N’Eliya gears for festive season

by P. Rajaratnam in Nuwara Eliya

Elaborate arrangements are being made by the New Mayor of Nuwara Eliya Mahinda Kumara, along with the Nuwara Eliya April Festivities Committee, the Municipal Council and leading sports clubs, hotels and the Sri Lanka Tourist Board to provide one of the most colourful April seasons for the large holiday crowds, both locals and foreigners, who are expected in Nuwara Eliya during April.

Mayor Kumara, a leading hotelier and an eco-tourism expert, said Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa has provided him with Rs. 60 million towards the development of the Lake Gregory area and its roadways.

He said the Minister is keen that Nuwara Eliya Tourist Resort is made into an internationally reputed resort and that Municipal Council had been advised to take all measures towards achieving the targets. Lake Gregory is presently one of the most attractive areas among tourists, both local and foreign with the introduction of sea planes from Colombo and other destinations.

Work is also under way by some Kerala House Boat builders towards the completion of two house boats with all modern facilities, especially for honeymooners and foreign tourists. One of the house boats is expected to be ready soon towards the April festivities season.

Leading hoteliers, guest house keepers and others engaged in tourism have been advised to get ready to meet the demands of holiday makers expected during the April festivities.

Mayor Mahinda Kumara said the Council will provide seasonal attractions, fun and frolic for the old and the young during April with annual flower shows, motor racing fiestas, carnivals, sports events, golfing and the annual tennis meet organised by the Colonial Hill Club.