See what "Sri Lanka (island)" is in other dictionaries. Where is Sri Lanka? Culture and religion

Dear readers, today I again invite you on a journey. The Indian Ocean with warm water, golden sand beaches, palm trees, gorgeous nature and exotic animals - all this can amaze even the most fastidious traveler. Where is this amazing place? - you ask. This is the former island of Ceylon, now its new name is Sri Lanka, where a vacation will delight you not only with picturesque landscapes, wild rivers and comfortable weather, but also with a large number of unique attractions, delicious food and unusually aromatic and strong tea.

The enchanting beauty of the island is complemented by a variety of resorts with hotels, welcoming and friendly people - the Sri Lankans. By the way, most residents speak several languages, including English and Russian. This place is perfect for a quiet and relaxing holiday with the whole family.

Sri Lanka - where is such a country located?

Sri Lanka is the largest island located in the Indian Ocean. It is a Democratic Socialist Republic in South Asia. The name translates as glorious and blessed land. Until it gained independence, or rather until 1972, the island was called Ceylon. India is located in close proximity to Sri Lanka. Even before the beginning of the 15th century, these states were connected by an isthmus. Now, there is a sandbank at this place, since a strong earthquake in the 15th century destroyed it. The capital of the island is a city with a difficult name to pronounce - Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, but the cultural and economically developed unofficial capital is the city of Colombo.

Sri Lanka has a rich world of flora and fauna. Almost 3,000 varieties of plants grow here, about 1,000 of which are flowering, over 700 species of medicinal flowers and herbs, and 150 varieties of wild orchids and ferns. Many people associate this country with elephants. And for good reason. Mighty elephants really live here, and not only that. The diversity of wildlife makes this island an amazing place. Beautiful butterflies, birds, reptiles, mammals - and many of them are protected by law, as they are listed in the Red Book as an endangered species.

Sri Lanka - monthly weather, rainy season, water temperature

The climate is tropical, with monsoon rainy seasons. An amazing feature of the monsoons in the summer is that they occur mainly at night. The weather is very favorable for holidays all year round. The air temperature is always stable, about 28-30 degrees Celsius at any time of the year. Only in the mountainous region the temperature in winter reaches only 10 degrees Celsius. Beach paradise all year round - this is how this state can be described.

The rainy season is long. From December to May there are rains in the eastern part of the island, from May to September there are monsoons in the west of the country. Therefore, in winter, it is best to relax in the southern and western regions of Sri Lanka. For example, the most popular cities are Colombo and Galle. The weather here is excellent, dry and sunny, just as the rainy season is approaching in the east. But in the summer months, resorts located in the eastern region are perfect.

The water temperature here is always constant. The average temperature is 27 degrees Celsius. Therefore, you can swim here all year round. Even at night you can bask in the warm waters of the ocean.

Sights of Sri Lanka, photos

Equipped beaches and comfortable hotels are not all that Sri Lanka can boast of. A huge number of ancient and unique attractions, 8 of which are included in the UNESCO list. Temples for all religions, various buildings and monuments in honor of Buddha, beautiful palaces, museums and temples are just a small part of the interesting places that you can visit.

Currently, excursions around the country are very popular, which allow you to see the maximum number of attractions in a short time. Of course, if you have enough time and you like to leisurely enjoy exploring amazing places and architectural structures, then it is better to take a walk around the sights on your own. Here are some of them that you should definitely see, otherwise your trip around the island would be in vain. Tea center, sacred Bodhi tree, golden Buddha statue, Kumana national reserve and Adam's Peak.

Sri Lanka - holidays and reviews from tourists

All tourists who visited this amazing and mysterious place at least once were very pleased with their vacation. After reading many reviews, I made several useful discoveries for myself that will help improve my vacation in this country. Now I will share with you some tips.

• Don't buy tea in the city, otherwise you will buy a mixture of local Sri Lankan and second-rate Indian tea. You can buy one like this at home, in the supermarket. Be sure to visit the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, where you will buy really good Sri Lankan tea and enjoy the view of the tea plantations that cover all the slopes and peaks of the mountains.
• When swimming in the ocean, be careful, it is choppy and it is better to swim where you can feel the bottom. After a wave, you can be pulled into the ocean, and the point of no return is very easy to miss. There are no rescuers, and a cry for help may not be heard. Better swim in the pool.
• It is not customary to use regular toilet paper on the island. In their room they have a special hose with water supply, or a ladle (you know why). Therefore, if you cannot live without personal hygiene products, be sure to take it with you.
• There are a lot of impudent monkeys on the island, scurrying everywhere, which can seriously ruin your entire vacation. Do not leave your belongings unattended. When leaving your hotel room, be sure to close the windows, otherwise you may risk losing your belongings and causing significant damage to the room.

