Sunday, February 16, 2025 – Photo of the Day – Hambantota, Sri Lanka

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Hambantota, Sri Lanka, off the southern coast of India.

HAMBANTOTA, SRI LANKA
The gateway to Sri Lanka is rich in resources.

Far to the south of Sri Lanka is the city of Hambantota, which has a colorful and storied traditional Ruhuna past and great promise for the future.

This gateway to Sri Lanka is rich in resources. Since being upset by the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami, it has put great emphasis on rebuilding and progressively taking a central role in the development of the southern region of Sri Lanka.

Traditionally an agricultural area, the region is known for having some of the country’s most skilled jewelers and craftspeople. The bazaar or ‘pola’ is a popular marketplace where locals sell produce, goods, and fish.

SIGHTS
• Kataragama
• Mulkirigala Rock Temple
• Yala National Park
• Mahapelessa Hot Springs
• Ussangoda National Park
• Birds Research Centre And Resort
• Mirijjawila Botanic Garden
• Agro Technology Park
• Ramba Viharaya
• Sithulpawwa Buddhist Monastery

SHOPPING

For those interested in shopping, Hambantota offers many options that capture the essence of Sri Lanka. The local market, generally buzzing with activity, is a great place to immerse yourself in the community’s daily life. You can find fresh produce, spices, and traditional Sri Lankan snacks.

Conversely, souvenir shops around the city offer crafted goods that showcase local artistry. From intricately designed textiles to hand-carved wooden artifacts and traditional jewelry, these shops provide an array of items that make meaningful keepsakes or gifts.

Whether you’re looking for something simple or something special, Hambantota’s shopping venues allow you to take home a piece of Sri Lanka’s rich culture.

Today’s Excursion – The Sacred City of Kataragama
We discovered Kataragama’s rich history and fascinating culture in this sacred temple city.
Hambantota, Kataragama
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to Kataragama. Formerly a small village in medieval times, Kataragama is now a fast-developing township in the deep south of Sri Lanka. In a country of many religious beliefs, Kataragama is unique because it is a site of religious importance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Muslims. Upon arrival at
Kataragama, discover the rich, fascinating culture of this revered temple town.

Kiri Vehera Buddhist Temple, Ruins, Stone Inscriptions, Brick Dagobas,
Our first stop is at the Kiri Vehera Temple, built in the 3rd century B.C.-2nd century B.C.
This critical and historic temple has been declared a protected site by the Sri Lanka Archaeological Department and is revered by both Sinhala and Tamil Buddhists. During your visit, see some of these ruins, including stone inscriptions, brick dagobas, balustrades, and guard stones scattered around the temple complex. Afterward, re-board your coach and head to a nearby
Hindu Temple in praise of Skanda, the Hindu God of War.

Hindu Temple, Mosque, Mandara Rosen
With six faces and twelve arms, Skanda is believed to be one of Sri Lanka’s four guardian deities, a most benevolent god, and worshipped at the beginning of a new venture. As a result, it is revered by the Buddhist community. However, since a mosque of significant importance can also be found on the premises, this site is revered by Muslims, too. It has been further hallowed and sanctified by a visit from Lord Buddha during his lifetime and is believed to be the place where he planted one of the saplings
of the Bodhi tree under which he gained enlightenment.

3:30 Destination Lecture with Evelyn Evans – Colombo:

The colonial capital of what was Ceylon from 1815, Colombo has a wealth of historic buildings and monuments mixed with modern, vibrant architecture. Gateway to 8 UNESCO World Heritage sites, there is much to see and excellent food to enjoy.