Shamali Sanjaya (centre) with members of the Arugam Bay Girls Surf Club. Max Gifted for The Guardian
It’s a warm-water island with reef breaks, beach breaks, and point breaks dotted along 1,600 kilometres of unbroken coastline — with both east and west-facing surf spots pulling different swells all-year-round, Sri Lanka is a surfers’ paradise. Until recently, though, Sri Lankan women were rarely — if ever — seen surfing the coastal blue waters. An oppressive mix of the island nation’s conservative social values and patriarchal norms confined Sri Lankan women to the inner quarters of their homes. It was only men, and female tourists, who were allowed to ride the waves at Arugam Bay — one of Sri Lanka’s best surfing spots for beginners and veterans alike.
In recent years, however, that tide has begun to turn.
Shamali Sanjaya helped set up Sri Lanka’s first all-female surf club in Arugam Bay in 2018
In 2011, Shamali Sanjaya was at home when her neighbour Tiffany Carothers — an American surfing enthusiast from California who had moved to Arugam Bay recently — asked her if she wanted to surf. Carothers lent Sanjaya her first surfboard and taught her how to ride the waves at Arugam Bay. It was the beginning of a quiet revolution.
Since then, Sanjaya and Carothers — with the help of surfers and surfing enthusiasts from Sri Lanka and abroad — have brought about a massive shift in the island’s surfing scene. Despite stiff opposition from male relatives and local authorities, they have been surfing and teaching girls and women between the ages of 13 and 43 how to surf in Arugam Bay. Initially, most of their meetings were clandestine and took place whenever the men were busy at work or hanging out with each other. The women would meet secretly at the beach and go surfing in other parts of the island away from the prying eyes of the moral police. In a 2022 interview with The Guardian, Sanjaya explained how they made sure not to offend anyone:
We told them we never do anything that disrespects our culture. We don’t wear bikinis, we don’t drink, it is just about getting into the waves.
When the Surfing Federation of Sri Lanka was set up in 2017, however, things finally started to look up for the women-led effort. In 2018, Sanjaya and Carothers established the Arugam Bay Girls Surf Club — the first registered all-female surf club in Sri Lanka. It was a watershed moment that marked the beginning of a new era in Sri Lankan surfing.
Today, the Arugam Bay Girls Surf Club not only teaches Sri Lankan women — both the young and the not so young — how to surf as a sport, but also as a source of income. The club helps them become ISA (International Surfing Association) certified surfers and trainers, and enables and empowers them to make a living from surfing.
A group of women in Panama village in the Lahugala Divisional Secretariat Division are self-employed producing items from Palmyra leaves. They are urging authorities to create a conducive environment for them to sell their products.
About 30 women are engaged in making various products from Palmyra leaves including traveling bags, lady’s handbags, baskets, table mats, hats, flowers, lanterns and vases.
All these products are hand-made and with no machinery involved in the production process.
The women are from low-income families whose main occupation is either fishing or farming. They say they face immense difficulties in both selling their products and obtaining a fair price for them.
They have been able to send some of their products to be sold on the international market via intermediaries. The women have also won awards at provincial level along with presidential awards.
The sales outlet where the women sell their products is located about 150 metres in from the Arugam Bay-Kumana Road. As such, while many foreign tourists pass through the area on their way to Arugam Bay, many don’t see the outlet. The women urge authorities to intervene to set up a sales outlet for them nearer to the main road.
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).
Surfing is the world’s fastest-growing watersport. Fed by an increasing desire to be outside, and bolstered during the pandemic when we all looked for ways to keep active closer to home, it’s expanded beyond tropical locales to nearly every coastline on the planet. And there’s no better time to learn. New surf schools are opening all the time, offering a range of courses from single lessons to several-day affairs, all promising to have you ‘popping up’ and riding those waves. Here, we reveal five of the best, from a UK break in Woolacombe to a palm-fringed experience off Tahiti’s golden coastline.
1. Weligama, Sri Lanka
At the turn of the millennium, the name Weligama — which means ‘sandy village’ in Sinhala — would have meant little to the international surfing community, whose focus has been primarily on the breaks of easterly Arugam Bay since the 1960s. Today, two decades on from its ‘discovery’ by wave-hunters, the town on Sri Lanka’s tropical southern coast is a byword for gentle, consistent, warm waves perfectly suited to rookies. Dozens of well-reviewed surf schools including Freedom, as well as dynamic retreats like Soul and Surf, are training a new generation of board-riders along this mile-long, golden bay; during peak dry season here, between December and March, opt for early morning classes to avoid the crowds, and select teachers offering video analysis of your technique for added benefit.
Describing the moment the tsunami hit, Ms Naqvi, who lives in Southfields, south-west London, said: “The door to my hut flung open so the water started to come in from all sides… Within like milliseconds I was underwater and drowning and fighting for my life.
“I was literally rolling around like a grain of rice in a washing machine.”
As her hut “disintegrated” around her, Ms Naqvi said she saw shards of light and realised she was at the bottom of the wreckage as she was swept inland.
She then became trapped under a falling building, adding: “That was the second time I thought I was going to die.”
Eventually she was able to cling to a tree before being rescued and taken to safety.
“There was such abject terror and shock,” she said. “I remember the scene, everyone running, then everyone disappearing under the glassiness of the water – I get goose bumps even talking about that now, 20 years later.”
More than 225,000 people were killed in the tsunami and earthquake across 14 countries, including 30,000 in Sri Lanka alone.
Ms Naqvi was eventually airlifted to Colombo, the Sri Lankan capital, and returned to London on New Year’s Eve.
Coming home, she said, was deeply disorienting.
Ani Naqvi says the “tsunami was the catalyst for me finding my purpose” [BBC]
“It was so bizarre because everything was neat and tidy and in its right place,” she said.
“It was this cognitive dissonance of coming from this scene of death and destruction, Armageddon, and now I’m back in this nice orderly place.” Ms Naqvi said she suffered post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of the ordeal.
Haunted by flashbacks, nightmares, and extreme sensitivity to sound, she sought therapy to help her process the trauma.
“The tsunami was the catalyst for me finding my purpose, that second chance I got,” she said.
The 53-year-old has now written a memoir about her experiences of the tsunami and life afterwards, including being diagnosed with stage four cancer, and hopes it will inspire others.
She added: “That sense of responsibility when you’ve survived something that others haven’t is real and stays with you.
While scars from the natural disaster still linger, this beautiful, resilient country has become a thriving tourist destination once again. Chris Haslam reports (Below is an extract taken from the TIMES Link below)
……………….The difference between those and the Indian Ocean tsunami is that rather than being powered by wind energy, it was driven by the seismic equivalent of 23,000 Hiroshima atomic bombs. As the Ratnam family went to their churches, the first of the two most deadly waves was just beyond the horizon. I leave Kalkudah and drive slowly south through some of the most serenely beautiful countryside on earth. Kingfishers sit together on the telephone wires. Elephants graze in jungle clearings and women dressed as brightly as the birdlife work in paddy fields. In Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka’s prettiest seaside town, dogs are dozing in the shade of the fishing boats hauled out on the white sand.
