Thursday, July 31, 2014

Sri Lanka - Wildlife Tour package.

Sri Lanka - Wildlife Tour package.
                                                     (See a peacock dancing in the wild.)
Sri Lanka wildlife tours will offer you to have first hand view of the wild animals in their habitat area. This areas have water facility for the animals to drink and play within it when it is hot in the area. Also this is the place where the leopard like animals used to hunt for their food. You can stay at safe distance to watch the wild animals while going on a tour with us in this areas. We take care of yours and your families safety as our primary task. Our tour packages are very low priced. Send your request and see our price list, then you can decide on it.


What we will provide to you during the tour?

Comfortable transport facility and Jeep transport during the forest tours.
Best accommodation to suit your budget.
Meals: European Dishes and Sri Lanka Dishes. (Except lunch - which you will have to pay)
Lowest price on every thing with 100% satisfaction.
Send your request now to check our deals.

This tour will take you not only to forests and wildlife, it will give you many other interesting viewing and activities during your stay in this beautiful island. This trip is designed to take you to visit wildlife conservation sanctuaries, Turtle Hatchery, tea plantations, beaches and cultural sites that are special to this land. Government statics say that there are 22 national parks, thousands of plant species, 250 varieties of butterflies, 95 mammals, 492 different birds and 207 reptile species make this island as their home. Sri Lanka is with many beautiful botanical gardens, mountains and waterfalls.

We provide Jeep, car, vans, mini coaches and coaches for the transportation.
Jeep safaris for to watch wild elephants, Leopards,  sloth bears, wild boars, deer and many other animals.
We will provide hotel facility next to the border of wildlife sanctuaries, that will provide experience like staying in the jungle.

Here is one of our 14 day wildlife tour package.

We will receive you at the Colombo airport on your arrival.
Day 1: Travel from airport to Yala in the comfort of our vehicle.
Any where you like to stop for viewing, just tell to the driver to stop wherever you like and he will obey.

Day 2: Yala.
Directly head away to Yala. Early morning and sun set times are the best to see elephants, sloth bears and other wild animals. Get your food basket and spend a day in Yala National Park on a jeep safari..

Day 3: Uda Walawe
Visit the Elephant Transit Camp, here orphaned baby elephants are rehabilitated. You can see young elephants here. Then we move in to the wilderness of Uda Walawe National Park to view grown up wild elephants.. Night stop over at Uda Walawe hotel..

Day 4: Sinharaja Rainforest.
We will take you to the reputed Sinharaja rainforest. A room is waiting for you in the jungle area. Stay there and watch the surrounding area that is with full of birds and butterflies. Then move in to it, to view more of the rainforest.


Day 5: Sinharaja Rainforest.
Enjoy the second day of your travel in this popular rainforest of Sri Lanka. .


Day 6: Nuwara Eliya.
We will head to the hill country where cool and natural beauty prevails. All the way you can w atch water falls, small animals and flowers. Later we will take you to tea plantations and factory to see how the tea is produced. Night stay in hotel.



Day 7: Nuwara Eliya
Horton Plains National Par. We will be there to watch many small animals and hike to the World’s End where you can watch thrilling 900 meter drop. Night stay in hotel.

Day 8: Wasgamuwa.
We start towards Wasgamuwa National Park. Scenic view all the way. Can stop at Dambana Vaddah Village to see how these ancient time people's generation still going with hunting and with their natural living.

Day 9: Wasgamuwa
Wasgamuwa National Park. Lets go in to it where you have the chance to see elephants, leopards, water buffalo, crocodiles, deers and sloth bears. A very good day to watch different kinds of birds that belongs to Sri Lanka nature. Night we relax in one of the Wasgamuwa area hotel.

Day 10: Habarana
We stop at Habarana. Then too the Minneriya National Park. The man made giant tank provides water for elephants and other wild animals. After the day we return to the hotel in Habarana.

Day 11:   Anuradhapura.
Tour the ancient city with your private driver.
Night relax in one of the Anuradhapura hotel..

Day 12: Anuradhapura
Enjoy a full day safari of Wilpattu National Park. Night relax in one of the Anuradhapura hotel..

Day 13: Negombo
Reach your  Negombo hotel and relax in the beach while watching your tour videos and images.

Day 14: Airport
We will drop you back at the Colombo airport to reach home. Sure we will see you here for your next holidays.

You have the choice to select from Hotels or Guest houses according to your budget.

How to Book this cheap priced Wildlife Tour?
1. Use the form in the right side of this Blog.
2. Contact Email: chinthaka3624@gmail.com
3. Call: 0094776685331


Bird's Nest hanging on the tree.










