The shape of the island of Sri Lanka resembles. Sri Lanka: Ceylon tea and lots of fun. Useful information for tourists

“Sri Lanka is a unique world where, in a small area, there is such a diversity of cultures, landscapes and climatic zones that you cannot find even in countries whose territory is ten times larger.”

Sir Arthur Clarke

Autumn has come. The rays of the last autumn sun are flickering outside the windows, and everyone begins to think about how to extend their summer. Many of you will soon be chasing the warm rays. However, this raises the question “where?”
The answer is obvious. We are all going to Sri Lanka, the land of eternal summer, located near the equator. You will ask why"? There are many reasons, because in Sri Lanka everyone can find something to their liking.

Ceylon Island: 10 reasons to holiday in Sri Lanka

1. Meet the amazing, unique, diverse climate.

In 3 – 4 days of travel you can feel tropics on the coast Indian Ocean, enjoying the sun on endless sandy beaches, see ancient shrines of Buddhism and the oldest Bodhi tree, which is more than 2250 years old, to perform south african safari by jeep in a national reserve, enjoy the temperate climate of the central part of the island, admire the waterfalls and feel the coolness of the highlands, where the best famous Ceylon tea grows on fog-shrouded plantations.
Sri Lanka has the largest number of waterfalls relative to its land area than any country in the world.

2. Meet smiling faces and feel Sri Lankan hospitality, about which there are legends.

Sri Lankan hospitality is renowned throughout the world. People are friendly and ready to help those who are not familiar with local customs. Sri Lankans are very hospitable and are happy to invite people into their homes, no matter how humble they are. At first, it will seem unusual that everyone around you is smiling. However, after you return from your trip, the smiles of the island's residents, coming from the heart, will warm you in cold times.
Sri Lanka is a multi-ethnic society as a result of several waves of immigration. The main ethnic groups are Tamils ​​and Sinhalese. Muslims, Malays and Chinese also live here. The Portuguese and British brought with them Kaffirs from Africa, and the Dutch brought a special type of European traders - burghers.

3. Admire the rich cultural heritage civilization with a 2000-year history.

The richness of Sri Lanka's culture has been recognized by UNESCO, which has declared 6 of the country's archaeological sites as World Heritage Sites:

• Holy City Anuradhapura(4th century BC) - the first ancient capital
• Ancient city Polonnaruwa(10th century AD) – second ancient capital
• Golden Cave temple in Dambulla(1st century BC)
• Lion fortress on the rock Sigiriya(5th century AD)
• Holy City Kandy(17th century AD) – last royal capital
• Old City Halle and him fortress(17th century AD)

The seventh World Heritage Site is an ecological reserve - Sinharaja tropical rainforest, the jungle of which is officially one of the 34 most unique places on the planet in terms of its biodiversity.
Visiting the area called the “Cultural Triangle” , travelers can see huge dagobas(domed structures or stupas) and the remains of ancient buildings in the ruins of the cities of Anuradhapurai Polonnaruwa, climb the amazing stairs to the Dambulla Temple , behold sensual frescoes with the image of girls of divine beauty on the Sigiriya rock.
In the central part of the country is the last royal capital, the city of Kandy, considered the cultural center of the island and where it is located Dalada Maligawa Temple or the Temple of the Tooth, where it is kept sacred tooth of Buddha.
Galle Fort, with its 14 massive fortifications, regular streets and original Dutch-style single-storey houses, is as bustling with life as it was in the Middle Ages.

4. Feel the pulsating energy national holidays and festivals.

The diverse civilization of Sri Lanka has endowed the island with a stunning cultural heritage of colorful festivals related to Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity.
For every full moon there is a holiday Singing. The most important of holidays, Vesak, Full moon day in May, which celebrates the birth of Buddha, his enlightenment and death.
The festival that attracts the most attention from tourists visiting Sri Lanka is Kandy Esala Perahera held in Kandy for 10 days in late July or early August . Among the Hindu festivals, it is worth noting Vel, held in Colombo in July, and festival in Kataragama on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, during which a torchlight procession is held. Hindus also celebrate Thai Pongal("harvest festival") Maha Shivaratri(“Great Night of Shiva”), the most important festival of the year for followers of the god Shiva, who are in the majority among Hindus in Sri Lanka, and Deepavali(“Festival of Lights”).
Lankan New Year, usually falling in mid-April, is a non-religious holiday that is celebrated by the entire population of the island, regardless of their religion.

