Colombo

Day 1 in Colombo. Sorry to tell you ,who are suffering with cold or rain, it is sunny, warm and not too humid.

We had planned on a quiet walk to see the old Parliament House, old clock tower(used to be a lighthouse for the area) and the train station. All historical buildings.

No trains today as there is a strike and lots of people have arrived. They are now making other arrangements.

So as you can see, we did see some of the things we planned…,now for the things we didn’t plan. We were talked into going on a Tuk tuk ride to Gangaramaya Temple as once a year all its rooms are open.

There is also 3 Ruby Buddhas, jewel encrusted Buddhas and an enormous blue sapphire crown.   

After our visit, people we met all wanted us to go as they couldn’t. You have to be quick don’t you or they will organise transport for you. It’s the green tuk tuk you want not the others. It turned into an expensive trip as we had to go via a gem seller and charged accordingly. I think we were warned about this system but we weren’t quick enough recognising it.Did you buy anything? Earrings, necklace or a ring. The Buddhas were beautiful. They had been gifted many treasures and items of interest including some cars from the 1900’s. Did you like the costumes on the dancers ? They were quite intricate.

Driving in Colombo is a nightmare. There are two lanes but you might have 3 vehicles using it all. The noise is deafening as they honk , brmmm, and the tuk tuk makes it’s distinctive sound. Pedestrians beware as they may not stop for you.

Another day tomorrow with lots to see. Catch up on your beauty sleep after the long plane trip yesterday and I will join you for breakfast in the morning.