  
Read about Sri Lanka Bird watching Tour. Here.

Saturday, July 26, 2014

Rent Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka.

Rent Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka.


 

Rent Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka from Ceylontusker Tours, in Negombo. This is the best option while you you are coming to Sri Lanka for tour the island. We provide everything for you along with the Tuk Tuk rental. Certification and other paper works too will be looked after by us.

Why Ceylontusker Tours to Rent your Tuk Tuk?

1. Affordable rental price.
2. Perfect machines.
3. Friendly people.
4. No complaints from our customers.
Call or write us now to check.

Tour Sri Lanka in TUK TUK.
Sri Lanka Tour in a TUK TUK is the most adventures' one that you can go on to explore the island nation. Ceylontusker tours is with you to plan and assist you during your stay over here. We are one of the most experienced service provider to go on TUK TUK tours. We provide humble experienced driver.  Or can make it self-drive tour with your friends and partners.
Nearly one hundred tourists take on 2 - 3days ride or 2 - 3 weeks of duration. 

Tuk Tuk is the popular name which foreigners used to call the Sri Lanka three wheel transport mode. Here it is popularly known as auto and pronounced by people as "Aato". Three numbers of passengers can travel in comfort in this vehicle where the driver will stay in the front section. And it is illegal to carry 4 or more grown up passengers in it excluding the TUK TUK driver. This is very compact and it can easily navigate through the heavy traffic in large towns. If it is rain out side, then you can drop down the side covers which will save you from getting wet. Very bright front lights are available for night riding.

Our Sri Lanka Tour by TUK-TUK offer for you.
Need Tuk Tuk with driver or you want to self drive it?
If you want the TUK TUK with a driver you can start your tour right away from the Colombo Airport on your arrival.
If you want to self-drive it we will assist you with the necessary paper works and with the necessary training for you to drive over here.

So make advance booking for your three wheel with us before your arrival here.
Once you are here, give us a call we will come to your hotel with a well maintained one for you to ride away.

When you arrive in Sri Lanka for your vacation, we will pick you at the Airport. And will take to our place for further processing.


Rent or Hire a Tuk Tuk and tour around Colombo or Sri Lanka.
Delivery point: Normally Negombo area.
Want it in any other city in Sri Lanka, it can be arranged. (Small delivery charge will apply)

TUK TUK on Hire Availability: On Daily or Weekly rental basis.
Mileage: Unlimited.(Pump petrol at the nearest filling station and run.)
Driver: Private Driver/Guide (Driver need service pay, accommodation and Sri Lanka meals).
Engine Starting: Self start with battery/ Manual standard
Transmission: Manual (Hand Lever)
Reverse Gear: Available.
Seat Belts: Not available and not necessary to wear.
A/C: Not available, but you will get blowing air from outside, when driving a Tuk Tuk.
Lights: 2 Head Lights, left and right Yellow signal lights, rear red lights, Brake lights and parking lights..
Passengers: Driver and Three passengers.
Luggage Space: You can have small bags on the passengers lap, under the legs and behind the passenger seat. Limited Space. You can keep your locked luggage in our office.
Popular Brands are Indian manufactured Bajaj and TVS.

Advantages of three-wheel tour.
You can stop at any place, you like for photographing, for a break, to have local food, to drink popular coconut drink on the road side, stop in villages to chat with local people and to visit tourist attractions as per your wish.





Our Service Will Include:
We will assist you to get a temporary local driving license.
Provide you with Insurance and vehicle registration certificate.
Guaranteed no smoke will come from the tail end.


If you are 4 numbers of tourists then this is a good idea to make your own trip as per your wish, where of you will be the driver.

Cheap Transport For Wind Surfers And Body Surfers.
This is good for low budget Backpackers, board surfers and wind surfers.
Tuk Tuk is suitable for backpackers and the tourists going on surfing in Arugam Bay, Eastern province and Hikkaduwa Southern province.
Get three other surfers and share the travel expenses by hiring a Tuk Tuk from us.

How to Rent Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka?

1. Use the form in the right side of this Blog.
2. Contact Email: chinthaka3624@gmail.com
3. Call: 0094776685331

Once you book a Tuk Tuk with us, we will provide all the important things regarding the vehicle.


 Sri Lanka Accommodation.

We will assist you to book good hotel rooms or good rooms in Guest houses. These are best for twin sharing.



Joyful couple ready to go on Tuk Tuk Tour in Sri Lanka.



