As many as 6,500 registered Ayurveda practitioners, many of whom have undergone a seven-year course followed by two years in a conventional hospital, are now catering to the needs of an increasing numbers of tourists to Sri Lanka. In addition to the Ayurveda clinics, many luxurious hotels and beach resorts have a spa or massage centre. The principles and techniques of this ancient medical approach are still being used to promote a sense of relaxation and rejuvenation, as part of a pleasurable holiday.

“Life”, the exhibition of the well-known Sri Lankan painter Mr. S.H. Sarath was declared open by Mr. Pierre Le Loarer, the Chief Librarian and President of the Cultural Activities Committee of the United Nations in Geneva and Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka, the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations and other International Organizations in Geneva on Tuesday, 22^nd July 2008, at 6.30 P.M. at the United Nations premises in Geneva.

The Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka will hold an exhibition of paintings by the renowned Sri Lankan artist, Mr. S.H. Sarath, from 22^nd July to 05^th August 2008 at the United Nations premises in Geneva.

Lazy summer days at the beach getting a tan are passé as Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Board (SLTPB) is marketing the country as an adventure destination with adventure seekers being identified as a potential growth market.

 “Adventurous holidays are a rapidly growing trend in global tourism and an increasing number of travellers are seeking out new adventures like Sri Lanka having done the usual African Safaris,” said SLTPB Managing Director, Dileep Mudadeniya.

Minister of Environment and Natural Resources, Patali Champika Ranawaka said that initial studies indicate that there has been an increase in the elephant population in Sri Lanka over the last decade and announced that a new census of elephants will be carried out in August this year.

The Esala Festival of the Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Devalaya which began with the kap planting ceremony on May 20 will conclude on July 19 with the water cutting ceremony at the Menik Ganga, said an official from the Kataragama Devale.

Hikkaduwa Beach Fest ‘08

A fun-filled fiesta for kids, adults, and grandparents!

The world famous southern coastal town of Hikkaduwa, is all agog with preparations, to hold ‘Hikkaduwa Beach Fest’ 08’ an initiative of Sri Lanka Tourism. The sun-kissed beaches of Hikkaduwa will vibrate to the pulsating rhythms of DJs, dancers, and musicians from July 30 - August 3. The event will cater to both local and foreign visitors as well as to persons of all age groups – a family outing – a break from the monotony.

The world famous southern coastal town of Hikkaduwa, is all agog with preparations, to hold ‘Hikkaduwa Beach Fest’ 08’ an initiative of Sri Lanka Tourism (SLT). The beaches of Hikkaduwa will vibrate to the pulsating rhythms of DJs, dancers, and musicians from July 30 - August 3. The event will cater to both local and foreign visitors as well as to persons of all age groups – a family outing – a break from the monotony, SLT said.