Area of ​​sri lanka in sq km. Interesting facts about the capital. Tourism and rest

Mira, it is worth starting with the search for India. This state is located in Asia, the peninsula where it is located has the shape of an isosceles triangle, one of the vertices of which points strictly to the south. Sri Lanka is located in close proximity to India at a distance of about 100 km to the southeast. It is easy to find, in the Indian Ocean it is the only big Island. On a large scale, you can see that there is a shallow between Sri Lanka and the Hindustan peninsula - until the 15th century, these two geographical feature were connected, but after a series of earthquakes, the isthmus was destroyed and went under water. The name of the state is formed from two words in Hindi: "shri" - glorious and "" - land. However, the older generation of the island is known as Ceylon - that's how it was until 1972.

The sandbar in the Strait of Polk, which used to connect Hindustan with the island of Sri Lanka, is called Adam's Bridge.

State of Sri Lanka

Interestingly, the tea grown on the island is still called Ceylon tea, the name "Sri Lankan" has not taken root.

How to get to Sri Lanka

State flag of Sri Lanka.

The beaches of Bentota are famous for their fine sand and shady palm trees.

Sri Lanka is a state in South Asia, popular tourist country. Tourists are attracted by the palette of colors flora islands, beautiful waterfalls, picturesque mountains, 180-meter rock Sigiriya 150 km northeast of Colombo with ancient rock paintings and the ruins of a palace of the 5th century, numerous Buddhist shrines - dagoba, search and processing of precious stones, pearl mining.

Sri Lanka. picturesque mountain Sigiriya is a giant monolith with a fortress on top.

Colombo. Hindu temple. Detail of the sculptural decoration.

Sri Lanka (Ceylon) is an island in the Indian Ocean, located south of the Hindustan Peninsula. According to the current constitution, the head of state of Sri Lanka is the president, who is also the chief executive and commander in chief of the armed forces. Legislative power in the country belongs to the Parliament - the National State Assembly. Administratively, Sri Lanka consists of 9 provinces headed by government officials. The capital of the country is Colombo. As a former British colony, Sri Lanka is part of the Commonwealth.

Sri Lanka. Panorama of Colombo.

Ethnically, Sri Lanka is a multinational country. The total population is 20.9 million people. 74% of the population are Sinhalese, over 18% are Tamils. Small peoples and ethnic groups of mixed origin include Moors - descendants of Arab and Persian traders, burghers come from mixed marriages between the Portuguese and Dutch, on the one hand, and the Sinhalese and Tamils, on the other. In the mountainous forest region of the inner part of the island, near the city of Nuwara Eliya, small groups of Veddas, descendants of ancient population islands.

The official language of the country is Sinhalese, which is spoken by over 70% of the island's inhabitants. English is widely used (especially among the burghers). Tamil is spoken in the north and east of the country. The main part of the inhabitants (70%) professes Buddhism - mostly Sinhalese. Most of the Tamil population is Hindu. The Muslim religion is followed by the Malays and Moors. Catholic Christians are burghers and part of the Sinhala population. The Veddas are adherents of a primitive religion. Among the population of Sri Lanka, religious beliefs and superstitions are strong, there is a division into castes. There are about 20 castes in total.

Geography

"Lanka" in ancient Indian Sanskrit means "country, land". The prefix "shri", widely used in South Asia when referring to highly respected people, reflects the great love that the Sri Lankan people have for their homeland. He calls her "blessed, venerable Lanka." Sri Lanka is located in South Asia. Occupying an area of ​​about 60 thousand square kilometers, it is approximately equal to major islands like Ireland or Tasmania. Its maximum length from north to south is 430 km, from west to east - 225 km.

The main part of the island (up to 4/5 of the entire area) is occupied by a low plain (100 m above sea level). In some places, large rocks (up to 700 m) rise above the loose sedimentary rocks - ledges of the crystalline basement. Often they have bizarre shapes, reminiscent of either a huge animal, or a giant book, or the ruins of an ancient temple. In the southern, most extended part of the island, the crystalline basement comes to the surface over a large area. Huge blocks of stone, raised to a great height, form the so-called Central Massif. The average height of the mountains is 1000–2000 m above sea level, but some peaks rise higher. The highest point of the island is Mount Pidurutalagala (2524 m). However, the most famous is the majestic Adam's Peak (2243 m), resembling a huge pyramid. The tops of most mountains are aligned, so they are called table tops.

Kandy is one of oldest cities Sri Lanka. A peculiar necklace of Kandy is the Mahaweli River with shady banks.

In the mountains of Sri Lanka, in ancient times, deposits of precious stones were discovered: rubies, sapphires, topazes, amethysts. As the ancient chronicle "Mahavansa" testifies, many kings and sultans in other countries decorated their crowns with these stones. The abundance of rainfall has led to the development of a dense network of rivers on the island. Rivers are short. The largest of them is the Mahaweli Ganga (which means "river with sandy banks"), 330 km long. The length of other rivers is 100–150 km. Most of them originate in the mountains of the Massif Central.

