1. ➡ In 2008 we made our tour based on what we already knew (2trips) rediscovering important sights, with the Routard and information gathered on the internet.
   

The individual discovery formula with car and driver and hotels reserved in advance, seems to be a good solution to visit this island. This helps to stop where we want, when we want and meet as many people as if we were traveling in local transportation, with less waiting time.

We choose the dates based on religious events we wanted to attend (3 days before the full moon to the Kandy Perahera and the full moon to visit Kataragama)

1. ➡ In 2009 while visiting some essential that we not become weary, we have sought to deepen our discovery toward the east of the island, the war just ended (18 May 2009).
   

We chose more intimate accommodations, including several in villages, with long walks.

This is the first time we had monsoon rain in all our holidays in Sri Lanka, same period.

1. ➡ 2013 Our 5th trip to Sri Lanka, we wanted to discover other places, other sites, other features we have not yet discovered, in addition to sites that we see again with pleasure as Mihintale and Kataragama.
   

Looking blogs travelers and exceptional site at the wealth of information we have prepared a rich new circuit: see below.

Among the multitude of places to discover, we favored those who seemed we have a special atmosphere.

We visited many sites and temples, free because that is not yet part of the tourism business.

Many local pilgrims and local tourists visit these sites, our driver-guide discovering himself some sites at the same time as us. This will enable it to expand the proposed circuits for other clients.

1. ➡ 2015, our 6th trip was constructed in the same way as before: in search of all that remains to be seen.
   

Although the island is not so great as this, there is still plenty of places to visit, beautiful small roads to travel, exceptional landscapes to discover. Despite the fact that there is not really high season and low season and the influx of tourists is almost constant, there are still many places where the invasion has not done too much damage where we did not feel out of a bus.

1. ➡ In 2017 an 7th trip to discover natural reserves that we had not yet done, the Mannar peninsula, lesser-used mountain roads, small temples unknown to guides and drivers, and above all meet and spend time with craftsmen who still live from small traditional trades before they disappear, drowned by globalization or polluted by "solidarity" tourism agencies.We will take the opportunity to take stock of the correct accommodations and discover new affordable family accommodation.
   

2. ➡In 2019 an 8th trip to revisit places we love, deepen unfinished tours, meet artisans, families, go even deeper in our apprenticeship of Sri Lanka, discover what remains of traditions before globalization crushes everything on its way.
   

3. ➡ In 2023 We traveled many roads, visited all the must-see places, saw a hundred temples and monasteries, all the national parks. We stopped in many villages, we visited many markets, and many beaches. We met hundreds of families and made many friends.
   

This year we wanted to discover particularities which are part of the popular and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. We wanted to engrave in our memories these everyday gestures which will soon disappear under the steamroller of globalization.

After about 6 months of research, we developed an itinerary supposed to take us into contact with these pearls ignored by tourist circuits. An exceptional driver was needed to carry out this project which required anticipation, having contacts, and being interested in deep Sri Lanka.

1. In Sri Lanka we liked:
   

2. • The welcome of Sri Lankans who are mostly warm people, friendly, smiling. We never lived hostile episodes, even during the war, except from youth power imbued military in the north, or later young thugs in the south of the island.
   

3. • The Kandy Perahera 2008: Religious show for first Sri Lankans. Different groups of dancers and dancers, many elephants dressed as Christmas tree, seriously notable shows as "popes".
   

The war imposes many security measures, body searches, sniffer dogs, heavy police and military presence.

1. • The Kataragama site where pilgrims converge from all over the island. If there is a friendly place where you can appreciate the piety, devotion, and tolerance of Sri Lanka is in Kataragama. The full moon is downright magical.
   

2. • Pundaluoya, and Maussawa Estate, between Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. We were alone in this charming accommodation, and have enjoyed the friendliness and availability of a fabulous team: Rupa to furnaces, with varied cuisine, creative and tasty, Thomas extraordinary and cheerful guide who loves to explore the area, Mr. Karuma Singh who watches benevolently stewardship. Since they are gone!
   

3. • Small roads, villages and temples in the Gampaha area, the hermitage of Arankele and Ampara, the authentic Hinguruna area and the small roads on the east coast, the small roads and villages of the B 413 between Kandy and Walapane, the small road connecting Matara to Ratnapura (A17 + A 18) via the Bultota pass, the picturesque road from Dick Oya to Balangoda (B 149 and B 339), which borders the Castelreigh reservoir, crossing the most famous tea plantations of Sri Lanka, around Bogawantalawa, a town where time seems to have stopped in the years 60, plunges in a forest of majestic pines and villages that do not often see tourists passing.
   

4. • We succumbed to the charm of Little Villa Wadduwa, Mihintale's White & Black, and Leisure Mount View Holiday Inn à Haputale. We met quality accommodation which have not succumbed to the fever of business tourism: lots of guesthouses and small family hotels, with their typical breakfasts, their meals rich in culinary discoveries and hushed atmosphere. Families who have a real pleasure to welcome foreigners and make them discover their region and their activities, without pressing them like citrus fruits.
   

5. • I would like to pay special tribute to all the Sri Lankans who have accepted to share time with us, by allowing us to discover their know-how, by telling us about their lives, sharing the happiness that comes from having a skill whatever it may be and gain recognition even if they do not have a decent income. Respect and Thank again.
   

6. In Sri lanka We don't like :
   

7. • The young military power demonstrations who point their automatic weapon towards the vehicle, sometimes at the height of the face, to check passports, luggage or body searches with touching sex, despite the instructions given by the government against tourists. One of these young idiots was not even able to read our passport correctly! Abuse of power, machismo pleasure. It happened several times.
   

8. • The discovery of the North and Northeast, is rather disconcerting: Sri Lankans of this area are marked by war and atrocities that have lasted a long time, knowing that both rebels and soldiers practiced looting, rape, violence of all kinds, abuse of authority on the local population. There are also more civilians killed than combatants.
   

In 2009 there were checks points every 5 km. Travelling by car avoids queues controls of public transport. The army is everywhere.

Accommodations begin to rebuild and organize, but they are not really ready to welcome tourists.

In 2013 and 2015 there are fewer checkpoints than in 2009 on the road. But there are still many barracks around! When checkpoints are operated by older officers, it usually goes well. By cons when they are made by young soldiers, we have every time painful power demonstrations. War gave them a big head! A man who has killed is never the same man again.

From Kilinochchi road is lined with houses in ruins, riddled with bullet holes, shells, rockets. Palli around the road is lined with minefields, one can also see deminers at work.

