Travel to Sri Lanka

On Tuesday, 13th August, at 9:00 pm, we began our journey from the headquarters of Bangladesh Scouts. A microbus was arranged to take us to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. After completing immigration at 11:30 pm, we rested in the lounge for two hours. At 2:15 am, our flight departed, and after about three hours, we landed safely at Bandaranaike Airport in Sri Lanka at 5:30 am.

We were warmly received by Scout Commissioner Samila Kumara, who escorted us to Kings Bay Hotel. After six hours of rest at the hotel, our Cubs enjoyed swimming in the pool with great excitement and joy. The hotel was close to Brown’s Beach, but we did not visit the beach as it was considered dangerous.

Our team consisted of nine members: two teachers, one contingent leader, one unit leader, and five Cubs. We carried all important documents along with extra money for expenses. At 2:00 pm, we enjoyed a delicious lunch of chili chicken and fried rice.

The 14th National Cuboree of Sri Lanka was held in Anuradhapura, about 200 kilometers from Bandaranaike Airport. It took nearly five hours for us to reach there. The Sri Lankan Scouts had arranged a cottage for us, about 10 kilometers away from the main arena, where we stayed for three days.

The opening ceremony began at 5:00 pm, where the Chief Commissioner of Sri Lanka Scouts and the Commissioner of the World Scout Organization delivered inspiring speeches. Later in the evening, the famous “Red Flower Day” (Tabujalsa) was celebrated. Cub leaders entertained the Cubs with songs and dances, while the Cubs also performed dressed as Mowgli. A Sri Lankan band performed at night, making the entire evening delightful.

The second day was full of little adventures and challenges. There were 12 challenges in total, all of which our Cubs successfully completed. An exhibition was also held that day.

On the third day, from 8:00 am, a grand display program began. Sri Lankan Cubs formed 257 teams, each representing a nation through colorful costumes, flags, and themes. The display lasted for about four hours, and the audience applauded enthusiastically. Our Bangladeshi Cubs presented a patriotic dance to a national song, wearing red and green dresses while holding the national flag. Their performance was mesmerizing and won everyone’s admiration.

On 18th August, after the program ended, we left for the city of Negombo at 8:00 am on a large air-conditioned Navy bus, arranged for the Maldives and Bangladesh contingents. By noon, we returned to our hotel, had lunch, and rested for a few hours. Later, we departed for Bandaranaike Airport. At 9:00 pm, our flight took off for Bangladesh, and at 1:00 am, we arrived safely in Dhaka.

Sri Lanka is truly a beautiful country in South Asia, known for its beaches, green hills, and clean environment. The houses were neat and well-decorated, and the people were polite and cultured. This journey gave us many wonderful experiences that will remain in our hearts forever.

I am deeply grateful to Bangladesh Scouts for arranging such a memorable trip.

— Koly kona Deb

Head Teacher

Rahamatganj Government Primary School, Lalbagh, Dhaka

16/08/2025