Offshore, novice surfers play in the gentle swells, and 39-year-old Sulfi Faizar, who runs a recycling company, is collecting plastic waste from the beach. Twenty years ago he was working in a hotel and his first inkling of disaster was when the policeman guarding the property told him to run for his life. Faizar thought the Tamil Tigers were in the street — the civil war was going on — so he fled to the beach.
“There was no sea,” he says. “Just dying fish and black rocks. Then, this giant wave, maybe 12 metres high. I thought this must be the end of the world, but then I remembered that the Quran says the end times will come on a Friday, not a Sunday. So I ran.” Faizar cannot remember how long and how far he ran, but when he stopped he realised he was carrying a baby, taken, he later learnt, from a mother fleeing with twins. They all survived, but at least 200 people in Arugam Bay didn’t. The wave destroyed 500 houses and the bridge to Pottuvil, cutting the town off. “There was a place here called the Tsunami Hotel,” he says, “but until that day none of us knew what a tsunami was.” https://extras.thetimes.co.uk/web/2024/times-travel/Tsunami%20-%2020%20years/Aftermath.mp4
Sharon Tissera owns the Hideaway Resort in Arugam Bay. The laid-back property, now a surf and yoga-focused hotel, has been here since 1979, and although it was only lightly damaged by the tsunami, everyone who worked here was in some way affected. “People were absolutely broken,” Tissera says. “We didn’t have the right therapy for them, or any real appreciation of mental health. The other day I saw this guy talking to the ocean, asking why it had taken five of his family away.”
Hideaway Resort in Arugam Bay is now a surf and yoga-focused hotel
Ducan Rigley said after the tsunami he did not want to return to Sri Lanka
A father who saved his family during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami has recalled how he “missed death five times on that day”.
Duncan Ridgley, from Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, had emigrated to Sri Lanka with his three children and then-wife, arriving in the country on Christmas Eve.
Two days later, a series of huge waves triggered by an earthquake killed about 228,000 people in 14 countries.
He said the events that followed taught him to “live your life as you never know when it could be taken away from you”.
The 60-year-old now runs a co-working and co-living business in Blackpool, Lancashire, and also in Siwa, Egypt
He and his ex-wife Penelope, along with Angus, then seven, Claudia, eight, and Sasha, 11, had moved to a new home in Arugam Bay
“It was for a new beginning, where we thought everything was going to be great,” he said.
“On 26 December, we woke up thinking finally we can chill, but by 09:00 the water started coming in, at first very slowly.”
Mr Ridgley said he still suffered from PTSD, which could be triggered when he sees a large wave
Mr Ridgley, a former photographer for The Sun newspaper, recalled going to his Land Rover as the tsunami hit.
“I was about to climb in the back, I looked to the right and there was about a 50m (164ft) crystal wall of water with cars, goats and people rapidly coming at us.
“I got on the roof [of the Land Rover], with two of the children and Claudia was inside, in the back.”
A wave hit him and he was pulled along in a “mush of mud”.
When he surfaced, his son Angus, appeared next to him.
“I held his hand and thought I will not let go, but I had no idea where my wife and other children were, as Claudia was in the Land Rover, I thought she would be dead.”
Eventually he saw his wife about 30m (98ft) away in a tree.
“I screamed ‘who have you got, where’s Sasha?’ and Claudia just appeared in my wife’s arms, she said ‘hey dad I’m here’.”
An estimated 228,000 people were killed in the tsunami across 14 countries
He said the family had “no idea where Sasha was, it was the longest 10 minutes of my life”.
“Then this guy from Denmark walked round the corner with Sasha on his shoulders.”
They managed to clamber onto the roof of a nearby house before the third wave hit.
“My focus was on saving the kids’ lives – in total there were five waves.
“It was like going through five Viking battles in a day.”
He said the family eventually crossed two rivers to reach high ground on a rock.
“[It] was the happiest moment in my life as it was dry, so we knew we were not going to die that day.”
Stephen Rhodes, a presenter of the consumer show on BBC Three Counties Radio at the time, heard about the family’s struggle to get back to the UK.
“He said he would pay on his own personal credit card, if I paid him back, which I did, – about £1,200,” said Mr Ridgley.
“Up until that day my life was planned and organised, then everything was different.
“I still suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, and am affected if I see big waves.”
The father-of-three said he had never been back.
“I would like to go with the kids at some stage, but I know it will not be easy, to trace our footsteps to see how far we got, maybe for some closure.
“It was the scariest and best day, when you miss death five times in a day, you feel pretty honoured.
“You’ve got to live your life, you never know when it could be taken away from you – far too many people live for the future.” Mr Ridgley’s children now live in the UK:
If you have been affected by this story or would like support then you can find organisations which offer help and information at BBC Action Line.
“If my family had known what was coming, they could have at least run to safety. My son was a fast runner. At least he would still be alive,” says Thyagaraj (52), a resident of Pottuvil, who lost both his parents, wife, and three children in the early hours of the Boxing Day tsunami in 2004. Thyagaraj, who was employed as a school bus driver in Qatar at the time, returned to Pottuvil a week after the disaster, only to find parts of the foundation of what used to be his home. With no bodies of his family to bury, Thyagaraj holds onto the gifts he brought back with him for his family as mementoes of that fateful day.
While, back in 2004, Sri Lanka did not have any form of tsunami early warning system, by 2013 the Indian Ocean Tsunami Early Warning and Mitigation System (IOTWMS)—the regional end-to-end warning system—was fully operational. Since then, in a matter of seconds, Sri Lanka can know if its coasts are at risk of a tsunami, thanks to more than 50 core seismic stations placed around the Indian Ocean that can warn each other. This information is then disseminated to the public by the designated State Departments. According to the UNESCO Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, the responsibility for operating a 24/7 National Tsunami Warning Centre (NTWC) in Sri Lanka lies with the Department of Meteorology. The Government of Sri Lanka even introduced an extension number for the public to inquire about potential tsunami threats. While the Department of Meteorology informed Ceylon Today that the NTWC is operational, the newspaper was unable to reach any official via the contact number for the NTWC, raising concerns about the efficiency of the unit.
Forgotten evacuation drills
Thyagaraj’s sorrow and remorse are shared by many survivors of the disaster along the East Coast of the country. Some of the worst impacts were felt on the Eastern Coast. The 7-10 metre waves that hit the region took the lives of over 14,000 people. Some locals claim that it took them days after the tsunami to locate where their respective villages and hamlets once stood.
“The tsunami warning tower is in the highest place here, so the whole of Arugam Bay can hear it when it goes off. But I don’t think it has gone off in a few years now. Probably its batteries are dead,” quipped Kevin (29), a local hotelier.
Kevin was nine years old when he survived the tsunami. Never knowing what the word tsunami meant, let alone what safety measures to follow, Kevin, along with his parents and siblings, ran inland until they reached an elevated part of the jungle, where they remained until sunset. The clothes they wore were their only possessions. Guided by the full moon, they walked through 12 km of jungle until they reached a main road, where a CTB bus offered to take them to Lahugala—the first signs of civilisation they had seen since the tsunami that day.
Kevin claims that, as a result of the tsunami evacuation drills carried out by the Disaster Management Centre after the disaster, up until 2010, he now has an idea of which route to take when evacuating and the designated refugee centres for his area.