5. Meet someone unique diversity of wildlife.

Thanks to the influence of Buddhism, which calls for honoring all living things, Sri Lanka pays great attention to environmental protection. In total, on the island there is 12 national parks and 52 nature reserves, occupying 14% of the total area of ​​Sri Lanka.
A safari in the national park gives you the opportunity to see 91 species of mammals (including 16 that live only in this region) - elephants, leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, sika deer, wild pigs, mouse and barking deer, wild boars, porcupines, anteaters, civet cats (a genus of wild cats), lemurs, giant squirrels, monkeys(including macaques, langurs gray and with pimples on the face).
National Park Yala considered the place of greatest concentration leopards in the world. National Park Uda Walawe famous for its huge population elephants.
Sri Lanka is one of the best places on earth to observe blue whales And. Sperm whales, killer whales, pilot whales and dolphins also regularly encountered during trips along the coast of Mirissa (southern coast of the island). On the beaches of the island you can often see turtles seven varieties.
The island is a paradise for those who love to watch birds. 233 species live here (33 endemic) - the number of bird species, taking into account migration, increases to 482. There are 171 species on the island reptiles(101 of them, including two species of crocodiles, are found only here), 244 species butterflies and 120 species dragonflies.

6. Replenish the lack of adrenaline adventures and active sports.

An island with a coastline of 1,340 km. is the ideal place for windsurfing, water skiing, jet skis, surfing, sailing, scuba diving(including diving on sunken ships), snorkeling, speed boats, and banana boat rides. The best places for water sports are located on the west coast - in the Negombo region ; on the southwest coast - in Wadduwa, Kalutara and Beruwella; and also in Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Koggala, Tangalle and Hambantota on the south and southeast coast. Aquatics centers are supervised by certified PADI instructors.
Sri Lanka has more than 100 thousand rivers, lagoons and reservoirs. You can ride here all year round kayaking And canoe, combining these activities with hiking and camping stops. The fast current and rapids of the Kelani Ganges next to Kitulgala ideal for rafting between November and April.
Alternative activities include activities paragliding, rock climbing, caving (caving) and mountain biking.

7. Relax in the best hotels Asia, combining the highest service and design.

There are various hotel options in Sri Lanka. In Colombo you will find modern five star hotels, and colonial era hotels, in which you can feel the charm and romance of past centuries.
The island has stunning hotels in amazingly beautiful places. On the coast, especially in the west and south, there are a huge number of resort hotels. Several of them were designed by one of Asia's most famous 20th-century architects, Geoffrey Bawa. Bawa's designs are in a style called "tropical modernism", which is characterized by blurring the boundaries between external and internal space, so that the architecture and landscape of the surrounding area interact with each other. Also on the western and southern shores the number of boutique hotels.
In the cities of the mountainous region of the country such as Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Bandarawela , concentrated hotels of the colonial era. For those who are going to fairly remote regions of the island, perhaps for the purpose of sporting adventures, there are wonderful colonial-style houses, factory buildings on tea and rubber plantations, jungle huts, tree houses And eco-shelters, and campings.

8. Enjoy exotic national cuisine.

The variety of types of rice, spices, vegetables and fruits, coupled with the customs brought to the island by foreigners, formed the varied and interesting cuisine of Sri Lanka. Rice used with curry(any dish made from eggplant, potatoes, green bananas, chicken, fish, etc. with the addition of spices) of varying degrees of spiciness: from spicy-spicy to dynamite-like spiciness. Just as traditional hoppers(a snack similar to pancakes) thong hoppers(steamed rice noodles) and pita(a mixture of coconut and flour). Dish lamprais, rice and additional meat or vegetable ingredients baked in banana leaves, was inherited from the Dutch. Always available in large quantities fresh fish, shrimp, crabs, squid and lobsters. Desserts include fermented milk buffalo milk curd, watered palm honey, and similar to caramel, vatallapam.
In Sri Lanka there are various cutlets, pies, malu pang(fish bun), and Kimbula Banis(crocodile shaped bun).
Fruits mango, pineapple, banana, papaya, and lesser known but wonderful sapodilla, mangosteen, rambutan, woodapple(a fruit with a very hard skin, called wood apple), durian, passion fruit, avocado, etc.

9. Try it Ayurvedic procedures and relax in spa center.

Sri Lanka is a place where you can restore not only your body, but also your spirit. The most popular method to restore and rejuvenate a tired body and soothe a weary soul remains Ayurveda- The oldest system of medicine in the world. Ayurvedic programs consist of a number of herbal treatments and various types bath And massages, as well as cleansing and rejuvenation techniques such as yoga, meditation and special diets.
In spas located in hotels, guests are offered not only Ayurvedic, but also other types of treatments, such as Thai massage, hydrotherapy, herbal baths, reflexology and beauty treatments. For those who need an energy recharge, we offer meditation courses.

10. Commit profitable purchases.

There are different ways to shop in Sri Lanka:

• Bargaining with a souvenir seller, spending time on the beach;
• Choosing fruits in a village shop, making your way between bags of rice;
• Visiting fashion sales (Sri Lanka is a major clothing exporter), enjoying strolls through the modern shopping centers of Colombo.

Stop by the gift shop and purchase a piece adorned with the island's national animals such as the makara (mystical animal), lion, swan, elephant and lotus, which are intricately engraved on the copper products(boxes, trays, lanterns, vases) and silver products(jewelry decorated with filigree carvings, tea sets. In addition, very popular national masks, lacquered ceramics, batik, textiles, lace, wood carving.

