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About Sri Lanka - Sri Lanka Veddas (Aborigines of Sri Lanka)

Regions: hill-country
Sri Lanka Sri Lanka Veddas (Aborigines of Sri Lanka)
The Veddas are the indigenous people or the aborigines of Sri Lanka. The Veddas ethnic origin dates back to the very dawn of evolution are considered to descend from the yakkas or are related to the hunting tribe called Vettar in South India or to the Savaras of India or the Mundari people. How this is possible? According to modern archaeological findings, Sri Lanka was connected to the Indian subcontinent for the past one million years up to as recently as only 7,000 years. During this vast period, many hundreds of nomadic groups of adivasis or indigenous people must have walked across for hunting and gathering activities to the land now and island, known as Sri Lanka. Iron Age peoples, by comparison, seen to have settled in Sri Lanka about 800-1000 BC, but others say 16,000 BC. Whatever the historical and literary reference may be, it is evident that a group called Veddas have lived in the jungle solitude in Sri Lanka throughout and remained in complete isolation for 2,500 years.

Veddas Today

In the forgotten past, the Vedda country was referred to as Vedda ratta, an area of about 2400 sq. miles. The area contains the whole of the present Batticaloa District parts of Polonnaruwa, Badulla and Monaragala Districts. In a sense the great portion of the population of the Eastern part of Ceylon appears at some time or other have been called Vedda rata.

Today, Veddas are still present in Sri Lanka but in small numbers near Dambana. Dambana is a remote jungle village of indigenous people renowned for its eco tourism prospects, situated about 300km from Colombo , Sri Lanka . The population of these indigenous Vedda people now consists of only about 350 families, a number significantly reduced from a once thriving community. Today the Veddas are so influenced by the imposing dominant cultures that they risk losing their traditions and what has been their livelihood for centuries. However, government and the Sri Lankan Tourist Board are trying to protect these great people.

However, Sri Lanka Veddas are remain determined that their way of life will continue into future generations. Visitors to this fascinating village have the opportunity to meet and chat with the people who live there, learn about their traditions, and gain a unique insight into their way of life.

Vedda Culture and Traditions

In the Vedda hunting community, in almost all their religious rites the arrow (dart, lance, Vel) takes the central role. The arrow or kanai is the predecessor of the lance or Vel. The forms of arrow used by them are of two types, the ordinary hunting arrow and the long bladed, short handled ritual arrow or the Āyudha. The arrows are about 3ft long and are headed with a sharp iron bit nearly six inches long and an inch wide. These arrows vary greatly in the size of their steelhead, Vedda arrows are wider near the stem. Worship takes the form of dancing and singing. It is directed by a priest usually called Kapura it is possible that there is another older name, referring to them which may have been recorded. The dancer becomes often inspired into ecstatic frenzy. An arrow is thrust on the ground and the Vedda dances around it in high frenzy with the ceremonial arrow in hand and hair let down. His offering are coconut, betel leaf, araconut and cooked rice. The arrow dance the simplest of the Vedda dance is performed imploring good luck in hunting or when a spell of ill luck has attended. Vedda boys learn archery from an early age even today.

Learn more about Sri Lanka Veddas at
http://www.vedda.org/

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Sri Lanka Veddas (Aborigines of Sri Lanka) Tours

 
Sri Lanka Mini Cultural Heritage Tour and Beach HolidaySri Lanka Mini Cultural Heritage Tour and Beach Holidayfrom £959 
Discover the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka inclding Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Tour, The Royal City of Kandy Tour, Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage with time on the beach to relax at the end of your trip.

Sri Lanka Mini Colonial Tour and Beach HolidaySri Lanka Mini Colonial Tour and Beach Holidayfrom £879 
Discover the colonial past of Sri Lanka in this unique tour while staying at some of the finest colonial style hotels. Tour includes The Royal City of Kandy Tour, Nuwara Eliya Tour, Capital Colombo Tour and Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage plus time on the beach to relax at the end of your trip.

Sri Lanka Mini Cultural Triangle and Wildlife Tour and Beach HolidaySri Lanka Mini Cultural Triangle and Wildlife Tour and Beach Holidayfrom £989 
Discover the world renowned Cultural Triangle and the wild life of Sri Lanka in this tour while staying at some of the finest hotels. Tour includes Anuradhapura Ancient City Tour, Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Caves, The Royal City of Kandy Tour, Peradeniya Botantical Gardens, Minneriya National Park, Negombo Village Tour, and Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage plus time on the beach to relax at the end of your trip.