Climate

Sri Lanka is located near the equator. Its northern and central parts are in the subequatorial, and South part- in equatorial climatic zones. Therefore, the temperature here is constant throughout the year. So, in Colombo, the average monthly temperature ranges from 26 ° C (January) to 28 ° C (May). Due to the proximity of the mainland, the north of the country is somewhat hotter than the south. The average annual temperature of the mountainous regions is much lower, therefore mountainous areas are very popular with locals and tourists. One of the coldest places on the island is the mountain resort of Nuwara Eliya (2000 m above sea level). This city is called on the island "a particle of the north." The average annual temperature here is about 15 °C.

The seasons in Sri Lanka are determined not by changes in temperature conditions, but by differences in precipitation patterns. Their greatest number falls on the summer - when moisture-saturated southwestern monsoon winds dominate. The summer monsoon starts in May and ends in September. At the height of the monsoon period, in June-August, it rains every day, often these are stormy showers. The most humidified southwestern part of the island, the first to meet the summer monsoon. In one summer month, 400–500 mm of precipitation falls. On the way of the monsoon to the northern and eastern regions is the Central Mountain Range, which creates a "rain shadow" for these parts of the island. In this regard, the amount of precipitation there is low - on average, only 10–40 mm per month. In winter, in December-February, the northeast monsoon dominates the island, bringing much less precipitation and irrigating mainly the northern and eastern parts of the island. Autumn and spring in Sri Lanka are inter-monsoon periods. Monsoon rains no, but they are being replaced by the so-called zenithal rains, characteristic of the equatorial regions.

Over 70% of the country's territory is covered with trees and shrubs. The most lush vegetation has been preserved in the most humid southwestern region. Here you can still find patches of evergreen tropical rainforest with the atmosphere of a greenhouse, where twilight and silence reign. In the forests of Sri Lanka, you can see more than 40 types of palm trees: talipot, royal, coconut and others. Mango, bread, melon (papaya), "ebony", satin, sandalwood trees are widespread. Colossal tree ferns also grow on the island. Occasionally there are cinnamon trees, from the bark of which cinnamon is obtained. Some plants are of amazing beauty during flowering, among them are orchids and lotus - the sacred flower of the followers of Buddhism and Hinduism.

The fauna of the island is diverse. In the mountainous forest wilds of the southwest, wild elephants have survived. There are predators in Sri Lanka: panthers, leopards, wild cats, lynxes, jackals, bears. There are many monkeys in the forests, and often in the trees surrounding the village huts. IN big rivers, away from the villages, there are crocodiles up to 8 m long, so you can’t swim there. The world of insects is rich. Large butterflies amaze with unusually bright colors. The world of birds is diverse. Often found pink flamingos, white storks, colorful parrots, bright peacocks, tiny sunflowers resembling butterflies.

Story

The island of Sri Lanka was inhabited about 100 thousand years ago and constantly attracted more and more new settlers, due to which a significant number of representatives of the most dissimilar races, cultures and religions concentrated in its small territory already in ancient times. This enriched the island and led to constant conflicts and wars. In the 5th century BC, the Indo-Aryan conquerors created the first state here, which collapsed in the 5th century AD and was conquered by the Negroid South Indian tribes of the Tamils. In the 8th century, dominance again passed to the Aryan branch of the newcomers, and in the 15th century, three different ethnic kingdoms existed in Sri Lanka at once, continuously at war with each other. This was taken advantage of by the Portuguese colonialists, who established their dominance over the coast of the island in the 16th century, in the 17th century they were replaced by the Dutch. The British who came after them in 1796 declared the conquered region another royal colony - Ceylon. But they managed to conquer the island only in the first half of the 19th century.

The heavy foreign yoke, which turned the flourishing island into a raw material appendage of the distant metropolis, forced local population more than once rise to the liberation struggle and endure bitter defeats. Exploitation, intensified in connection with the First and Second World Wars and the acute economic crisis of the 1920s and 1930s, made the national-patriotic front more resolute, numerous and united.

The British government in 1948 had to grant independence to Ceylon as a dominion. In 1972, under pressure from the public, the island was proclaimed the Republic of Sri Lanka. All forms of political dependence on England were eliminated. Now this distant piece of land in the Indian Ocean good-naturedly reveals its secrets to all lovers of ancient exoticism and shares the gentle sun and warm water.

natural attractions

The most picturesque interior regions of the country with its mountain rivers, waterfalls, impenetrable jungle. Located on the Central Highlands, Adam's Peak is a sacred place for people of various faiths. Numerous pilgrims and tourists flock here every year to worship the recess in the mountain, which resembles the footprint of a huge human foot (Buddhists consider it to be the footprint of Buddha, Christians - Adam, and Hindus believe that the god Shiva was at the top), numerous pilgrims and tourists flock here every year. The nearby gemstone mining sites are very popular. Collections of jewels can be seen in the National Museum and in private museums in the nearby city of Ratnapura.