The island of Sri Lanka consistently attracts many tourists every year. This is not surprising: beautiful nature, rich history and culture, excellent beaches, wonderful climate... We will talk about all these features of the island in the article. We invite you to discover such an amazing place as the island of Sri Lanka.

Briefly about Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a very ancient country, which is also known as Ceylon. Boundless and vast are the pride of this island. The local population adheres to traditions, but at the same time, there is freedom of religion in Sri Lanka. Many sacred temples (mainly Buddhist) and relics attract pilgrims from all over the world to this country. The mysterious southern Sri Lanka attracts different categories of tourists. They come here to see a world full of exotic things, enjoy nature, and also swim in the waters of the Indian Ocean. The local golden sand beaches are amazing.

In Sri Lanka you will find hidden bays and coves, underwater coral gardens, as well as the remains of sunken ships and much more... Relaxation on the ocean coast, familiarization with Buddhist shrines, national natural parks, the secrets of tea cultivation and production, communication with cheerful and open people Sri Lankans - all this guarantees you an unforgettable experience visiting this island.

Where is Sri Lanka on the map?

This one is located on a small island in the Indian Ocean. Seven objects located on this island are included in the list of UNESCO-protected historical values ​​(130 in total). Sri Lanka is an ancient state with deep traditions and a rich history. This is the center of Buddhism, where important monuments of this teaching are located. However, it is not only the historical heritage that shapes the exoticism of the country. Sri Lanka on the map is located only 800 kilometers from the equator. Here you will find all the riches of the tropical islands. Sri Lankans say that they know only three colors - the blue of the ocean and sky, the yellow tones of the beaches and the green of the vegetation.

Flight from Moscow to Sri Lanka

Currently there is only one direct flight Moscow - Sri Lanka (Colombo). However, it operates only in winter and does not have a strict schedule. The Moscow-Sri Lanka charter flight is operated by Aeroflot. The distance from Moscow to Colombo is about 6700 km. Therefore, travel time is approximately 8.5 hours.

Sri Lanka: time and climate

Those who are going to the island will probably be interested in what the time difference is here. On the island, time is 1.5 hours ahead of Moscow in the summer, and 2.5 in the winter. As for the climate, it is both subequatorial and equatorial monsoon. It is complicated by the terrain, as well as the orientation of the island, its location from north to south. The average annual temperature in the flat areas of the island of Sri Lanka is about 29-31° C. The season has virtually no effect on the temperature. In the mountainous part it varies from 16 to 24 °C. All year round, the sea water temperature remains above 25 °C on the island of Sri Lanka. In January, therefore, you can safely swim, just like in July.

As for humidity, it is high here and almost always exceeds 75%. The amount of precipitation is from 1000 (eastern and northern regions) to 5000 mm per year (southwest coast). The rainy season lasts from May to September, causing the southwest monsoon. The northeast monsoon determines inclement weather from October to April on the island of Sri Lanka. The rainy season, however, may shift somewhat in time. It depends on the area. In general, the island of Sri Lanka has a very favorable climate for tourism. In January, when it’s cold in our country and you really want summer, tours here are very popular.

Island population

The population of this island is about 18 million people. Of these, more than 500 thousand people live in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. The ethnic composition of the population is rich. This is a multinational country. Its population consists of Tamils, Sinhalese, Burghers (descendants of the Dutch and Portuguese) and Moors.

Language and religion

Singali is the official language of Sri Lanka. Tamil and English are also considered state languages. As we already mentioned, Buddhism is very common on the island. Besides it, the main religions are Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. The island of Sri Lanka does not have strict requirements for clothing, however, it is not recommended to visit temples in clothes with bare shoulders and back, or in shorts. Additionally, you must remove your shoes upon entry. About 70% of the population are Buddhists, 15% are Tamils ​​(Hindus), 8% are Christians, and 7% are Muslims. In this country, freedom of religion is guaranteed by the constitution, but Buddhism is given a dominant position here.

Attractions

The island of Sri Lanka offers many attractions to suit every taste. Tours here will be of interest to various categories of tourists. "Sri Lanka Resort Triangle" is the most popular excursion program on the island. It includes an introduction to three cities - Kandy, Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura. Let's talk about each of them.

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is the first capital of the Sinhalese state. This city is unique; it was built back in the 2nd century. BC e. In his lifetime he saw 113 kings. The exact date of the founding of Anuradhapura is unknown. According to the astrological tradition of the Indo-Aryans, he was named after Anuradha, a star located in the constellation Scorpio. King Pandukabhaya in 380 BC e. established this city as the capital. To the west of it, the Basavak Kulam reservoir was built to supply water to the population. The city in its heyday occupied an area of ​​about 52 square meters. km, and its population reached several tens of thousands. In the 1st century AD e. aqueducts, bridges and roads, palaces, temples, monasteries, cemeteries and hospitals were built.