Dayan Chinthaka providing assistance for the tourists who wants to go on Tuk Tuk tour around Sri Lanka.








https://www.srilankatuktukrental.com

Good reading.
How many people can travel in a tuk-tuk? 
Sri Lanka Prime Minister Launch Tourist Friendly Tuk Tuk Service.
UK Foreign Travel Advice to Sri Lanka.

Thursday, July 17, 2014

Motorcycle Tour Sri Lanka.

Motorcycle Tours, Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka offers different kinds of attractions and activities when you go on a motorbike tour. Lot of tourists  enjoy their travel with these tours in group that may last 3 - 14 days. Not only riding is provided in this trip, you can enjoy beaches (and water sport activities), rivers, waterfalls, ancient cities, cultural triangles, wild life and many more activities you may like to have that are available on your travel route.

Sri Lanka motorbike tour offers. 
13 Nights / 14 Days. (Minimum 4 Riding members required, twin share rooms.)
Three Star hotel Accommodation. US$ 3,000/ Person.
Guest House Accommodation.      US$1,500/- Person.



Why our Motorcycle Tour is the best?Once you book your tour with us,
We will welcome you at the airport on your arrival.
We will provide English speaking Guide on motorbike, Mechanic and a Backup vehicle throughout the tour.
We will arrange to take care of all the paper works to ride on the public roads.
We will take you back to the airport once you are ready to catch your flight after the Motorcycle tour..

Is it better to come alone or as a group for the motorbike tour?
If you are coming alone the cost may be little higher.
You can ask us to put in a group.
If you are coming with a group of 4 people or more, you can have fun between you, the cost will be less as it is shared between you.

Two options available with our motorbikes.
1. Join one of our Motorcycle tour and enjoy your travel around Sri Lanka.
2. Rent a motorcycle and self-ride it to make your own tour.


Some of the mountain bikes that are available for tour and rental.



For the tour we provide Honda Baja 250 CC motorbikes for each of the riders. One back up vehicle will travel with the group with one motorcycle mechanic and a tour guide who can speak English. All the way when ever stopping for night stay we select 3 star hotels for our riders. Any how in some places these 3 star hotels may not be available so in that case we will provide good guest house for the night rest.

We stop by places that serves perfect European food for our riding guests. In remote areas it is difficult to find European dishes. In those places we prefer to serve from restaurants that provide nice Sri Lanka rice and curry dishes that you will like as they won't contain any chili related hot products. But it may have lot of aromatic local spices that are special for to add flavor, taste and smell of the dishes.



Ready to ride, get your Sri Lanka visa, take your local motorbike license and fly to Colombo airport.

Arriving at the Colombo Airport.
When you are coming for the Sri Lanka motorcycle tour, on your arrival we will be there to receive you at the Colombo airport.
We will provide one SIM card (normal SIM or Nano Sim) for your phone. You will get a local number, Rs 700 calling and 500Mb data plan. Incoming calls and incoming SMS text messages are free. Publish phone number in your social media pages, so your friends can call you and you won't be charged for it.
Your account is pre-paid one and can be refilled with your own money in any part of Sri Lanka.

We will transport you in an air conditioned vehicle from the airport to a Three Star hotel in Negombo for you to get rest.If you are on a budget package we will provide a clean Guest House to rest.
Next day, we will take you to obtain a temporary motorcycle driving license and from there we will start the tour.
Once the tour is over, we will take you back to the airport to catch your flight back home or to your next destination.

    Riding by the sea.



What kind of paths and terrains can be selected for riding in Sri Lanka?

8 Nights / 9 Days Motorcycle Tour in Sri Lanka.
Tour Price: US 787 / Person (if you are coming in 6 rider group).
Minimum Required 4 Riders. Maximum 12 Riders.
Twin share room in Guest houses.
Itinerary.

Negombo (We start from here in the morning)
Kandy
Knuckles Range
Nuwera Eliya
Hortan Plains
Yala (Wild life sanctuary)
Mirissa Beach
Bopath Ella (water fall)
Negombo.

What activities available during this tour?
Off-road experience (If like)
Rubber plantations
Pineapple plantations
Hairpin bends
Mountain trails
Tea trails.
Elephant Ride,
Safari Jeep Drive
Spice Garden Visit.
Cultural Show
Gem Stone museum
Batik art works.
Wood Carving
Trekking
Whale watching (Optional)
Scuba Diving (Optional)

Don't have enough time?
Then why don't you try this 01 day bike tour?
01 Day Motorbike Tour.
Negombo to Kitulgala (95 Km) and go on  whitewater rafting.