“I don’t think many remember though. The last time a tsunami evacuation drill was carried out in Arugam Bay was the year after the war,” claims Kevin. An allegation that the DMC refused to respond to when Ceylon Today inquired.
Inconsistent drills
Anoja Seneviratne, Director of Mitigation, Research, and Development at the DMC in Sri Lanka, claims that while there has been a reduction in community-based evacuation drills, the DMC has carried out extensive tsunami evacuation drills targeting schools along the coast.
However, a recent study carried out by University College London in partnership with the University of Moratuwa in 2022, titled ‘Engineering Surveys of Sri Lankan Schools Exposed to Tsunami’, shows that over 430 coastal schools in Sri Lanka lie within the DMC tsunami inundation zone. According to the numbers presented by the Ministry of Education, more than 200,000 students are identified as vulnerable to a tsunami.
Yet, the DMC’s annual report states that in 2022, a single workshop was held in Kattankudy with the participation of 600 students from across the country to mark World Tsunami Awareness Day. Again, an undisclosed number of schools in the coastal areas of Trincomalee, Galle, and Matara took part in a tsunami evacuation drill in October 2023.
A vast majority of the students in the 430 coastal schools within the DMC tsunami inundation zone did not participate in any form of tsunami evacuation drill or other awareness programme. Given the Covid-19 pandemic, Easter attacks, and the economic crisis, another official from the DMC told Ceylon Today that the DMC found it difficult to maintain consistency in school evacuation drills.
The annual reports of the DMC provide evidence of the inconsistent tsunami evacuation drills carried out over the past 14 years.
Seneviratne says that the State has allocated only Rs 10 million for the DMC (to be used not exclusively for tsunami -related activities but for its operations in any disaster posing a threat to the country), and that the DMC must depend on third-party stakeholders such as the United Nations, USAID, and private corporations for the balance of funding. She claims that the Rs 10 million given by the State and the third-party funds are more than enough to carry out the DMC’s operations within the country.
“See, this money is not enough, but we should ask ourselves how we can make the maximum use of the funds we have instead of complaining about a lack of funding or not doing enough for that matter,” claims Seneviratne. Despite the director’s lacklustre approach, it seems evident that the DMC’s lack of funding is having a catastrophic impact on the coastal communities.
She also claims that with the limited funding available to the DMC, investing in expensive structural mitigation methods is unwise, as the possibility of another tsunami is one in 500. Seneviratne believes that Sri Lanka must look into more nature-based solutions, such as bands of mangrove forests and sand dune banks, while ensuring local infrastructure is developed in a tsunami-resistant manner.
Community responsibility
After the tsunami sirens activate as part of the tsunami warning system, the tsunami evacuation signages will be one of the two most important life-savers for local communities in the event of a tsunami. These signages will serve as the primary indicators of the local “safe zone.” Yet, along the Eastern Coast of the island, one can find such signages only if they actively search for them. Rusted, faded, and peeling, some of these signs are even forgotten by the locals.
Seneviratne alleges that the respective Pradeshiya Sabhas along the Eastern Coast are responsible for the current dilapidated state of these signages. She says that the Local Government of the area should ensure that these signs are properly maintained. She suggested they invite private investors to sponsor the renewal and maintenance of the boards in case the respective Pradeshiya Sabha lacks funding.
However, the DMC’s official website states that the maintenance of tsunami warning signages and demarcations is one of the DMC’s key responsibilities.
According to the Director of DMC, Pradeep Kodippili, who is also a survivor of the 2004 tsunami, the responsibility lies with the public regarding how well-equipped they are with the knowledge of facing another tsunami. He claims that one of the biggest challenges the DMC is facing is the lethargic approach locals take in being part of these awareness campaigns and exercises.
“Last year’s main drill was in Trincomalee District. When we invited the locals to take part, only women and children participated,” claims Director Kodippili. Fishing, which is an industry that almost exclusively employs men in the area, is the main source of income for a vast majority of the residents along the Eastern Coast. Locals argue that the DMC should give prior notice before an evacuation drill, as many of the men could be at sea or working at a local hotel.
“It’s not that we don’t want to take part in a drill, if it happens. They should inform us so we can sort out our work commitments. I know the value of being aware of evacuation routes and drills more than anyone. I clung onto a coconut tree, and my sister hung onto a barbed wire fence as I watched our house getting swept away into the ocean. After all, this is my bread and butter,” claims Susantha (43).
As the world prepares to remember the more than 35,000 Sri Lankan lives, along with 250,000 lives across the Indian Ocean, bureaucrats seem to be letting go of their accountability in creating a more tsunami-resilient Sri Lanka.
Twenty years after the disaster, stories of courage and resilience emerge from its survivors.
On December 26, 2004, the Indian Ocean tsunami struck, leading to one of the deadliest natural disasters recorded. With waves exceeding 30 meters high, it wreaked havoc across 14 countries, claiming approximately 230,000 lives, including many tourists. Twenty years later, survivors reflect on their harrowing experiences and the unforeseen transformations their lives took after this catastrophe. >>>>>>>> Reflecting on her survival, she recalled the traumatic experience of clinging to a palm tree for nearly eight hours until rescuers reached her. “I went to this stillness, almost like a meditative state, because I knew if I started panicking, you lose more energy,” she revealed. Initially suffering from serious injuries, including broken bones and internal bleeding, Nemcova was dependent on the kindness of strangers who came to her aid. “Those people were ready to risk their lives for strangers, and it shows the best of humanity,” she stated, highlighting the compassion during such dire circumstances.
Another poignant survivor account is from Ani Naqvi, who was enjoying her holiday at Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka, when the tsunami hit. Naqvi recounted the impact of the disaster: “I thought I didn’t deserve my survival.” Gasping for air as she was tossed around violently by the ocean, it was only by sheer will and instinct she found her way to the surface, clinging to the remnants of a tree. Like Nemcova, Naqvi was also heralded for her resilience and has used her experience to help inspire others, transforming personal tragedy and survivor’s guilt to meaningful activism. >>>>>>> “Challenges are opportunities for growth,” Naqvi emphasizes, inspiring those from varied backgrounds to persevere. Each survivor’s story reiterates the harsh realities of human vulnerability but also celebrates the tenacity of the human spirit. They provide poignant reminders of the tsunami’s legacy—a blend of grief, resilience, courage, and humanity which collectively signifies both loss and renewal.
Even after two decades, the tsunami remains etched deeply within the memories of those who lived through it. For many, the wreckage they witnessed catalyzed not only personal loss but also hope. “Life is so short and can change in a heartbeat,” Naqvi advises, urging everyone to cherish every opportunity for happiness.
The reflection on the Indian Ocean tsunami not only honors those who lost their lives but also commemorates the tenacity of the survivors who continue to serve as pillars of hope and compassion. Their journeys, marked by unfathomable loss, remind us of the enduring power of the human spirit to rebuild and hope anew.