For 1.4 thousand years Anuradhapura was the capital. This is a true masterpiece of Sri Lankan architecture. And in our time, Anuradhapura is the capital of Buddhism. In order to visit it, many tourists come to the island of Sri Lanka every year. The city is located on the Aruvi River. Tourism is developed here, agricultural products are processed, as well as a number of things (wood carving, etc.).

Polonnaruwa

The next city, Polonnaruwa, was the medieval capital of Sri Lanka between the 11th and 13th centuries. This is one of the main cultural and historical centers of the country. The Hindu and Royal Palace ruins remain to this day. The main attraction of the city is Gal Vihara (12th century BC). These are 4 huge Buddha statues carved into granite rock.

Kandy

Kandy is the center of Buddhism and the religious capital of the island. An artificial lake has been created in the center of this city. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa) is located on its banks (pictured below).

The city is rich in historical monuments. These include the courtyard and palace of the last king of Kandy. There is also an archaeological museum, near which there is a botanical garden and a university with a picturesque campus. Not far from these historical monuments there are rubber and tea plantations. Kandy is located 116 km from the island's capital, Colombo. It is famous as a center of crafts and arts, as well as bazaars, lapidaries, and a jewelry museum. This location is great for sightseeing and shopping. Nearby you will find views of the legendary mountains with beautiful Hindu and Buddhist temples.

Piradeniya

Piradeniya (Royal Botanical Garden) is located 4 km from Kandy. This is one of the largest gardens in Asia. There is a large collection of tropical plants and trees here. The island's gardeners have divided a large hilly area into park areas. These zones contain different types of tropical flora. Another interesting feature of the garden is the more than one hundred species of ornamental orchids growing here.

Dambula

Another local attraction is Dambula. This is a temple built in the 1st century BC. e., called the Sleeping Buddha. It is the largest cave temple in South Asia. Dambula consists of five caves. Not only the temple itself, but also its painting is the largest in South Asia. Dambula has a huge collection of Buddha statues. Moreover, many of them are more than two thousand years old.

Mount Sigiriya

We also recommend visiting the Lion Rock (Mount Sigiriya). This picturesque mountain is located in the center of the island of Sri Lanka and is one of its main attractions. Lion Rock is protected by UNESCO. On this mountain, at an altitude of about 180 meters, a picturesque city was built. It is surrounded by gardens with swimming pools, fountains and unusual staircases, the steps of which are carved between the jaws, throat and paws of a huge lion. One of the attractions of this place is the gallery of frescoes, which depict a procession of half-naked palace ladies or princesses who seem to be floating in the air. These frescoes are covered with a special composition of egg white mixed with honey from wild bees. And to this day their bright colors have not faded. Today, unfortunately, only 17 of the 500 frescoes have survived.

Adam's Peak

Another interesting mountain is Adam's Peak. Since ancient times it has been a place of pilgrimage for believers. They climb this mountain in order to touch the sacred footprint located at the top with their lips. Muslims believe that this is where Adam, the first man, first set foot on earth.

Colombo

The capital of Sri Lanka is Colombo. There are many temples, cathedrals and mosques located here. The most famous temple is Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara. It is an excellent example of Sinhala art and architecture. The frescoes that decorate the walls of the building tell us about the many lives of Buddha. For example, about how he visited the temple, about the legends and myths associated with his name. Other attractions in Colombo include the Temple of St. Anthony and Peter, the Cathedral of St. Lucia, Jamul Alfar (the main mosque of Sri Lanka), as well as the Hindu temples of Old and New Kathiresan and Ganesan.

Nuwara Eliya

Sri Lanka offers tourists many interesting places. The weather, however, may not allow you to explore all the sights of this country. On hot days, many people prefer the beach to exploring the island. However, weather-related inconveniences can be avoided if your choice is Nuwara Eliya (Sri Lanka). The weather here is rarely too hot for walking. Nuwara Eliya resort is located at an altitude of about 1900 m above sea level. It is located at the foot of Pidurutalagala. This mountain is the highest peak in Sri Lanka. Here you will enjoy a favorable mild climate (temperature averages 15-20 degrees), as well as mountain landscapes, picturesque valleys and meadows. All this makes this place a popular resort. Nuwara Eliya, a land of blessed climate, is also known as “little England”, as it is called on the island of Sri Lanka. Tours here have been in constant demand for many years.

Elephant nursery and Bo tree

The government-owned elephant nursery is located in the town of Pinnawala. It was created to save animals that were harmed by poachers or left without parents. Today it is home to more than 60 elephants.

Sri Lanka is the country where the Bo tree grows, which is considered the tallest in the world. It is already more than two thousand years old. We also recommend visiting the endless tea plantations. This is the pride of Sri Lanka, thanks to which the island has gained worldwide fame. Sri Lankan spices, gems, exotic fruits, and batik are also very popular.

Transport

Please note that in this country, traffic is on the left. Most of the roads are in mountainous areas. Neither pedestrians nor drivers follow traffic rules. In this regard, it is best to rent a car with a driver on the island of Sri Lanka. Prices for this type of service are reasonable - the estimated cost per 1 km is 20 cents. You can also rent a car for personal trips. Your hotel reception can provide you with information about transport in Sri Lanka. Car rental prices start at $20 per day.