Here is the Tour Itinerary.
Morning 6.30 Pick up form your Hotel.
Total distance. 240KM
Duration 11 hours.

Drive through
Rubber plantations
Pineapple plantations
Hairpin bends
Mountain trails and
Tea trails.

Reching Kitulgala.
Get a bath in the river.
If like can go on white water rafting (Charges will apply)

Return Journey.
Visit to nearby restaurant for lunch.
Off-road experience nearly 40 km - suitable for normal riders.
Kuruvita town
Gem Stone area in Ratnapura
If like visit Gem mining pit.
Come back to Negombo or airport.

What is included.
Motorbike 250 CC + Fuel Only one person.
Helmet
Riding clothes
Lunch
Mineral water
Refreshment

What is not included
Air ticket
White water rafting charge
Pillion Rider.

Contact: Mr. Dayan Chinthaka
Email:
chinthaka3624@gmail.com
Mobile:
0094776685331
Send us your Motorbike Stories to publish in this blog.



Motorbike tour videos.





Friday, July 11, 2014

Gem Stone Tour.

Gem Stone Tour by Ceylontusker Tours.


Gem Stone tour of Sri Lanka, not only allow you to learn about the Gem stones that are taken from the earth and rivers but also allow you to watch how they are polished and cut in to shining pieces. In one way you can say this as an educational tour where you will have the chance to view about the polished and cut gem stones, how the raw stones looks along with the chance to view the mining and the cutting process. Lot of past participants had expressed their satisfaction about this tour to us and are ready to recommend it to you..

These gem tours mostly attract Chinese mainland tourists, American and Japanese tourist along with European participants whom used to take part in this tour due to its value and awareness. This gem stone tour will provide good knowledge about the Sri Lanka gem stones to the participants which will be a valuable one when they happens to deal with valuable gem stones in their countries.

For more information on this Gem stone Tour
1. Use the form in the right side of this Blog.
2. Contact Email: chinthaka3624@gmail.com
3. Call: 0094776685331



                   9 Gem stone set called as Navaratna.



About the Tour.
This tour will cover every aspects involved in the gem industry from Gem mining  to Gem Stone trading that used to take place in Sri Lanka. Nowhere you can find such a special tour like this one that we provide you here.

We will pick you from the airport to the hotel.
We will make arrangements for you to stay in 3 star class hotel.
Hotels will serve Breakfast. European meals will be available in hotels while in gem villages, we will find suitable eatery that serves hygienic Sri Lanka meals.
Transportation will be provided by A/C Car or A/C Van depending the number of group people.
English speaking driver/guide will accompany you.
We will take you to meet Gem experts and reputed Gem dealers.
(It is not necessary to buy any Gems from them.
If you are interested in buying a Gem stone for you, then we will take you to an astrologer, who will suggest you the lucky stone that you must wear. We in Sri Lanka believe these Gem stones will bring prosperity and wealth, if it is selected and worn as ornament according to the person's Astrological predictions.)
After the tour you can continue to explore Sri Lanka or we will take you back to airport.

To whom this Sri Lanka Gem Tours is good for?
This is good for people who are interested in adventure like tours and want to know about gem stones.
But special for those gem merchants, Jewelers, gem collectors and wealthy people who may like to stock gems for future sale.

What this tour includes?
Visiting the Gem Pits in the villages.
Visiting place where river dredging take place to find gem stones.,
Watch how they find out stones from the field and rivers.
Visit to the lapidary to view how they cut and polish Gem stones.
Gem varieties and identification information on the stones that are available here..
Gem buying guide.(Grading, weighing, clarity, luster and many more according to gem experts.)
Gem Stone certification.( How the laboratories offer Gem certificates.)
How to export them to your country. (If you had bought any gem stones here that can be exported through Courier passing through Sri Lanka customs and Gem Corporation with insurance coverage.)
Visit one of the popular Gem museum where you can find rarest stones with different cuts and sizes. .

Interested? Contact Mr.Dayan Chinthaka through email chinthaka3624@gmail.com

Typical gem stone mining pit.
Most of the gem pits are located in the Ratnapura area and in rivers.
If you like you can go deep in to the pits to watch the live action over there. Here gem mining is carried out as God's gift. So before to start the project auspicious time will be taken from the Astrologer to commence the work. Then a Pooja ceremony will be carried out at the site to start with the project. Skilled labors and material will be brought for to dig the pit and to make it safe for human beings to work in side of it. Gem mining expert will be brought in to search the "illam" for valuable raw stones. Their expert eyes will look for them through the muddy water and gravel.