Sri Lanka. The majestic Adam's Peak (2243 m), resembling a huge pyramid - sacred mountain Sri Lankans. Here are the footprints of the Buddha.

Located in the central part of the island majestic mountain Pidurutalagala. This rocky peak is located near Nuwara Eliya. The nearby city of Kandy, lying between the hills, is surrounded by the wide Mahaweli Ganga. On the banks of this river, in Peradeniya, there is the largest botanical garden in Asia. Palm alleys and a huge number of different types of tropical vegetation (only about a thousand species of orchids) attract here not only tourists, but also scientists from around the world. At 10 km southeast of Nuwara Eliya (at an altitude of 1680 m) is located at least famous park"Hakgala" is a wonderful collection of the world's subtropical flora. The Henarasgoda Botanical Garden, 32 km from Colombo, has an extensive collection of exotic palms, trees and shrubs.

Colombo. Hindu temple.

Wildlife can be seen and photographed in numerous national parks - Yaala, Wilpattu, Gal-Oya, Uda-Walave, Maduru-Oya, Wasgamuwa, Horton Plains and Bundala. Each park has its own specifics. The amazing underwater world of the tropical seas will open in Galle, where the famous underwater coral gardens. In the lagoon near the city of Batticaloa, there is a very rare “singing fish”: on moonlit nights, thin light sounds are heard from the water, reminiscent of the sound of a crystal glass, along the edge of which a finger is drawn. In the north of Sri Lanka, the palmyrian landscape of the Jaffna Peninsula is magnificent. Not far from Jaffna is a coral archipelago. Most famous island of this archipelago - Nainativu. Sinhalese Buddhists believe that it was on this island that Buddha first entered on his way to Ceylon, walking along the Adam's bridge.

Throughout the country you can find spice gardens - farms for growing spices. Ceylon has long been famous for its spices and medicinal herbs. They are used in the food industry, medical and cosmetic purposes. Cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, several varieties of pepper, ginger, vanilla - not a complete list of Ceylon spices.

Yala National Park is located in the southeast of the island, on the shores of the Indian Ocean. When these lands were part of the state of Ruhuna. From his relics, only the ruins of ancient fortresses and monasteries remained. The nature of the park is a dry savanna, overgrown with shrubs and umbrella plants. Rarely found here small lakes overgrown with lush vegetation. The flat landscape is broken by numerous hills and hills. The territory of the park covers more than 100 thousand hectares.

Yala is considered one of the best places to observe the life of leopards. Here you can often meet bears, deer, wild boars; many small animals - gray langurs, monitor lizards, sea and land turtles. The pride of Yalu are feathered inhabitants: black-necked stork, ibises, herons, yakans. Jeep tours are organized on the territory of the park. campgrounds where you can stay for a few days.

Uda Walawe National Park is located on the banks of a reservoir south of the mountain ranges in the center of the country. Part of the park is a tropical forest where you can meet spotted deer, sambars, wild boars, leopards, bears. Uda Walawe is the best place to observe the life of elephants in natural conditions. In total, up to five hundred elephants live here, there are herds uniting up to fifty of these animals. Bundala Park is located on south coast Ceylon, in the middle of the savanna with many lagoons and lakes. The park is famous for its abundance of water birds.

The tropical rain forest of Sindharaja is one of the few places where primeval rainforests have not yet been destroyed by man. Sindharaja can be translated into Russian as "The Lion King". This forest is a paradise for bird watchers. On an area of ​​22,000 hectares, 22 of the 26 endemic birds of Ceylon are found. A rare black panther, many spotted deer, wild boars, langurs, mongooses, chameleons also live here.

Sri Lanka. Elephant nursery.

culture

Sri Lanka. The picturesque Mount Sigiriya is a giant monolithic rock.

One of the most striking sights of the island is the Sigiriya fortress, located 162 km from Colombo. The citadel with the palace ensemble ascended to the 180-meter lion rock red fifteen centuries ago. Its builder was the king of Kassala. Here, on the inner walls of the caves, you can see rock paintings made with natural paints. The frescoes of Sigiriya, known throughout the world, are outstanding examples of ancient Sinhalese painting.

Kandy. Temple of Dalada Magilava (Temple of the Tooth Relic).

In the city of Kandy, attention is drawn to the ancient palace of the Sinhalese sovereigns, as well as the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic, where the corresponding shrine is kept. According to legend, the Tooth was found in India on a lotus flower. Some of the rituals associated with the Tooth of the Buddha have developed into lavish festivals. This is the temple procession of Esala Perahera, which takes place every year in August, on the days of the full moon. A little north of Kandy is the place Aluvihara, where the words of the Buddha were first recorded on palm leaves.