National cuisine

The cuisine here, even close to the European version we are used to, is quite spicy. The most popular type of food in hotels is a buffet. Those who don't like spicy food should consult the waiter about what to get. Mineral water, like other drinks, is not included in the price of dinner or lunch in Sri Lanka. This island is especially favorable for vegetarians.

Curried rice is the most common food item in Sri Lanka. Also popular here are seafood dishes (try lobster and sea shrimp), fish, meat, vegetables and poultry.

It is not recommended to abuse local strong drinks. The main one is arak. This is coconut moonshine, which even the local population does not drink a lot, but for variety you can try a little.

On the island you will find inexpensive and excellent tropical fruits: avocados, bananas (more than two hundred varieties), papaya, mangoes, avocados, oranges, coconuts, etc. Pineapples are especially good here.

Tips

Typically, bar, restaurant and hotel bills already include a tip of 12.5%. You can decide for yourself whether to give more. It is customary to tip porters, drivers and guides. As a rule, they are expected from Russian tourists, but not from Germans.

One of the best places to relax is the island of Sri Lanka. The time spent here is never forgotten.

Hello, dear readers – seekers of knowledge and truth!

Sri Lanka is an unusual country for Europeans that attracts thousands of tourists every year. It can surprise you with picturesque beaches, high hills with unforgettable views, as well as a warm climate, unique monuments, and centuries-old culture.

Sri Lanka - where is this country located and what is it like? You will learn about its geography, climate, nature, people, culture, religion. If you have been thinking about a trip to Sri Lanka, then in this article you will find brief information about the flight, the main attractions and values ​​of the country.

What country is it

Sri Lanka is a country in southern Asia, located on the island of the same name. It dates back to the 5th century BC, when the first kingdoms appeared here. Since ancient times, local residents have established trade with China, Rome, and Arab countries.

In the 16th century, the island was colonized by England, Portugal and Holland. Their interference in the life of the islanders continued until the middle of the last century. Until 1972, Sri Lanka was called Ceylon.

Now its official name is the “Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka” and is headed by a president. Today, numerous tourists flock here, making the former Ceylon a unique resort.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena

Such a tourist flow is not surprising, because here are connected:

• tea plantations;
• rice fields;
• ancient traditions that date back 2.5 thousand years;
• Buddhist temples;
• rich flora and fauna;
• precious and semi-precious stones;
• herb plantations;
• mountain slopes;
• idyllic beaches;
• warm sea;
• historical monuments, of which eight are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

One fourth of the world's tea plantations are Ceylon.

Geography

The island is quite easy to find on the world map - it is located approximately one hundred kilometers south of India, in the southeast of the southern edge of Hindustan, separated from it by the western Gulf of Mannar, the Palk Strait, and the eastern Bay of Bengal.

The shape of the island resembles a teardrop or a pearl, for which it is called “sapphire”.

In the Palk Strait area there is an isthmus that formerly connected Sri Lanka with Hindustan. However, in the 15th century, several earthquakes occurred, causing the sandbank to submerge. Now this place is called "Adam's Bridge".

Geography of Sri Lanka in numbers:

• length – 450 kilometers;
• the widest point is 230 kilometers;
• coastline length – 1.3 thousand kilometers;
• area – 66 thousand square kilometers.

The island ends in the north with Cape Pedro, in the south with Cape Dondra, and in the west with Cape Dutch Bay. Moreover, one percent of the state consists of small islands near the “sapphire”.

The main water arteries are:

• Kalu;
• Mahaweli Ganga;
• Aruvi-Aru;
• Kelani.

Kalu River

From Sanskrit “shri” is translated as “holy”, “lanka” - “earth”.

The current republic consists of nine provinces and twenty-five districts. Since 1982, the capital has become a city with the unpronounceable name of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte - now the parliament and the supreme court are located here.

However, the former capital center, the largest city of the state - Colombo, founded in ancient times, is considered a more popular city. The president's residence is also located here.

Climate

The weather pleases residents and visitors all year round - the average temperature is about 27 degrees. In the high season - from October to March, when the cold is raging in Russia, the air here warms up to 32 degrees, and sometimes even higher.

A little cooler in mountainous areas. For example, in winter at the coldest point of the island the temperature can drop to 12 degrees Celsius, but even here there is never snow.

Due to the monsoon climate, rain often occurs: on the west coast - in May-October, on the east - in December-May. However, they do not interfere with enjoying your vacation, because they are short-lived and occur mainly at night.

Relief and landscape

The landscape and relief areas of Ceylon can be divided into three groups:

• Mountains and hills

They are mainly located in the central part, where most of the tea plantations are concentrated. Mountains can reach 2-2.5 thousand meters.

The highest mountain, Pidurutalagala, exceeds 2520 meters.

• Rainforests
• Coast with lowlands and beautiful beach areas.

