Seven Important Facts You Should Know About Sri Lanka

Nestled in the Indian Ocean, just off the southeastern coast of India, lies Sri Lanka, an island nation that beckons with its captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” this teardrop-shaped island offers a remarkable diversity within its compact borders, from ancient ruins whispering tales of bygone eras to lush landscapes teeming with life and a warm, welcoming people eager to share their traditions. This report aims to unveil seven fascinating and important facts that provide a glimpse into the essence of Sri Lanka, a land of enduring appeal and captivating charm.

Fact 1: A Journey Through Time: From Ancient Kingdoms to Modern Republic

Sri Lanka boasts a history stretching back millennia, with evidence of prehistoric human settlements dating as far back as 125,000 years . The traditional narrative of Sinhalese history often begins in 543 BCE with the arrival of Prince Vijaya, a semi-legendary figure who, according to the Mahavamsa, sailed from the Vanga kingdom (present-day Bengal) and established the Kingdom of Tambapanni . This marked the beginning of a long line of monarchs who ruled over various kingdoms, including the prominent Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods. These ancient kingdoms were centers of significant cultural and religious development, particularly with the introduction of Buddhism in the 3rd century BCE, which profoundly shaped the island’s identity . The remnants of grand temples, intricate irrigation systems, and artistic masterpieces from these eras stand as testaments to a rich and sophisticated past . Sri Lanka’s extensive history, characterized by the rise and fall of indigenous kingdoms, laid the foundation for its unique cultural and socio-political landscape.  

The arrival of the Portuguese in 1505 marked a significant turning point, initiating centuries of European influence . The Portuguese sought control over the island’s lucrative maritime trade, establishing a fort in Colombo and gradually extending their influence over coastal regions . Their presence was followed by the Dutch in the 17th century, who further expanded colonial control and left their own distinct mark on the island’s architecture and culture . In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the British gained control, eventually ruling the entire island as British Ceylon from 1815 until 1948 . Under British rule, the island’s economy underwent a significant transformation, with the introduction and expansion of plantation crops such as tea, rubber, and coconuts, which continue to be important to the nation’s economy today .  

After nearly 150 years of British rule, Ceylon gained independence on February 4, 1948, becoming a dominion within the British Commonwealth . A significant shift in national identity occurred in 1972 when the country officially changed its name from Ceylon to the Republic of Sri Lanka, marking a move away from its colonial past . Sri Lanka’s more recent history was marked by a prolonged civil war, spanning from 1983 to 2009, which had profound human and economic consequences for the nation . The conflict’s impact continues to shape the country’s socio-political landscape, highlighting a major turning point in its recent history.  

Fact 2: Where Geography Paints a Thousand Pictures

Sri Lanka, an island nation in South Asia, is strategically located in the Indian Ocean, lying off the southeastern tip of the Indian subcontinent . Separated from India by the Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar, its location has historically positioned it as a significant point along maritime trade routes traversing the Indian Ocean, exposing it to diverse cultural influences from other Asian civilizations . The island spans approximately 65,610 square kilometers (25,332 square miles), roughly the size of West Virginia in the United States .  

The terrain of Sri Lanka is remarkably diverse, featuring coastal plains predominantly in the northern third of the country, which then give way to hills and mountains in the south-central region . These highlands rise to elevations of over 2,133 meters (7,000 feet), with Pidurutalagala being the highest peak at 2,524 meters (8,281 feet) . Other prominent geographical features include Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada), revered as a sacred site by multiple religions, and the expansive Central Highlands, characterized by plateaus, ridges, and valleys . The island is fringed by an extensive coastline stretching about 1,300 kilometers (830 miles), adorned with beautiful tropical beaches, lagoons, and sand dunes, interspersed with some rocky promontories and cliffs, particularly in the northeast and southwest . Numerous rivers originate from the Central Highlands, flowing in a radial pattern towards the sea, with the Mahaweli Ganga being the longest river at 331 kilometers . This varied geography contributes significantly to the country’s rich biodiversity, making it an ecologically important region with a high rate of endemism .  

Sri Lanka experiences a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, typically averaging around 27-29°C in the lowlands . Temperature variations are more pronounced with altitude, with cooler temperatures in the Central Highlands, where it can drop to around 16°C or even lower . The climate is heavily influenced by two main monsoon seasons . The southwest monsoon, typically occurring from May to July (and sometimes extending to October), brings significant rainfall to the western, southern, and central regions of the island . The northeast monsoon, from December to March, affects the northern and eastern regions . These monsoon seasons play a crucial role in the country’s climate patterns, influencing agricultural practices and potentially tourism trends.  

Fact 3: Two Capitals, One Nation: A Unique Administrative Structure

Interestingly, Sri Lanka operates with a unique administrative structure, featuring two capitals: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte and Colombo . Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte holds the distinction of being the officially designated capital and serves as the legislative capital, housing the country’s Parliament . This city is located approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) southeast of Colombo . Historically, Kotte was the capital of a significant Sinhalese kingdom from 1415 to 1565, its strategic location providing natural defenses due to surrounding lagoons, rivers, and swamps . The decision to designate Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte as the new capital was made in 1977, with the inauguration of the new parliament building there in 1982 . This move was primarily driven by the need to relocate government offices that had outgrown the capacity of Colombo within a few decades after Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948 .  