Following the Islamist attacks of April 2019, we had 4 check points between Mannar and Talaimannar (30 km), all held by arrogant young men with hypertrophied ego armed to the teeth, with aberrant remarks or behavior.

If some people appear smiling and seek a relationship, this is not a generality or home touted by Lonely Planet. It happened to us several times to inquire into the street and see people refuse to answer.

The hotel and restaurant in Jaffna and Trincomalee are not up to the rest of the island, it may be necessary to give them time to rebuild when the army does not do it for them !

1. • The perverse effects of tourism development: The end of the war is far, the number of tourists has grown incredibly, especially those in eastern countries, UAE and India even out of season. See To much tourism kill tourism on intro.
   

2. ‣ Kandy Perahera has become a show or carnival, with many dance schools, including many children, who do the same thing without great application for most. Rates are become prohibitive: 7500 rupees (€ 42) in 2013, 11,000 rupees (€ 70) in 2015 the cheapest seats, less than forthcoming 6:00 am to occupy a free place, what the locals do.
   

3. ‣ the entrance fee in the sites have doubled, tripled see, the rates of many hotels have been multiplied by two, sometimes three, meals in restaurants have also increased. Yet the employees' salaries and the standard of living of the people have not increased !
   

4. ‣We denounce a trend to take tourists as pressing citrus: as in Europe when the Franc passed to the Euro, many opportunists took advantage of the confusion, taking the opportunity to make the big difference with their prices, In Sri Lanka since 2010, many accommodations display their rates in dollar, ranging from 4500 rps ($ 30) to $ 55 (8300 rps) or from 6500 rps to $ 75 (11000 rps), 12 000 rps in 2017. Other accommodations used to increase the rate when paying the bill, compared to the rate indicated at the time of booking. We will let you know whenever this happens.
   

Indexing the price of a guesthouse on the dollar does not seem very honest. Since many guesthouses and small hotels index their prices on the dollar and also on the season: not only the price of the room varies depending on the dollar's rate, but also according to the season: 45 $ in low season, 55 $ in high season. We prefer hotels and guesthouses that indicate their prices in rupees in a stable way over a year.

1. ‣ Sri Lanka becomes a seaside destination in the same way as Bali, Maldives, Phuket and Caribbean, transforming discovery tourism into seaside tourism. Today pzeople come to Sri Lanka for sunbathing, surfing, diving, snorkeling, rafting, whale and dolphin watching and  elephants ! They organize rave parties for westerners in Hikkaduwa, Midigama, as in Van Vieng (Laos) or Goa (India), only attended by local males, Young Sinhalese Women are not entitled to such party or encounters. On the coasts, hotels, guesthouses, restaurants grow like mushrooms after the rain, not always with the expected professionalism, more and more overbooked thanks to Booking and Agoda, with prices that have nothing more to do with the standard of living of the country.
   

2. ‣ Ethnic discrimination increasingly widespread in Sri Lanka (and India), which is to charge entrance fees of the sites, museums, exhibitions, some hotels and restaurants, 10 times more expensive for Westerners than for SAARC.(South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation)
   

If some Sri Lankans visitors are poor for whom it should be free, many SAARC visitors have higher incomes than ours, especially the Indian and Sinhalese.

And there are not only rich Westerners tourists, some have saved money several years to afford the trip of a lifetime, and they do not stay in luxury hotels.

Don't forget that during the difficult years, periods of war or attacks there are only backpackers and budget travelers who bring foreign currency, while others were afraid of war, mosquitoes and tsunamis.

1. ‣ The massive influx of the emerging class of South Indian and Sri Lankan who likes resorts and seaside making the hotel availability and cohabitation complicated. These new rich have hypertrophied egos, lack of education. They circulate in big cars, winning by egocentric behavior (speed drive, flashing headlights, driving in the middle of the road, not respecting any rule, not respecting queue, no form of social life). They talk loudly, even at night in the rooms and the corridors of hotels. They consider themselves have a priority everywhere and on everything.
   

2. To put an end to tipping and donations: we know that in Sri Lanka it was traditional to leave a tip (as is done in many countries)
   

Although drivers say otherwise, we have noticed that fewer and fewer Sri Lankans are tipping the restaurant or the guide when visiting something, whether at home or abroad. It's a tradition when it suits them!

As for donations, these are generally offerings that people make to obtain or thank the fulfillment of a wish, or help in the life of religious people. But it is also a form of “consensual racketeering” practiced by Buddhist monks and Hindu Brahmins. Knowing that they are necessarily maintained by the populations, even in times of crisis. People deprive themselves to ensure the comfort of their monks. Why should foreigners participate in this racket? We give easily, sometimes too easily, when we think it is necessary and we are free to do so. Sri Lanka does not have a monopoly on solidarity which would rather tend to become a myth.

On several occasions, we chose Emirates because this company departs from certain provincial towns, because it is reliable and of high quality of services and benefits, because its prices were attractive (especially when you take it early). Layovers in Dubai are sometimes a little long, it is difficult to find a free seat in the airport because many tourists lie down on 3 seats to sleep! 2019 Emirates having significantly increased its prices and transit times, we opted for Qatar Airways with a stopover in Doha. More reasonable prices, shorter stopovers. Comparable service. 2023 Qatar Airways with stopover in Doha (2h30). Emirates is more expensive and the layover is very long.

1. 2008, we contacted several local tourist agencies, offering them a program and requesting a quote, if possible substantiated by original proposals. We chose the local agency ACME Travels because it is the one that reacts faster to our proposals, which had the best value for money, Shan speaks French and Ramzi is super efficient.
   

They are also the only ones who have respected our choices without trying to sell us products all ready made:

http://www.acmetravels.com/ mail: info@acmetravels.com.

1. 2009 we wanted to change local agency because the price was a bit more attractive than ACME Travels and especially because Mohara the driver that we enjoyed was not available .
   

We went to Lion Royal agency, generally well listed , which has been disappointing :

The contract was unclear and ill-defined services .

A difference in less than 200 euros, which justified the attractive side initially turns to the final in extra costs due to poor communication and bad faith .

During the exchange of mails for the same price and the same specifications, mileage package increased from 1900 km to 1700 km, without explanation. Our tour by 1600 km , we did not react.

At the end of the tour we will be charged the fare that the driver was to pick us up at the airport on arrival day , and we learn that the transfer for departure are to be added, while all TO provide support for the airport and the airport.