Nature

They amaze with their diversity. A large number of species of different representatives of the animal and plant world live here:

• birds - almost 500 (many Siberian and European migratory birds fly here);
• butterflies – 240;
• animals – 86;
• fish – 50;
• reptiles – 70;
• snakes - more than 80 (and only five of them are dangerous to humans);
• plants – 3 thousand.

The symbol of Sri Lanka is perhaps the elephant. They are found everywhere here. However, their population is declining compared to previous times. So, for example, 2 centuries ago there were about thirty thousand of them, while now there are only six thousand.

People

Today, approximately 20.5 million people live on the island, with a gradual population decline. On average, males live to 73 years, females - to 77.

There are several nationalities in the country:

• Sinhalese - 75%;
• Tamils ​​- every tenth, live mainly in the north and east;
• Moors, Arabs - a little more than 9%;
• burghers, they are also descendants of the colonialists - less than 1%;
• Veddas, whose ancestors were ancient natives - about a thousand people.

In this regard, Sinhala and Tamil are considered the official languages. You can often hear English spoken, with the help of which representatives of different ethnic groups communicate.

Sri Lanka is a developing country and most of the people are employed in agriculture. The main activity is the cultivation of tea plantations, mining of precious stones, rubber, collection of coconuts, spices, fishing, and textile industry.

The residents themselves simply call their homeland Lanka.

In recent decades, the tourism sector has been developing rapidly on the island. People come here not just on vacation, but increasingly for the winter from northern countries. Some foreigners even seek to settle here for permanent residence.

Contrary to popular belief that former Ceylon is a poor country, the literacy rate here is over 90%.

Culture and religion

The cultural component of the Sri Lankans - and this is what the inhabitants of Sri Lanka are called - is inextricably linked with religion. More than 70 percent of the locals are Buddhists, another 12 percent are Hindus, 9 are Muslims, 7 are Christians.

Many holidays and memorable places are associated specifically with religious beliefs, primarily, of course, with Buddhist philosophy, which appeared on the island back in the 3rd century BC.

Theravada monks in Sri Lanka

Many places of worship go back to Buddhism, for example, the famous Sri Lankan Buddha statue. There are also many Buddhist holidays. Here are some of them:

• Poya - every full moon is celebrated, and even if it falls on a weekday, it becomes a day off, which should be devoted to meditative practices;
• Navam Perahera – celebrated in February as the first Buddhist gathering of the year; accompanied by dancing, music, ceremonial processions, the main thing takes place in the Colombian Gangaramai;
• Esala Perahera is a holiday dedicated to the first sermon of the Teacher in Sri Lanka, celebrated for two weeks; The central event is the removal of the Buddha tooth, the main relic of the island. It is kept in the Kandy Temple, the most important Sri Lankan Buddhist center.

In the 1980s, the symbol of the island became the star flower, the sacred flower of the Buddhists.

We're flying to Sri Lanka

The answer to the question of how long it takes to fly from Russia to Sri Lanka depends on the flight. Direct flights are operated only from Moscow, and not every day; travel time is 8-10 hours. Charters from other cities are possible as part of tour packages.

You can often fly to Sri Lankan shores with a transfer, for example, in Indian Delhi, Qatari Doha, Chinese Beijing or Hong Kong, Korean Seoul, as well as in Dubai, Istanbul or Abu Dhabi. The time difference with Moscow is two and a half hours.

When traveling to Lanka for up to 30 days, Russian citizens can fill out an application electronically on the embassy website and receive a visa upon arrival. This visa costs $35.

Tourists of all sizes can feel comfortable in Sri Lanka: there are both expensive hotels and budget hotels and houses - it all depends on the resort and the tourist’s wallet.

The main resort towns include:

• Unawatuna;
• Hikaduwa;
• Mirissa;
• Beruwela;
• Kalutara;
• Negombo;
• Bentota;
• Kosgoda;
• Colombo;
• Kalutara
• Halle;
• Hambantota;
• Induruwa;
• Tangale.

Hambantota Resort, Sri Lanka

Souvenirs

Lanka is famous for many values, but there are things that you should definitely bring from your trip:

• famous Ceylon tea;
• spices – pepper, vanilla sticks, cardamom;
• jewelry - topazes, opals, emerald, sapphire products;
• plant oil;
• cotton products
• attributes of culture and religion - masks, figurines, etc.

Conclusion

To summarize, I would like to say once again that Sri Lanka is a miracle island, a country of rice fields, tea plantations, picturesque hills, kind people and beaches that are more like Eden. It is located south of India, separated from the mainland by a strait. It is warm here all year round, and the locals, mostly Buddhists, get along well with tourists.

To receive the latest articles by email, subscribe to our blog by filling out the form at the top right. We will be glad to seek the truth together with you.

See you soon!

The island state of Sri Lanka is located on the map southeast of the Hindustan Peninsula. It attracts tourists tired of the bustle of big cities. A leisurely flow of life dominates here. The resort offers a relaxing holiday: magnificent beaches, fishing, diving, picnics in nature, visiting ancient attractions.

