SRI LANKA ~ Kaudulla National Park ~

... Great Asian elephants🐘 view... the park is a significant wildlife sanctuary, especially known for its large elephant gatherings... during the dry season a massive "gathering" occurs, making it one of the largest congregations of Asian elephants in the world... you can see hundreds of these gentle giants in their natural habitat, drawn to the area by the receding waters of the Kaudulla Tank which exposes fresh grass and provides a reliable water source... while the gathering is a specific event, elephants can be seen in the park throughout the year... Kaudulla National Park is one of 10 parks in Sri Lanka where elephants roam freely as part of their seasonal migration... it is a smaller park and a great place to spot wildlife without the crowds... Thanks a lot Prithika!(✿◠‿◠)

Photo: A.Felix J. Perera
Kaudulla National Park is located in the historic city of Polonnaruwa. Officially it became the 15th national park in Sri Lanka in 2002 with a size of approximately 6,700 hectares featuring the Kaudulla Reservoir, a varied landscape of forest, grassland and scrubland. It is home to 23 mammal species  and more than 160 bird species.

It is situated on Sri Lanka’s most important elephant corridor, where the largest mammals of the island migrate between Somawathiya and Minneriya National Parks.

 

Stamps:

2X Flowers of Sri Lanka 

(Issued 07-10-2016)

Fruits and Vegetables of Sri Lanka

(Issued 15-06-2023)

SRI LANKA ~ Nine Arch Bridge - Ella ~

... Great aerial bridge view also known as the "Bridge in the Sky"... a stunning testament to colonial-era engineering nestled amidst lush greenery, offering breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere... located in the small mountain town of Ella... this viaduct is an engineering marvel, with nine arches built entirely of bricks and cement without a single piece of steel... the serene ambiance and the structural grandeur make Nine Arch Bridge a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sri Lanka's cultural and historical treasures... it is  still used on a daily basis and the train stops on top of the viaduct so you can get off and take photos, definitely the best way to see it... Thanks Ravindra!【ツ】 (will send stamp soon☺️)

Photo: Lithira Buwaneka
The bridge is located on the railroad line between Kandy and Badulla, one of the most picturesque train routes in the world.The Nine Arch Bridge in Ella is on the Demodara loop and spans 91 meters at a height of 24 meters and forms a viaduct between the Demodara and Ella Railway stations.

History says the Nine Arch Bridge in Ella was fulfilled in 1921. Popular hearsay about the bridge was that when the construction of the bridge started, Britain was getting into the warfare of the Second World War. She had to reallocate the steel assigned for the bridge to the battlefront projects which caused the building process to a standstill. Eventually the locals took on the work and completed it using bricks and cement; without any steel.

Stamps:

Flowers of Sri Lanka 

(Issued 07-10-2016)

The 150th Anniversary of the UPU - Universal Postal Union  

(Issued 09-10-2024)

SRI LANKA ~ -Sigiriya Rock - UNESCO ~

... Great aerial view of the Pidurangala and Sigiriya Rock (Lion Rock) surrounded by dense forest... Pidurangala Rock is located just over a kilometre away from Sigiriya and the summit is just slightly lower than that of Lion Rock... this makes it the perfect platform to get the best views of Sigiriya as the sun rises... Sigiriya Rock rises 180 meters above the surrounding area... and is so steep that its top overhangs the sides... visitors can climb the 1,200 steps, divided amongst a number of staircases... this ancient palace and fortress complex has significant archaeological importance and is probably the most visited tourist destination of Sri Lanka... with nice matching UNESCO Sigiriya Rock stamp👍... Thanks a lot Ravindra!ヽ(•‿•)ノ

The citadel on top of the 5th-century Sigiriya Lion Rock/Sigiriya Fortress was built by King Kasyapa. It includes water gardens, a moat, terraced gardens and archaeological features. The advanced and impressive hydraulic system consisting of canals, lakes, dams, bridges, fountains and underground water pumps still provides water to the Sigiriya Rock gardens today. 

