Gampaha District is one of the 25 districts of Sri Lanka, the second level administrative division of the country. It is the second most populous district of Sri Lanka after Colombo District. The district is administered by a District Secretariat headed by a District Secretary (previously known as a Government Agent) appointed by the central government of Sri Lanka. The capital of the district is the town of Gampaha. Negombo however is the largest city and the commercial hub of Gampaha district. The district was carved out of the northern part of Colombo District in September 1978.
NEGOMBO
The town of Negombo is a heritage to a rich colonial past. The town culture, traditions and architecture is influenced by the Catholic Church and the evidence lies among the numerous Churches in Negombo. It is even referred to as ‘Little Rome’. During the Dutch dominance, Negombo was a source for Cinnamon.
The golden sand of Negombo is a favorite among the tourists due to its close proximity from the Bandaranaike International Airport of Sri Lanka. One could retire to the beaches to calm the nerves after long flights or grab a peace of mind prior to bidding farewell to the tropical island. The sound of waves and the sea breeze passing across your skin is the ultimate therapy to stress. Depending on one’s wallet, a variety of sea facing hotels which are a hop, step and a jump away from the beach are available to choose from. The Negombo beach is uniquely identifiable for its lengthy sandy beach and is referred to s the ‘Golden Mile.
Towards the south of the beach one could be rejuvenated with fresh fish and sea life from the lively fish market or hop a ride to explore the Negombo Sea on a colorful boat. The north of Negombo comprises of fishing villages and beach resorts. The surroundings area of the beach also has numerous beachside restaurants, shops and bars to increase the entertainment of the visitors and tantalize your taste buds with scrumptious sea food.
Activities : Water Sports, Diving, Snorkeling, Beach Games, Leisurely Stroll, Flying Kites, Photography, Sightseeing
WARANA RAJA MAHA VIHARAYA
King Devanampiyatissa had established this temple in the 2nd 3rd Century BC. The Warana caves were a secret hide of the famous King Valagamba. Upon winning the battles the king had placed Buddha statues in the caves and dedicated the caves to the monks to reside. The ancient scrolls excavated by archaeologist Senarath Paranavithana are available in this viharaya.
Touring the Warana temple is like removing the layers of history which lies buried in these grounds. The Warana temple is built as three levels. The first level comprises of the Sangawasaya – the residence of the monks, and the Dharma Shalawa – the preaching hall. 40 -50 steps will lead you to the second level of the temple which is adorned with lotus ponds. A historical pagoda is which is about 800 years of age along with beautiful ancient paintings can be seen.
Upon climbing another 150 steps, you can complete the league of your visit to the temple. This third level consists of a pagoda and a cave. The surrounding vicinity which adds to the tranquility and peaceful nature of this place can be viewed from the top.
Activities : Worship, Archaeology, Architecture, Photography, Sightseeing
Sri Lanka Dream Tours organize various tour activities that includes folk dance & music program, local house visits, local market visits, dinner or lunch with a local family of the area and much more like this. These activities are organized as part of your tour program and gives real experience of India to any guest visiting India with us.