Gem Stone Cutting and Polishing in Lapidary



Sri Lanka is famous for these types of Gem stones.
Blue Sapphire,
White Sapphire,
Star Sapphire,
Yellow Sapphire,
Pink Sapphire,
Orange Sapphire,
Padmaraga Sapphire,
Star Ruby,
Alexandrite Cat's eye,
Chrysoberyl Cat's eye,
Alexandrite,
Chrysoberyl,
Ruby,
Amethyst,
Aquamarine,
Beryl,
Rhodolite Garnet,
Spinel,
Pyrope Garnet,
Citrene,
Topaz,
Hessonite Garnet,
Zircon,
Moonstone,
Almandine Garnet,
Spessartite Garnet,
Tourmaline.

Some of the expensive Gem Stones from Sri Lanka.








Gem Certificate.There are many foreign laboratories and local ones provide certificates for original gem stones to calculate their value and originality. Also they can found out if the stones are heat treated. If the stones are heat treated ones, they are not respected in the market. A reasonable fee will be charged for the certification service.




Take note, you can't export or take with you raw uncut stones from Sri Lanka.

Buying expensive stones in Sri Lanka.

Buy them only from reputed persons or companies only, as there are many fake stones, synthetic and imitation ones are in the market . Never buy from the road side vendors or unknown people.
Some time they may be only a shining glass piece, heat treated stones or stolen stuff. Buy them from genuine gem dealers and then get certificate for it from a gem laboratory for it.If you think that you are cheated by someone, don't hesitate to get the help of the Sri Lanka police.

If you are really interested in genuine gem stones, contact Mr.Chinthaka through his email chinthaka3624@gmail.com He will assist you in polished gem stone buying process.

Find here one good article about the Sri Lanka Gem Stone, that was published in Sri Lanka Newspaper.

Gemstones for healing and balance

Your mind and body receive nourishment and energy from food which grows on the outer (first) layer of the earth. The minerals that infuse the vegetables and grains with nourishment lie in a lower (second) layer of the earth. The third layer, deep under the earth's surface, contains concentrations of harmonizing ions. With intense pressure and high temperatures, dynamic energies are instilled within the gemstones that are dug from mines around the world. These gemstones, or rather Vedic astrological gemstones recharge your body, improve your mind, attract more respect and affection enabling you to accomplish tasks with relative ease.

Gemstones for healing and balance

By Milinda Edirisinghe (Consultant Gemologist)

Your mind and body receive nourishment and energy from food which grows on the outer (first) layer of the earth. The minerals that infuse the vegetables and grains with nourishment lie in a lower (second) layer of the earth. The third layer, deep under the earth's surface, contains concentrations of harmonizing ions. With intense pressure and high temperatures, dynamic energies are instilled within the gemstones that are dug from mines around the world. These gemstones, or rather Vedic astrological gemstones recharge your body, improve your mind, attract more respect and affection enabling you to accomplish tasks with relative ease.


Gemstones have a special significance in Vedic astrology. Gemstones are used from age to age to overcome negative influences caused by the planets. In the past only kings and people of high social status used to wear gemstones recommended by the astrologers and enjoyed their benefits. Currently anyone can wear and obtain the benefits from the gemstones. Wearing gemstones to overcome the negative influences from the planets is a rapidly growing practice. The people who wear such gems are benefiting in every aspect of life including business, education and health. Gems are very important in Vedic astrology. According to my experience only natural gemstones can give the benefits and according to Vedic astrology the nine planets represent, the nine special gemstones. Padmaraga represents the Sun, pearl the Moon, ruby or red coral-Mars, emerald-Mercury, yellow sapphire-Jupiter, diamond-Venus, blue sapphire-Saturn, hessonite-Rahu and cat's eye-Ketu. It's necessary to know the gemstone you are going wear to understand its good or bad effects according to your horoscope; if not it will bring more harm than benefit. So it is crucial that you consult an experienced astrologer before starting to wear them.
By wearing the prescribed gemstones under proper supervision, you can benefit from the natural healing qualities of the gemstones.


The ancient scriptures mention the relationship between colours, planets, and gemstones. The correlation is perfectly evident in the sacred colour stratification, ROYGBIV (Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, Violet. The cosmic rays that manifest themselves in various wavelengths (colours) have unique affects on the health of our mind and body. The purest of the ROYGBIV rays resides concentrated in precious gems, and so, the gems are of great curative value.
How can a wrong gemstone be harmful?