1. 2013, 2015, 2017 we used Mohara again. We have prepared a detailed program which we have submitted to him for estimate. In 2013 the vehicle was a Nissan Sunny Super Saloon. Comfortable, but the engine was poorly adjusted and consumed more petrol than expected: normal consumption is 8/9 liters per 100 km, we used 10/12 liters per 100km, 50km / h. By 2015, he had changed his vehicle: a Geely Micro, a Sinhalese construction car under Chinese license. Comfortable and better adjusted to carburation level. Each time Mohara took care of hotel reservations. He checked that the reservations were effective, many accommodations becoming less and less reliable in terms of reservations
   

In 2017 He still has his Geely, in less good condition (a door has no handle). He took care of bookings, with the exception of 3 hotels we are used to going to that do not accept to go through him for the reservation! It would have been awkward or ineffective during certain reservations to the point of blocking the process. He did not learn about the different areas of interest that we submitted to him. He did not make a boat safari reservation that we asked for. It has been ineffective with some customers to whom we recommended it, both in terms of email exchanges and on-site monitoring.

1. In 2019, In 2019 we call on Eranda. He has a Toyota Hitace in very good condition. Bottles of water available throughout the trip. He knows how to use a GPS and knows how to use all his contacts to find solutions to all that we asked to see or do. When one meets ethnic groups whose language he does not speak, he appeals to his father who is a guide and serves as an interpreter. The accommodations he offers are very correct, at attractive rates. Every time we stop at a local restaurant, he checks before if we can trust the food offered.
   

1. 2008, we met Mohara who works for ACME. It is the ideal travel partner for this kind of trip, discreet, efficient, respectful, attentive, careful, careful, calm and patient, with humor.
   

He understands what we expect, what we seek and take great pleasure to help us to discover his country in his own way; tasting fruit, dishes, meetings with villagers.

He is proud to introduce his country. Sometimes he appreciates that clients make him see something he did not know. This increases its share capital of information.

He understands the type of photos we love to do and anticipate where we may stop.

He was a good driver we met in Sri Lanka and around the world. This is no longer the case.

Contracts fluctuates with the seasons and the waves of tourists, he established his own agency in order to have sustainable income when not under contract. His long experience in international companies reputation is an asset and a guarantee of reliability. 

1. 2009 we had a Lion Royal driver: Somarathna (very Poor) - unreliable, incorrect, under an apparently calm and serene.

   

   
   

He tried several times to charge meals and once an accommodation to us, while it is included in the contract. He knowingly made detours to increase mileage (sometimes 100km). He tried to charge us for parking and entrances of temples that were free. We ended conflict. He began to drive very recklessly.

The end of the program was appalling. He has "fans" who can not stand talking about him negatively on the Forum du Routard. This only confirms that you can not please everyone.

1. In 2013, 2015, 2017 we booked again directly with Mohara. This was all the more a pleasure as he discovered at the same time that we most of the visits we had programmed, because really outside the classical circuits.
   

This was an opportunity to check that a local driver is often necessary. Most sites and small roads are not indicated.

He seems in trouble on routes that do not master. When he inquires, he says get contradictory information, or people do not know what we are looking for until we show them photos of the place. We had our meals in small local restaurants that were decent and reasonable.

In 2017 Mohara was very disappointing. He did not prepare any visits we asked him for. He often goes astray, and gives the impression of mastering only the classical circuits. He does not seem to know how to use a GPS. He does not seem to understand the indications that people give him to find a site, a road. We realized that if we do not ask him to stop for lunch, he does not propose it. Mohara lacks organization and rigor in paperwork, preparations and information.

He commits a lot of clumsiness and often positions himself as a victim when confronted with his mistakes. We were very surprised by this unexpected change.

1. 2017 This led us to look for a new, reliable, professional driver. Thanks to Sinhalese friends, we met

   

   Eranda who seems to meet our expectations. He has a recent mini-van, air-conditioned. he knows how to use a GPS, he is equipped with a correct device in case he does not know the road. He provides mineral water throughout the tour. He is dynamic and creative. He is licensed as a driver / guide. Its rates are particularly attractive.
   

2. 2019. We call on Eranda for a very special program. In addition to everything we wanted to see and do, Eranda brought us many other opportunities. We enjoyed what he did for us and his way of being with us. A trip of 18 days which passed very quickly so it was interesting.
   

He knows very good accommodation at reasonable prices. He takes care of his customers constantly. He is attentive to anything that can affect his guests, such as checking the kitchen or dishes of a local restaurant, check the comfort of accommodation, ensure safety.

This confirms what we already thought, the guide or the driver can change everything in the way of perceiving a culture, a people, a country. Eranda is an exceptional guide.

It goes well beyond the reviews found on the forums, "my driver is great" or "we recommend an exceptional driver" or "we have the best driver" etc ... knowing that the majority of those who write that have only seen the country once and that they have generally seen only the inevitable. Eranda is more than a guide, he is a way to see Sri Lanka beyond what you can imagine.

1. 2023. Following a misunderstanding with Eranda, we decided 4 days before leaving to contact another driver capable of meeting specific expectations. We have selected 3 based on their popularity and reputation on Tripadvisor and Le Routard. We sent them our project, and selected the one that was best placed to meet our expectations. Kapila was not available when we arrived. It is one of his friends, Sanka, who will be the first part of Colombo in Kandy, Kapila will be the second part of Kandy in Wadduwa.
   

2. Sanka, our first driver was efficient, we did almost everything we planned. He inquires beforehand to find the places or people we wish to visit. He is friendly, considerate, respectful. He sought to help us discover things that we had not anticipated and took pleasure in discovering things that he did not know.

   

   
   

We have two criticisms to make of it:

1. - He did not attempt to repair the vehicle's air conditioning while we were in the middle of a heatwave. We arrived at our destination completely soaked every day.
   

2. -He's a bit opportunistic: he tended to make us pay for his meals. When it was time to pay, he didn't show up. If we hadn't reacted, maybe he would have let us pay for his meals throughout the trip. Being used to this type of practice in India, we remained vigilant from the second time.
   

3. - Every time we gave something to someone, they asked for the same thing for themselves. For example, when I shared vegetable seeds with farmers, he asked for some for himself. When Nadia offered perfume samples to the women she met, he asked for some for his daughter or his wife. Apart from these two complaints, Sanka is an interesting driver and guide to do a program, even off-piste in Sri Lanka. He is someone we recommend.
   