Kandy. At the temple.

Anuradhapure. Temple wall in the ancient capital of Sri Lanka.

Anuradhapura - a city of monasteries and stupas, a museum under open sky, sacred place Buddhists not only in Sri Lanka, but also in other countries. Many ancient monuments have been preserved in Anuradhapura. In the center of the city rises the majestic Ruvanavelli Dagoba. Built in the 2nd century BC, it is a masterpiece of Sri Lankan architecture. Even in a whole day it is difficult to get around this entire open-air monument. The majestic dagobas of Jetavana and Tuparam compete with Ruvanavelli. Under King Pandukabhaya, a grandiose irrigation system was built in Anuradhapura with giant reservoirs and numerous canals. This chain of reservoirs was called Anuradha, and the city on its banks was called Anuradhapura. The city became the center of the spread of Buddhism on the island. In 380 BC, Pandukabkaya proclaimed Anuradhapura the capital of the first Sinhala state and the city remained in this capacity for 1400 years. Thousands of pilgrims visit the holy places of the city - the Bo tree and the seven dagobas. The sacred Bo tree (Buddha) is located in the courtyard of one of the temples, behind a golden fence. It allegedly grew from a branch, the very tree under which enlightenment descended on the Buddha. According to legend, this branch was brought to Ceylon from India in the 3rd century BC.

Abhayagiri Monastery - the largest of the monastic complexes of Anuradhapura, was built in the 1st century BC. Dagoba Abhayagiri was the second largest stupa (115 m) in the world. It is built over the footprint of the Buddha. The basin of Et Pokuna, which once supplied water to most of the monastery complex, has been restored here.

Sri Lanka. Ruins of Polonnaruwa - the capital of the second Sinhalese state.

Not far from Anuradhapura, in Polonnaruwa lie the ruins of the medieval capital of the Sinhalese state. Here you can see the remains of a palace that once shone with splendor. The best preserved is the beautiful Watadage temple. In the northern part of Polonnaruwa, there is the largest sculptural ensemble of the area - three huge statues Buddhas in various poses. The Parakrama Samudraya reservoir created nearby is larger in area than the port of Colombo.

Mihintale is a rock that became the site of the beginning of the spread of Buddhism on the island of Ceylon. At the foot are the remains of ancient Buddhist buildings. considered. At the top of Mihintale there is a stupa and a statue of Buddha. 150 km from Colombo and 20 km from Sigiriya is the cave temple of Dambulla - the largest in Ceylon. For many centuries, this temple has been a stronghold of Buddhism and the identity of Sri Lanka. Its foundation dates back to the 1st century BC. The temple was built at a height of 350 meters and consists of five caves. In 1938, the temple was completed with columns and arched entrances. There is a huge collection of Buddha statues, many of which are over two thousand years old.

Another place closely associated with Buddhism is Adam's Peak or Mount Sri Pada (2224 m). Tens of thousands of believing Buddhists climb the mountain to touch their lips to the sacred footprint of the Buddha. This mountain is associated with the name of the forefather Adam and it is considered sacred by the followers of all world religions.

Polonnaruwa. seated buddha cave temple Gal Vihara.

Polonnaruwa. In front of the four entrances of the Vatadage temple lie semicircular slabs with intricate ornaments, the so-called "moonstones".

Polonnaruwa. Rancot Dagoba.

Cities

Sri Lanka. Halle. Old city.

Sri Lanka. Halle. Lighthouse.

The name of the city of Galle is related to the Sinhala word for "inn". During the heyday of sailing maritime navigation, Galle was the main port of the island. At the entrance to the port, the Dutch built military fortress which has survived to this day. Above the gate, a shield with the monogram of the East India Company is carved in stone - images of two lions and a rooster. Galle is known for many ancient crafts, in particular for weaving the finest lace. The city, which is distinguished by a peculiar combination of bright tropical nature and ancient architecture, attracts many tourists.

Sri Lanka. Halle. Coast.

Sri Lanka. Halle. Dutch church.

Ratnapura is the center of jewelry production and trade in precious stones. The name of the city in Sinhala means "city of gems". Ratnapura sapphires, rubies, aquamarines are highly valued by jewelers all over the world. Here they found the Blue Beauty of Asia sapphire (400 carats), the Star of India sapphire (536 carats). The city has a museum of jewelry art.

Sri Lanka. Ratnapura. Buddha statue.

Jaffna - the historical center of the northern Tamil region and the administrative center of the province, one of major cities country (over 100 thousand inhabitants) is located in its northernmost part, which is connected by a narrow strip of land, as well as an artificial dam, to the main territory of the island. Perhaps this is the hottest city in Sri Lanka. In the recent past, the city was one of the trading bases of the Dutch East India Company. The ruins of a fort have been preserved here since that time. Visible from afar Catholic Church built in the early 18th century. Jaffna is an important trade and transportation center, as well as major center Tamil culture. The city's artisans are famous for their filigree jewelry, weaving of mats, baskets and other products.

