Festive Orient in Bandarawela

Bandarawela is a popular holiday resort among foreign and Sri Lankan holidaymakers.

Surrounded by high mountain ranges, forests, steep peaks, majestic waterfalls and archaeological sites with rich farmland and tea gardens, Bandarawela are a centrally located place. It is not only and ideal place for a relaxed holiday, but also a center for adventure tourism.

Orient Hotel in Bandarawela is the flag-ship hotel of the city, which is situated in this salubrious setting close to the centre of the town. Set about 3,800 feet above sea level Orient Hotel has 50 rooms including two luxury suites, 'Rama Seetha' and 'Paradise' both equipped with all facilities including private Jacuzzi in rooms.

Orient Hotel offers special packages for Avurudu Holidays from 9 to 22 April.

'This offer includes discounted rates with number of excursions, one pax free with every ten pax and special discounted rates on Sri Lanka food on Avurudu weekend' said Revatha Hettiarachy, the General Manager of the Hotel.

After the recent refurbishment programme, all rooms at Orient Hotel facilitated with many new things. Television, mini bar, telephone and hot and cold water are some of the facilities available at the hotel.

Karaoke Lounge bar, beer garden, fitness centre, conference facilities, laundry, 24-hour room service and games like billiards and snooker enhance the facilities added to the hotels recreation list. Live music, Karaoke competition, kid's shows and theme nights are some of the attractions lined up for the festive season at the hotel.

'Outdoor bar-b-que dinners and garden parties will be on during this April season. Also we promote adventure tours for adventure lovers' Revatha said.

Day tours to Lipton's Seat in Haputale, Pilkington Point at Poonagala and St. Catherine' Seat in Nayabedda, Bogoda Bridge off Hali Ela, Buduruwagala ancient monuments in Tanamalwila, Dowa Rock temple are popular places for the day excursions.

'These places are situated within one to two hour drive from the hotel. We provide professional butler service with breakfast and picnic lunch according to the choice of the guests. We could also provide expert guidance to travellers so that they could enjoy their tour to the maximum' Revatha explained about the services.

Horton Plains, Yala Wild Life Sanctuary, Uda Walawe, Tea Plantation, Camping at picturesque locations, Gem Mines, Sri Lanka's aborigines, the Veddhas at Mahiyangana, Mountain Biking, Trekking and Walking, Tangamale Bird Sanctuary, Lahugala Elephant Sanctuary, the Unspoilt Beaches of Arugam Bay are some of the long journey excursions. 'From these tours, camping at Horton Plains, Namunukula Range, Boralanda and Uda Walawe are very popular among Sri Lankan travellers. The facilities at the campsites include, tents, food and beverages (as requested) security, and other basic facilities.

Bandarawela was known as just a relaxing-vacation venue for years but it has changed the table from lazy holiday-plan to active vacation plan.