1. Kapila, Kapila, the second driver is nice, friendly, modern, cool. Maybe too cool!
   

He is so kind and friendly that it can be difficult to find fault with him. His kindness + the magic of Sri Lanka makes you forget the rest. And yet:

Initially we gave him the excuse that he only had our project 4 days before our arrival, which did not leave him much time to find out and plan. But Sanka also had our project 4 days before our arrival, he anticipated and organized practically everything.

With cool customers, Kapila is lax. He doesn't worry, takes his time. As long as we keep smiling, we should be satisfied.

He is a procrastinator, someone who puts off “we’ll see” until later. He waits until the last minute or leaves it to chance. Without ever worrying.

1. -Result: unlike Sanka with whom we did everything we had planned, with Kapila we did barely a third of what we had planned. - He spends a lot of time on his phone. A little in the car, a lot at each stop. As he speaks in Sinhalese, it must not be about contact with customers! He also watches cricket matches and videos! In the evening if he wants but not during work!
   

2. -He insists a little too much on his customers tipping and donating.
   

3. -He is the most expensive and least involved driver I have encountered during my tourism career outside the USA. He initially asks for 70 euros per day. He agreed to negotiate on certain conditions (free accommodation and meals).
   

4. -Although he didn't ruin our vacation, he did nothing to honor our schedule. We do not recommend it.
   

1. ๏ 2008 we chose hotels in category "Boutique Hotel". These are quiet hotels (welcom and good service, original décor, fine dining), which do not welcom groups (except the Amalaya), to have peace and enjoy a framework and an environment that do not look like a holiday camp. As war, and off season, the prices were very attractive. Often 50% cheaper. In Ella we refused to be accommodated in the Rawana Height because of the incorrect and tyrannical behavior of the owner. The agency changed us hosting without additional cost.
   

About catering, we have lunch in small local restaurants and we dined in the hotel where we were staying, because often far from the city center. Because of the war we were often alone in many resorts.

1. ๏ 2009 we chose hotels in category Inn or Guesthouse. These are small hotels (reception and good service, original decoration), which does not welcome groups to benefit from a framework and an environment that does not look like a holiday camp, except Wadduwa where we did not find any affordable intimate.
   

The end of the war was near, tourists have not yet returned, and we were lucky enough to be often alone in accommodation.

We ate our lunches at local restaurants imposed by the driver. He repeatedly refused to take us to places that we had chosen. This is logical: in the places he chose, the fact he take us there entitled him to get a free meal. In those where he did not get he was trying to charge us a meal.

1. ๏ 2013 Three years after the war the majority of establishments add Resort & Spa type allegations and go from $ 50 to $ 150 or even $ 250 per night.
   

Faced with the maddening increase of rates, we decided to go only to Home Stay, Guesthouses, small family hotels, which respect their customers by not abusing unjustified price increases.

We deplore and denounce the fact that since 2010, many even modest establishments have exorbitant prices: from 4500 rupees ($ 29) per night in a double room to $ 50 a night for the same comfort. We prefer accommodation in an average on the whole, from 35 euros per night for two, with breakfasts.

We decided to focus on hotels and families Home stay who respect the tourists, maintaining a quality service for reasonable prices.

In Kandy, a small hotel full of charm, with calm while being close enough to the city, with good food: Kandy Holiday Home.

Mohara took care of the reservations. No problem. We were vigilant that the chosen accommodation has room for driver.

A very bad accommodation we chose based on positive reviews: TK Garden in Matara: shabby and dirty room, rude owner, frozen food, tablecloths and stained linens, the only place to charge the welcome drink when paying

1. ๏ 2015, realizing on previous experience, we maintain our choice of small family hotels and guesthouses, whenever possible. In Gampaha, we had no choice and had to take the only decent hotel in the area.
   

For the first time we faced dishonesty of some accommodations that increased prices at checkout: Jkab Park in Trincomalee, Ampara Terriel Residencies and Sumudu Guesthouse in Amabalangoda. The Eco Lodge Gangadhara in Gal Oya is the worst experience we have made in terms of comfort (frame, hygiene etc. ..) and in addition they are very expensive

By cons we discovered two pearls in terms of price/quality ratio and hospitality: Little Villa in Wadduwa and Leisure Mount View Holiday Home in Haputale.

1. ๏ 2017, we return with five hotels that we know well. Little Villa, Elephant Camp Guesthouse, Leisure Mont View, Hashti Hotel and Ratna Gem. Four went up, but their prices remained stable. Hashti was under construction. A real building site (floors and pool). All the others show a high quality of service.
   

We discover three new guesthouses: Agape under construction (Mannar), Hamsaam Villa (Batticaloa), Gembeera Rest & Guest (Hinguruna), and a hotel Margosa Make Resort (Anuradhapura) ex Tilakka. All very well.

Generally our accommodations ranged from 4500rps (€ 28) and 5500rps (€ 35) in a double room with breakfast. With few exceptions from 6500( €40) to 9000rps (€ 55) in a double room and half board.

We took all our lunches in small local restaurants with meals that ranged from 160rps (€ 1.5) to 500rps (3 €) per person and dinners in the guetshouses with more complete meals ranging from 300 rps (1.65 €) to 800 rps (4.50 €) per person.

1. ๏ In 2019, we do again with Agappe in Mannar (finished and very nice), Elephant camp in Tissamaharama, Kandy Holliday Home in kandy (nicely redone rooms) Leisure Mount View Holiday Home in Haputale and Little Villa in Wadduwa, always so nice.
   

Eranda made us discover his accommodation selection: White & Black in Mihintale, awesome, Habarana Villa in Habarana, awesome, Saneepa in Pottuvil, awesome, Asantha Gusthouse in Unawatuwa, awesome. Only disappointment: a guesthouse we had selected based on many positive reviews on Tripadvisor: Mala's Guesthouse in Batticaloa. If the setting could be nice with some amenities (very average comfort), Mala's personality is unbearable and her rates exaggerated.

1. ๏In 2023 we had pre-booked a number of hotels with Eranda, the Eco White en Black in Mihintale, the Goddess Garden in Sigiryia, the Belpeack in Belilhuoya. Kapila proposed the Dayanithi in Jaffna and to see on site in Tangalle. For our part, we booked the Kandy Holiday home in Kandy, the Charita rest in Inginiyagala, the Saneepa in Pottuvil, the Safari Inn in Tissamaharama, the Leisure Mount View in Haputale, Little Villa in Wadduwa. In Tangalle with a late arrival, and doing so at the last minute, we landed at Villa Lyvie. Following a change in schedule, in Bentota, again following a late arrival and a lack of perspective, we scheduled the Canal Villa at the last minute, which did not take our reservation into account, which meant that we had to take the first hotel opened on the road: the Rockery Villa. Out of 10 accommodations booked, 3 increased their rates on the day of payment: White & Black, Saneepa, Villa Lyvie. We do not recommend them.
   