Resorts

For tourists from Western Europe, North America and other regions of Sri Lanka serves as a winter resort. Water-sports tourism dominates in the coastal areas, the ancient Sinhalese capitals are the base of historical and cultural tourism. mountain resorts And National parks attract a lot of fans wildlife, safari, snorkeling. But no matter how the golden seaside beaches attract, in Sri Lanka it is not customary to swim in any place you like: powerful ocean currents, and some fish, and marine animals are also dangerous. For swimming, they usually go to the southern suburbs, to Colombo Mount Lavinia, Hikkaduwa or Rassekudahu.

The mountain rivers of Sri Lanka, with the exception of the drought period, are suitable for rafting and kayaking. The most suitable for rafting is the Kelani River in the Kitulgala region. The ocean wave under favorable weather conditions allows you to surf and windsurf. The island is also interesting for diving enthusiasts. In the waters of Sri Lanka, there are about 138 varieties of corals, including black coral. There are coral heads, and soft corals, and many gorgonians - green, orange, red, blue. But the main wealth underwater world Sri Lanka is fauna - angel fish, moray eels, barracudas, moray eels, Moorish idols, parrot fish, clown fish, lion fish, marlin, flounder, sweet lips, silver and brown snappers, soldier fish, bristle teeth, fish - swallows, rays, surgeon fish, eels. Divers can also explore the wrecks, which are especially numerous in the Hikkaduwa area. about twenty lost ships The 19th and 20th centuries are open to divers.

Not far from the city of Kandy is the resort of Nuwara Eliya. It is located at an altitude of 1880 m above sea level, at the foot of Mount Pidurutalagala, the highest mountain in Ceylon. The resort is built up with British colonial-style hotel buildings. The buildings are framed by lush greenery and bright flowers. The resort attracts the top of the local society and numerous tourists. Victoria Park is located in the center of Navara Eliya. south of the park there is a hippodrome. Lake Gregory is one of the attractions of the resort.

The resort complex Bentota is located 64 km south of Colombo, on west coast islands. Here, in picturesque place, where the river flows into the sea, several hotels have been built, which are surrounded by a palm forest. There is a train station, a post office, an arcade with shops, cafeterias and an open-air theater where folk dance groups perform. Near Bentota is the resort of Beruwala.

The resort of Kalkudah is located on the east coast, 32 km from Batticaloa. This is an ideal place for swimming, as the beach is protected by a reef from the sea. Located near Passecoudah has a wonderful bay with absolutely clean water. It's also popular tourist centre With modern hotels and a variety of amenities. Five species are found in the Kozgod area sea ​​turtles. To maintain their population, turtle farms are organized.

Sri Lanka is an island of Sun and Sand. Over one thousand kilometers sandy beaches with palm trees surround Sri Lanka. Until 1972, this country was called Ceylon. And although its name has changed, it still grows the best black tea in the world - "Ceylon". In addition to beautiful beaches and tea, Sri Lanka has a large number of historical attractions, ranging from Buddhist and Hindu monasteries and temples, to orchid gardens and colorful festivals.

The island nation of Sri Lanka is located in the northern Indian Ocean off the southern coast of the Hindustan Peninsula in South Asia. Sri Lanka is bordered by the Pacific Ocean on all sides. In the northwest, it has a maritime border with India, and in the southwest, with the Maldives. total area this country - 65,610 sq. km

In the center and south of Sri Lanka there are foothills and mountains, and the rest of the territory is plains and coastal lowlands. The largest local peak is Mount Pidurutalagala, whose height reaches 2,524 meters.

The most long river in Sri Lanka - Mahaweli, its length is 335 km. Mahaweli flows through the central, northern and eastern regions of this country, and flows into the Bay of Bengal.

Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the capital of Sri Lanka. More than 120 thousand people now live in this city.

Sri Lanka has two official languages ​​- Sinhala and Tamil.

More than 70% of the population professes Buddhism (in particular, Theravada Buddhism), more than 12% - Hinduism, almost 10% - Islam, and about 7% - Christianity.

According to the current Constitution, Sri Lanka is a presidential-parliamentary republic. Its head is the President, elected for 6 years by universal suffrage. The president is the commander in chief and he appoints the ministers.

The unicameral parliament of Sri Lanka is elected by popular vote every six years 225 deputies. The President of the country has the right to dissolve the Parliament.

Administratively, Sri Lanka is divided into 9 provinces and 25 districts.

Due to the proximity to the equator, the climate in Sri Lanka is tropical and warm. The average annual air temperature is +28-31C. In hilly areas and foothills - + 20C, and in flat and coastal areas - + 27C.

