The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Ottawa facilitated the launch of a Culinary Safari from Canada to Sri Lanka aimed to promote tourism and Sri Lankan cuisine, on 17 & 18 of December 2024. The Culinary Safari, which will take travellers from the city of Montreal in Canada to Sri Lanka, is scheduled to commence on 23 February 2025 and end on 06 March 2025.
Executive Chef of the Regina Exhibition Association Limited, Chaminda Ambagaspitiya who is a Sri Lankan residing in Canada, and Founder of Wingell Hospitality Group, Donald Wingell have partnered with the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Ottawa and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau in launching the Culinary Safari. The programme was launched at the Dhruvees Restaurant owned by the Wingell Hospitality Group.
The exclusive culinary experience will be led by Chef Chaminda Ambagaspitiya, providing participants with an opportunity to explore the vibrant and diverse flavours of Sri Lankan cuisine while immersing themselves in the island's rich culinary heritage and culture. Chef Chaminda will guide participants through hands-on experience, sharing insights into Sri Lankan cooking techniques, the use of aromatic spices, and the stories behind iconic dishes tracing back to days of the kings of Sri Lanka.
The Culinary Safari will feature a carefully curated itinerary, including visits to Bentota, Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Sigiriya and Colombo, offering the participants an opportunity to experience local markets, take part in cooking classes, cultural tours, and dine at some of Sri Lanka’s finest establishments.
Addressing the gathering at the launch event, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Canada, U.L. Mohammed Jauhar, stated that the High Commission was pleased to be a partner of the initiative. “Given Canada's status as home to some of the finest Sri Lankan chefs and the growing global interest in Sri Lankan cuisine, we at the High Commission believe this initiative has significant potential for those food enthusiasts seeking unique experiences in an exotic location like Sri Lanka”, he added. Further, he appreciated Chef Chaminda Ambagaspitiya and Donald Wingell for their passion and dedication in making the project a reality.
The two-day event at Dhruvees Restaurant showcased a special menu designed to reflect Sri Lanka’s unique culinary fusion, influenced by centuries of diverse cultural traditions. Diners were treated to a tantalizing array of dishes, highlighting the island’s rich flavours and fresh ingredients.
The launch event was attended by members of the diplomatic corps, journalists, members of the travel and hospitality industry, food critics and well-wishers. Guests expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, applauding the opportunity to discover Sri Lanka’s culinary treasures firsthand.
Chef Chaminda Ambagaspitiye is known for his exceptional culinary expertise and dedication to promoting Sri Lankan flavours on the global stage, and he brings over two decades of experience to this initiative.
A dedicated webpage for the Culinary Safari to Sri Lanka tour is available at https://chamindaambagaspitiye.com/ providing detailed information about the itinerary, tour inclusions, and booking options, making it easier for interested participants to plan their culinary adventure. More information could also be obtained by contacting the Dhruvees Restaurant at +16137447888.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
Ottawa
20 December 2024
