Cinnamon expands short-stay Colombo tourist to-do list – The Island

By Sanath Nanayakkara

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts has expanded the must-do list of tourists staying in Colombo by allowing them to enjoy the nature trails of Colombo within a few hours.

A renowned leisure brand in Sri Lanka has roped in 14 professional naturalists for the task to guide tourists on a fascinating journey and share their local knowledge with them.

Cinnamon Nature Trails, the wildlife and nature tourism arm of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, has carefully crafted this project to fill a void in the market as many tourists arriving in Colombo on short notice wonder what they can do after shopping/business/other affairs. Or while in transit in Colombo.

Chitral Jayatilaka, Vice President of Cinnamon Nature Trails said, “We bring our expertise in enriching the experience of Colombo to the bustling metropolis of Colombo. With our carefully designed excursions, we aim to redefine urban adventure, inviting travelers closer to our natural habitats in and around Colombo, allowing them to enjoy and appreciate the beauty and charm of our surroundings in Colombo.

“Cinnamon Nature Trails brings years of experience working with prestigious production companies such as BBC Natural History Productions, Not GeoWild and BBC Studios for BBC Planet Earth 3 on wildlife documentaries. This expansion in Colombo marks a milestone in redefining Colombo's identity from a transit point to a vibrant exploration point.

We are delighted to embark on these hand-picked excursions that promise an unforgettable experience through the heart of Colombo, from vibrant markets to tranquil nature reserves. Whether a visitor or traveler engages in a historical exploration, uncovering the city's diversity or finding a successful route, these unique experiences reveal the essence of Colombo as more than just a transit destination. With tourism on the rise and international travelers craving new experiences, these bundled experiences will not only boost guest accommodation but also help position Colombo as a destination that offers more to travelers, said the Area Vice President. Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts for Colombo Hotels, Kamal Munasinghe.

Five urban ecotourism experiences offered by Cinnamon Nature Trails include:

Zookeeper of the Day: Delve deeper into the inner workings of a zoo with an exclusive experience that goes beyond the ordinary visit.

Birdwatching in the Wetlands: Just minutes from the hustle and bustle of Colombo city, explore the diversity of birds that thrive in the nearby waterways and wetlands.

Tree Walk in the Heart of the City: Uncover hidden gems within the gardens of a major cathedral, boasting a remarkable collection of rare and valuable trees – just a stone's throw from the urban environment.

Spiritual Colombo: Immerse yourself in the serenity of the religious monuments located in the heart of Colombo, reflecting Sri Lanka's diverse religious scene. Street Photography: Step into the vibrant heart of a bustling Asian metropolis, where the symphony of street life creates a mesmerizing cacophony.