Sri Lanka Mini Central Highlands Tour and Beach HolidaySri Lanka Mini Central Highlands Tour and Beach Holidayfrom £939 
Marvel at the spectacular scenery, history, archaeological sites, tea plantations and so much more in this very special mini tour incorporating all the best highlights that Sri Lanka’s highlands has to offer. You will be staying at some of the finest hotels that gives the spirit of this holiday but still retain the modern comforts.

Sri Lanka Luxury Heritage Tour and Beach HolidaySri Lanka Luxury Heritage Tour and Beach Holidayfrom £1379 
Discover the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka with luxury inclding Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Tour, The Royal City of Kandy Tour, Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage with time on a luxurous beach to relax at the end of your trip.

Sri Lanka Cultural Heritage Tour and Madilves Meedhupparu HolidaySri Lanka Cultural Heritage Tour and Madilves Meedhupparu Holidayfrom £1599 
Discover the tranquil Maldives and the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka inclding Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Tour, The Royal City of Kandy Tour, Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage.

Sri Lanka Cultural Heritage Tour and Maldives Hudhuranfushi HolidaySri Lanka Cultural Heritage Tour and Maldives Hudhuranfushi Holidayfrom £1479 
Discover the tranquil Maldives and the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka inclding Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Tour, The Royal City of Kandy Tour, Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage.

Sri Lanka Royal Kingdom Tour and Beach HolidaySri Lanka Royal Kingdom Tour and Beach Holidayfrom £1009 
Discover the cultural past that dates back to the 5th century BC and the proud history of Sri Lanka. This unique holiday will take you to the most prominent historical ancient royal kingdoms in Sri Lanka give time to experience Sri Lanka's charming people, culture and diverse landscape. You will be staying at some of the finest hotels that give the sprit of this holiday but still retaining the modern comforts.

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Sri Lanka Kandy Evening Cultural Dance ShowKandy Evening Cultural Dance ShowKandyhill country
 In the late evening be escorted to a performance of the energetic traditional Kandyan Cultural Dance show, accompanied by tumultuous drumming and climaxes with the amazing fire-walking show.
 

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Sri Lanka Polonnaruwa Ancient City TourPolonnaruwa Ancient City TourPolonnaruwaancient cities
 Polonnaruwa ancient city remains one of the best planned archaeological relic sites in the country, standing testimony to the discipline and greatness of the Kingdom's first rulers. The ancient city of Polonnaruwa has been declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.
 