Holidays in Sri Lanka - independent travel

You can get from Moscow to Colombo by direct airline flights. Unfortunately, direct flights do not occur every day, but according to a schedule. If you urgently need to get to this island, you can use connecting flights. There are several of them - in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Koch and Istanbul.
How long does it take to fly from Moscow to Sri Lanka? The direct flight is the shortest flight time, it takes from 8 to 9 hours. If the flight has transfers, then it is a little longer; it can take up to 12 hours of flight time. Don't forget to get a visa before planning your trip to Sri Lanka.

The island's public transport is trains and buses. Therefore, you can travel around the country on your own only by train and buses.

Traveling by bus is only suitable within the city. The cost of bus travel is very low, while the price for private transport is the same as for public transport. There are even luxury buses - with air conditioning and free seats, but the price for such travel is much more expensive. But what can you do for comfort?
Remember, the first seats on local buses are reserved for monks - they cannot be occupied!

You can travel between cities on your own by train. Affordable prices and the ability to choose comfort have made this type of transport very popular among tourists and local residents. 1st class trains are not just luxurious, they are unique. In addition to air conditioning and free WI-FI, there is a very interesting interior of the cars, in vintage style. Train schedules are available on the official websites of railway stations.

You may also be interested in reading reviews from tourists or visiting the sacred Indian city, follow the links. I hope you will find it interesting to read and see photos about these travels.

Sri Lanka is a small island state located in South Asia near the Hindustan Peninsula. The country received its current official name, the Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, in 1972. Previously, the state was known as Ceylon. The official capital of Sri Lanka is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. In fact, the capital functions are performed by the largest city in the country - Colombo.

The population of Sri Lanka is 21.6 million inhabitants. Sinhalese and Tamils ​​dominate among the nationalities. The most common religion is Buddhism, which is followed by the majority of Sinhalese. In addition, Hinduism, Christianity and Islam are widespread in the country. The form of government in Sri Lanka is a semi-presidential republic. Administratively, the country is divided into 9 provinces - Central, North Central, Northern, Northwestern, Western, Southern, Eastern, as well as the provinces of Sabaragamuwa and Uva.

The main sectors of the economy are agriculture, textile production and mining of precious stones. Recently, the tourism industry has been gaining momentum. The most popular holiday destinations in Sri Lanka are the resorts of Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Wadduwa, Beruwela and Kalutara.

Flight time:
Flights to Bandaranaike Airport, Colombo
from Moscow - from 8 hours 30 minutes.
from St. Petersburg - from 11 hours 25 minutes. (1-3 transfers)
from Kazan - from 12 hours 30 minutes. (1-4 transfers)
from Yekaterinburg - from 11 hours 55 minutes. (1-4 transfers)
from Novosibirsk - from 11 hours 50 minutes. (1-4 transfers)

Current time in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte:
(UTC +5:30)

The most developed sport is cricket, which is exotic for Russians. The state pursues an active foreign policy, Sri Lanka is a member of well-known international organizations - the UN (United Nations), IMF (International Monetary Fund), ADB (Asian Development Bank) and others.

How to get there

At present, the issue of direct regular flights between Moscow and Colombo remains open, but it is known that Aeroflot operates flights on this route during the season. Excluding this option, the best way to get to Sri Lanka at the moment are flights of Emirates Moscow - Dubai - Colombo, Qatar Airways Moscow - Doha - Colombo and Etihad Moscow - Abu Dhabi - Colombo. All aircraft arrive at Colombo International Airport.

Many people are interested in an important question when buying a ticket from Moscow to Sri Lanka: how long to fly? If you choose a non-stop flight on the route Moscow - Sri Lanka, the flight will take 8 hours 45 minutes (flight to the capital of the country - Colombo). With connections it will be about 14 hours, but it depends on the connection times, which vary among airlines.

Climate and weather in Sri Lanka

The climate in Sri Lanka is warm and humid. The temperature is very even, without sharp fluctuations throughout the year. The difference between the warmest and coldest months is only 2-3 degrees Celsius. The average monthly temperature usually does not exceed 30 degrees. The seasons here differ in the amount of precipitation that falls. Most rain falls in summer. The coastal areas of Sri Lanka are the most comfortable for living. In large cities located inland, the weather is hot and humid. The average water temperature in the Indian Ocean near the country is 27 °C, which differs from the air temperature by only a couple of degrees.

