All Our Bags Are Packed!

 Blog # 12 -  Sri Lanka # 2 - Colombo and Rural Areas

      We were startled to see such an ornate Hindu temple complex

         It must have taken "years" to design and build this temple

Our guide indicated it would take "a very long time" to explain the significance of each figurine

It appears that more people attend/pray at Hindu, Buddhist and Moslem temples than at "Western" religious institutions.

From our perspective, temple decorations are also a form of art as well as religious significance.

                       This place goes on and on and on...

It appears there is "significance" when worshippers "draw" symbols on the ground next to the temple 

Often, locals appreciate visitors showing and interest as well as taking pictures of them. Jerry photographed quite a few individuals and families...all barefoot in order to enter the temple.

Happy Elephant - Happy Arlene

The breaking news in Goa was a leopard was seen walking through the town. Here, in the rural parts of Sri Lanka, it's quite common for lions, tigers, leopards and elephants to trespass onto farmlands and the outskirts of the towns...we didn't see one.

Much like China's Xian Warriors with each soldier having a different appearance, these monk statues also have unique and individual features

Within miles of each other (or less) it's possible to visit temples from all the Asian religions.

This carving depicts one of the many historical battles occurring in this area 

               Back in town: Does anyone need a floormat?

   The town is preparing to build/expand the port's breakwater area

                         Our "ocean" home for three weeks

We could spend hours (and we did) watching all of the port activity

Looking at the people below provides a better perspective of the massive size of the container handling equipment

Arlene is about midway between the dock below and the crane above

The executive chef inspects quality and taste of local fruits and veggies designated for the next part of the cruise. It turned out that a significant amount of the delivery was rejected due to "poor quality."

Much like India, Sri Lanka drivers pass slow-moving vehicles even if there is an oncoming vehicle in the other lane

Tuk-tuk taxis are lined up waiting for passengers

The lengthy touring hours, traffic and high temperatures segue to a relaxed evening and quiet Asian dining