Sri Lanka is washed by the Laccadive Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. The island is separated from India by the Gulf of Mannar and the Pork Strait. The coast is lowland, including beaches; mountains rise closer to the center of the island.

Brief information about the country

Story

The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka has a population of over 21 million. The capital is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, a suburb of Colombo.

In the 16th century, the Portuguese, who captured these lands, called them Ceilão, which the British read as Ceylon. Sri Lanka has long been known throughout the world under this name. The name of tea, which the state supplies the whole world, comes from the Portuguese word.

Later, the country was occupied by Great Britain, making it its colony. Sri Lanka gained independence only in 1948. At the end of the 20th century, a civil war broke out on its territory, restoration continues to this day.

Capital

In 1982, the capital of Sri Lanka became the city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte or simply Kotte, founded around the fortress of the same name. A parliamentary building was erected on an island in the middle of the lake, where the government of the country moved.

But the true heart of the state remains Colombo, the center of trade and business.

This is a typical Asian city, which combines ancient temples with modern skyscrapers, bustling avenues and the regularity of Buddhist life. The city still retains zoning based on the type of activity of the population: a district of artisans, a district of merchants, poor people and others, but today it is not so relevant.

Colombo is spread over a large area; its territory is dominated by one- and two-story houses. It will take a couple of hours to get from one outskirts to the other. Tourists mainly prefer beach holidays and treat the capital as a transit point, but there is still something to see here.

These are mainly architectural attractions, including many temples. Also museums, a theater and even a casino, open especially for city guests. In the tourist area, life is in full swing at night. Here you can have a delicious dinner, go shopping at the mall and even visit a nightclub.

Languages

The majority of the population of Sri Lanka are Sinhalese. Their language is considered official along with Tamil. The proximity of India, the Maldives and Malaysia had a significant influence on the change in languages, as did the colonization of the lands by Britain, Holland and Portugal.

English has interethnic status, but it is spoken mostly in cities and tourist areas. It also conducts business negotiations and business documentation.

Visa

Having a visa for Russians is a prerequisite for entering the country, but obtaining one is quite simple. It is enough to create an application electronically on the website eta.gov.lk (Russian language is supported), and then receive ETA permission electronically.

In order for an application to be approved, several rules must be followed:

• There must be at least six months left until the expiration date of the passport;
• availability of round-trip air tickets;
• confirmation of financial solvency in the form of a bank account statement;
• children under 16 years of age must be included in the passport of an adult with a photo; if a child is traveling with one parent, permission from the second is required;
• For children over 16 years old, their own complete set of documents is collected.

Some airlines allow you to get a visa on arrival. On board the plane, you must fill out a migration card, present it at customs along with return air tickets and a receipt, and affix a permit stamp. A number of companies may refuse this opportunity.

Currency

The official currency of the state is the Sri Lankan rupee. Its course is constant, changes infrequently and smoothly.

You can also take dollars and euros on your trip and exchange them on the spot. There won't be much difference. Exchange at the airport is slightly less profitable. Outside there are many opportunities to buy rupees: in banks, official exchange offices, jewelry stores, souvenir shops, tourist centers and other places. Private individuals offer a slightly more favorable exchange, but there is a risk of deception in transactions with them.

What you should not do is pay in dollars and euros in markets and small shops. Change will be given in local currency and at an extremely unfavorable exchange rate.

The island of Sri Lanka on the map has many small settlements; before going there, you should stock up on local money.

Difference in time

The time zone in Sri Lanka is UTC +5.5, the difference with Moscow is 2.5 hours.

Climate

The climate in Sri Lanka is tropical, but is influenced by the dominance of the monsoons.

Due to the winds, different parts of the island can experience completely different weather at the same time:

Resorts in Sri Lanka. Tour prices

The island of Sri Lanka, which has many beautiful beaches and interesting sights on its map, can be classified as not the most expensive segment. The level of infrastructure differs in different parts of the island. Russians have fallen in love with the southwestern coast; this is where you can most often meet compatriots.

Based on their reviews, the best resorts can be identified:

Tour prices

The given figures show the general order of prices. The cost of tours depends on the time of year, the specific resort and hotel, airline, food and other factors.

Negombo. Hotels, prices

Bentota. Hotels, prices

Kalutara. Hotels, prices

Colombo. Hotels, prices

Halle. Hotels, prices

Induruwa. Hotels, prices

Unawatuna. Hotels, prices

Mirissa. Hotels, prices

Entertainment on the island

The island of Sri Lanka on the map is a popular destination for tourists.

The entertainment industry is developing rapidly here, offering guests a wide variety of leisure activities:

• Diving and snorkeling. The island is surrounded by reefs - an ideal place to observe underwater life, admire the remains of sunken ships and caves.

Beaches

The main purpose for which tourists come to Sri Lanka is a beach holiday. There are really beautiful sandy beaches here, wide, clean, golden white.