Cooler temperatures can be found in the mountainous areas of Sri Lanka. The town of Nuwara Eliya is located at 1884 meters above sea level. The local average annual temperature is 18 °C. In cold weather at night, the thermometer can drop to an unprecedented level of 10 °C for Sri Lanka. This kind of “frost” forces the owners of local hotels and inns to use heating devices that are turned on in the evening and at night. It will be useful and pleasant for tourists to know that it usually rains at night in Sri Lanka. Therefore, your holiday at the resort should not be overshadowed by precipitation. The even and favorable climate throughout the year allows vacationers not to think about choosing a month for their vacation in Ceylon. Local residents and tourists feel comfortable here at any time of the year.

Rainy season in Sri Lanka

It is quite difficult to understand how rapidly the climate in Sri Lanka is changing the first time, so you need to be more careful with its features. The island is dominated by an equatorial climate, the distinctive feature of which is the division into two seasons: dry and rainy season.

In addition, the Central Mountain Range rises in the middle of the island, creating a “rain shadow” for the southwestern part of Sri Lanka. This is the so-called “wet zone” of the island, where the southwest monsoons head from May to September. They form in the Arabian Sea and move towards the island as a large wall of warm, humid air. Moreover, due to the mountain range, the rest of the country (which is three-quarters of the island) is more or less dry at this time. These three quarters are the eastern and northern parts of the country, where the average annual precipitation is 1200-1800 mm. For comparison, in the southwest this figure is much higher - from 2540 to 5080 mm per year.

The north and east of the country are influenced by the northeastern monsoons, which occur here from November to February. Most of the cyclones that form in the Bay of Bengal hit Bangladesh and the coast of India, but Sri Lanka also sometimes suffers, even despite some remoteness.

The rainy season in Sri Lanka is characterized by heavy and short (about 15 minutes) downpours, most often occurring at night. The main disadvantage for vacationers in such a situation is the strong wind, which creates large waves in the ocean, so it is better to give up dreams of calm and safe swimming at this time.

The winter and autumn months on the island are characterized as inter-monsoon periods, when there are no heavy monsoon rains, but sometimes there are so-called “zenithal rains”, often found in equatorial regions. Thus, the best time to relax in the southwest, which is attractive to tourists, is winter, and, accordingly, in the north and east - summer.

Cities and regions

Provinces of Sri Lanka

• Central
• North Central
• North-Eastern
• Northern
• Sabaragamuwa
• South
• Western

Cities of Sri Lanka

There are many large and small cities in Sri Lanka. Below is information about the cities most interesting for tourists.

Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka, which is actually the capital of the country, located in the Western Province of the state. Colombo is a center of business, trade and culture. The population of the city is 740 thousand inhabitants, and the agglomeration (together with the suburbs, including the formal capital of Sri Jayawardenepura Kote) is 2 million 250 thousand inhabitants. Industry and high-tech manufacturing are booming in Colombo. The local port is one of the largest in the Asian region.

Interestingly, many areas have a specific vocational focus. This division has arisen since ancient times. In Colombo there is a district of artisans, poor people, traders, etc. Of course, today such a classification is gradually becoming obsolete, but is still largely relevant. A major international airport is located 30 kilometers from Colombo. The city is developed culturally and religiously - it has its own university, observatory, and religious institutions for various faiths.

The tourist center is located in the northern district of the city - Fort. Hotels, shops, restaurants and other entertainment venues are concentrated here. The main attractions of the city are Galle Face Green Park, the National Museum, the Local History Museum, the Presidential Palace and Independence Square. In the suburbs of Komlombo you can visit one of the largest zoos on the continent - Dehiwala Zoo.

Anuradhapura is the district capital of the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The city is named after its founder, the Indian prince Anuradha. Population: 50,000 inhabitants. The most developed economic sectors are agriculture and handicrafts. The air temperature is warm and favorable throughout the year; the climate is characterized by high humidity. The city is famous for its attractions: Anuradhapura has the remains of ancient temples, monasteries and other cultural monuments. Among the most famous sites are the Ruanvelli and Thuparama stupas, the Abhayagiri and Isurumuniya monasteries, and the famous Aukan Buddha statue located near the city.