1. "Visa" or ETA compulsory charge since 2012 is to apply via the Internet by filling out a form on the website and pay by credit card the amount of $ 30 (early July 2013-  still in august 2015, 35$ in 2017). An answer is given in the half hour that usually follows. In print, it will be requested from France and arrived in Colombo. http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/visainfo/center.jsp?locale=fr_FR
   

In 2019 the Sri Lankan government decided to make the visa free for some countries including France. When we go to the ETA website a message said that because of the attacks of April, the government has removed the free. The visa is displayed at $ 35, but at the time of payment, the amount is increased by 4% for fees and reaches $ 36.40. Upon boarding the visa was not asked, nor on arrival ! We discover on the spot that it is possible to take a visa on arrival, on the other hand some French have come without a visa, and nothing has ever been claimed. The local travel agencies have been informed that the visa is free. It can not be more messy.

In 2023, we were asked at the airport for the e-visa, but also a QR code!! This is a code that appears on an online document called "Arrival card". The airline employee wanted to be overzealous by refusing to give us boarding passes without these codes. We ended up leaving. This is the arrival (disembarkation) card that we fill out on the plane before arrival, which we fill out at the airport upon arrival since the airlines no longer provide this service. This card can be established online, at present this is not an obligation. You can obtain this code by filling out the form on: https://eservices.immigration.gov.lk/emb/eEmbarkation/'#/home-page

1. Foreign exchange, the euro is changed everywhere, it seems more interesting than the dollar during this period. Avoid agencies in airport, this is the place where courses are the lowest. 1 € = $ 1 = 168.5 128.5 rps rps.
   

The best courses we obtained were Anuradhapura Sampath Bank € 1 = $ 1 = 173.5 129.5 rps rps, and the Western Union (jewelry) in Tangalle in front of the bus station: 1 € = 173 rps . Most other banks changed to 1 € = 128/129 rps.

In August 2023 the exchange rate is 1€ = 351.50 rupees ina shop, 340 at the airport and in the banks.

1. Meditation: As for ayurveda, meditation centers develop according to the growth of tourism. There are meditation centers run by monks, which existed independently of tourism, who open their teaching to the laity and foreigners who want to learn traditional meditation, there are meditation centers run by "gurus" and fitness-yoga-meditation centers mostly frequented by Western "bobos".
   

The real meditation centers are listed by the Buddhist associations http://www.buddhanet.net/pdf_file/Monasteries-Meditation-Sri-Lanka2013.pdf

These are simple, usually isolated places, with accommodation in dormitories, shared showers and toilets, simple vegetarian meals. It is imperative to book.

One of them is reserved for the initiates: Kalugala Monastery (A.S Pahalabewessa Badureliya) in Gurulubadda (Grulubedda) near Matugama. Vehicles do not have access to it, you have to walk about an hour from Gurulubadda.

Others are easier to access and accept beginners:

The one I prefer: in the south, on the edge of Madu River, the monastery of Balapitiya nandaratana_thero@yahoo.com with an orphanage run by the monastery where we can do some volunteer work http://sscdfoundation.lk/

Convivial, open to all. The setting is nice, the accommodation is ok and the food is often delicious. The meditation classes are simple, without headaches. Reverend Mahaladuwe Nandaratana is welcoming and warm.

In Colombo and in the nearby: more austere

Lanka Vipassana Meditation Centre. 108 Wijerama Mawatha, Colombo 7. Tel.011-2694-100.

Pagoda Meditation Centre. 49/2, 1st Cross Street, Pagoda Road, Nugegoda. Tel:011-2812397. Website: http://groups.msn.com/PagodaMeditationCentre

Vishva Niketan International Peace Centre. 72/30 Rawatawatte Road, Moratuwa.Tel/Fax: (94-1)655653 E-mail: vishvaniketan@mail.ewisl.net.

Siyane Vipassana Meditation Centre or Kanduboda Vipassana Meditation Centre. Kanduboda, DelgoQa. Tel. 011-2445518; 011-2570306. E-mail: bhavanam@sltnet.lk or mupali@sltnet.lk

Sumantiphala BM. Hibatgala Rd, Kanduboda, DelgoQa. Tel: 011-2402805.

Dekanduwala M.C. Kananwila, Kahatapitiya, Horana. Inquiries and bookings should be made through Ven. Vimalajothi at the Buddhist Cultural Center

In Kandy and in the region: better appreciated, because the climate is more bearable

Lewella Meditation Centre, 160 Dharmashoka Mawatha, Kandy 20000, Tel. 08-2225471. Fax 08-2225471.

Burmese Resthouse. D.S. Senanayaka Maw/Trincomalee Street. Near Trinity College.

Nilambe Meditation Centre, Galaha, Kandy. (Mr. Upul Gamage: 0777-804555.)

Paramita International Buddhist Centre. No. 07 Balumgala, Kadugannawa, Tel/Fax.08-570732 (office).

Dhammaku3a Vipassana Meditation Centre. Mowbray, Galaha Road, Hindagala, Peradeniya. (Nr. Kandy) 081-2234649/081-2385774-5/070-800057. email: dhamma@sltnet.lk Website: www.lanka.com/ dhamma/dhammakuta

The mediation centers Dekanduwala Mediation Center in Kananwila, and Dharmadvipa Yogasramaya in Aluthgama are rather reserved for fashionable trends.

1.   Sri Lankan handicrafts is primarily a crafts for tourists: batik, furniture, masks, cotton fabrics, sculptures, baskets etc ... Apart from a few small roadside shops, prices are particularly high for items that are not always good. Even haggling, it is rare to lead to a reasonable value of the purchase.
   

There are still authentic crafts for the daily life of local, villages, markets, roadside: basketry, pottery, weaving (handloom) weaving palm leaves(palmyrah), good quality at incredibly low prices.

- For conventional fabrics, sari, quality and reasonable prices, shop for local Junaid Store, 19 rue yatinuvara vidiya Kandy

- For Buddhists quality items: bowls, tanka, carvings, amulets, statues reasonable prices, several shops for local Street Srimath Bennet Soysa (Colombo Street) in Kandy. For brass items (oil lamps, statues) Ishan Brassware, Gadoladeniya road, Govindala, Pilimathawala (20 km from Kandy).