Did you know that the jewellery you or your family members are wearing right now can be harmful? If the gemstones are genuine, then wearing the wrong gemstone could create problems in your life. When you are wearing gemstones, why not wear the gemstones that enhance your life. If a particular gemstone were to be beneficial to one person, it could be harmful to another. It is similar to one spoon of sugar that can boost an average person's energy level can be life threatening to a person with diabetes. Therefore, if you wear the wrong gemstones prescribed by an unqualified person, it can be harmful and the wearer, would be unaware that the wrong gemstone is hurting him. You may blame your boss, your spouse or your luck, but the problem could be on your finger.
How can you choose the correct gemstone?

I find the Vedic astrological correspondences to gems to be more effective in treating energy deficiencies in a person. Vedic astrology uses gemstones as medicinal therapy in various forms. I have found personally, and also through the feedback from many others that irradiated and colour treated gems have substantially less effect on the body than high quality natural untreated gems have. I have found that man-made artificial gems have virtually no power or healing abilities.
Inspect the gem's colour, cut, RI Reading, cracks or inclusions, transparency, symmetry, and check if the stone you are considering purchasing has been enhanced with oils or resins, and if it has been, get details about the treatment from a gemologist and not from an astrologer.


I find the Vedic astrological correspondences to gems to be more effective in treating energy deficiencies in a person. Vedic astrology uses gemstones as medicinal therapy in various forms. I have found personally, and also through the feedback from many others that irradiated and colour treated gems have substantially less effect on the body than high quality natural untreated gems have. I have found that man-made artificial gems have virtually no power or healing abilities.
Inspect the gem's colour, cut, RI Reading, cracks or inclusions, transparency, symmetry, and check if the stone you are considering purchasing has been enhanced with oils or resins, and if it has been, get details about the treatment from a gemologist and not from an astrologer.

Source: http://www.ceylontoday.lk/97-59577-news-detail-gemstones-for-healing-and-balance.html

Whither Sri Lankan gem industry.
By Eng. Profr P.G.R. Dharmaratne

The 16th International Coloured Gemstone Association(ICA) Congress was held at Cinnamon Grand Hotel earlier this year with over 500 gemmologists, gem traders, government officials and journalists from over 30 countries attending. The theme of the congress was “Sapphire and more…”. It was heartening to observe, that there were speakers who have carried out a lot of research and investigations about the Ceylon sapphire. In fact the first speaker of the congress, Jack Ogden from the US, spoke of the history of sapphires which included some jewellery from Afghanistan, made of Ceylon sapphires dating back to over 2000 years. Speaker after speaker spoke of the virtues of Sri Lankan sapphires. But as I listened to the many speakers I silently wondered how long our sapphire industry could survive.

Sri Lanka has been known for many centuries for its wealth of gems. Many historical references to gems of Ceylon from the time of Marco Polo, are also well-known. We talk of over 70 varieties of gems produced in Sri Lanka.But how many are aware that over 80 per cent of our export earnings come from the corundum species of gems to which the ruby and the sapphire belong.And in fact over 60 per cent of export earnings are from the blue sapphire only while 10 per cent comes from cat’s eyes. This shows the high dependency of Sri Lankan gem and jewellery industry on sapphires and cat’s eyes.Our gem and jewellery industry has faced many challenges over the years.First it was synthetic sapphire and synthetic ruby during the 20th century.

Synthetics thus produced were so real, free of inclusions, yet costing only a few hundredths of a natural sapphire and ruby of the same colour and quality. People thought ‘Oh, why do we need a natural ruby and sapphire when all the physical properties and optical properties are the same in these new synthetic rubies and sapphires’. It was only a case of mixing up ingredients needed to produce corundum and running through a flame produced by a H2/O2 gas mixture… the powders melt and form gems in a matter of minutes! The natural gem trade collapsed within a short period. But some talked about the importance of the naturalness of a gem. They said ‘we don’t want man-made things to replace our natural beauties’. Gemmologists had to intervene to identify these synthetic products. This resulted in the natural gem trade slowly recovering. But it took years!

Many decades later new products came to the market. This time they called it cultured rubies or cultured emerald. Crystals of gems were grown on a solution very similar to that of nature. But in effect it was another form of synthetics which was little more expensive than the first one.
Gemmologists had another task of detection which also they successfully managed.However gemmologists could not rest for long. Soon unusually beautiful lots and lots of blue sapphire were invading the market. They found that the colour was confined to the surface, in fact only a few hundredths of a millimeter. They said it is a ‘surface diffusion’ of colour giving elements to light colour natural gemstones. Before long, diffused rubies too came to the market. Once again gemmologists had to intervene to combat this new challenge and save the gem industry.