Teachers and students alike should be taught by experts concerned with explaining the different types of plastic and how to segment them according to the level of the degradable or non-degradable content. First of all we should know what plastic is made of and that it consists of petroleum. This would stop the indiscriminate burning of plastic resulting in pollution of the earth and causing health hazards. We should eliminate the ignorance that exists in Sri Lanka pertaining to plastic
Among the integral themes of the Harmony page is environment protection and conservation as well as contribution to activism on encouraging civic responsibility. Where possible we integrate the key themes which are within the framework of the Harmony page such as promoting all forms of arts and intangible cultural heritage, traditional knowledge, peacebuilding, creating respect for mother earth and integrating these areas where relevant for ushering in awareness for a more holistic and meaningful life. We today feature the work of 33-year-old Mohammed Imam who has been engaged in several activities to preserve the environment in and around Pottuvil and has since his teenage years been organising regular beach clean-up activities in the Arugambay area.
Q: Please introduce yourself and your work.
A: I was born in the Arugambay area in Pottuvil. From my childhood years I have been very interested in keeping the environment clean and safe so that it could be enjoyed by children of every generation.
I have developed different environment protection initiatives with my friends over the years and have created volunteer teams from around the Pottuvil area. We mainly engage in regular cleaning of the Arugambay beach which we consider our extended home as we grew up enjoying the ocean and its pristine surrounding.
For the last 10 years I have been running tourism and travel related businesses based in Arugambay. I have learnt from my foreign guests how to engage in ocean related activities such as ridding it of the plastic menace. The tourists who come to Arugambay are those such as surfers who love the sea and the beaches and some of them travel around the world and engage in cleaning up the beaches which are destroyed by humans. I have learnt from them how they engage in responsible tourism.
Q: Is your beach clean up efforts limited to Arugambay?
A: Because I am based in this part of Sri Lanka and because it is my home, I focus on this territory. However for the year 2025 we are planning joint clean up operations in other areas which are both coastal as well as mountain based. We have started discussions on this.
Q: Do you now engage in ridding Arugambay beaches from garbage in a formal manner?
A: Yes. I have started an organisation called ‘Sustainable clean Lanka.’ We registered as a Limited Liability Company, under the Company Law in Sri Lanka.
We work on small projects, especially at school level where we create awareness on plastic pollution and engage children and youth in beach cleaning endeavours. We have so far carried out several education programs in and around schools in Pottuvil and Arugambay.
Q:How have you seen the beaches of Arugambay change over the years?
A: When I was a child I could not find plastic waste in the ocean rim or the shores of Arugambay. It was the opposite of what I see now where the beaches are cluttered with plastic waste and the waves bring in diverse kinds of non-bio degradable litter which is the usage from our daily lives. I can clearly say that plastic has increased more than 200%. There is an accumulation of over 20,000+ plastic water bottles per day during the season used by tourists who come to Arugambay. There are between 800 and 10,000 foreigners visiting Arugambay every season. If they drink two to three bottles it exceeds 20,000 bottles per day. We have to set up a formal national policy to recycle these items into usable use. When I was a child we did not have the proliferation of portable water as a commercial commodity. My organisation and I are also focusing on these aspects and we link up with others across the country doing similar work.
Q: What is your personal approach to sustainability?
A: As much as possible I avoid using non-biodegradable waste products. I have found that when we simplify life, we save both money and the environment. During my shopping I carry my own bags. Together with others across Sri Lanka who do similar work I am creating more holistic ideas on how we can eliminate the non sustainable chaos from the body of this earth, streams and oceans and thereby from our own anatomy as well. We may not be surprised if some study is done one day and finds that we consume our own plastic waste which is absorbed into the earth where our cultivation is done and where animals such as cows and fish in the sea end up consuming.
Q:What are your suggestions to the Government to address this issue?
A: Sri Lanka should ban all one time use of plastic and include plastic pollution education in schools. Teachers and students alike should be taught by experts concerned with explaining the different types of plastic and how to segment them according to the level of the degradable or non-degradable content. First of all we should know what plastic is made of and that it consists of petroleum. This would stop the indiscriminate burning of plastic resulting in pollution of the earth and causing health hazards. We should eliminate the ignorance that exists in Sri Lanka pertaining to plastic.
Q: How do you see the need for a garbage clearance policy in Sri Lanka?
A: We need to use advanced technology for a proper waste management system. Our municipal councils should be thoroughly upgraded and the taxpayer should be taught to be responsible in eliminating their trash, how to minimise trash and how to convert trash into money. Sri Lanka needs to learn from countries where it is not normal for people to calmly ignore roadside litter or to contribute to the mess. There should be awareness creation as well as strict regulation for every citizen to separate their garbage content. The municipality staff should be given advanced training on this and the Government should ensure that Sri Lanka free itself from mountains of garbage such as Meethotamulla.
Every citizen should be taught to feel responsible for their actions and every child should be trained in this as part of their education. As an environmental activist and someone earning from the tourism industry, I feel strongly that we should ensure that environment crimes in Sri Lanka are punished and carry heavy fines. Without this we will fail to control the public dumping their waste into roadside and environmentally scenic areas. We should make our citizenry aware that haphazard strewn garbage is very dangerous for the wildlife and overall biodiversity of the country.
We should all open our eyes that this is what is happening around Sri Lanka.
Q: How do you see the linking of environmental sensitisation with other important aspects for a community such as community and ethnic integration, multi religious respect and promoting environment conservation through diverse forms of art and artistic endeavours?
A: We definitely need to have a collective and innovative approach to getting the public to become responsible and educative on the fact that we are killing ourselves when we throttle the earth and seas with our plastic. All forms of art are inspired by nature and its beauty. Therefore I think we can bring people together by using art and culture to make them see that keeping our planet beautiful is the beginning of all poetic inspiration. We are planning this type of programs in more schools in Pottuvil for the coming year and we are also discussing working with other districts on creating a chain of activists and educationists across Sri Lanka to see that at least 2025 will be a year when State and non-State sectors will find a solution to the garbage headache of the nation.
International photojournalist Abhi Indrarajan, celebrated for his evocative portraits of global figures, is set to host a compelling photographic exhibition in Arugam Bay, exploring the enduring legacy of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. The showcase will open on 26 December 2024, marking 20 years since one of the most devastating natural disasters in modern history.
Indrarajan’s illustrious career has spanned continents and decades, but it was in his homeland, Sri Lanka, that he captured some of the most significant moments of his life. Just days after the catastrophic tsunami struck on Boxing Day 2004, Indrarajan travelled to Arugam Bay, a coastal fishing town devastated by the disaster. Situated on Sri Lanka’s northeast coast, the area bore the brunt of the waves that ravaged communities across the Indian Ocean.
While global media largely focused on tourist hotspots along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, Arugam Bay’s tragedy was underreported. The town, a remote fishing community, was utterly unprepared for the massive waves that swept away homes, forests, bridges, and countless lives. Indrarajan’s photographs document the aftermath – from the wreckage of homes to the resilience of survivors rebuilding their lives amid unimaginable destruction.
The tsunami, triggered by an underwater earthquake near Northern Sumatra, Indonesia, claimed over 35,000 lives in Sri Lanka and displaced countless more. Among the disaster’s most infamous events was the destruction of a passenger train near Peraliya, where waves overturned carriages, killing over 1,700 people in what remains the deadliest rail disaster in history.