Kandy is one of the oldest Sri Lankan cities. It is located in the central part of the country. The city was previously known as Senkadagalapura. The population of Kandy is more than 150 thousand people. The city is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and was formerly the capital of ancient Ceylon. The most significant cultural monument is the Dalada Maligawa Temple. The Sacred Tooth of Buddha is located here, and this famous artifact has become an object of pilgrimage for Buddhists. Every year, Kandy hosts the popular Esala Peraher festival, during which time the famous relic is put on display for the public to see. For ten nights in a row, a procession with elephants takes place on the streets, which is accompanied by ethnic music, fakirs and other local attributes. On the outskirts of Kandy is the largest botanical garden on the continent. It contains many rare species of tropical plants. In the vicinity of Kandy there is its own unique Spice Garden.

Negombo is a small town located 40 kilometers from Colombo. The resort is nicknamed "Little Rome". The fact is that Negombo is the unofficial center of Christianity in Sri Lanka. The city is quite developed, shops, restaurants, rental offices and other services are located here literally on every corner. Local beaches are deserted, so they are popular among lovers of a quiet and relaxing holiday. True, most tourists use Negombo only as a transit point for a day or two, and then head to other resorts. However, the city has a lot to offer and show vacationers. The most popular entertainment is fishing. Local villages have long been famous for fishing. The most significant attractions are the remains of a Dutch fort and a Buddhist temple in Kelaniya, which is located 10 kilometers from Negombo.

Resorts of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an island where people go on vacation all year round. Beach holidays, swimming in the Indian Ocean, trips to exotic places, complete relaxation, meetings that will be remembered forever, authentic village life, age-old traditions - one way or another, this is what is expected from the island.

The main question that tourists going on vacation to Sri Lanka ask themselves is which resort to choose? Indeed, there are many good places here, each with its own character and flavor. Thus, Hikkaduwa gathers surfers, divers and young people on its beaches. Bentota is aimed at demanding tourists, Kogalla - at independent tourists and those who have arrived for the "winter", etc.

Below are the best resorts in Sri Lanka. Additionally, you can read about Sri Lankan beaches.

Bentota is a popular beach resort in Sri Lanka. This romantic spot is popular with young families and adventure seekers. Tourists have a full range of services to suit any budget. The resort will appeal to lovers of active recreation: the most popular Ceylon water entertainment center, Confifi Marina, is located here. Vacationers will be able to ride a boat, water ski, scooter or go scuba diving. The club also organizes excursions and boat trips.

Beruwela is a resort located in the southwest of the country, near Colombo. This place will appeal to tourists who prefer a beach holiday. However, lovers of a more active lifestyle will also find something to entertain themselves with. Large hotels have sports facilities - golf courses, tennis courts, and on the beaches tourists can enjoy traditional water activities. Along the coastline of the resort there are several hotels of different classes for people with different income levels. The main attraction of Beruveli is the ancient Kechimalai Mosque, to which thousands of Muslims from all over the world make pilgrimages every year.

Wadduwa is another Ceylon resort located near Colombo. The calling card of this place is its gorgeous coconut palms and amazing sandy beaches. The resort has a developed infrastructure. A large number of hotels, shops, restaurants and cafes are concentrated here. There is a popular scuba diving center on Wadduwa. Diving enthusiasts will be able to fully appreciate the beauty of the local ocean depths. Just a few kilometers away is another resort town - Kalutara, famous for the Buddhist temple Gangatilaka Vihara.

Kalutara is a resort town on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. From time immemorial, the resort was famous for its herbs and spices. Throughout its history, little Kalutara has been under the yoke of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonialists. However, today the place has become one of the most modern and dynamically developing Sri Lankan resorts. The local specialty is amazing and juicy tropical fruits, which are placed in baskets created by local craftsmen using their own methods. However, the famous Kalutara spices are still respected all over the world. The main attractions of the resort are the Gangatilaka Vihara Stupa and the February Navam Parade.

Kogalla is a small but famous Ceylon resort. The relative distance from civilization (Colombo is more than 100 kilometers away) attracts tourists here who dream of taking a break from the bustle of large cities. On the other hand, Kogalla has all the necessary infrastructure, including golf courses, diving centers, tennis courts and other entertainment. Not far from the resort is the town of Polonnaruwa. It is famous for the fact that the remains of the legendary palace of the ancient Sinhalese state have been preserved on its territory. Other historical monuments include the Watadage Temple and giant Buddha statues carved into the rocks.

