Unique cultural aspects highlighted

Sri Lanka Tourism signifies ‘People and Culture’ theme:

The cultural diversity of Sri Lankan people of various ethnic origins provide a unique opportunity to witness colourful array of traditions and customs celebrated around the year with avid social and communal harmony.

Considering the prominence of this aspect, Sri Lanka Tourism has named Month of April in the Visit Sri Lanka 2011 events Calendar, as the month to celebrate “People and Culture”.

The theme “people and culture” relish the chance to portray the local culture, traditional rituals and exotic pageantry unique to Sri Lanka and its people in a broad spectrum. Whatever their situation in society, the people of Sri Lanka are wellknown for their hospitality; the friendliness in welcoming guests and treating them with high respect and sincere gratitude.

People in Sri Lanka will always greet any Guest with a nice stretch of smile that embodies the warmth and sincerity rising from the bottom of their hearts. Even according to previous research and surveys done by the Sri Lanka Tourism, it was revealed that many tourists who visited the country has named that the “smile and warm hospitality of Sri Lankan people” are the most outstanding attractions of Sri Lanka, standing above both man made and natural attractions the country is endowed with.

To celebrate the theme of People and Culture, Sri Lanka tourism has lined up a series of events and activities that will highlight the unique aspects of it. Centred around “Sinhala and Tamil New Year” - the traditional dawn of the new year is celebrated by Sinhalese and Tamil- the largest communities in Sri Lanka which is considered as the major event that showcases authentic Sri Lankan culture.

New year celebration events will take place around the country starting from April 08, with the participation of most of the tourist hotels in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau together with tourism stakeholder will organize special programs that will take place in Kandy, Trincomalee, and Bentota on April 09, 16, and 23 symbolizing the communal harmony of different parts and cultures of Sri Lanka and providing an opportunity to highlighting their own unique cultures. In addition to that Sri Lanka Tourism will associate with Ibbankatuwa and Sigiirya hoteliers to conduct New Year Celebration events on April 14 and 21 expecting many tourists participate and experience our culture.

Sri Lanka Tourism won the PATA gold award for the best portrayal of authenticity of countries around the world and emphasizing the aspect of people and culture in the backdrop of the new fund freedom.

Sri Lanka Tourism will receive the award on April 11 at the grand awards ceremony that will take place in the China World Hotel during PATA’s 60th Anniversary and Conference in Beijing, China.