Indrarajan’s photographs transcend the devastation, capturing the unyielding spirit of survival. “It was the strength of the human spirit that truly moved me,” he said. “In the faces of those who had lost everything, I saw determination, hope, and the will to rebuild.” His photographs, many of which have never been exhibited before, depict villagers salvaging what they could, children attending makeshift schools on sandy beaches, and communities uniting in the face of adversity.
The exhibition is being held at The Spice Trail, a boutique hotel that stands as a testament to recovery and reinvention. Founded by Prithvi Virasinghe, the establishment emerged from the ashes of tragedy. Prithvi, a surfer and one of the early volunteers to assist in Arugam Bay, forged a connection with the locals during the relief efforts. This bond inspired him to establish The Spice Trail, which has since become a haven for travellers and surfers alike.
“The Spice Trail embodies the essence of resilience,” said Indrarajan. “It’s a place that reflects the beauty and strength of the people of Arugam Bay.”
The exhibition will run from 26 December 2024 to 26 January 2025, with proceeds supporting local community initiatives. Visitors will witness not only photographs capturing the power of nature but also powerful stories of survival, recovery, and rebirth.
As Sri Lanka reflects on the tragedy of 2004, Indrarajan’s work stands as a poignant reminder of the enduring strength of its people. “Life is full of challenges,” he reflected. “But even in the darkest moments, there is light, hope, and the opportunity to rebuild.” The exhibition promises to be a moving tribute to the resilience of the Sri Lankan people and a call to reflect on humanity’s capacity to overcome adversity.
But if the Chabad House movement’s ideology – politics, if you will – is the core issue here, why so in one place, but apparently not in another?
Mental gymnastics – something Gunasekara suggests I am guilty of indulging in – are hardly needed to appreciate the wider context here. A fair bit of media commentary on these events includes a final note to the effect that three-quarters of all Dutch Jews – many of my own relatives included – were murdered by the Nazis, mostly in concentration camps but all too many, like those Israeli and Jewish football supporters, hunted down on the streets of Amsterdam and a host of other Dutch towns and villages. It’s this history that underlies Dutch politicians’ responses to the recent violence
Tisaranee Gunasekara has been gracious enough to respond to me on the Arugam Bay controversy, and I shall do so in kind. (https://www.ft.lk/opinion/Tides-from-Colombo-to-Arugam-Bay/14-770035). Like all racism, anti-Semitism can be a shocking thing: witness this quotation, from the writings of a well-known 19th century American novelist. “The ugliest, most evil-minded people, resembling maggots when they overpopulate a decaying cheese.” – Nathaniel Hawthorne, The Marble Faun.
Amsterdam violence
When it comes to the recent football-related violence in Amsterdam, however, Tisaranee Gunasekara’s latest article suggests that she suffers from something of a tin ear in relation to anti-Semitism. In particular, she seems to be convinced that the primary source the violence that erupted on the streets of Amsterdam in the wake of Maccabi Tel Aviv’s match there earlier this month lies with their fans.
There’s no doubt that some of these so-called ‘fans’ are a deeply worrying bunch, and for all the reasons she outlines. Anybody familiar with Israeli football can confirm that the ‘Ultras’, as they’re known, routinely chant racist, anti-Arab slogans, some of them as offensive as it gets in the expletive overloaded world of soccer support, as well as demonstrating a very high propensity towards violence. Their performance in Amsterdam was clearly no exception – not least the endless repetition of the slogan ‘F*ck you Palestine’ and other related obscenities. And yes, there’s also visual evidence of some of them tearing down Palestinian flags on display in the neighbourhood.
Where Gunasekara’s account breaks down, however, is precisely at this point. Where is the display of any sense of feeling for or understanding of the other side of the story? Let’s start with one, not insignificant detail. Media accounts of events that night indicate that a number of people, Israelis and Dutch Jews alike, were asked if they were Jewish – in some instances even to show their passports – before being beaten up by local assailants (by all accounts, ‘local’ chiefly meaning men from the Moroccan immigrant community). Indeed, a BBC report indicates that two British Jews ‘saw men yelling antisemitic threats and stamping on a man’. They intervened, then eventually went to leave. Shortly after another group asked them whether they were Jewish, to which they replied that they were British. ‘But you helped the Jew’, one of them replied, ‘and he punched me in my face and broke my glasses’.
An everyday story of football-related violence? No. The ‘hit and run’ attacks on Israeli supporters subsequently perpetrated by small, motorbike gangs picking them out, Gestapo style, on the streets of Amsterdam before beating them up suggests something altogether more sinister, and organised. (Subsequent revelations of ad hoc WhatsApp and Telegram discussion groups bear out this contention). The reference to the Gestapo is not ill-considered, either. Undoubtedly, the predominantly Muslim perpetrators of these hate crimes are mostly unaware of the historical significance of their actions, which fell on the anniversary of Kristallnacht, the 1938 ‘Night of Broken Glass’, sometimes known as the night of pogroms, during which the Nazis indulged in a brutal orgy of destruction of Jewish buildings and property.
Mental gymnastics – something Gunasekara suggests I am guilty of indulging in – are hardly needed to appreciate the wider context here. A fair bit of media commentary on these events includes a final note to the effect that three-quarters of all Dutch Jews – many of my own relatives included – were murdered by the Nazis, mostly in concentration camps but all too many, like those Israeli and Jewish football supporters, hunted down on the streets of Amsterdam and a host of other Dutch towns and villages.
It’s this history that underlies Dutch politicians’ responses to the recent violence. From the Dutch king movingly insisting that ‘Jews must feel safe in the Netherlands, everywhere and at all times. We put our arms around them and will not let them go’. To Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsena’s version of the same underlying sentiment, suggesting that the violence ‘brings back memories of pogroms. Jewish culture has been deeply threatened. This is an outburst of antisemitism that I hope never to see again’. (The Guardian, 12 Nov. 2024).
Let’s be clear here. No one is suggesting that Kristallnacht and the recent violent outbursts in Amsterdam are directly synonymous. That said, it is heartening to know that in response to recent events, the Dutch authorities appear to be calling things by their proper names. Prime Minister Dick Schoof, for example, has described the events in Amsterdam as ‘anti-Semitic attacks against Israelis and Jews’ that were ‘nothing short of shocking and reprehensible’. Importantly, he acknowledged the Maccabi fan’s appalling behaviour, but described it as being of a ‘different category’ and as ‘no excuse whatsoever for what happened later on that night in attacks the attacks on Jews in Amsterdam’. (BBC 12 Nov. 2024).
A pogrom it certainly was not. Nor was it, as Gunasekara seems to imply, a simple case of Israeli fans inciting violence. A careful survey of the evidence clearly shows that there were two sides to this story, with young men filled with hate and intent on violence gathered on both sides of the fence. The truth, in other words, lies somewhere in between the historically resonant but contextually inappropriate epithet ‘pogrom’, and Tisaranee Gunasekara’s manifestly insufficient suggestion that the ‘counter-violence’ – a questionable description in itself – ‘contained traces of anti-Semitism’: a forensic analogy does little to hide the insufficiencies of the underlying analysis.
All in all, an object lesson in the dangers of ‘seeing what you want to see’, as opposed to what’s staring you in the face.