In contrast, Colombo functions as the executive and judicial capital of Sri Lanka . Situated on the west coast of the island, just south of the Kelani River, Colombo is also the country’s commercial center and main port, playing a vital role in its economy . Colombo held the position of the capital during British colonial rule from 1815 to 1948, solidifying its importance as an administrative and economic hub . Today, it remains the largest city in Sri Lanka and serves as the nation’s political, financial, and cultural heart . The existence of these two capitals represents a unique administrative arrangement, potentially arising from historical factors and the practical need for expansion and decentralization of governmental functions. The history of Sri Lanka reveals that the national capital has shifted locations several times throughout its history, reflecting the changing political landscape and power dynamics of the island .  

Fact 4: A Tapestry of Cultures: People, Languages, and Religions

Sri Lanka is home to a vibrant and diverse population, estimated to be around 22 to 23 million people . The population density is relatively high, with approximately 370 people per square kilometer . This island nation is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and ethnicities. The Sinhalese constitute the majority of the population, making up around 74-75% . The largest minority group is the Sri Lankan Tamils, who account for approximately 11-12% of the population and are primarily concentrated in the northern and eastern provinces . Other significant ethnic groups include the Sri Lankan Moors (around 9%), Indian Tamils (around 4%), and smaller communities such as Burghers, Malays, and Vedda . This multi-ethnic composition has contributed to the country’s rich cultural heritage, although it has also been a source of historical tensions. Notably, Sri Lanka’s population is aging at a faster rate than any other nation in South Asia, presenting potential future socio-economic challenges .  

The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil . Sinhala is spoken by the majority of the population (around 74%), predominantly in the southern, western, and central parts of the island . Tamil, the second most spoken language, is used by approximately 18% of the population, mainly in the northern and eastern regions . Recognizing this linguistic diversity, the government provides official administration and education in both Sinhala and Tamil . English also serves as a widely used link language, particularly in urban areas and for official and commercial purposes, with an estimated 24% of the population able to speak it . The recognition of multiple official languages reflects the country’s commitment to inclusivity and acknowledges its diverse linguistic communities.  

Religion plays a pivotal role in the lives of Sri Lankans, contributing significantly to the nation’s cultural fabric. The major religions practiced in Sri Lanka include Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity . According to the 2012 national census, approximately 70.2% of the population are Buddhist, making it the majority religion . Hinduism is practiced by around 12.6% of the population, predominantly by the Tamil community . Muslims constitute about 9.7% of the population, while Christians account for approximately 7.4% . The constitution of Sri Lanka accords Buddhism the “foremost place” among the country’s religious faiths and mandates the government to protect and foster it, while also assuring rights to all other religions . While Sri Lanka is religiously diverse, the constitutional emphasis on Buddhism indicates its significant role in the nation’s identity and potentially its politics. However, historical and contemporary reports suggest ongoing challenges related to inter-faith relations, with instances of religiously motivated violence reported, highlighting the need for continued efforts towards harmony and the protection of minority religious groups .  

Ethnic GroupPercentage (%)
Sinhalese74-75
Sri Lankan Tamils11-12
Sri Lankan Moors9
Indian Tamils4
Other0.5-1
  
Religious GroupPercentage (%)
Buddhist~70.2
Hindu~12.6
Muslim~9.7
Christian~7.4
Other/None~0.1

Export to Sheets

Fact 5: The Engine of Progress: Key Pillars of Sri Lanka’s Economy

Sri Lanka’s economy has evolved significantly over time, transitioning from a primarily agricultural base to a more diversified model with substantial contributions from manufacturing and services, particularly tourism . Historically, agriculture played a dominant role, especially during the colonial era when the British established large-scale plantations focused on crops like tea, rubber, and coconuts . These traditional crops continue to hold economic importance, with Sri Lanka maintaining a strong global reputation for its Ceylon tea . Tea production remains a significant contributor to the economy as a major export, ranking Sri Lanka among the top tea exporters worldwide .  

In recent decades, the garment and textile industry has emerged as another crucial pillar of Sri Lanka’s economy, becoming a leading source of export earnings . This sector provides employment to a significant portion of the workforce and caters to international markets . Furthermore, the tourism sector has witnessed substantial growth, evolving into a key economic driver and a significant source of foreign exchange for the country . Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions, ranging from ancient historical sites and cultural landmarks to stunning natural landscapes and wildlife, have made it an appealing destination for travelers from around the globe . However, the tourism industry has proven to be vulnerable to external shocks, as evidenced by the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and periods of domestic instability on visitor numbers . This highlights the ongoing need for economic diversification and resilience.  