A list of the best of them is presented below:

• Negombo beach. It is located closest to the international airport, so many people come here to soak in the warm water before heading on further excursions. There are almost always waves here, and if it is better to look for a quieter place with children, then there will be real freedom for surfers here.
• Arugam Bay. This beach with a wide strip of golden sand is loved by surfing fans: there are big waves here. You can get to it from Colombo by first reaching the village of Pottuvil. You can take a rickshaw or hire a private car.
• Bentota. One of the most popular beaches in Sri Lanka. There are many hotels of different price categories, restaurants, bars, shops. For lovers of active recreation there is a water sports center.

Surfing

The island of Sri Lanka on the map is surrounded by the waters of the Laccadive Sea and the Indian Ocean. A real paradise for surf lovers. Due to the peculiarities, the water sports season does not stop here. In winter, surfers go to the southwest, in summer - to the east. There are enough specialized schools and instructors in Sri Lanka, the prices for their services are relatively low, which attracts tourists from all over the world.

The southwestern coast, due to the abundance of harbors and bays, is more suitable for beginners. They should consider the following resorts:

• Welligama;
• Hikkaduwa;
• Mirissa;
• Tangalle;
• Matara.

The East Coast is for professionals; lovers of competing with the sea elements come here.

Professionals will appreciate:

• Arugam Bay;
• Pottuvil;
• Okandawara Bay;
• Koggala;
• Mirissa.

If you have skill in this sport, you can rent equipment and improve your skills yourself. Rental prices range from $2-4 per hour to $11-15 per day. You can immediately rent equipment for several days; it will be cheaper than paying for each day separately.

Learning by trial and error can be harmful to your health. To begin with, it is better to learn from professionals, take at least a couple of classes, fortunately, Sri Lanka provides a lot of opportunities.

The most economical option is local residents who have mastered the board so much that they have begun to teach the skill to others. A local instructor asks for $10 or more, but no one guarantees his qualifications. It's like a lottery: you can find a professional, or you can end up with a self-confident amateur who will quit at the first danger.

A much more reliable option is surf schools. Athletes with international certificates train there. The cost of their services ranges from $15-40. This also includes equipment rental.

We should also highlight surfing centers with Russian-speaking instructors. This is a narrower segment, so prices here are much higher and start at $120. You can save a little and go to a group lesson, the cost of participation in which will be from $50.

There is also a more interesting option in Sri Lanka, which will allow you not to worry about everyday issues. This surf camps, special camps formed by surf lovers for like-minded people.

Everything is organized here for a comfortable stay: accommodation, meals, training, equipment, various exercise equipment. Some surf camps also offer transfers and entertainment. But what is much more valuable is the company of fellow water sports fans.

Shopping

Shopping is an integral part of vacation for many.

What you should bring from the island as a reminder of the sunny country:

• Traditional crafts. In Sri Lanka they make batik, make wooden masks and toys.
• Gemstones are mined and sold on the island, and custom jewelry is made within a few days.
• Tea. It is impossible to leave Ceylon without the famous tea. There are both classic black tea and various blends on sale.
• Spices, including curry, saffron, turmeric, cinnamon, cloves and others.

You can make purchases at the market, in local shops, and souvenir shops. Aggressive trading is not accepted here, but if you try to negotiate amicably, you can knock down up to a quarter of the price.

Those wishing to purchase unique and high-quality locally produced goods are advised to visit large shopping centers. The best ones are in Colombo, although there are a few in Galle.

Kitchen

The national cuisine of Sri Lanka has been greatly influenced by India. Their traditions are similar: fish, seafood, rice and a lot of spices, especially curry. But Sri Lankans prefer to subject their food to as little heat treatment as possible.

Meat dishes are also prepared on the island. Basically it's chicken. The cow is revered as a sacred animal, and beef is not eaten. But Sri Lanka is a paradise for seafood lovers! Their variety is greatest in coastal areas, where you can try delicacies for very little money.

The main food is rice, which is cooked with a variety of seasonings.

There is also a lot of greenery on the menu, including bamboo leaves, which are unusual for Europeans. Coconut is sold here in all possible forms: milk, pulp, oil and even palm nectar. Fruit lovers will be delighted by the rich variety of fruits at local markets.

Attractions

Sri Lanka is a state with a rich and long history; the map of the island has many attractions, both natural and man-made.

Some of them definitely deserve attention:

• Adam's Peak. The most visited mountain on the island, which has become sacred to four religions. When the sun rises, a footprint appears to be visible on its slope. Each of the faiths considers this to be the merits of its saints. At the top there is a Buddhist temple.
• Sigiriya is a city located on the top of a cliff among a sea of ​​greenery. It is decorated with fountains, gardens and water cascades. Unique frescoes have been preserved on the walls of the ancient fortress.

You can tell a lot of interesting things about the country:

The island of Sri Lanka is a unique place on the world map, having absorbed the traditions of several cultures.

Article format: Svetlana Ovsyanikova

Video on the topic: Sri Lanka island

The island of Sri Lanka is a wonder of Asia: