Bio-diversity Archives - Ditto Travels

Embark on a Wild Safari Adventure in Sri Lanka with Ditto Travels

dhanu — Sat, 21 Dec 2024 09:24:00 +0000

Sri Lanka, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” boasts a rich tapestry of wildlife and natural beauty. For grade 10 students eager to explore the wonders of the animal kingdom, a wild safari in Sri Lanka offers an educational and exhilarating experience.

Embark on a Sri Lankan Safari: Discover the Wild

Ditto Travels

Despite its small size Sri Lanka boasts of one of the highest rates of biological endemism in the world whether in plants or animals and is included among the top five biodiversity hotspots in the world. Of the ninety-one species of mammals found in Sri Lanka Asian elephants, sloth bear, leopards, sambar and wild buffaloes engages the majority of the attention of wildlife enthusiast. Yet the rarest mammals of Sri Lanka are the red slender Loris, Toque Macaque, and Purple-faced Langur, who according to IUCN clarifications are endangered due to habitat loss.

Meanwhile the ocean around Sri Lanka is home to large families of cetaceans including the mighty blue whales, sperm whales and lively dolphins. Altogether 26 species of cetaceans rule the waters surrounding the country, making it one of the best locations for whale and dolphin watching.

Despite the mighty elephants and rare amphibians found in the country birds are the glory of the Sri Lanka’s wildlife. Boasting nearly 433 bird species of which 233 are resident Sri Lanka holds 20 endemic species while another 80 species have developed distinct Sri Lankan races, compared to their cousins in Indian mainland.

Although less celebrated, Sri Lanka has one of the richest diversity of amphibians in the world, containing over 106 species of amphibians of over 90 of which are endemic. The country has long claimed to have the highest amphibian species density in the world with a high concentration in the Sinharaja rainforest.

Diverse National Parks

Sri Lanka is home to numerous national parks, each offering unique ecosystems and wildlife encounters. Here are some of the most notable ones:

Yala National Park
Renowned for having one of the highest leopard densities globally, Yala provides opportunities to spot these elusive big cats, along with elephants, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species.

Udawalawe National Park
Famous for its large herds of elephants, Udawalawe is an ideal location to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Minneriya National Park
Every year, Minneriya witnesses “The Gathering,” where hundreds of elephants congregate near the Minneriya Tank, offering a spectacular sight for visitors.

Wilpattu National Park
Known as the “Land of Lakes,” Wilpattu’s numerous natural lakes attract a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species.

Kaudulla National Park
Home to approximately 350 wild elephants, Kaudulla offers jeep safaris where visitors can also encounter sloth bears, leopards, and a multitude of bird species.

Educational Value

Participating in a safari provides students with firsthand insights into:

Biodiversity: Understanding the variety of species that inhabit different ecosystems.

Conservation Efforts: Learning about the importance of protecting endangered species and their habitats.

Ecological Balance: Observing predator-prey relationships and the roles various animals play in the environment.

Travel Tips with Ditto Travels

Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from February to October, is ideal for wildlife spotting as animals gather around water sources.

What to Bring: Binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, and comfortable clothing are essential for a rewarding safari experience.

Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from animals, avoid making loud noises, and never feed the wildlife to ensure their safety and yours.

Book Your Tour !!!

The post Embark on a Wild Safari Adventure in Sri Lanka with Ditto Travels appeared first on Ditto Travels.

Ella: Discover the Enchanting Hill Country of Sri Lanka with Ditto Travels

dhanu — Sun, 05 May 2024 02:46:45 +0000

Nestled in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, Ella Sri Lanka is a picturesque town renowned for its lush landscapes, tea plantations, and serene ambiance. At an elevation of approximately 1,041 meters above sea level, Ella offers a cool respite from the tropical heat, making it a favored destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

The area has a rich bio-diversity, dense with numerous varieties of flora and fauna. Ella Sri Lanka is surrounded by hills covered with cloud forests and tea plantations. The town has a cooler climate than surrounding lowlands, due to its elevation. The Ella Gap allows views across the southern plains of Sri Lanka. On a sunny morning, you can even see the glow from the lighthouses along the southern coast.

Experience the Magic of Ella: Where Nature's Beauty Meets Adventure

Ditto Travels

By rail. Ella’s a few stops from Badulla at the end of the railway line that snakes through the Hill Country. Trains go to Colombo and Kandy from here. The fares are ludicrously cheap in 2nd and 3rd class, and the views spectacular. It’s usually no problem getting a seat in 2nd/3rd class going to Colombo or Kandy, as the trains from Badulla are quite empty until reaching Nanu Oya. However the reverse is true going up to Ella and it can be quite crowded until the last 2 or 3 hours of the journey. Ella’s railway station itself is prettily quaint. there are many travelers who visit ella by train.

The climate throughout most of the year is typical of the high Hill Country, with a hot sun by midday, but a moderate air temperature. It will often rain in the afternoon, but only for an hour or so. A sweatshirt, or light jacket is needed at night. In December it can rain a lot!.

Geographical Significance

Ella’s strategic location provides breathtaking views of verdant valleys, mist-covered mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The town’s proximity to natural attractions makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding hill country.

Key Attractions

Nine Arch Bridge: Also known as the ‘Bridge in the Sky,’ this architectural marvel, constructed during the British colonial period, stands amidst dense jungle and tea plantations. It’s a popular spot for photography, especially when trains pass over the bridge.

Ella Rock: A moderately challenging hike leads to the summit of Ella Rock, offering panoramic views of the countryside. The journey through tea estates and eucalyptus forests is as rewarding as the vista at the top.

Little Adam’s Peak: Named for its resemblance to the sacred Adam’s Peak, this shorter trek is accessible and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The path winds through tea plantations, making it a scenic and educational hike.

Ravana Falls: One of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, Ravana Falls is steeped in local legend and offers a refreshing spot for visitors. The cascading waters are especially impressive during the rainy season.

Cultural Insights

Ella is surrounded by rich biodiversity and is home to several tea plantations, reflecting Sri Lanka’s colonial history and its significance in the global tea industry. Visitors can tour these plantations to learn about tea cultivation and processing.

Travel Tips with Ditto Travels

Best Time to Visit: Ella enjoys a mild climate year-round, but the period from January to May is considered ideal for clear skies and pleasant temperatures.

Transportation: The train journey to Ella, especially from Kandy, is famed for its scenic beauty, passing through rolling hills and lush greenery. Ditto Travels can assist in booking train tickets and arranging guided tours to enhance your experience.

Accommodation: A range of lodging options is available, from budget guesthouses to boutique hotels, many offering stunning views of the surrounding hills. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Book Your Tour !!!

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