About Sri Lanka

History

Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, has a rich history dating back over 2,500 years. The island has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and it was ruled by various kingdoms before being colonized by the Portuguese in the 16th century, followed by the Dutch and the British. In 1948, Sri Lanka gained independence from British rule and became a republic in 1972. The country has a diverse cultural heritage influenced by its Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, and Christian populations, and it has been the site of numerous conflicts over the years, including a long civil war that lasted from 1983 to 2009. Today, Sri Lanka is a vibrant and developing country, known for its stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture.

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Geographical location

Sri Lanka is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, south of India and southeast of the Maldives. The country is situated between latitudes 5°55′N and 9°51′N and longitudes 79°41′E and 81°53′E. It has a total land area of approximately 65,610 square kilometers (25,332 square miles), making it the 25th largest island in the world. The island is characterized by a varied landscape, including sandy beaches, dense forests, mountains, and rolling hills. It is home to numerous rivers, including the Mahaweli, the longest river in Sri Lanka, which flows from the central highlands to the north and east. The island’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean has made it a key trading center for centuries, with influences from various cultures and civilizations shaping its history and culture.

Climate

Sri Lanka has a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The country experiences two distinct monsoon seasons, which bring the majority of the annual rainfall. The southwest monsoon brings rain to the western, southern, and central regions from May to September, while the northeast monsoon brings rain to the northern and eastern regions from December to February. The dry season occurs from December to March, particularly in the western and southern regions. Overall, temperatures in Sri Lanka are typically between 27-30 degrees Celsius (81-86 degrees Fahrenheit), with coastal areas being generally hotter and more humid than the hill country. Sri Lanka’s climate contributes to the country’s biodiversity and lush greenery, with various plant and animal species thriving in the warm and wet conditions.

Economy

Sri Lanka’s economy is diverse and developing rapidly. Agriculture has traditionally been a significant contributor to the country’s GDP, with tea, rubber, and coconut being major exports. However, in recent years, the country has also developed a strong services sector, particularly in tourism and information technology. Sri Lanka is also rich in natural resources, including gemstones, graphite, and minerals, which contribute to the economy through exports. The government has implemented policies to promote foreign investment and improve infrastructure, which has led to increased foreign investment in the country. Despite these developments, Sri Lanka still faces challenges, including high levels of public debt and poverty, and the government is working to address these issues through economic reforms.

Culture

Sri Lanka has a diverse and vibrant culture that reflects the influences of various civilizations and religions. Buddhism is the predominant religion, and the country is home to many ancient Buddhist temples and monuments, including the ancient city of Anuradhapura and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. The country also has a significant Hindu and Muslim population, and their customs and traditions have contributed to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. The arts, including dance, music, and theater, are an integral part of Sri Lankan culture, with Kandyan dance and drumming being particularly famous. The country’s cuisine is also diverse, with a blend of Indian, Malay, and Dutch influences, featuring dishes such as rice and curry, string hoppers, and hoppers. The people of Sri Lanka are known for their warmth and hospitality, and their culture is characterized by a strong sense of community and family.

Get your Visa

To enter Sri Lanka, most foreign nationals need to obtain a visa. The process of obtaining a visa for Sri Lanka is relatively straightforward and can be done online through the Sri Lankan Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. To apply, visitors must fill out an online application form and provide basic information about themselves, their travel plans, and their passport details. They must also pay the visa fee online, which varies depending on the type of visa and the length of stay. Once the application is submitted and approved, visitors will receive an electronic visa confirmation via email, which they must print and present at immigration upon arrival. The visa is valid for up to 30 days and can be extended once for a further 90 days while in Sri Lanka. It is recommended to apply for the visa well in advance of the travel dates to allow for processing time.

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Airline operators

Sri Lanka is well connected to the rest of the world, with several airlines operating flights to and from the country’s international airports. The main international airport in Sri Lanka is Bandaranaike International Airport, located in the city of Colombo.

Major airlines flying to Sri Lanka daily are as follows:

  • Sri Lankan Airlines
  • Emirates
  • Qatar Airways
  • Etihad Airways
  • Air Arabia
  • Gulf Air
  • Oman Air
  • Ethihad
  • Singapore Airlines
  • Swiss International Air Lines
  • Turkish Airlines

Other airlines

  • Air India
  • Air Asia
  • Fly Dubai
  • China Eastern Airlines.

Sri Lanka Travel Destinations

Use the map below to explore more on your journey.