Affirming the consequent
Gunasekara takes me to task for ‘parroting an Iranian hand’ when it comes to the situation in Arugam Bay. More useful than this would have been if she had looked at the available evidence, which remains essentially unchanged. But facts have an annoying habit of upending assumptions. The fact that US intelligence over Iraq was spectacularly wrong – or ‘sexed up’, as the UK government variant of the notorious Bush/Iraq/ WMD allegations had it – in no sense implies that it will always and forever wrong thereafter.
The latest publicly available information on the allegations with respect to an Iranian plot to carry out killings in Sri Lanka focused on Arugam Bay remains as is: https://edition.-cnn.com/2024/11/08/politics/doj-charges-three-iranian-plot-to-kill-donald-trump/index.-html. And unless and until contradictory information emerges, arguments such as Gunasekara’s based on ‘affirming the consequent’ remains as logically tenuous as my philosophy professors used to insist they were.
In the same context, Gunasekara suggests that I gloss over the politics of the global Chabad movement. Not so. In fact, I state that I don’t consider the movement’s politics to be the main issue at stake in the Arugam Bay controversy – hence my lack of attention to them. On this question, moreover, Gunasekara’s argument is somewhat confusing. On the one hand, she states that the Chabad House movement’s stance on Greater Israel, Gaza, etc. is so toxic as to justify its exclusion from Arugam Bay. On the other, she readily admits that the sister house in Colombo, which I have attended on a couple of occasions, ‘has not created waves’ – hence her lack of reference to it. But if the Chabad House movement’s ideology – politics, if you will – is the core issue here, why so in one place, but apparently not in another?
Gunasekara herself supplies the answer to this apparent contradiction. According to her, it seems, the real problem is not Chabad House politics or ideology, but rather ‘creating waves’. And in the case of the Arugam Bay house of worship, those ‘waves’ have been created, not by its fanatical adherents, as is the case with the BBS and Sinhala Ravaya-dominated temples she suggests we should consider in the same breath as Chabadists, but by a US travel advisory whose origins were revisited earlier in this article. Chabadists didn’t ‘create waves’, in other words: US intelligence and a related travel advisory did.
Further, media reports from Arugam Bay in the run up to, and since the US travel advisory indicate that, far from antagonising the local majority Muslim population, the Israeli tourists who flock to the place in droves during the winter months are viewed positively in the main, not least by local businesses, who appreciate the much-needed income they are generating. And reports of occasional confrontations between Israeli tourists and locals need to be set against the local demonstration reportedly held earlier this month in support of them, complete with Israeli flags (although where those came from is anybody’s guess – the Chabad House being the obvious answer).
On the question of commemorating your war dead – one of which Sri Lankans have plenty of experience – I would seriously question Gunasekara’s contention that doing this in a foreign country is any more objectionable than doing so in your own country. And here, this year’s Tamil ‘Heroes Day’ commemorations suggest this issue is still far from being resolved within Sri Lanka itself. All in all, the old adage ‘it ain’t what you do, it’s the way that you do it’ suggests itself. If the visitors to the Chabad House in Arugam elect to honour their war dead – a normal, wholly comprehensible human urge – they should be reminded, perhaps by local authorities, to do so in a respectful, non-provocative manner.
In this context, setting up a dedicated visitor liaison unit within, say, the Foreign Ministry suggests itself, whose task would be specifically to maintain lines of communication. (I am not suggesting such a unit should deal with the vexed issue of tourists overstaying their visas and/or setting up local businesses illegally. That also requires robust action from the authorities, but in a different setting). Nor would its remit be exclusively Israeli-focused. Citizens of another country engaged in a brutal, continuing war of occupation – Russia – constitute a far larger portion of foreign visitors to this country (roughly 129,000 as against Israel’s c.30,000 so far this year) and are likewise known to engage in visa overstays and illegal business ventures. For good measure some have reportedly organised ‘Whites Only’ parties in the South, to the extent that the Russian embassy felt compelled to issue a statement earlier this year condemning ‘all forms of racial discrimination and nationalism’.
In short, behaviour worthy of critical examination – no less than that of Israeli visitors. This is unlikely to happen, however, for the same reason that that the Russian occupation of Ukraine has yet to excite sympathy and solidarity within Sri Lanka on a level even remotely comparable to Palestinians in Gaza. A friend recently explained the matter to me as follows: ‘Russians, we love, we read their books as students. We will never really criticise them. Whereas with Israelis, we see them as part of the West. So it’s open season on them.’
Freedom of religion
Gunasekara’s treatment of freedom of religion is as brusque as it is poorly informed. First the condescending – if unintentionally so – suggestion, from both her and Bishop Chickera, that Israeli visitors don’t need a synagogue or Chabad House: after all, they argue, they can pray in their own rooms. This is, to put it mildly, a somewhat high and mighty proposal: since when did outsiders get to tell the religious how they should or should not be allowed to pray? Would Gunasekara such an approach to other religious groups? I sincerely hope not. The desire to worship together is a feature of just about every known religion. What could possibly justify excluding Jews from this fundamental religious freedom?
Second, her suggestion that a constitution is ‘a covenant between the governing and governed… It doesn’t apply to tourists’ is wide off the mark. The Sri Lankan constitution provides for religious freedom as per Article 9 (foremost place of Buddhism), Article 10 (freedom of religion) and Article 14 (right to worship). These articles contain nothing to suggest that such rights apply exclusively to citizens. Indeed, a survey of legal provisions regarding religious practice clearly indicates that non-citizens as much as citizens are covered by the relevant constitutional provisions.
Thus, under the country’s constitution non-citizens enjoy the right to maintain religious institutions, although to operate them they must register formally (an issue with the Chabad House in Arugam Bay, it should be noted). All in all, when it comes to non-citizens’ exercise of religious freedom, constitutionally speaking, a balance is maintained between fundamental freedoms and official oversight of religious activity, including questions of property ownership, foreign funding and official registration.
In view of the debate this issue has given rise to, might it perhaps be time to have these freedoms spelt out clearly in the Constitution? If such an exercise were to be undertaken, it might be relevant to look at comparative regional experience. A brief survey indicates that in countries from Japan and South Korea to Malaysia, Singapore, India and Nepal, religious freedom for all is explicitly acknowledged constitutionally speaking, mostly irrespective of citizenship. Time in other words, for Sri Lanka to seek to join, not just BRICS, but this informal regional club?
(The writer is a BBC journalist, researcher and consultant. He first visited this country in the early 2000s, has been a consistent visitor ever since, and currently lives in Colombo. His next book, ‘From Independence to Aragalaya: A Modern History of Sri Lanka’ will be published by Hurst, London in autumn 2025.) source: https://www.ft.lk/columns/All-at-sea/4-770205
Dr. M.T.A. Netzband-Miller has been connected with Arugam Bay since 1977 and now lives there permanently. In this interview, he speaks about why he chose Arugam Bay to establish his tourism venture and shares insights on the potential of tourism in Sri Lanka, his adopted country.
The awesome View towards AbaY Main Surf Point. Taken from the Old Siam View Ocean Fronted location
Q: Please introduce yourself and your contribution to tourism in Sri Lanka.