The rock itself is a lava plug left over from an ancient long extinct volcano. There was once a lion's face hewn into the rock as well, but it's been eroded by the elements. This is how Sigiriya - which translates as 'lion rock' - got its name.

It wasn’t until 1831 that the abandoned Sigiriya Rock was discovered by a British Army Major. He came across the site whilst horseback riding through Sri Lanka.

Sigiriya Rock was designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982.
 

Stamps:

Gems of Sri Lanka 

(Issued 06-11-2021)

UNESCO World Heritage - Siriya 

(Issued 15-06-2023)

Pigeon Island Marine National Park

(Issued 22-08-2014)

SRI LANKA ~ Bodhiya fig tree - Anuradhapura - UNESCO ~

... Lovely view of the south compound steps that lead to the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi or Bodhiya fig tree on a blue sky day in in the Mahamewna Gardens in Anuradhapura... the oldest living known human planted tree in the world... this fig tree is a very spiritually and physically significant part of this ancient city... it is a Buddhist symbol for a human being's capacity to achieve enlightenment since the first human achieved enlightenment underneath a Bodhi tree... it has been looked after by caretakers for over 2.000 years... a pilgrim place for Buddhists and today thousands of devotees come to make offerings, particularly on poya (full moon) days and weekends... with nice shaped stamp minisheet... Thanks Ravindra!! (✿◠‿◠)

The Sacred Fig tree or Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya , it is said to be the southern branch of the Sri Maha Bodhi tree in India, under which Buddha reached enlightenment and over 2,300 years old,

In the 3rd century BC, it was brought to Sri Lanka by Sangamitta Theri, the daughter of Emperor Asoka and founder of an order of Buddhist nuns in Sri Lanka. In 288 BC it was planted by King Devanampiya Tissa on a high terrace about 6.5m above the ground in the Mahamewna Park in Anuradhapura. 

Stamps:

Kandy Esala Perahera

(Issued 25-02020)

The 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations with Nepal

(Issued 20-02-2020)

SRI LANKA ~Baker's Fall - Horton Plains National Park - UNESCO ~

... A beautiful waterfall view nestled admidst the scenic landscapes of Nuwara Eliya district... located on a steep cliff surrounded by a mix of green trees and darker rocks... with many rhododendron and fern bushes around it... Baker’s Falls may not be the tallest or widest waterfall in the country, but it is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular... the waterfall provides a lifeline for the surrounding plants and wildlife, making it an important ecological component.... being one of the park’s main attractions, it is frequently visited by tourists throughout the year...Thanks a lot Ravindra!【ツ】

Photo: A. Felix J. Perra
Baker's Falls is a cascade type waterfall (which is said to be the most beautiful type) with 2 drops with a height of 20 meters and a width of 25 meters and gets its water from the Belihul Oya. The falls are named after the famous British explorer and big-game hunter, Samuel Baker who discovered it in 1845.

Horton Plains National Park at Ohiya is a protected area in the central highlands. This plateau at an elevation of 2,100 a 2,300 metres above sea level is rich in biodiversity and home to an extraordinary range of flora and fauna. This region was designated a national park in 1988. 

Sri Lanka’s Highlands along with Horton Plains National Park, the Peak Wilderness Protected Area and the Knuckles Conservation Forest was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2006.

Stamps: 

Law College 150th Anniversary

(05-03-2024)

Endemic Birds 

(Issued 09-10-2021)

SRI LANKA ~ Kadurugoda Temple - Kandarodai - Jaffna ~

... View of one of the very few ancient Buddhist sites remaining in Jaffna today... it is a very unique archeological site with  intact dome type stupas... according to one legend they are 2000 year old memorials to priests who supposedly were poisoned by a mushroom curry served to them and all of the Buddhist monks had died... this historical temple with a large number of "stupas" has become a popular tourist destination and is maintained by the Army... Thanks Ravindra!【ツ】

Kadurugoda Viharaya (also known as Kantarodai Archaeological Reserve) is located in Kandarodai village in Chunnakam, Jaffna District and it's history goes back to the Anuradhapura era.