A few years latter unusually beautiful expensive honey coloured cat’s eyes flooded the market. Soon we in Sri Lanka got information that they are highly radioactive. Quality had been improved by irradiation. Sri Lanka announced to the world that all the cat’s eyes leaving our shores are tested for irradiation. We saved the day for cat’s eyes but only perhaps until another disaster strikes. So far, the identification of synthetics, diffused and irradiated cat’s eyes has not been overly difficult. Sri Lanka’s gem industry, which is mainly based on sapphire and cat’s eyes, suffered for a while with each of these challenges but yet survived.

Our sapphire industry suffered another blow only a decade ago when large quantities of yellow, orange and padmarga (Padparadscha) sapphires appeared in the Bangkok market. The unbelievable quantity of materials aroused the suspicion of gem traders all over the world. This time it was revealed that it was another form of diffusion treated sapphires using the ‘Beryllium element’. Unlike previous diffusion processes, this time deep penetration and numerous colours of sapphires were being produced and the process was termed “lattice diffusion”. The identification of these synthetics was not only difficult but it was very expensive, costing over US$ 500 per test. The world gem industry and particularly the Sri Lankan industry suffered for a few years. Sri Lanka’s position as the leading supplier of padmarage.

(Padparadscha) was greatly affected as the buyers, mainly Japan, stopped buying such coloured gemstones until the dispute was resolved.
Many analytical techniques hitherto used for elemental analysis in chemistry such as LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectrometry), SIMS (Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry) and LA-ICP-MS (Laser Ablated Inductively Coupled Mass Spectrometry) are necessary for detection of beryllium (Be) diffused sapphires. Unlike basic gemmological equipment, this equipment is extremely expensive going up to many millions of rupees. Initially only yellow, orange and padmarga (Padparadscha) were the colours that was thought to be developed by this treatment. But it has become evident that diffusion produced blue and red stones are very similar to the natural blue sapphire and ruby.

The Gemologists Association of Sri Lanka (GASL) started its campaign about 20 years ago to convince the authorities of the need for a well-equipped gemmological laboratory in Sri Lanka to deal with the problems encountered by the industry as discussed above. Furthermore the availability of such a laboratory would have encouraged the international gem trading community to purchase gems in Sri Lanka with confidence. At present a buyer who chooses a gemstone in the local market has to wait till a report is obtained from a reputed laboratory abroad. The seller has to spend lot of money and wait for weeks for the same. Consequently the gem dealers instead of visiting Sri Lanka and waiting for weeks may go to Thailand and purchase their requirement and get a certificate and complete the transaction immediately because there are many well equipped labs in Bangkok.

Over the years the gem trading community, NGJA and Gemologists Association made many attempts to convince the government of the need for a well-equipped gemmology laboratory in Sri Lanka. Many attempts were made to convince the private sector companies ad banks to have collaborative projects. Failing all that NJGA suggested to our gem and jewellery trading community that we should get an additional ¼ per cent from exports of gems and jewellery for a lab fund (¼ per cent was already being levied as a service charge by the NGJA) and thus we established a gem laboratory fund in 2001. In the past 15 years over Rs.100 million has been collected to the fund, but a lab has not yet materialised.

Once I published an article in a local gemmological magazine where I presented the possibility of other treatments happening, which has not yet impacted the industry. There are other chemical elements like beryllium, of same size and weight, that could be diffused and produce or alter colour in gems. In fact at the GIT 2012, International Gem and Jewellery conference in Thailand, a researcher/trader presented his work on diffusing Lithium (Li) into sapphire, spinel, tourmaline and garnet to improve colour. Who knows how many other treatments may be attempted and accordingly we have to be prepared. Imagine what will happen to our gem industry, if buyers refuse to purchase without a certificate of authenticity regarding diffusion.

The very presence of an internationally recognised fully equipped lab will have a highly deterrent effect. Its mere presence will reassure the buyer that he can safely offer a higher price for a gem and get it tested within Sri Lanka. Otherwise when we try to get a certificate from abroad the buyer will not wait that long and go to another country. We don’t know how many millions we may have lost over many decades due to our tardiness in setting up a certification laboratory here in Sri Lanka. It’s never too late and we need to have a complete laboratory and do business combining technology with marketing and business skills. Our gem industry cannot survive without a fully equipped gemmology laboratory!
(The writer is a senior professor of the University of Moratuwa, Fellow Member of the Gemmological Association of Sri Lanka and former Director General and former Chairman of National Gem and Jewellery Authority) .


http://www.sundaytimes.lk/151220/business-times/whither-sri-lankan-gem-industry-175649.html



Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Tour Sri Lanka - Jaffna Tour.

