The Southwest Monsoon in Sri Lanka: A Vital Climate Phenomenon-by Kalani-eLanka The Southwest Monsoon, known locally as the “Yala” season, is a significant climatic event in Sri Lanka, influencing the weather, agriculture, and daily life across the island. Typically active from May to September, the Southwest Monsoon brings substantial rainfall, particularly to the southwestern and central regions of the country. This seasonal wind pattern is driven by the complex interplay of atmospheric pressures, ocean temperatures, and geographical features. The Southwest Monsoon originates from the Indian Ocean, where the intense summer heat causes air over the land to rise, creating a low-pressure area. Meanwhile, the high-pressure area over the cooler ocean drives moist air from the southwest towards the land. As this moisture-laden air encounters the island’s topography, particularly the central highlands, it cools and condenses, resulting in heavy rainfall. Sri Lanka’s diverse topography plays a crucial role in determining the ...

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Exploring Sri Lanka’s Scenic Splendor: A Journey on the Podi Manike Express Train-by Kalani-eLanka Step aboard the Podi Manike Express Train, where every moment is a picturesque adventure through the heart of Sri Lanka. This enchanting locomotive, named after the “Little Maiden” of Sri Lankan folklore, embarks on a mesmerizing journey from the bustling Colombo Fort Station to the serene destination of Badulla. Covering approximately 300 kilometers, this route is not merely a commute but a captivating odyssey through some of the island’s most stunning landscapes. The allure of the Podi Manike Express Train lies in its scenic route, which traverses verdant tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls. However, it’s the stretch from Nanuoya to Ella that truly steals the show. As the train winds its way through this breathtaking terrain, passengers are treated to panoramic views of lush valleys, emerald-green tea estates, and towering peaks cloaked in ethereal ...

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SRI LANKA NEWS (JULY  2023)  Compiled by Victor Melder. Sri Lanka›s tourism industry continues to thrive as arrivals have exceeded 600,000, showcasing the resilience and appeal of the country as a travel destination.  Despite being the off-peak season, the daily average of tourist arrivals has shown remarkable improvement, exceeding 3,200 visitors. This upward trend in tourist footfall further underscores the growing interest in Sri Lanka as a preferred destination among global travelers. During the first 26 days of the month, 84,003 visitors have arrived in the country, with only 3,518 arrivals required to achieve the monthly target of 87,521. “The surpassing of the 600,000 tourist arrival milestone signifies the resilience of Sri Lanka›s tourism sector and its ability to bounce back from the challenges faced in recent years. It is a testament to the concerted efforts made to revitalize the industry, showcasing Sri Lanka›s immense potential as a top travel ...

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Lessons Learned from the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture & Thereon – by Noor Rahim It was in February 1968 that I had the privilege and pleasure of meeting with the Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture – University of Ceylon (Peradeniya Campus). He was a part of the Team that accompanied the Prime Minister of Ceylon, the Hon. Mr. Dudley Senanayake, at the inauguration of the “Green (agricultural) Revolution” that was being inaugurated in the Amparai District; in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. I believe the Dean of the Agricultural Faculty was Professor Peter Seneviratne.     The Dean arrived early at the Airport at Amparai; and informed us that the Prime Minister was held up at a Political Rally; and would be arriving later on. It was at this juncture that I thought of striking up a conversation with him; on the agricultural system in Sri Lanka. Thus, I ...

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