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"Cheap Tours and Holidays in Sri Lanka - We have a secret to share about how you can get a great Sri Lanka holidays deals. Never heard of Sri Lanka? You should know about it. It's a stunning tropical island in the Indian ocean. You can find some cheap Sri Lanka package holidays and tours on the lovely island, with reefs and white sandy beaches and crystal blue water. Not a lot of people know about the luxury tours and holiday villas Sri Lanka has to offer. Would you prefer a tailor made tour or package holiday to Sri Lanka? That way everything is taken care of so you can enjoy cheap holidays in Sri Lanka. The all inclusive holidays in Sri Lanka include hotels and flights and we provide the information you need on the island and how to book your vacation. A tailor made tour of Sri Lanka or package holiday to Sri Lanka always starts with what you want to do on your holiday at the island. Are you simply looking to get away with cheap holidays in Sri Lanka? 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We are UK and Sri Lanka based independent tour operators that have been creating Sri Lanka tours for individual traveller since 1985. We are 'small enough' to ensure that most of our clients leave as friends, but larger enough to give you financial protection for your Sri Lanka holidays through ATOL. Our Holidays to Sri Lanka do NOT support large noisy groups, nor 'conveyor belt tourism', where large groups are pushed through a rigid itinerary devoid of spontaneity to make money. Instead, we promote Sri Lanka tours to individuals, couples, families, friends and small private groups. Sri Lanka is not a small island and its landscape is diverse. Sri Lanka has no motorways - driving 60 miles in certain parts of the island could easily take 2-3 hours. Sri Lanka is multicultural and multi religious so there are many festivals and public holidays every month. Taking all this into consideration, touring Sri Lanka has to be done through carefully planned. When planning tours to Sri Lanka, try not to over-load your schedule. When touring in Sri Lanka, try to stay two nights if possible. Also, inform us of any special interests you may have such as bird watching, architecture etc... So that we can incorporate these into your Sri Lanka Tour. Together with our expert knowledge about Sri Lanka we can really help you to plan the perfect itinerary for your dream holidays to Sri Lanka. We have some suggested Sri Lanka holidays, click here to get some ideas on touring Sri Lanka or see our Escorted Sri Lanka Tours. Click here to create your tailor made holiday to Sri Lanka or give us a call and have a chat with us to create a personalised holiday to Sri Lanka – call 0208 099 9651. Sri Lanka is not just famous for its beaches but also for its seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, twelve protected national wildlife parks, Buddhist cave temples, tea plantations, ancient cities, stunning waterfalls, gem mines and more. Also, Sri Lanka is not a small island and its landscape is diverse. Sri Lanka has no motorways - driving 60 miles in certain parts of the island could easily take 2-3 hours. Sri Lanka is multicultural and multi religious so there are many festivals and public holidays every month. Taking all this into consideration, when booking a holiday to Sri Lanka makes sure you book with someone who knows about Sri Lanka. travelSrilank.co.uk is both Europe and local based, independently managed company. We are 'small enough' to ensure that most of our clients leave as friends but large enough to have ATOL for your financial protection. Whether it's a Sri Lanka beach holiday or tailor made holiday for individuals, couples, families, friends and small private groups, we have the expertise and experience since 1985. If you and your family come on tour with us; it will be only you and your family! We can craft a private custom Sri Lanka holiday just for you. We have local representation. Who better to organize your tours than the locals? All our staff is Sri Lanka born and bred and they passionate about showing rest of the world what Sri Lanka has to offer. Get the best from your Sri Lanka trip; whether it is expert local tips, introduction to little known Sri Lanka hotels, insight to local culture and customs or necessary contacts. That can only come from the people who live here! Together with our expert knowledge about Sri Lanka we can really help you to plan the perfect itinerary for your dream holiday to Sri Lanka. We have some suggested Sri Lanka holiday itineraries, click here to get some ideas on touring Sri Lanka or see our Escorted Sri Lanka Tours. Click here to create your tailor made holiday to Sri Lanka or give us a call and have a chat with us to create a personalised holiday to Sri Lanka – call 0208 099 9651. We are IATA accredited travel agent so that we have authority to issue airline tickets on most of the major airlines that travel to Sri Lanka. Until recently Sri Lanka's main way of getting around is by a vehicle or private helicopter. You can reserve seats through travelSrilanka.co.uk and arrange for your driver to follow the train with your luggage so you don't have to worry about hauling it all on board. Climatically speaking, the best time to go to Sri Lanka is the driest seasons in Sri Lanka which is from December to March for the west coast, the south coast and the Hill Country, and from April to September for the ancient cities region and the east coast. But last few years, as same as rest of the world, the weather patterns in Sri Lanka have change significantly. So be ready to experience dry weather during the rainy season and vice versa. Great thing about Sri Lanka weather is even when it is clouded over its still hot and getting tanned. When the rain comes, majority of time it's only for couple hours and then the sun shines – this gives a cool breeze and a tropical feeling which is magical. Sri Lanka's climate means that it is always the 'right' beach season somewhere on the coast. But today, Sri Lankan Airlines has introduced Air Taxi to Bentota, Koggala, Dickwella, Kandy and Ampara. Currently there are schedule flights to Bentota, Koggala and Dickwella only. It is possible to rent a car in Sri Lanka but we advise against it as the roads are poor and the driving conditions challenging. Moreover, it is very economical to hire a driver in Sri Lanka, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the journey. Our tourist board approved English speaking drivers and not just drivers, they are qualified guides who possess an extensive knowledge of the country enabling them to double up as tour guides. We offer several vehicle types to hire in Sri Lanka for your convenience: a saloon car ideal for 2-3 people; a mini-van ideal for 4-6 people or a 4WD jeep for a more comfortable experience. Also, many of our customers enjoy doing part of their tour by train. 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The wet season turns the northern countryside lush green with tropical vegetation and the vibrant colours can make this a wonderful time to visit despite the rain. Inter-Monsoon brings rain and thunderstorms to south and central areas during September and November. Flying to Sri Lanka is relatively easy. There are many flights to Sri Lanka daily. There are direct flights to Sri Lanka from London Heathrow daily on Sri Lanka national carrier Sri Lankan Airlines. Other flights to Sri Lanka from the UK is offered by Kuwait Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airlines, Qatar Airways, Jet Airways, Gulf Airways, Royal Jordanian, Saudi Arabian Airways, and Oman Airways. These flights are flying via Middle East, Maldives or India. There are flights to Sri Lanka from majority of the UK airports. You can get cheap flights to Sri Lanka from London Heathrow and Gatwick, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness and Belfast. Flights to Sri Lanka from Ireland can be taken from Dublin, Galways, and Waterford via London Heathrow. We are one of the largest flights travel agents to Sri Lanka since 1985. We can book your flights to Sri Lanka. "