- For quality modern cotton, expensive (fixed price): Barefoot in Colombo Department Store Street Hospital, and 41 Pedlar Street Galle and 704 Galle Road.

1. -For a quality variety of handicrafts and clothing, expensive (fixed price) Laksala 215 Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo
   

2. 

   

   If you want to move in Bajaj (Sinhalese name tuk tuk), the normal bajaj can go up to three adults without

   

   luggage for short runs (two is better for longer trips). The Sri Lankans go up to 5, sometimes to 7 but on top of each other. If you are traveling with your family (with two children) the ideal is to ask for a Piaggio apé, it's a tuk tuk a little longer and wider. We can travel 4 in good conditions and there is a real boot. Barely more expensive.
   

3. Spice gardens are all ripoffs for tourists. Have shops that sell spices rarely good quality and very expensive which planted few specimens in a garden to attract customers. No spice is grown on the land.
   

The offered massages are done by anyone and anyhow, just to "fondle" few tourists, cosmetics are harmful for the skin. There are less expensive spices in the markets, the best being reserved for export.

Your guide can put you in contact with small farmers, families who grow for their own consumption or the local market: cloves, nutmeg, pepper, ginger, lemongrass, cinnamon.

1. -If you want to buy cinnamon while discovering planting and process: G.D. De Silva Sons Diggoda Waththa, Anhungala. Take Alba quality. Buy only cinnamon sticks, cinnamon powder fades very quickly. Price slightly high but 10 times cheaper than in Europe and much better http://www.topcinnamon.com/
   

In 2023, 500 g of grade 5+ cinnamon (very good quality) 4650 rupees (€13.65), the higher grade Alba is barely more expensive. In France, grade 4 Ceylon cinnamon from Madagascar costs between 6 and 8 euros for 15 grams, or €198 to 264 for 500 grams.

1. -For tea, the best choice is in tea factories: Bluefield, Gleenloch or McWood in Nuwara Eliya. I prefer the visit and the shop of the Handunugoda Tea Estate Virgin White tea plantation Tittagalla Ahangama, Sri Lanka. https://hermanteas.com/
   

Pleasant guided tour of the plantation and the factory, nice tasting, very interesting shop - teas and herbs. Prices a little high, but very good quality. Opportunity to taste all products before buying.

1. Be careful, with the tourism development on the island since the end of the war, petty crime and scams of all kinds are also expanding. Compare prices and rates before buying, never leave your credit card and use it as little as possible, even in luxury hotels. This is not paranoia but things are becoming more frequent. This is often when you return that were surprised to see piracy.
   

2. As in India, single women are increasingly being harassed by local males, harassment and sexual assault are increasing, as much from thugs, as residents, even some guides and some drivers.
   

Be careful about ayurvedic massage. Know that in Ayurveda, you are always massed by a person of the same sex as yourself. If a man proposes Ayurvedic massages to a woman, it is by no means deontological.

1. Absolutly avoid the travel agency Exclusive Sri Lanka By Dioka and its owner Dioka Tillekeratine, A veritable swindler who is well known in the embassy and the police. Warning Tripadvisor : https://www.tripadvisor.fr/ShowTopic-g293961-i8983-k8249671-o220-Location_de_voiture_avec_chauffeur_au_Sri_Lanka-Sri_Lanka.html
   

In almost all cities, there are supermarkets called Food City Cargils, low prices, large selection of food and various products (the equivalent of Casino). Water is 75rps the liter and a half. Sometimes we buy what to make sandwich, and fruit to change from Rice & Curry. In Cargils you can buy at the pharmacy some Siddhalepa, kind ointment as Tiger Balm, but Ayurvedic without synthetic product, effective against a lot of little injuries and various bite. It helps to repel mosquitoes when it is put on the body.

1. Three very interesting websites to prepare a trip to Sri Lanka (in English):
   

     - For cultural and religious sites: http://www.amazinglanka.com/index.php and http://srilankatravelnotes.com

     - For landscapes, natural sites and hiking: http://www.lakdasun.org/

1. The iconography of many temples is so rich, so elaborate, that it would be interesting to be able to visit with a connoisseur  explain what is said through this imagery. There is a whole esoteric language to be deciphered, which very few Sinhalese know.
   

2. An extraordinary book to better understand the basis of certain traditions of the island, which although written in 1913, refers to a reality that was still found at the end of the last century and still today in certain villages: The village In the jungle of Leonard Woolf- Library The age of Man- Lausanne-1991 which led to an interesting movie "Beddagama" (1980), the village where the action takes place.
   

3. An Ayurvedic Hospital: Siddhalepa Ayurveda Hospital in Mount Lavinia Tel: + 94-11-2738622 / 3 http://www.thinkayurveda.com/start/ayurveda_hospital
   

4. We drive between 40 and 50km/h, and 90/100 km/h on highways. Our steps are designed to have the time to do the circuit without running. (100 to 200 km per day, with steps of several nights in the same place)
   

5. In Sri Lanka as in many places in the world, it is important to take the time: too many tourists travel sites at racing speed, spending more time to film or photograph instead of contemplating, or observe.
   

This country has the particularity of having "living"places in which thousands of people come every day. These are special times to meet them and see how they live. Especially since the majority of people are eager to share.

1. To realize a custom program:
   

1. In Colombo, there is the very particular mosque Jami Ul Altar, the Pettah great market, fine Buddhist temples Gangaramaya and Seema Malaka.
   

2. - On the road from Colombo to Kandy, there is a fabulous busy temple, Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya with beautiful Perahera in February.
   

3. - Between Colombo and Kandy, the region of Gampaha (between Gampaha and Veyangoda) is dotted with interesting temples: monasteries, caves, dagobas perched on a rock: Koskandavilla Vihara, Maligathenna Vihara, Pilikuththuwa Vihara, Varana temple, Attanagalla Raja Maha Viharaya (all around 15 km radius), Dhathukanda Rajamaha Vihara Pilima Wahanse of Nittambuwa, the very original Sri Gautama Sambuddha Raja Maligawa of Polgahawela, the mysterious forest hermitage of Arankele ...
   

4. -Soon after, still on the road to Kandy, the village of Kajugama whose specialty is the cashew nuts and the girls a little seductive who sell the fresh or grilled nuts
   

5. In the north-central region:
   

- Halfway between Dambulla and Anuradhapura, the site Avukana is often overlooked due to time and it is a pity. The environment is very nice and the site is interesting. 11 kmrom there, a nice site outright forgotten Sasseruwa Buddha.

