Sri Lankan rice and curry

Sri Lankan rice and curry is a delicious and heartwarming meal that reflects the country’s rich culture and traditions. A plate of soft, steaming rice is served with a variety of curries, each filled with different flavors. You can enjoy creamy dhal curry, spicy chicken or fish curry, and many vegetable curries cooked with coconut milk and fragrant spices. Fresh side dishes like pol sambol, made with grated coconut and lime, and katta sambol, a spicy chili mix, add extra taste. Every bite is a mix of spice, sweetness, and freshness, making it a special experience. Whether you eat it in a small village home or a local restaurant, Sri Lankan rice and curry is more than just food. It’s a way to feel the warmth and hospitality of the island.

1. Yellow Rice

Yellow rice is a special Sri Lankan rice, often made for celebrations and special meals. It gets its bright yellow color from turmeric and is cooked with coconut milk, pandan leaves, cardamom, and cloves. This gives it a soft, creamy texture and a nice, warm taste. Yellow rice is usually eaten with curries, fried chicken, boiled eggs, and crispy papadam. Its beautiful color and delicious smell make it a favorite dish in Sri Lanka. If you visit, make sure to try this tasty and special rice.

2. Sri Lankan  Red Rice & White Rice

In Sri Lanka, rice is an important part of daily life. There are two main types: red rice and white rice. Red rice has a rich color and a slightly nutty taste. It is very healthy and has been eaten in Sri Lanka for many years. It goes well with traditional curries, soaking up the delicious coconut and spice flavors. White rice is softer and has a mild taste. It is often eaten every day and is a perfect match for Sri Lankan dishes. Whether you try a simple home-cooked meal or eat at a local restaurant, Sri Lankan red and white rice will give you a true taste of the country’s food and culture.

 

3. Lamprais

Lamprais is a traditional Sri Lankan dish that combines rice, meat, and flavorful spices, all wrapped in a banana leaf. The rice is cooked with special spices, and the meat, usually  cubed chicken is cooked with curry spices and sometimes fried. It also includes a golden boiled and fried egg, crispy ash plantain, tangy brinjal moju, irresistible fish culet and spicy prawn blachan for added taste. The ingredients are wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed, giving it a unique aroma and delicious flavor. Lamprais is a hearty and tasty meal, perfect for special occasions. If you want to enjoy high-quality lamprais in Sri Lanka, you can visit The Fab, a well-known shop that also sells cakes and short eats. They have many branches all over Sri Lanka.

To order : https://thefab.lk/

4. Dhal Curry (Parippu)

Parippu, or Sri Lankan dhal curry, is a favorite dish in Sri Lanka. It is made from red lentils cooked with coconut milk, turmeric, garlic, and spices. The curry is smooth and creamy, with a mild, slightly sweet taste. Mustard seeds and curry leaves give it a warm and rich flavor, and sometimes a little chili is added for a gentle spice. Parippu is usually eaten with rice, roti, or hoppers, and it mixes well with other curries. It is a simple but delicious dish that brings comfort and warmth, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Sri Lanka.

5. Pol Sambol

Pol sambol is a popular Sri Lankan side dish full of flavor. It is made with fresh grated coconut, chili, lime juice, onions, and Maldive fish flakes. It has a mix of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet tastes. The fresh coconut makes it light, while the chili adds a little heat. People eat pol sambol with rice, hoppers, roti, or even bread. It makes every meal more delicious. If you like spicy food or want to try something new, pol sambol is a must-try when you visit Sri Lanka!

6.Sri Lankan Chicken Curry

Sri Lankan Chicken Curry, called Kukul Mas Curry, is a tasty dish you must try when visiting Sri Lanka. It is made with chicken, coconut milk, and special spices like curry powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. The chicken is cooked until soft and full of flavor.This curry has a rich and slightly spicy taste, making it both comforting and exciting. It is usually eaten with steamed rice, string hoppers , or coconut roti .Whether enjoyed at a local eatery or a fine-dining restaurant, this flavorful curry is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.. No matter where you try it, Sri Lankan Chicken Curry will be a meal to remember.