The site was first identified in 1917 by P. E. Pieris, the then-district judge for Jaffna. They are uniquely constructed, each one made of coralline stone, now petrified. Each block has a hold drilled into it in the middle and standing atop the summit of the construction is a single spire. 

Stamps:

The 130th Anniversary of the Birth of Don Richard Wijewardena, 1886-1950 

(Issued 26-02-2016) 

Royal Botanical Gardens 

(Issued 12-09-2022)

SRI LANKA ~ Vedda people ~

... Nice views of  the last indigenous tribe still in existence on the island... they inhabited the forests of Sri Lanka long before the Buddhists arrived... the "Vedda Forest People" are unfortunately slowly becoming extinct... after living in the jungles for more than 12,000 years most are now assimilated into normal life... a few remain in their jungle homes near national parks and reserves where Veddas show tourists their way of life... the Vedda people are hunter-gathers and forest-dwelling people... they are also known for their collection of bee honey; they climb trees to gather honey, warding off bees with burning leaves... Thanks a lot Ravindra!【ツ】

Photo: Anverdeen
They are said to exist since the 6th century BC. However, studies have shown that they have strong biological resemblances with prehistoric inhabitants from the Stone Age, making them be possibly one of the oldest tribes of our time. 

Today, the Vedda live scattered in tiny settlements in the Hunnasgiriya hills in central Sri Lanka up to the coastal lowlands in the island's east.

Vedda is a Dravidian word meaning “hunter,” and has traditionally implied “uncivilized”. 

Stamps:

Deepavali 

(Issued 10-11-2015)

4X World Wetlands Day 

(Issued 03-02-2020)

SRI LANKA ~ Bronze Sculptures ~

...A blog post with two lovely bronze sculptures... Thanks Ravindra! (✿◠‿◠)... the stamp you asked for have been ordered!😊

Parvati, consort of Shiva

Even as a young girl Parvati was in love with Lord Shiva. As she grew older, Parvati blossomed into a stunning woman filled with grace and beauty. While she captured the hearts of many kings and princes, she only had eyes for Shiva.

Shiva and Parvati were married in great pomp and celebration. Ever since then, Parvati and Shiva lived together in conjugal harmony, known to all as the perfect couple.

National Museum Colombo
 

Stamps: 

Christmas

(Issued 01-12-2013)

Insects - Endemic Butterflies

(Issued 01-12-2022)

World Children's Day

(Issued 02-10-2020)

Hindu god Shiva Chandrashekar (Shiva crested with the moon)

Shiva is one of the three major deities of the Hindu religion.

Archaeological evidence supports the worship of Shiva in parts of Sri Lanka since prehistoric times, before the arrival of the legendary Prince Vijaya.

Stamps:

3X Insects - Endemic Butterflies

(Issued 01-12-2022)

SRI LANKA ~ Galmaduwa temple - Kandy ~

... Nice view of the only Hindu temple-style Buddhist temple... an impressive building of strange architecture... a pavilion built of stone and brick... but a high gopuram gives it a Hindu identity... it is said that while this building was being completed the king heard of the discovery of a cave at Degaldoruwa and stopped the work on Galmaduwa shifting his attention to Degaldoruwa... sadly, in its unfinished state, this building was never used as a temple... but still  a very peaceful place without much crowd and frequently visited by local devotees and buddhists... Thanks a lot Ravindra! ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

This temple is build by King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe 1742 to 1782 (last king in kandy). A restoration took place in 1967 where an image house was added to the temple and an ambulatory was added later. 

It is situated in the middle of the kalapura village which popular for brasswares. 

Stamps:
 

3X Vesak Festival 

(Issued 25-11-2022)

SRI LANKA ~ Hindagala Cave Temple - Kandy ~

.... Lovely view of an ancient Budhist temple located in the shadow of a mighty rock boulder... the temple seems to be located in a cave underneath it and a tiled roof was built over it... Hindagala temple is very important place in Sri Lankan history since the temple is related to many of ancient legends... the temple was inhabited by Buddhist monks for centuries... later with the addition of Buddha statues an Hindad paintings, it had become a leading Image house in the area... the viharaya is famous for its legendary wall paintings... Thanks a lot Ravindra! ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Hindagala Raja Maha Viharaya has a history dating back to pre-Christian era, probably to 3rd century B.C. when Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka. The verandah with timber pillars, the roof and some paintings were done during the Kandyan era (14th century A.D.).

