate, and these eco-friendly stays are actively preserving it. • Living Heritage Koslanda It lies halfway between Ella and Horton Plains.  Over the years, they've restored the forest and prioritized hiring local women, often left out of tourism jobs.  The place feels like a quiet, natural escape. • Arana Eco-Lodge And Yoga Center The lodge sits just ten minutes from town.  Rooms are treehouses built around living trunks.  Moreover, it operates like a forest monastery.  Also, electronics are minimal here. So, you can take part in sessions of Kundalini yoga and meditation here.  Moreover, vegan Sri Lankan meals take center stage here. You disconnect from Main Street noise and return to the wild.