I am Dr. M.T.A. Netzband-Miller; 75 years of age, who grew up in different countries. My mother was from Netherlands and my father from the Isle of Man. I grew up and studied in Kenya and Uganda.
I have been connected with Arugam Bay in Sri Lanka since 1977 and am living there permanently. I owned a hotel in Arugam Bay which was one of the oldest hotels here which got partially destroyed where the rooms and roofing were affected during the tsunami and now it is restricted to a restaurant and music as well as sports pub. The name is Old Siam View Sports and Live Music Pub. In addition I currently own the oldest hostel in Arugam Bay which has around 40 beds. Both establishments are in the same complex. My current wife and children manage them.
My mission has always been to promote this area and we did so throughout the civil war in Sri Lanka and post-tsunami years. I am the founder and administrator of a few dozen internet based groups and pages that promote Arugam Bay and its tourism.
Many of these social media promotions are in foreign languages. Most are neutral tourism based information platforms that promote Sri Lanka which is a wonderful tourism destination.
Q: Why did you choose Arugam Bay for establishing your tourism venture in this country?
In my profession as a foreign consultant I had the blessing to visit and work in 119 nations; in all the continents.
In my travel I have not experienced any other resort which – in my view – has as much potential as Arugam Bay. It is a very blessed and very special place on earth.
Even now, after 47 years I have the same feeling once I cross the AbaY Bridge into our enclave!
I consider Sri Lanka and Arugam Bay to be my home and always feel happy to be back home whenever I travel elsewhere.
Q: What are your insights on the potential of tourism in your adopted country?
In short, I can say that the potential of Arugam Bay is incredible.
I fell in love with Arugam Bay and also with my first wife – a Sri Lankan, on first sight in 1977 and we married soon after.
The nature based bounty of this nation is certainly incredible – but it needs a re-think on how to get it right in tourism strategy.
AbaY is special because of many factors:
Firstly, the weather. It hardly ever rains here. However, it is not arid, due to rivers ending here. Generally there is no rabies, no dengue, no sand flies and no COVID.
We are also many kilometres away from the next towns so no industry and no pollution.
This means that there is around 100 km unspoiled oceanfront to the south and also to the north. There are dozens of fine surf breaks and no sharks. There is amazing wildlife. Not just Kumana or Lahugala but even all around Arugam Bay.
Arugam Bay has a nice mixed community. There is no tension between residents in general. There is a great government hospital and now a state pharmacy. There are many other wonderful reasons why one should visit this part of the world.
Q: What do you see as the supporting factors as well as obstacles for tourism here in this adopted country?
The supporting factors include the amazing nature, great climate. The factors that have to be rectified include the visa issues which are a real concern and way behind many competing nations.
The court system must be improved. It takes too long and is unfair to visitors. Budget airlines should be promoted.
Mattala is a perfect location for a tourist hub and this has to be seriously thought of.
Q: In Sri Lanka there is a new fear psychosis concerning an attack in Arugam Bay. With your long experience here how do you assess this situation?
There is a total over reaction. No one here is worried. I have been talking to many foreigners here and they do not feel that their lives are under threat in anyway whatsoever. Nobody locally has been attacked. There seems to be only an overdose of rumours. It is said that there was a fear of an attack of some sort on a small Jewish community centre around 200 metres from our place. It is a premises which had chairs and tables and kitchenware to enable cooking and serving of meals. It has never been operating as far as I know as a synagogue. The military seems to be handling the situation very professionally. One thing I can say with certainty is that none of us feel we are threatened by any terror linked attack.
Q: So you reiterate that the situation is calm in Arugam Bay and safe for foreigners?
Yes. I was busy in Colombo trying to resolve a serious visa issue concerning my locally born and raised children when the news came in about a security issue in Arugam Bay.
We at once decided to return, to support their mother (home alone in AbaY).
In Colombo all warned us not to go claiming it’s dangerous.
We arrived this morning at sunrise to AbaY, our hometown.
We were totally surprised that all is calm, quiet and nobody seems to be concerned at all.
In fact most locals – and I know everyone under the age for 50 here – are unaware of what all this extra security on the street is all about. We generally feel that it is to show that this nation cares for its foreigners and we salute the Sri Lankan military for their efficiency.
Q: Could you comment on the concept of peacebuilding and tourism in this world as a whole which needs peace quite desperately?
All my life we always insisted on treating everyone with respect and without any prejudice. No matter what skin colour, religion, race or nationality.
Every human has the same hope for life to be better each day. They all care for their own family, children, wish for peace and happiness. Only twisted agendas or misguided interpretations get people to hate and fight each other.
Even now, with the increasing global conflicts we admire when so-called enemies meet, talk, find solutions and end up with a hug. My advice is to clear the mind, ignore pre-programmed opinions and give everyone a chance by listening to each other.
We demarcate persons based on countries according to global popularity or disfavour as it may be at some given point. There is now focus on Israelis. But how many of us have actually had a civilised chat with a real person from these nations? We as tourism operators do that, every day and both sides always have a point. One thing all of us humans have to remember is that two wrongs never make it right.
Arugam Bay, nestled on Sri Lanka’s southeastern coast, is famous for its world-class surf, but there’s so much more to discover beyond the waves. From October to March, this hidden gem transforms into a peaceful retreat, offering visitors tranquil beaches, stunning sunrises and sunsets, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. It’s an ideal time to experience a quieter, more serene side of this coastal haven, making it a destination that has something for everyone.
View from the only bridge connecting Arugam Bay with the rest of the island (PottuVille to AbaY)
One of the highlights of visiting Arugam Bay in this period is witnessing the mesmerising sunrises and sunsets. The eastern location offers breathtaking views as the sun rises over the Indian Ocean, casting a magical glow across the waters. Equally stunning are the sunsets, where vibrant hues of orange and purple light up the sky as the day comes to a close. These are must-see moments that add to the charm of this coastal retreat.
For those who love the outdoors, the lush green paddy fields surrounding Arugam Bay are a delight. Visitors can explore the countryside on foot or by bike, taking in the refreshing sights of coconut palms and water buffaloes ploughing the fields. It’s a chance to witness traditional Sri Lankan farming life in a landscape that feels miles away from the modern world.
Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the natural encounters with elephants in the nearby villages of Panama and Pottuvil. These majestic creatures roam freely, offering a truly authentic and unforgettable experience. Just a short trip away, Kumana National Park provides even more opportunities for wildlife lovers, with leopards and a stunning array of migratory birds waiting to be discovered.
Beyond nature, Arugam Bay offers rich cultural experiences with sites like Okanda Temple and Kudumbigala Monastery. These serene and historical landmarks provide a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s spiritual heritage, complementing the area’s natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Arugam Bay is a destination that invites you to explore its many hidden treasures.
Spinner Cycling Events, a pioneer in promoting cycling competitions in Sri Lanka, successfully concluded “Race Across Sri Lanka” on 24 and 25 August 2024 with 50 cyclists from India, Germany, South Africa, the USA, and Sri Lanka, converging to challenge themselves and each other in a breathtaking race across the country.