The two rock inscriptions at the site are datable to the 7th century A.D. The older inscription is datable to the 6th century A.D. 

Stamps:

National Environment Pioneer Program

(Issued 20-10-2022)

National Festival of the Prophet 

(Issued 14-12-2022)

The 125th Anniversary of the Christ Church Girl’s Collage - Baddegama 

(Issued 05-07-2013)

SRI LANKA ~ Manthiri Manai Mansion - Jaffna ~

... Nice view an old ruined mansion... a building with a a mixture of colonial and hindu architecture... considered to be one of the few monuments that remain to testify to the importance of the Jaffna kingdom during the Dutch colonial period... currently this structure has been taken over by the department of archeology with the intention of renovating and restoring this building... Thanks Ravindra!【ツ】 

Jaffna  is the capital city of the Northern Province of Sri Lanka and is known for its predominant Tamil population and recognized as the cultural capital for Tamilians in Sri Lanka.

Jaffna has a unique and complex identity influenced by a multiplicity of traditions. It is an expression of the Portuguese, Dutch and British histories in the country with the Tamil, Sinhala and Muslim identities with gopurams rising to the skies next to quaint churches along streets that flaunt the splendour of Dutch and British residences.

Stamp:
 

Christmas

(Issued 01-12-2021)

SRI LANKA ~ Dhowa Rock Temple - Bandarawela ~

.. Beautiful interior Cave Temple view... an ancient Buddhist Temple built under a rock... in the second chamber is a row of 28 small seated Buddha statues along with colorfully paintings... the rock canopy is also decorated with various motifs...  located at the bottom of a hill and close to a picturesque stream, it is one of the major attractions in the Bandarawela area... the Dhowa temple has become famously known to be one of the places the King Walagamba was in hiding while he prepared for fights/war against enemies until his time came to rule Sri Lanka... Thanks a lot Ravindra!ヽ(ヅ)ノ So nice to hear from you!😊

Dhowa rock Temple is one of the heritage sites in Sri Lanka, situated in Dhowa,a small, ancient village in the central mountain of Uva province. It is believed the temple bears a history dating back to about 2000 years, which means its history extends "Before Christ". 

Stamps:

Solar System 

(Issued 05-12-2014)

Endemic Birds of Sri Lanka 

(Issued 09-10-2021)

SRI LANKA ~ Botanical Gardens Hakgala ~

... Nice view of the Cactus house🌵 that exhibit over 800 species including Agaves, Opuntia, Kalachoe, Cereus, Rebutia, Rhipsalis...  Hakgala Botanical Garden is one of the five botanical gardens in Sri Lanka... the garden is at an altitude of around 1700 metres, and features a lot of temperate plants and trees... a network of small creeks, complete with wooden bridges, is seen throughout the garden, creating a magical atmosphere... Thanks a lot Ravindra!【ツ】So nice to hear from you😊...  Wishing you also a happy and healthy 2022!🎇🤩🎆.

Photo: A. Felix J. Perera
Hakgala Botanical Gardens is located within the Hakgala Strict Natural Reserve.

The Gardens (27ha) were established in 1860 as an experimental Cinchona plantation from which the anti-malarial drug quinine is derived. Subsequently the gardens were used for experiments in acclimatizing temperate-zone plants to life in tropics.

