This is a story of 3 chapters, documented along a series of getaways to Sri Lanka throughout the fall of 2018.

Chapter 1 depicts the lives and livelihoods of Sri Lankan people. Merchants at heart, making their living on the vibrant neighbourhoods of Colombo. Streets full of colours, hustle and bustle displayed by the different shophouses and artisans (predominantly men for cultural reasons), running their day to day trades for a living.

Chapter 2 entails a railway journey right at the core of the country through the heart of the jungle. Starting with an overnight car ride from Colombo to Kandy to catch the first morning train heading ways to Ella. Dubbed by some as the world's most scenic train route, this is a full day trip through thick dense vegetation and steep mountains. The journey as the destination. Something puzzling to explain to locals though - conveying the idea that all you wanted to do was to take the twelve hour train, only to head back overnight once done.

Chapter 3 takes us up to the center part of the country to hike the summit of Sigiriya rock boulder. A giant formation smack in the middle of the jungle, sticking out in the landscape just as a sore thumb, and known by locals due to its religious associations and mysticisms of such an outstanding geological artifact. A packed day trip out from Colombo, still with some spare time to try out the Ceylon delights served at the locals houses and enjoy the sunset in good company of giant friends at Minneriya and Kaudulla nature reserves.

A final remark and word of sympathy to the Sri Lankan people, for the genuine warmth and open hearted hosting with which I was received.