Jaffna Tour. With Vehicle or Motorcycle.

Tour Jaffna in a car, coach or ride on a 250 CC Honda Baja motorcycle and visit places.
This Jaffna tour is best suited for all country people including the Tamil expatriates as they can show their homeland to their foreign born children. Dutch, Portuguese and British visitors can view their cultural marks laid by their ancestors, when they ruled the Jaffna Kingdom.

You can add Jaffna tour package in your 14 days Sri Lanka regular tour or you can start it direct away from the Colombo airport. We will send our vehicle to pick you up at the Colombo airport with your friends, relatives or with your family. If you want you can relax in the Negombo hotel for the first day or can relax at the Negombo beach.

If you like to visit the famous "Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu" located in the forests of Madhu, you can add this as an option in your Jaffna tour package.

Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights.
Starts from: Negombo / Your hotel.
Route: Negombo, Kurunagala, Anuradhapura (Optional tour), Vavuniya and Jaffna.
Distance: 1,100 Km
Vehicle: Car with A/C or Passenger Van with A/C.
Vehicle tour: By Sinhalese / English / Tamil Speaking Private Driver/Guide.
Motorbike Tour:  Suitable for experienced riders.
Motorcycle Route: Will cover Asphalt, off-road through the jungle 40 Km, Muddy and sandy roads.
Accommodation: Hotels and Guest houses. (Twin Share Basis)
Meals: European and/or Sri Lanka Dishes.



Jaffna district is located in the Northern part of Sri Lanka, it consists lot of small towns and villages. After 30 years of conflict the region is now recovering to get back to normal life. The region is surrounded by ocean and sea except the Elephant pass, the narrow connection that lies on South of it.

Touring this area is a good idea as it will offer you many attractions that you won’t get from any part of the world. There are lot of Hindu temples, Churches, Cathedrals and Buddhist relics. The Seminaries, Churches and Cathedrals were built by Portugal, Dutch and British rulers time to time when they ruled this land. Still there are many cemeteries that carry the names of the Europeans dating back to hundreds of years.
Popular one in Jaffna is the Fort which was built by the Portuguese and then expanded by the Dutch.

                                          Inside of the Dutch Fort, Jaffna.



Nallur Hindu temple, visit here in the morning to view special poojas with chanting of Mantras and "Nathaswaram" music along with drums. The Temple is with three large Gopurams and two bell houses.
Natural fresh water pond next to the sea in Keerimalai, Jaffna Library, and Tall Hanuman statue in Inuvil are some of the best attractions. There are lot of interesting places that you must visit while you are staying there.

There are plenty of unspoiled beaches with sunshine is available all around the place. Likewise there is no shortage for fresh sea food (varities of fishes, shrimps, crabs and cattle fish), freshly picked vegetables and fruits. It is part of Sri Lanka although the prices are far lower than Colombo and the suburbs when you compare them.
Optional destinations.
If you like we can take you to Mullaitivu the place which was the LTTE's strong hold and was the place where the war took place in its last days.

You can visit those Islands like Delft, Nainativu, Analaitivu where Dutch people stayed.in the colonial time. You can see the remains of the Dutch fort and churches in Delft. The island is popular for its wild ponies too.

What you must not miss here while on Jaffna tour package?
Seafood "kool" made with "palmyra Odiyal" with fresh fishes and vegetables.
Palmyra toddy, Jaggery, and panattu (dried fruit extract)
Seasonal offer: Palmyra young watery fruit, ripped fruit and "Kilangu".

So what are the important places to visit here?
Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil
Point Pedro
Dutch Fort
Nilavarai
Kanthoradai Buddhist Site.
Keeramalai
Naguleswaram Shiva Temple
Hot Springs
Dambakola Patuna Temple
Manalkadu
Jaffna Archeological Museum
Jaffna Market
Delft (Nedunteevu)
Karainagar
Nainativu

Churches
St.Mary’s Cathedral, St.Johns Church, St.Martins Seminary, Holy Family Convent, St.James Church, Our Lady Refuge Church and St.John Baptist Church.

Interested in this Jaffna Package Tours?
Use the web form in the right side.
Contact: chinthaka3624@gmail.com

Phone: 0094 776685331


                                                Nallur Temple, Point-Pedro road side Gopuram. (Image)
   


                                                 Anjanayar Statue ( Hanuman) in Jaffna.