- 40 km northwest of Anuradhapura, is the magnificent monastic complex Thanthirimale. The various buildings are located on top of rocks that rise from the ground like waves that are solidified. Many pilgrims, very fervent atmosphere. You can see a large seated Buddha stupa against lower right and a large elongated below left rock-cut Buddha. The frescoes of the main temple are beautiful.

- On the same road 10 km from Anuradhapura, much kitch, but very interesting for photographers, Temple Nellikulama with 500 arhats. A long procession of 500 statues of monks in bright orange outfit snaking walk in single file in a huge park. Some are not finished and are waiting generous donors. In both places many pilgrims, very few tourists.

1. -Many tourists go to Mihintale, omitting that the site is spread over several acres and ignore for example Kalu Diya Pokuna, former place of meditation.
   

2. In the central region: The Triangle Kandy, Kurunegala, Dambulla, bounded by roads A10, A6 and A9.
   

3. -going from Dambulla to Kandy Road A9, many tourist stop in the spice gardens that are only shops, spices are not grown here, and miss the very interesting Alu Vihara cave monastery 3 km north of Matale, which was written the first manuscript bringing Buddha's teaching (Tipitaka).
   

4. -On this road a small temple, Nalanda Gedige, whose particularity is to be in the precise geographical center of the island.
   

5. -After Matale, ask to leave the main road to go to Kandy via a small country road that runs along the Knuckles Ranges towards Ukuwele-Wattegama. The scenery is beautiful, there are beautiful waterfalls like Hunas Falls, a small white stupa emerging from the lush green paddy fields.
   

6. -In Kandy, there are four pretty little temples Kataragama Devale the Natha Devale (which is also called Saman), the Pattini Devale, Vishnu Devale dedicated to the 4 cardinal guardians of the island.
   

7. -Outside Kandy (10 km) there are three temples dating from the 14th century Gadaladeniya built on a small rock dotted with small pools, flanked by a Hindu temple, Lankathilake half Hindu and half Buddhist externally strangely resembling to some small Tibetan temples Embekke all wood Kandyan style. 7 km from Kandy, in the village of Amunugama, Degaldoruwa a beautiful rock temple, dating from the 18th century. Beautiful fresco well preserved.
   

8. -Other temples of the region interesting for their particular architecture (tampita): the Medawala Rajamaha Viharaja, the Mawanella Aluth Nuwara Dedimunda Devalaya, the Danthure Raja Maha Viharaja.
   

9. -Leaving Kandy to Kurunegala take road A10 towards Kurunegala until Mawathagama, then the B280 until Reedegama (52 km) to see the Ridi Viharaya (Silver Temple), beautiful rock temple.
   

10. -Take the B264 road Reedegama to Rambadagalla for 4 km, to see the Monaragala Viharaya: the largest sitting Buddha in Sri Lanka under construction, about 20 meters high.
    

11. -Join the A6 road Gokarella to discover the monastic complex Uthurupauwa (15km) free entry.
    

12. -Still on the A6 towards Dambulla, a prehistoric site with dolmens: Ibbankatuwa Ancient Burial Grounds, tombs dating from 750 BC.
    

13. -For history lovers, a little visited city, a few kilometers from Kurunegala, on the Wariyapola - Chilaw road, in Kotampitiya area the ruins of Panduwasnuwara, an ancient kingdom of the 12th which did not last long.
    

1. In the mountain region: The triangle Nuwara Eliya, Bandarawella, Ratnapura, bounded by roads A5, A16, A4
   

- Beautiful countryside and mountain road (B413) very little frequented by tourists running from Kandy to Haputale through Hanguranketa and its unique temple Potgul Vihara, Rikillagaskada and the first planting of James Taylor, Walapane and pagoda peace, all along Lake Victoria with landscapes of rice espaliers.

1. -Places like Punduloyia, and Maussawa Estate ecological rural step offering hiking in the area (the nature in its purest form), Lipton's Seat as spectacular as the World's End Hatton Plain breathtaking views, with walks in the plantations tea and meeting with very likeable people.
   

2. -Tea factory interesting to visit: Blue Field, Gleenloch, Mackwoods. In Dambatene (Haputale) the entrance is not free, we are not allowed to make photos and the executives are unfriendly.
   

3. -Ella, a charming village overlooking the valley, with a beautiful hike to Little Adam's Peak. In the same area a small walk of 2 km to reach the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge, a beautiful wild spot, very photogenic when a train leaves the tunnel and jumps onto the bridge.
   

Two beautiful temples and monasteries in the area: just before the entrance of Ella the Dowe Monastery Temple and about 11 km from Ella the Rakkhiththa Kanda Aranya Senasanaya Temple.

- 26 km north of Ella, beyond Badulla, a beautiful little place Bogoda Wooden Bridge, old wooden bridge kandien style in lush countryside.

- Not far (7km) Dunhida impressive water falls, which is reached after a short walk on a wild trail.

1. -Leaving Ella to Bandarawella, the small monastery of Dowe, against the bottom of the road, often forgotten, has a very interesting character. Beautiful frescoes.
   

2. -Between Dic Oya and Balangoda a fabulous little road (B149 + B339) with the Castlereigh reservoir, the best-kept and most famous tea plantations on the island, the small town of Bogawantalawa hanging in time, its pine forests and Giants Eucalyptus.
   

- Ratnapura and gem mines, seeing in two steps, those who dig and extract mud, those who sift mud and sort the stones.

In Ratnapura there is a religious complex little visited: Maha Saman Dewale. Very much alive.

1. In the South East region:
   

- Going from Tissamaharama to Ella, a little detour on the road A4  to Buttula( 32 km) to see the beautiful remains of Maligawila and Dematal Vihara reopened since the end of the war. The environment is very nice and very friendly people. Good atmosphere. Then take the B35 road from Buttala to Tissamaharama, guaranteed meeting with wild elephants begging for food by the side of the road.

- Tissamaharama area is known for its lake where pilgrims perform their ablutions, for its proximity to the park Yale and leopards.

There is the beautiful religious complex Maha Dewale in Kataragama, which combines Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim, and various "cults". During full moons lot of pilgrims come from all parts of the island to create this magical world of fervor and tolerance. In night view (up to 22h) and day, the atmosphere is different.

The Kataragama Perahera (july) is much more authentic and more popular than Kandy. It is free and there are far fewer tourists.