7. Sri Lankan Polos Curry

Sri Lankan Polos Curry is a tasty dish made from young jackfruit. The jackfruit is cut into small pieces and cooked with spices, coconut milk, and roasted curry powder. It has a soft, meaty texture and a rich, slightly spicy flavor. The curry also includes onions, garlic, mustard seeds, cinnamon, and pandan leaves, which make it very aromatic. Polos Curry tastes even better when cooked in a traditional clay pot (Dara Lipa), as it gives a smoky, deep flavor. This delicious dish is usually eaten with steamed rice, coconut sambal, or dhal curry and is a must-try for anyone who loves Sri Lankan food.

8. Sri Lankan Cashew Curry

Sri Lankan Cashew Curry is a tasty and creamy dish made with cashew nuts and coconut milk. The cashews are cooked with onions, garlic, ginger, curry leaves, mustard seeds, and spices like cinnamon and curry powder. The coconut milk makes the curry creamy, and the spices give it a nice, mild heat. This delicious curry is usually served with steamed rice, roti, or string hoppers. Cashew Curry is a popular vegetarian dish in Sri Lanka and is loved for its rich, hearty flavor.

9. Batu Moju

Batu Moju Curry is a popular Sri Lankan dish made with eggplant (brinjal). The eggplants are cut into pieces and fried until golden, then cooked in a spicy, tangy sauce made with vinegar, sugar, garlic, onions, and mustard seeds. The dish has a sweet, sour, and spicy flavor that makes it very tasty. Sometimes, it also includes a bit of coconut or curry leaves for extra flavor. Batu Moju is often served as a side dish with yellow rice, fried rice and is loved for its unique mix of flavors. It’s a favorite in Sri Lankan homes and a must-try for visitors.

10. Seafood Curries

Sri Lanka is an island surrounded by the ocean, so seafood is fresh and full of flavor. Sri Lankan seafood dishes are made with special spices, coconut milk, and herbs that give them a unique taste. Here are some of the most popular seafood dishes you should try.

• Prawn Curry (Isso Curry)

Prawns are cooked in coconut milk with turmeric, chili powder, curry leaves, and spices. The curry is creamy, slightly sweet, and a little spicy. Some people add tamarind or lime for a tangy taste.

• Crab Curry (Jaffna Crab Curry)

This is a famous Sri Lankan dish, especially in the Jaffna region. Crabs are cooked in a thick, spicy gravy made with black pepper, roasted curry powder, and coconut milk. The curry has a rich, spicy, and slightly sour taste that makes the crab meat more delicious.

• Fish Curry (Malu Curry)

Fish curry is a common dish in Sri Lankan homes. Fresh fish like tuna or mackerel is cooked with turmeric, cumin, coriander, garlic, and coconut milk. The taste can be mild or very spicy, depending on the amount of chili used.

• Malu Ambul Thiyal (Sour Fish Curry)

This is a special dry fish curry made with tuna. The fish is cooked with goraka , black pepper, garlic, and spices. It has a tangy and slightly smoky taste, which makes it different from regular fish curry.

• Dry Fish Fried (Karawala Baduma)

Dried fish is fried with onions, green chilies, and curry leaves. The taste is salty and crispy, with a strong seafood flavor. It is usually eaten with rice and dhal curry.

• Sprats Curry (Haalmasso Curry)

Sprats are small fish that are cooked in a spicy coconut curry. The curry has a rich, slightly sweet taste. Some people also fry sprats until they are crispy, which makes a great side dish or snack.

Wasgamuwa National Park

Wasgamuwa National Park, located in Sri Lanka’s Matale and Polonnaruwa districts, is about a 48 km from The Riverston. Established in 1984, it is known for large herds of Sri Lankan elephants and diverse wildlife, including rare species. The park also features ancient ruins, such as the Yudangana Pitiya grassland, where the final battle between King Dutugamunu and King Elara took place.Wasgamuwa offers a unique blend of nature and history.