From May to July in central, western and southern regions the island continues the monsoon (rainy) season. In the northern and eastern regions, the rainy season falls on December and January.

The best time to visit Sri Lanka is from November to April (southwest coast and mountains) and from May to September ( East Coast). Thus, you can visit Sri Lanka all year round, because. there is always a dry season in some part of this island.

Sri Lanka is bordered by the Pacific Ocean on all sides. The length of the coast is 1,585 kilometers. Local beaches are surrounded by palm groves. average temperature sea ​​in January - + 28C, and in July - + 27C.

There are over 100 rivers in Sri Lanka. The longest of them is Mahaweli, its length is 335 km. Mahaweli flows through the central, northern and eastern regions of this country, and flows into the Bay of Bengal.

The history of civilization in Sri Lanka has more than 2.5 thousand years. In former times this country was called Ceylon. The first settlers were the Veddas. Around the VI century BC. Sinhalese arrived on this island and founded their kingdoms there. From the III century BC. Buddhism began to spread there. Until the 11th century, the capital of the most powerful Sinhalese kingdom was Anuradhapura, and then it was transferred to Polonnaruwa.

In 1505, the Portuguese arrived in Sri Lanka and monopolized the spice trade. By 1658, the Sinhalese kings, with the help of the Dutch, were able to expel the Portuguese from the island.

The Dutch were more interested in trade and profit than in governing this country. Therefore, they did not really resist the British when the British sailed to Sri Lanka in 1796. In 1815, Britain defeated the Sinhalese kingdom of Kandy, and thus established control over the entire island.

It wasn't until 1948 that Sri Lanka achieved independence. In 1972, this country received its modern name - Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka has a multi-cultural society made up of Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Christians. Therefore, the culture there is very interesting and diverse. Travelers will be able to see colorful unique festivals and holidays in Sri Lanka.

In January, Sri Lankans celebrate New Year, Duruthu Perahera (held in memory of the Buddha's visit to this island), Pongal (Hindu harvest festival); in February / March - the Buddhist holiday Navam Perehera and Maha Shivarathri Day; in April / May - Sinhala and Tamil New Year, Eid ul-Adha; July/August - Kandy Perahera and Vel festival; September - kite festival, Navarathri Hindu festival; October/November - Ramadan, Lilawali ("Festival of Lights"); December - Sangamittha Perehera.

All these festivals are colorful processions, they are necessarily accompanied by elephant parades, musical and dance performances, fireworks and theatrical performances.

The cuisine of Sri Lanka reflects the multi-ethnic composition of the population of this island. Home food local residents- rice and curry made from a mixture of spices, herbs and coconut milk. In general, almost all local dishes are prepared on the basis of coconut milk and spices are used.

Samba is pearl rice and is eaten on special occasions. During festivals, yellow rice is made, cooked with coconut milk and seasoned a little with spices. Another popular rice dish is Kiribath (milk rice).

In addition, the people of Sri Lanka are real experts in cooking fish and seafood dishes. Grilled fish is served with fried potatoes and salad, while curried fish is served with rice.

Popular dishes are Mallung with curry (finely chopped dried vegetables, shrimps with grated coconut and spices), Sambol (spicy hot dish), Pol Symbol (grated coconut, onion, red pepper, lime and salt), Seeni Sambol (fish with spicy onions ), Lamprais (curry, cutlet, shrimp paste, eggplant curry, rice wrapped in a banana leaf and baked), Buriyani (rice in meat broth), as well as Thalaguli and Wattalapam sweets.

The traditional soft drink in Sri Lanka is black tea, which is most often drunk with sugar and milk. Sometimes crushed ginger is added to tea. In addition, the inhabitants of this island love coffee, fruit juices and coconut milk.

Alcoholic drinks are also made in Sri Lanka - low-alcohol "toddy" (from coconut palm juice) and "arrak" (30-40%, from coconut palm juice).

According to official figures, there are several hundred Buddhist and Hindu monasteries in Sri Lanka. And if we add temples, palaces, mosques, cave complexes to this, then the number of local attractions will reach several thousand. The top ten attractions in Sri Lanka, in our opinion, may include the following:

1. Buddhist temple Dalada Maligawa (it houses the tooth of the Buddha)
2. Fort in Colombo
3. Sigiriya fortress
4. Dawatagaha Mosque in Colombo
5. Cave Buddhist temple in Aluvihara
6. Hindu monastery Kochchikade in Colombo
7. Ruins of the city of Anuradhapura
8. Palace of King Cassiapa on the "Lion Mountain"
9. cavemen Buddhist temples Dambully
10. Buddha's footprints on Sri Pada

Most big cities Sri Lanka - Kandy, Tricomalee, Kurunegala, Galle, Ratnapura, Kurunegala and Colombo.

Sri Lanka has many kilometers of beautiful beaches. Many of these beaches are located in picturesque bays surrounded by palm groves.