Besides these major sectors, Sri Lanka also has notable industries in rubber processing, the production of coconut-based products, and the gem and jewelry trade, for which the island is world-famous . The information technology (IT) sector is also growing and becoming increasingly competitive . In 2022, the services sector accounted for the largest share of Sri Lanka’s GDP (60%), followed by industry (18%) and other industrial activities (14%), with agriculture contributing 8% . This distribution underscores the shift towards a service and industry-oriented economy.  

Fact 6: A Paradise for Explorers: Unveiling Sri Lanka’s Tourist Gems

Sri Lanka is a veritable paradise for explorers, boasting a rich tapestry of historical, cultural, and natural attractions that cater to a wide range of interests . The island is dotted with ancient cities and historical sites, many of which have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites, testament to their profound significance . Anuradhapura, with its well-preserved ruins of ancient stupas, intricate moonstones, and towering dagobas, stands as a sacred city and a major center for Buddhist history . Similarly, Polonnaruwa, the island’s medieval capital, showcases remarkable archaeological wonders, including the impressive Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddha statues . The ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, often referred to as the “Lion Rock,” is an iconic site, featuring the ruins of a royal palace atop a massive rock outcrop, adorned with fascinating frescoes . The Dambulla Cave Temple, also a UNESCO site, is a spiritual oasis comprising five caves filled with intricate murals and over 150 Buddha statues . The sacred city of Kandy, nestled amidst tea and spice plantations, is home to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide . Furthermore, the Old Town of Galle and its fortifications on the southwestern coast offer a glimpse into the island’s colonial past, with its well-preserved Dutch architecture .  

Beyond its historical treasures, Sri Lanka boasts breathtaking natural beauty. The picturesque hill country around Nuwara Eliya is renowned for its rolling hills covered in lush green tea plantations, offering stunning landscapes and a cool climate . The island’s extensive coastline is fringed with stunning beaches, such as those in Bentota, Mirissa, and Unawatuna, offering opportunities for relaxation, water sports, and whale watching . Nature enthusiasts can explore national parks like Yala and Udawalawe, famous for their diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species . The Central Highlands of Sri Lanka have also been recognized as a natural UNESCO World Heritage site, highlighting their ecological importance and biodiversity . Other notable attractions include Colombo, the vibrant capital city with a mix of cultural and modern attractions, and Ella, famous for its scenic beauty and the iconic Nine Arch Bridge . This wide array of attractions underscores Sri Lanka’s appeal as a destination that caters to diverse interests, from history and culture to nature and adventure.  

Fact 7: Embracing Tradition: The Heart of Sri Lankan Culture

The heart of Sri Lankan culture beats with a warm embrace of tradition, evident in the hospitality of its people and the rich tapestry of customs and rituals passed down through generations . Sri Lankans are renowned for their friendliness and welcoming nature, often greeting visitors with a warm “Ayubowan” (in Sinhala) or “Vanakkam” (in Tamil), accompanied by a slight bow and palms joined together in a gesture of respect and goodwill .  

Religion exerts a profound influence on Sri Lankan culture, shaping values, festivals, and daily life . Buddhism, being the dominant religion, plays a particularly significant role, with numerous Buddhist festivals celebrated throughout the year, including the vibrant Vesak Poya, a festival of lights commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha . Hindu festivals like Thai Pongal, a harvest festival, and Deepavali, the festival of lights, are also celebrated with enthusiasm, reflecting the country’s diverse religious landscape .  

Various customs and etiquette are deeply ingrained in Sri Lankan society. Respect for elders is paramount, with younger individuals often seeking their advice and guidance . When visiting homes or religious sites like Buddhist and Hindu temples, it is customary to remove footwear as a sign of respect . Dining etiquette often involves eating with the right hand, a tradition believed to enhance the enjoyment of the meal . Modest dress is generally expected, particularly when visiting places of worship, where shoulders and knees should be covered .  

Sri Lanka boasts a rich artistic heritage, with traditional dance forms like the Kandyan dance, characterized by its elaborate costumes and rhythmic movements, holding cultural significance . Ancient temple paintings, such as the frescoes at Sigiriya and the religious art found in temples like Dambulla and the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, showcase the island’s artistic traditions . Sri Lankan cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, often featuring rice as a staple, accompanied by an array of curries, spices, and coconut milk . Unique dishes like Polos (green jackfruit curry) and Kiribath (milk rice) are integral to the culinary experience, and tea remains a beloved beverage enjoyed throughout the day . This rich amalgamation of various influences has resulted in a unique cultural identity, making Sri Lanka a captivating destination where ancient traditions continue to thrive in the modern era.  

Video source : www.youtube.com/@ScenicRelaxationFilms

 

A tour guide in Sri Lanka enhances your travel experience by providing expert insights into the country’s rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes. They help navigate language barriers, recommend hidden gems, and ensure a smooth, hassle-free journey. From exploring ancient UNESCO heritage sites like Sigiriya and Anuradhapura to spotting wildlife in Yala National Park, a guide ensures you make the most of your trip. Additionally, they offer safety, local knowledge, and insider tips on the best food, shopping, and activities, making your visit more enriching and enjoyable.

Please refer to Srilankan Tourist Board-registered Tour guides;

https://srilanka.travel/tourist-guides

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