Wasgamuwa National Park is a great place to enjoy a safari, with the best times being early in the morning (6:00 am) or in the afternoon (3:00 pm). You can also take a relaxing river bath before or after the safari. Private jeep safaris are available, with prices ranging from LKR 7,500 to LKR 15,000 for a half-day.

The park opens from 6:00 am to 6:30 pm every day. The entrance fee is USD 12 for adults, USD 5 for children (6-12 years old), and free for toddlers under 6 years old. Foreign visitors can pay the group vehicle fee of USD 10. It’s recommended to check the latest prices by calling 1919 (the government information center).

Wasgamuwa is a wonderful destination to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife, history, and natural beauty. Be sure to respect the park and leave only footprints behind.

If you would like to plan a safari to Wasgamuwa national Park, contact...

https://minneriyasafari.com/product/wasgamuwa-evening-safari/ 

Pitawala Pathana

Pitawala Patana, is the second largest plain in Sri Lanka, after Horton Plains in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, is a beautiful grassland covering 10 hectares. It is home to rare plants and animals, including the Dumbara Galpara Mediya frog. The area is important because it is one of the few grasslands in the country that formed due to special ecological conditions. A short, 750-meter walk leads to Mini World’s End, or Kuda Lokanthaya, where you can see an amazing view of the Knuckles Range and its valleys. This spot looks like the famous World’s End in Horton Plains and offers a stunning view, especially when it’s windy. The views from the rocks are incredible, but visitors should be careful when getting close to the edge. Pitawala Pathana is not only important for nature but also for its cultural value, with some peaks being believed to have special energy. This place is a great spot for eco-tourism, offering a chance to enjoy beautiful views, rare plants, and wildlife while also highlighting the importance of conservation.

Visitors can buy tickets at the Forest Department counter and park their vehicles in the car park before starting the walk. The walk is more exciting during the windy season (May to September), when you feel the wind pushing you uphill and resisting you downhill. The trail is safe and fun as long as you stay on the path and avoid the cliff edges. This beautiful, peaceful place offers a relaxing experience in Sri Lanka's nature.

Thelgamuwa Oya

Thelgamuwa Oya is a beautiful stream in the Knuckles Mountain Range in Sri Lanka. It has clear, clean water and is home to a special fish called "Galpandiya," which can only be found in this area. A short drive from Riverston (13Km) will take you to this peaceful place, where you can enjoy the cool, fresh water and relax. The stream has many rock pools, some deep and some shallow, which are perfect for swimming or bathing. If you dip your feet into the water, you can even enjoy a natural fish therapy, which helps you feel refreshed. The shaded areas along the stream make it a calm and relaxing spot to visit. While some pools are safe to swim in, others are too deep, so it’s important to stay in the safe, marked areas. Thelgamuwa Oya is a great place to visit if you want to take a break and enjoy nature during your holiday.

Walpolamulla

Walpolamulla is a small, hidden village in the Knuckles Mountain Range of Sri Lanka. It is one of the smallest villages in the country and is now abandoned. Once, a few families lived there, but over time, they left because of its isolation, lack of water, and the dangers of wild animals. To reach Walpolamulla, visitors must trek through a tough, jungle path, making it a challenging journey. The village is surrounded by stunning views of the Dumbara Valley, with tall mountains, waterfalls, and lush forests. Though it is unclear if Walpolamulla is the smallest village in Asia, it is definitely one of the most secluded places in Sri Lanka. Today, it remains a quiet and mysterious spot, a reminder of the past, where nature has taken over the land.

A Hiking Adventure in Manigala

The Knuckles Mountain Range has 34 peaks, ranging from 900 to 2,000 meters in height. This protected area is home to many plants, animals, and trees. Whether you love adventure or simply want to enjoy nature, this place has something for everyone.

Manigala Mountain has a historical connection to the legend of Ravana. It is also called Ravanathenna, as some believe Ravana landed his flying machine, the Dandu Monara, on its peak. Manigala means "Jewel Rock," a fitting name for this stunning place. The hike reveals rolling hills, lush greenery, and winding rivers. The summit gives a 360-degree view, perfect for unforgettable photos. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Manigala will leave you with great memories.

The hike is 6 km long and suits people with moderate fitness. The peak, at 1,104 meters, has an open area with strong winds. Due to limited shade, it is best to start early in the morning. The top offers stunning views of forests, waterfalls, and fields. As the sunlight changes, the landscape looks even more beautiful. Manigala is popular among hikers, photographers, and campers.

If you are a tourist, you will need a guide for the hike. You can plan your adventure with the following site.

https://www.rapidadventures.lk/experiences/hiking-adventure-in-manigala

Moragahakanda Dam

Moragahakanda Dam, also called Kulasinghe Reservoir, is a beautiful place to visit in Sri Lanka. Located in Riverston, it is part of a major project that supports farming and electricity production. The project includes both the Moragahakanda Dam and Reservoir, as well as the Kalu Ganga Dam and Reservoir, which help with irrigation and power generation. The dam is surrounded by green hills, forests, and clear water, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy fresh air, watch different birds and animals, and learn about how the dam works. It is also a great place to take photos and experience nature. The dam is open all year, usually from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, but it is best to check the exact opening hours before visiting.

RIV Riverston Eco Villa

RIV  Riverston Eco Villa is a beautiful and peaceful place located in the Knuckles Mountain Range in Matale. It is an eco-friendly villa that offers a relaxing escape for visitors. The villa is designed using container-style architecture, providing a simple yet comfortable living experience. Surrounded by lush greenery and endless paddy fields, it is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature.

Accommodation and Prices RIV Eco Villa has three comfortable bedrooms with beautiful views. The rates for October to December (2024) are:

• Master Bedroom with Pool View: LKR 55,000 per night (Half Board, for two guests)

• Double Room with Bunk Bed/Mountain View: LKR 50,000 per night (Half Board, for two guests)

• Double Room with Mountain View: LKR 52,500 per night (Half Board, for two guests)

Guests who want to rent the entire villa can do so for LKR 155,000 per night (Half Board), which accommodates up to six guests. The villa can hold a maximum of eight guests upon request.

Note: Prices may change depending on the season. Contact us for the latest rates and availability.

Comfort and Facilities RIV Eco Villa offers many features to make guests feel comfortable:

• Beautiful Garden: A peaceful garden to relax and enjoy nature.

• Free Private Parking: Guests can park their vehicles safely.

• Family-Friendly Rooms: Spacious rooms suitable for families and groups.

• Outdoor Terrace: A great place to enjoy fresh air and mountain views.

A Unique Experience in Sri Lanka RIV Eco Villa is a wonderful place for those who love nature. It offers a quiet and relaxing experience while still providing modern comforts. Whether you want to explore the mountains, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or have a special getaway, this villa is a great choice.

Plan your visit to RIV Eco Villa and enjoy a unique stay in the heart of nature!

For booking and further details please visit: 

https://theriv.lk

Villa Lé Maas Tota

Villa Lé Maas Tota located at Lé Maas Tota Estate, Ranasinghagama Nikapotha, Koslanda, Sri Lanka, Villa Lé Maas Tota offers a beautiful, calm setting that allows you to unwind and enjoy the best of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty., Sri Lanka, offering a perfect escape from the busy city life. Established in April 2021, it provides a peaceful place to relax, surrounded by nature. The villa is part of the UHE Group, a well-known family business in Sri Lanka. The UHE Group also owns 98 Acres Resort & Spa, and the group’s experience in tourism and other industries promises a high-quality experience at Villa Lé Maas Tota.

The villa is set in a beautiful area with lush greenery and breathtaking views. It is a great place for those who want to get away from their daily routine and enjoy some time in nature. You can take nature walks, explore streams, and enjoy the fresh air. One of the highlights is bathing in a private waterfall or soaking in a natural bathtub, where the peaceful sounds of nature surround you.

Villa Lé Maas Tota offers four types of rooms: Studio Apartment, Family Suite, Standard Deluxe Room, and Junior Suite. These rooms are designed for comfort and relaxation, making sure guests feel at home. After a good breakfast, you can spend time by the private infinity pool or relax in the spacious living room, which has stunning views of the valley. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor fireplace, perfect for a cozy evening.

If you love cooking, the villa offers private cooking classes with the executive chef. You can learn how to prepare delicious Sri Lankan food. For tea lovers, there is a tour of the Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory, just an hour and a half away, where you can learn about the tea-making process.

Villa Lé Maas Tota won the Best Hideaway Villa Award in 2022 at the Global Tourism Awards, recognizing its excellent service and peaceful environment. Whether you want to relax, enjoy nature, or experience Sri Lankan culture, Villa Lé Maas Tota is a great place to visit.

In short, Villa Lé Maas Tota is more than just a place to stay. It is a peaceful retreat where you can relax, explore, and experience the best of Sri Lanka’s nature and hospitality.

For booking and further details please visit: 

https://www.lemaastota.com/

Tree Nature Resort

Elevate your vacation by staying at the Tree Nature Resort, a one-of-a-kind destination located in the peaceful area of Bogahamadiththa, Badulla, Sri Lanka. Situated at 134/2, Sinhapura, Bandarawela Road, this resort offers a unique lodging experience where you can stay in beautifully crafted tree houses, surrounded by the lush greenery and natural beauty of the Sri Lankan landscape.The resort is close to famous attractions like the "Nine Arches" bridge, "Ravana Ela," and "Lipton’s Seat," making it a great base for exploring the area.

The resort has six types of villas, but I recommend staying in the Luxury Tree-Top House, Dandubasnamanaya, as it offers a superb experience built in the trees with amazing views. Other villas are more basic, but they still provide comfortable accommodations. The Luxury Tree-Top House includes one bedroom with a king-size bed, another bedroom with two single beds, and a sleeping cabin with a king-size mattress. There's also a sofa bed in the living room, and breakfast is included in the price, which starts at Rs. 32,000 per night.

Although the resort doesn’t offer luxury facilities, it’s a perfect place for a peaceful and relaxing stay. You can order food from the resort or choose from nearby restaurants like KFC or Pizza Hut, which are just 1.5 km away in Badulla town. Despite some negative reviews, I found the food at the resort to be good, and the experience of staying in a tree house is truly unique. Tree Nature Resort is ideal for families and friends looking for a calm, nature-filled getaway.

For booking and further details please visit: 

https://treenatureresort.com/

Guava House

Guava House is a peaceful and unique retreat located in Hiniabewatta, Ginihappitiya, Hemmathagama, in Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka. It is situated in a rubber tree plantation, surrounded by mountains, paddy fields, and the quiet sounds of a nearby village. This secluded hideaway is far from the busy tourist areas, making it an ideal place for those seeking peace and nature.

Guava House was designed by architect Ranjan Aluwihare and co-owner Shaunagh Aluwihare. They created a space that blends perfectly with the natural surroundings. The house has a thatched roof made from "iluk" reeds and features mango wood and teak floors and walls, adding warmth and comfort. The atmosphere is calm, with vibrant butterflies, curious beetles, and the occasional presence of mosquitoes, so it’s best to bring mosquito repellent.

The house has five comfortable bedrooms, each designed to reflect the beauty of nature outside. Every room provides a quiet space to relax and enjoy the peaceful environment. Guava House allows guests to experience the sounds and sights of rural Sri Lanka, from the nearby village to the surrounding mountains and fields.

This retreat offers a perfect balance of luxury and simplicity, making it ideal for small groups or families. It provides a memorable experience for anyone wanting to connect with nature and escape the busy world.

For booking and further details please visit: 

https://theserendipitycollection.com/villas/guava-house-mawanella/