The best beach areas are Colombo, Trincomalee, Bentota, Arugam Bay, Hikkaduwa, Kogalla, Negombo and Kalutara. Many tourists believe that the best beach in Sri Lanka is Mount Lavinia near Colombo. All local beach resorts have good infrastructure for relax. There are also excellent opportunities for surfing, kitesurfing, wakeboarding, swimming, diving, fishing, spearfishing and diving.

Near some beach resorts (for example, near Trincomalee) there are hot springs, and therefore tourists can take therapeutic baths there.

From Sri Lanka, tourists usually bring handicrafts, ceramics, jewelry, masks, leather goods (for example, bags), batik fabric, coconut shell souvenirs, spices, and, of course, local ("Ceylon" ) Black tea.

Banks:
Mon-Fri: 09:00-13:00

The shops:
Mon-Sat: 10:00-22:00
Some shops are open on Sundays as well.

Useful data for tourists about Sri Lanka, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Sri Lanka, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions of Sri Lanka.

Geography of Sri Lanka

The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, known as Ceylon until 1972, is an island state in South Asia.

Most The islands are occupied by a low plain, "broken" by outcrops of the crystalline basement in the form of rocks and mesas. The entire southern part of the island is occupied by a low stepped mountain country Central array. The slopes are abundantly overgrown with forests and are dissected by short but stormy rivers. The highest point of the island is Mount Pidurutalagala (2524 m).

State

State structure

Democratic Socialist Republic. Included in the Commonwealth. The head of state and government is the president, who has broad powers. Legislature- unicameral parliament (National State Assembly).

Language

Official language: Sinhalese

Almost the entire population speaks English.

Religion

Buddhists - 69%, Hindus - 15%, Christians - 8%, Muslims - 8%.

Currency

International name: LKR

1 Sri Lankan rupee is equal to 100 cents. In circulation are banknotes in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 rupees, as well as coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents and 1.2.5 rupees. Large hotels and shops accept international credit cards for payment. Foreign currency imported into the country must be declared.

It is recommended to exchange money at Colombo airport. The check received at the official currency exchange should be kept until the end of the trip. In this case, when departing from Colombo, you have the opportunity to convert unspent money at the airport bank at the purchase rate. You can also exchange money at any hotel and bank.

History of Sri Lanka

The island of Sri Lanka was inhabited about 100 thousand years ago and constantly attracted more and more new settlers, due to which a significant number of representatives of the most dissimilar races, cultures and religions concentrated in its small territory already in ancient times. This enriched the island and led to constant conflicts and wars.

In the 5th century BC, the Indo-Aryan conquerors created the first state here, which collapsed in the 5th century AD and was conquered by the Negroid South Indian tribes of the Tamils. In the 8th century, dominance again passed to the Aryan branch of the newcomers, and in the 15th century, three different ethnic kingdoms existed in Sri Lanka at once, continuously at war with each other. This was taken advantage of by the Portuguese colonialists, who established their dominance over the coast of the island in the 16th century, in the 17th century they were replaced by the Dutch. The British who came after them in 1796 declared the conquered region another royal colony - Ceylon. But they managed to conquer the island only in the first half of the 19th century.

The heavy foreign yoke, which turned the flourishing island into a raw-material appendage of a distant metropolis, forced the local population more than once to rise in the struggle for liberation and suffer bitter defeats. Exploitation, intensified in connection with the First and Second World Wars and the acute economic crisis of the 1920s and 1930s, made the national-patriotic front more resolute, numerous and united.

The British government in 1948 had to grant independence to Ceylon as a dominion. In 1972, under pressure from the public, the island was proclaimed the Republic of Sri Lanka. All forms of political dependence on England were eliminated. Now this distant piece of land in the Indian Ocean good-naturedly reveals its secrets to all lovers of ancient exoticism and shares the gentle sun and warm water.

The island of Sri Lanka was inhabited about 100 thousand years ago and constantly attracted more and more new settlers, due to which a significant number of representatives of the most dissimilar races, cultures and religions concentrated in its small territory already in ancient times. This enriched the island and led to constant conflicts and wars....

Popular Attractions

Sri Lanka Tourism

Office Hours

Banks are open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekdays. Shops are open from 10.00 to 22.00.

Souvenirs

Sri Lanka is known throughout the world for its precious stones: sapphires, rubies, amethysts, garnets, topazes, and especially the famous "moonstone", which is mined only here. It is recommended to purchase jewelry in specialized stores, requiring the issuance of an appropriate check or export certificate. The quality of the stones here is excellent, and the prices are relatively low. Also good souvenirs will be Ceylon tea, spices, aromatic oils, handicrafts, especially masks, batik, ceramics and leather. In cities, you can buy inexpensive high-quality textiles.