- 10 km from Tissamaharama, a small temple perched on a rock, facing an unchained ocean, with a very unique history: the photogenic temple Kirinda. No tourists.

1. In the Southern region: The triangle Tissamaharama, Matara, limited by the A18 road, A2, A17
   

- This region includes the Uda Walawe National Park, without much interest. Elephants which have understood are along the way, along fences, begging for candy  from vehicles that stop near the sellers of bananas.

-The coastal road from Matara Tissa is the prettiest of the island, although many places are now stained with plastic bags and other garbage.

1. -16 km from Tangalle, the beautiful monastery Mukurigala with steep stairs, its decorated caves and a view of the special region. Not visited by groups.
   

2. -At 3 km from Dickwella original monastic complex with a Buddha statue very kitch and impressive frescoes depicting the history of Buddhism: Wewurukannala.
   

3. -Taking the A24 and A17 roads from Matara to Ratnapura by the Bulutota Pass, we leave the classical tours to discover the enchanting landscapes, but also little-known sites: Between Morawaka and Deniyaya is the village that hides a beautiful Katapola small temple on top of a small steep road, and a flight of stairs. The Gatabaruwa Rajamaha Viharaya is located atop a mountain. It is in full rehabilitation from a paved road was built.
   

4. -At Suriyakanda, take direction Morogoda / Embilipitiya road B115. Shortly after Morogoda is Kolonna village (13 km from Suriyakanda) to discover this extraordinary palace whose no guide speaks: the Maduwanwela Walauwa built by a dynasty of local governors who thought they were princes. Architecture and beautiful surroundings.

   

   
   

5. - Between Hikkaduwa and Ambalangoda, in Dodanduwa there is a very photogenic temple with its stair climbing:  the Raja Maha Kumarakanda. Before Hikkaduwa the temple Seenigama Devol Devalaya and its small island spared by the tsunami. In Meetiyagoda, the moonstone mines and stone-cutting workshops.
   

1. ๏ Some numbers:
   

- In 2008, for entry into the various sites and temples rights have cost us 80 euros for two (40 euros per person) $ 50 including fo the cultural triangle. But it is worth it .

Lunches cost us 112 Euros for two, including drinks (56 euros per person) for 15 lunches or lunch € 3.70 on average. Lunches are between 950 and 1300 rupees for two, drinks and tips. In decent restaurants or guesthouses.

The water was 45 rupees a liter and a half in the shops. 150 to 250 rupees in hotels. They is secured: thermo formed and dated capsules. Of fresh bottles found in many stores. Provide isomantle to have fresh water available all day

Tips cost us 26.50 euros for two to 15 days in the temples, hotels, and various donations

- in 2009 admissions in the various temples and sites have cost us 85 euros for two (42.5 euros per person) Safari Yale has much rps 4000 Jeep and 5220 rps park entrance (57 euros for two)

Lunches, dinners and drinks cost us 220 euros for two (110 euros per person) for 20 lunches and 20 dinners or 2.75 euros per average meal (we ate the sandwich several times because the driver did not want to take us where we wanted). lLunches are between 1,100 and 1,500 rupees for two, drinks and gratuities. In very decent local restaurants.

Tips cost us 23.50 euros for two to 20 days in the temples, hotels, and various donations.

- In 2013/2015 meals: usually in small local restaurants, without going into the sidewalk eateries, it takes between 175 and 450 rupees (1.10 and 2.60 euros) per person for rice & curry correct.

In small hotels and "good" guesthouses, it takes between 450 and 900 rupees (2.60 and 5.20 euros) for rice & curry rich or western dish over a plate of fresh fruit, drink included.

1. • Mineral water is 70 rupees (0.40 euros) 80rps (2015) 85rps (2017) 180 rupees (2023) per liter and a half. We buy in Cargills Food City, because they are stores that have fridges and bottles of cold water. We use an insulated sleeve to have fresh water available. It is better to take mineral water like Knuckles instead of distilled or purified water, for their content of oligoelements and minerals. Never use tap water or for drinking or brushing teeth.
   

Most small hotels and Guesthouses make available a half bottle of water per person in the room.

1. • Unlike India, there are very few power outages. Better to take an adapter.
   

2. • Coconuts "orange" Thambili (available on the side of the road) to buy between 20 and 40 rupees each (0.12 / € 0.24) 200 rupees in 2023. If it is more expensive, the price is for tourists.
   

3. • Fuel: petrol 90 octane 162.40 rupees per liter, diesel at 120 rupees per liter. petrol 117rps/l (2015/2017) diesel 94 rps/l(2015/2017) the gasoline 138 rps per liter in 2019.
   

4. • Fruit: small bananas are 40 rupees 6, bananas roses (delicious) to 60 rupees 4, limes 300 rupees a kilo, mangoes at 135 rupees each for those Jaffana (best) 90 rupees other mangoes.
   

5. • The curd (yogurt) buffalo is between 150 to 200 rupees per liter. Ensure that it is kept in a cool place and not in direct sunlight as some. Cargill Food City, there is choice, it is stored in a refrigerator, costs 200 rupees per liter, 500 rupees in 2023, a nice clay pot like on the side of the road.
   

6. • The sap of kittul for sweet curd is at Rs 150 for 250 ml. Make sure it is pure (dark). Many traders tampering by adding the syrup sugar cane or molasses.
   

7. •Entrance fees per person: actually
   

8. ‣Anuradhapura = 30     25$ en 2023
   

9. ‣ Polonaruwa = 30 $      25$ en 2023     
   

10. ‣ Sigyriya =35 $            30$ en 2023
    

11. ‣ Dambulla = 1500 roupies
    

12. ‣ Kandy temple de la dent = 1000 roupies + caméra
    

13. ‣ Peradeniya Botanical Garden = 1500 roupies
    

14. ‣ Pinnawela 20 $
    

15. ‣Minhintale : 10$                1000 roupies en 2023
    

16. ‣Avukana:                          1000 roupies en 2023
    

17. ‣Pidurangala :500 roupies   1000 roupies en 2023
    

18. ‣ Yale = entrance to the reserve: $ 15 + $ 8 service charge + tax + VAT + rental of the jeep (on average 5,000 rupees for a jeep, to share with the number of participants).
    

19. ‣Minneriya/Kaudulla :entrance to the reserve: $ 15 + $ 8 service charge + tax + VAT + rental of the jeep (on average 5,000 rupees for a jeep, to share with the number of participants).
    

20. ‣The train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya €7 in first class, 4 euros in second class.