The winner of 2024 edition was Neoshan Durairajah of Sri Lanka for second consecutive year
1st Place: Neo Durairajah 11:47:05
2nd place: Aneesha Iddawela 12:02:36
3rd place: Mithun Liyanage 12:10:38
Agnes Safford of USA set a record for females with a timing of 15.hrs 10 minutes and 18 seconds.
The race was held over a 333 km slice of the pearl of the Indian ocean from the cosmopolitan capital of Colombo to surfers’ paradise Arugam Bay through the party city in the hills of Ella. West coast to East coast on long winding roads, hills and downhills. This race is a build up for Race The Pearl, the ultimate 24-Hour Ultra endurance race to be held on 8 December.
The organiser of the event Yasas Hewage said: “We were excited to host such a diverse group of participants for this year’s Race Across Sri Lanka. Each year, the event grows bigger, drawing more cycling enthusiasts from around the world. It’s more than a race; it’s a showcase of endurance, strategy, and the unbreakable human spirit.”
The race was part of a broader initiative by Spinner Cycling committed to promote cycling competition tourism as a sustainable mode of travel and recreation. By hosting events like, Race Across Sri Lanka and Race The Pearl, Spinner Cycling, aims to spotlight the scenic beauty and the diverse cycling terrain and richness of cycling options of Sri Lanka, encouraging more visitors and locals to explore the country on two wheels.
Race Across Sri Lanka was organised by Spinner Cycling Events BYD powered by John Keells CG Auto Ltd., the authorised distributor of BYD in Sri Lanka, as the Green Auto Partner, and Pickme as the Logistics Partner.
The East Coast of Sri Lanka, noted for its serene and beautiful beaches, attract travellers with its affordability and fewer crowds this off-season. Visa-free travel for Indian passport holders from October 1 facilitates easier visits. Highlights include Nilaveli, Pasikuda, and Arugam Bay, each offering unique adventures and cultural explorations, making it an ideal choice for Indian travellers.
With the onset of the off-season, Sri Lanka’s East Coast offers a unique appeal that combines serenity, affordability, and exclusive experiences. With the beginning of the off-season, travellers can enjoy affordable rates and peaceful surroundings, making it an ideal time to explore this hidden gem. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the East Coast of Sri Lanka promises an unforgettable experience this season.
Stunning natural beauty and serene beaches The East Coast of Sri Lanka is renowned for its breathtaking beaches that remain relatively untouched by mass tourism. The golden sands, clear turquoise waters, and palm-fringed shores create an idyllic setting for relaxation and exploration. Beaches like Nilaveli, Pasikuda, and Arugam Bay are among the best in the region, each offering something unique—whether it’s tranquil waters for swimming, vibrant coral reefs for snorkelling, or world-class waves for surfing. If you visit Sri Lanka’s east coast in September, you will get sunny beaches.
Cultural and historical riches Beyond the beaches, Sri Lanka’s East Coast is steeped in history and culture. Trincomalee, one of the main cities on the East Coast, is home to the ancient Koneswaram Temple, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s Hindu heritage. The nearby Pigeon Island National Park, with its rich marine biodiversity, adds an adventurous twist to the cultural exploration. The Batticaloa region, known for its charming lagoons and colonial forts, provides further insight into the island’s diverse history. Visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions, sample authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, and experience the warmth of the local communities.
Affordable travel and off-season benefits With the onset of the off-season, the East Coast becomes even more appealing due to the reduced crowds and the affordability it offers. From September onwards, the tourist influx decreases, leading to lower prices for accommodation, tours, and activities. This period allows travellers to enjoy the best of Sri Lanka’s East Coast without the hustle and bustle, making it a perfect time for a peaceful and budget-friendly escape. The pleasant weather, coupled with fewer tourists, ensures a more intimate and personalised experience.
Visa-free travel for Indian passport holders Starting October 1, Sri Lanka is offering visa-free travel for Indian passport holders, making it easier and more convenient than ever for Indian travellers to explore the island nation. This initiative significantly reduces travel hassles and costs, allowing more Indians to discover the wonders of Sri Lanka’s East Coast. Whether it’s a spontaneous weekend getaway or a well-planned holiday, this visa-free arrangement enhances the appeal of Sri Lanka as a top destination this season.
Must-visit destinations on Sri Lanka’s East Coast The East Coast is dotted with incredible destinations that cater to a variety of interests. Arugam Bay is a haven for surfers, drawing enthusiasts from around the world. Pasikuda Beach is ideal for families and couples looking for calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming. For history buffs, Trincomalee offers the Koneswaram Temple and Fort Frederick, along with whale-watching opportunities in its deep blue waters. Batticaloa charms visitors with its serene lagoons, while Nilaveli Beach is perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
That ever since 2001 Arugam Bay has a Super High Speed Co-Working Center?
For serious Online Workers only
Brief Statistics: Super high Speeds <300Mbps (on LAN>600Mbps) Backup Systems (= UPS & 3 Generators) Air Conditioning (Two units 12k & 24,000 BTU) Secure door Code Access (Fingerprint access, Members only) Generators (5, 15 & 100KVa) Ultra Quiet location (off the main road, but in the very center of AbaY) Ground Floor & unique Mezzanine deck (with an internal Bathroom) Highest Coconut Tree: Actually Grows inside the Coworking Space!
The Center moved a few times, to different spaces, but always within the Old Siam View Hotel premises: 1. 1998 it was a converted Bedroom, 1st. Floor (Dial-up Modem & Inmarsat Ship to shore systems) 2. 2000 It was where the new Brandis Boutique is now (SLT lease line @ 90,000 Rs./ month!) 3. 2001 onwards it was a huge Internet Cafe where the New Clear Point Supermarket is now Back then the use of the systems was totally FREE to all locals – sponsored by the Siam View 4. 2022 It became the German managed Nomads Coworking Space, Arugam Bay
5. 2023 it moved to where the former Bank of Ceylon was located (new systems)
6. 2024 It moved to the brand new Mezzanine Centre in the Portcullis Drive Way, Siam View With unmatched speeds and permanent reliablity.
Arugam Surf on Facebook. Join our 155,000+ friends!
Disclaimer
Arugam.info is a fully interactive site.
It is not moderated or censored.
Therefore, all views expressed and posted here are the opinion of the individual author.
Automatic publication on this site does not constitute endorsement with any point of view or opinion expressed.
We do wish, however, to remain:
Non Political
Non Religious
Non Violent
But we may well continue to be:
Critical of anyone who could do better
Do you like Old Arugam Bay?
Here you find any article ever written about Arugam Bay
Meet great people on our FB page
Arugam Bay:
Nobody can simply 'just'
GO TO ARUGAM !
YOU first have to EARN it.
After coming thru our jungles, Dodging Wild Elephants,
Crossing crocodile infested lagoons & rivers,
Passing Old Check Points and
Burned down Houses:
You will have a sense of achievement
When you reach remote AbaY!
Arugam.Info is a free Self-help Community page.
We attempt to publish and re-publish every article and every report ever written about our small, remote village.
The idea is to make it easy and simple for you to decide, if this is a resort for YOU.
An upcoming and most promising, beautiful Bay with a lot of untapped potential:
This is what we wish to share with you.
And try to attract you to visit us.
If you like, what you see here, join our popular Facebook Fan Club, too!
TODAY’s Comments