Medicine

There is a risk of infection with malaria, Japanese encephalitis B, hepatitis B, typhoid, Bengal cholera, diphtheria, tetanus, rabies, Dengue fever, etc., but only if elementary hygiene standards are not observed. Vaccination against malaria is recommended (there is a risk of infection in the interior of the country) or the use of antimalarial tablets, as well as vaccination against hepatitis A and B.

Safety

It is not recommended to drink raw water and use ice sold on the street - it can be made from raw water. It is recommended to use only mineral water V plastic bottles with a factory stopper, and wash your hands thoroughly and regularly with soap. Be sure to thoroughly wash (and preferably scald) vegetables and fruits, and do not allow the seller to cut the fruit with his knife.

The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka is an island nation in South Asia, better known as Ceylon, located off the southeastern coast of the Indian subcontinent. The capital is the city of Colombo.

Location and parameters of the island

Where Sri Lanka is located on the world map, perhaps not every person knows. The country is located in the Indian Ocean on the island of Ceylon with coordinates: 79 degrees east longitude and 6 degrees north latitude. open Portuguese navigators in 1506.

Like some other states of South Asia, the country was a colony. The island was owned by Portugal, Holland and England. The state received its independence in 1948 under the name of Ceylon, and in 1972 the country became known as Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is separated from the Asian continent by the Gulf of Manara, about 50 kilometers wide.

The island has the following parameters:

• the area is 65,600 square kilometers;
• the length from south to north is 445 kilometers;
• length from east to west 220 kilometers;
• length coastline 1350 kilometers.

most northern point Sri Lanka is Cape Pedro, the southernmost - a lighthouse in the village of Dondra.

In ancient times, the island of Ceylon was connected to Hindustan by a land bridge, but at the end of the 15th century, as a result of an earthquake, it lost land connections with the Asian mainland. The island itself, shaped like an egg, was called a pearl, a tear, "Sapphire Island".

Flora and fauna

The island of Sri Lanka has a diverse flora and fauna. More than 250 species of birds are permanent inhabitants of the island, about 200 species of birds are migratory from Europe, Siberia, Scandinavian countries, wintering here. In spring, about 250 species of butterflies migrate here.

The fauna of Ceylon is also diverse, the representatives of which are:

• buffaloes;
• wild boars;
• deer;
• jackals;
• the Bears;
• foxes;
• porcupines;
• elephants;
• monkey.

More than 70 species of reptiles thrive on the island, including crocodiles, snakes, turtles.

Diverse world and flora in Sri Lanka. More than 3,000 species of various plants grow here, including ferns, orchids, medicinal herbs.

On the island there are nature reserves, national parks and reservations that preserve the unique nature.

A country's economy

Sri Lanka is a multinational country. The population reaches 20 million people. The main nationalities living on the island are Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims and Burgers. All of them create the economy of the country with their work.

The island of Ceylon, where Sri Lanka is located, is 10% of all tea produced in the world. The country ranks third in the world for this indicator after India and China. The production of precious stones, cinnamon, and rubber is also very developed here. And although the main industrial sector of the island is textile, due to the abolition of quotas on clothing imports, local products have been replaced by Chinese.

The main economic center is the port of Colombo.

Sri Lanka's main export commodities are:

• cloth;
• gems: sapphires, emeralds, rubies;
• rubber;
• coconuts;
• fish;
• textile.

The country imports food, oil, transport, industrial equipment.

Recreation and tourism

Recreation and tourism play an increasingly important role in the country's economy. The place where Sri Lanka is located is known all over the world, because the island is known as a seaside resort recreation center. Religious and historical Buddhist monuments are also located here. Vacationers can visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic in the ancient capital of Sri Lanka - the city of Kandy.

Where Sri Lanka is located, there is no fuss and city noise. There is only nature and the sea. The main entertainment for vacationers are:

• underwater diving;
• picnic in nature;
• fishing;
• cricket.

Sri Lanka Resorts

People who are going to spend their current vacation on the island of Sri Lanka should know the positive aspects of choosing resorts in the country. These include:

• convenient and acceptable location of the resorts to the airport;
• exotic nature;
• compact location of resorts along the coastline, making it possible to visit them by public transport;
• climatic auspiciousness.

The list of resorts in Sri Lanka is quite large. We list those of them that are most in demand among tourists:

• Beruwala;
• Mount Lavigna;
• Tangalle;
• Kalutara;
• Bentota;
• Hikaduwa;
• Kosgoda;
• Mirissa;
• Unavantuna;
• Hambantota;
• Dikvela.

Sri Lanka resorts. How to get there? Each of the above resorts of the island has the opportunity to get from the airport by scheduled public transport in two to three hours. When choosing, be sure to take into account: the presence of underwater currents and the height of the waves. The place where Sri Lanka is located is the subequatorial monsoon, which brings the most intense rains from May to October. Therefore, it is important to determine the time period of rest. It is also recommended to have both a map of the country of Sri Lanka itself and tourist map island, which shows the main attractions.