Stamps:

Endemic Birds of Sri Lanka 

(Issued 09-10-2021)

The 50th Anniversary of the APPU - Asian-Pacific Postal Union 

(Issued 01-04-2012)

Paintings - Vesak 

(Issued 09-05-2008)

SRI LANKA ~ Ruwanweli Stupa - Anuradhapura - UNESCO

... Great view of a painted gleaming white stupa against a blue sky... the most adored, most venerated among the great ancient stupas (dagobas) of Sri Lanka... considered a marvel for its architectural qualities and sacred to many Buddhists all over the world... the stupa was covered by jungle until the 19thC and after fund raising efforts it was renovated in the early 20thC... within the dome in a closed chamber are enshrined sacred relics of Buddha, valuable gems, statues made of gold and various valuable objects...Thanks a lot dear Ravindra! (✿◠‿◠) So nice to hear from you again and that all is well!😊  

Ruwanweli maha Seya (meaning Golden Sand Stupa in Sinhalese) was built by sri lankan King Dutugamu in 140 B.C. in Anuradhapura, the fist capital of Sri Lanka.

The original stupa has been about 55 meters in height and had been expanded and renovated by many kings thereafter. The stupa is 103 metres in height and with an circumference of 290 m.

 

Stamps:

Deshabandu Alec Robertson 

(Issued 30-10-2013)

2X Wild Species Threatened by Trade 

(Issued 03-03-2020)

SRI LANKA ~ Mount Lavina Hotel - Colombo ~

... A great postcard coming from my tropical paradise🌞... the "Pearl in the Indian Ocean"... a perfect "dream" place for a holiday... this colonial building is located in an amazing setting with spectacular views of the turquoise Indian Ocean and the Coast Line train that runs along it...  also offering a stunning panorama of the Colombo skyline... with a history spanning over 210 years, Mount Lavinia Hotel Colombo is one of the oldest and most famous hotels in Sri Lanka...Thanks a lot dear Ravindra... so nice to hear from you again! (✿ ♥‿♥) 

 The Mount Lavinia Hotel, in Mount Lavinia  is a 275-room hotel, situated at 100 Hotel Road in Mount Lavinia.

It has been continuously operating as a hotel since 1947, but was initially constructed as the Governor's residence in 1806 for Thomas Maitland, a gallant military General, Governor Sir Thomas Maitland, lovingly called as King Tom arrived in the shores of Mount Lavinia in 1806 and established a haven for himself in the then ‘Galkissa’.

Stamps:

The 50th Anniversary of the APPU

(Issued 01-04-2012)

2X Wild Species Threatened by Trade in Sri Lanka 

(Issued 03-03-2020)

SRI LANKA ~ Map ~

... Detailed tourist map of Sri Lanka showing places of which I received so many amazing postcards over the years❤️... a guide to explore this beautiful "teardrop" shaped island surrounded by the Indian Ocean... nicknamed "Pearl of the Indian Ocean" due to its incredible natural beauty, extraordinary biodiversity as well as its precious gemstones.... the perfect place for visiting ancient ruins, hiking in the lush green mountains, the Ella train journey, trek through tea plantations, see beautiful beaches, spotting wildlife in the National Parks and so many more... Postmarked 01-01-2020👍Thanks a lot dear Ravindra!  ❁◕ ‿ ◕❁

Sri Lanka is located southeast of India in the Indian Ocean.

The island has a maximum length of 432 km and a maximum width of 224 km and covers an area of 25,332 mi². The capital city is Colombo.

Sri Lanka used to be called Ceylon and gained their independence from the British in 1948 when it was named the Dominion of Ceylon and then became the Republic of Sri Lanka in 1972.

Stamp:

Wasgamuwa National Park - Fauna
(Issued 05-10-2019)

SRI LANKA ~ Lotus Tower - Colombo ~

.... Great view of the newest tower on the island inspired by the lotus flower🌺...  a beautifully vibrant and iconic addition to the skyline of Colombo, towering at an imposing height of 356m... the tallest building in South Asia... the Tower symbolizes the purity of the Sri Lankan culture and also represents the country’s flourishing development... the petals play a big role in giving the finishing look... the framework of these petals is made of steel while the actual petals are of glass... the tower’s color will alternate between pink and light yellow... in addition to functioning as a TV Tower, the Lotus Tower also comprises of a hotel, a conference center, and a shopping mall... the public are now be able to enjoy panoramic views of the island on an outdoor observation deck situated on the 7th floor from a height of 250m... it  became a tourist highlight in no-time... with lovely matching stamp!👍 Thanks a lot Ravindra!!【ツ】

Lotus Tower, also referred to as Colombo Lotus Tower consists of 8 floors and is located on the waterfront of the Beira Lake.

The base of the tower covers an area of 30,600 square meters, including four gates to enter the tower.

The Lotus Tower was declared open and vested with the public on the 16th of September 2019.

Like most other recent mega-projects in Sri Lanka, it is being financed by China.





Photo Credit: Team Philatelic

Stamp:

Lotus Flower
(Issued 16-09-2019)

SRI LANKA ~ Lighthouses ~

... Nice "oversized" postcard showing lighthouse stamps issued by Sri Lankan Post in 1996...  most of the lighthouses in Sri Lanka were built during the British rule of the island... they are unique and represent a high architectural and historical value... at present, only about half of the thirty standing lighthouses are currently reported as operating... though some standing lighthouses are unmanned and inactive, they are a reassuring sign for passing mariners... with also a great lighthouse stamp! Thanks a lot Ravindra!(✿ ♥‿♥)

Shown on postcard:

1. Little Basses Lighthouse
2. Great Basses Lighthouse
3. Devinuwara (Dondra) Lighthouse
4. Galle Lighthouse

A lighthouse over the years helped many countries for trade and transportation.

Putting up lighthouses was often difficult. They were built on exposed areas with no nearby roads, so Wood and other materials had to be delivered by boat, sometimes on dangerous seas.

The lighthouses were important landmarks that have kept sailors and ships safe.

Stamp:

Lighthouse - Galboka Point
(Issued 26-11-2018)

SRI LANKA ~ Kandy Perahera Festival ~

... Beautiful decorated elephants....during the event, they’re presented as being “sacred animals” because they are transporting the sacred Tooth... Kandy Perahera, one of Asia's highly traditional and most spectacular parades, takes place in the Buddhist month of Esala, usually in August... with also  hundreds of dances performing traditional dancing, drummers carrying various types of drums, fire and people in traditional Kandyan dresses... considered one of the main tourist attractions and watched by about 500.000 people... I know it is tradition but I think the elephants don't feel so happy here... dressed up and with all that noise... Thanks a lot Ravindra!!【ツ】

The Kandy Esala Perahera festival also known as The Festival of the Tooth is one of the oldest Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka. It began as a procession that took place in the 4th century, when a relic – a tooth that was believed to belong to the Buddha – arrived on the island from India. The festival has taken place every August since 1754.

During the procession, up to 200 elephants wearing beautiful costumes take turns carrying the relic.

Stamp:

Visit of Gudrun Yngvardottir - Lions Clubs International President
(Issued 03-12-2018)

SRI LANKA ~ Map ~

... Lovely illustrated map card showing many highlights of the island..."the spice island" for its flavors... also known as the "Pearl in the Indian Ocean" and not just because of its teardrop-like shape... surrounded by the Indian Ocean Sri Lanka is one of the most beautiful tropical islands in South Asia... because of its unique location there are so many things to do and see... visiting ancient ruins, hiking in the lush green mountains, the Ella train journey, trek through tea plantations, see beautiful beaches, spotting wildlife in the National Parks... of all of the places shown here I have received many wonderful postcards over the years from my dear postcard friend Ravindra💙! Thanks! ❁◕ ‿ ◕❁

Sri Lanka is located in the Indian Ocean southwest of the Bay of Bengal and  separated from the mainland portion of the Indian subcontinent by the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Strait.

The island  has a maximum length of 432 km and a maximum width of 224 km.

The legislative capital, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, is a suburb of the commercial capital and largest city, Colombo.

For administrative purposes, the country has been divided into nine provinces and subdivided into 25 districts.

 It is known until 1972 as Ceylon.

Stamps:

The 100th Anniversary of Volleyball
(Issued 07-12-2016)

2X Vesak Festival
(Issued 07-05-2019)