Nuwara Eliya is a famous resort in the mountains of Sri Lanka. The place is known as one of the few islands of coolness in sultry South Asia. Numerous local waterfalls are popular with tourists. Among other attractions, it is worth noting the unusual architecture of local buildings in the British style. The main places for recreation are a magnificent modern golf complex, Victoria Park, the picturesque Gregory Lake and a hippodrome where horse racing takes place every spring.

Mount Lavinia is a popular Sri Lankan resort, located just a few kilometers from the country's capital. The place is a fairly large commercial, industrial and economic center. The population of the city is 155 thousand inhabitants. Tourists especially note the wide sandy beaches here. The resort has several modern hotels. The main attractions are the Dehiwela Zoo, which is home to more than 300 species of animals, and the giant Bolgoda Lake with rich flora and fauna.

Hikkaduwa is a resort town located in the south of Sri Lanka. This city is considered a diving Mecca. The unusually beautiful local coral reefs and other inhabitants of the underwater world attract vacationers from all over the world. The coral became the unofficial emblem of the city. In addition, there is a coral reserve on the territory of the city. Other attractions include a Buddhist temple and a large, beautiful lake.

What to see

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and Recreation

Leisure

Transport

Private guides in Sri Lanka

Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with Sri Lanka in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.

Things to do

Water sports

Comfortable weather throughout the year, amazingly clear water and the beauty of the underwater depths of Sri Lanka attract many outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world.

Diving - scuba diving with scuba gear, mask, fins and other equipment. The Indian Ocean, in addition to the most beautiful marine life and underwater reefs, keeps many secrets and mysteries. Diving near shipwrecks and underwater caves heightens the senses and makes diving in Sri Lanka simply unforgettable. Lankan diving centers have modern equipment and equipment, and are scattered around the entire perimeter of the island. When planning a diving holiday, you should take into account the travel time. The fact is that diving centers located in the southwest of Sri Lanka operate from mid-autumn to mid-spring, and in the northeast - from early spring to mid-autumn.

Snorkeling also allows you to contemplate the splendor of the underwater world, but only at shallow depths: snorkeling requires only a mask, fins and a snorkel. The purity and transparency of Sri Lankan waters easily allows you to engage in this exciting activity, because the underwater delights are visible at a depth of several meters.

Surfing is riding waves using special boards. Surfers have chosen many areas of Sri Lanka. The picturesque landscape, the relaxed atmosphere of the resort and, of course, good high waves make the island ideal for practicing this sport.

Windsurfing is riding the waves using a board equipped with a sail. This sport can be practiced in Negombo, Trincomalee, Bentota. Equipment is rented at specialized rental points. Some hotels specialize in windsurfing and offer tourists all the necessary equipment. The gathering place for experienced athletes was Arugam Bay.

Ayurveda

Traditional treatment in Sri Lanka is very developed. Ayurveda, which literally means the science of life, is especially popular. This is a whole range of traditional treatment methods, including aromatherapy, relaxation, meditation, massage, and healthy eating. Ayurveda implies comprehensive healing of the body, and not the treatment of only diseased organs. The most important thing is that this direction has no side effects or contraindications. All medical products are made entirely from natural ingredients. Several hotels in Sri Lanka offer to combine relaxation with treatment according to the Ayurveda system.

Ecotourism

All over the world, ecotourism has long been a popular holiday destination. Recently, this type of recreation has begun to gain popularity among our compatriots. Tours to Sri Lanka offer a wide variety of ecotourism offerings. Vacationers can choose from rafting down mountain rivers, driving off-road vehicles over rough terrain, riding elephants, mountain climbing and other original excursions.

Camping and safaris

For tourists who are tired of the comfort of modern hotels and want to join the natural world, Sri Lanka offers a special excursion program with accommodation in tent camps in national parks. The tour program is compiled taking into account the individual wishes of vacationers. Tourists independently choose the parks to visit and other recreation criteria. Among the latter are the comfort of tent rooms, the number of days on the tour, and the purchase of additional excursions. The standard program lasts 9 days, during which all the main national parks of the country are visited. The camps provide all necessary living conditions and three meals a day.

Agritourism

Agritourism is the best holiday destination for those who want to get to know the peculiarities of Sri Lankan life from the inside. Tourists can not only live in the usual conditions of a Ceylon village, but also take part in agricultural work, as well as care for domestic animals. As part of agrotourism packages, vacationers get acquainted with local culture, customs, and learn to cook national cuisine.

Fishing

The coastal waters of Sri Lanka are replete with the number of fish and other representatives of the underwater world living there. The abundance of plankton attracts a wide variety of species - from tuna to sharks. Excursion fishing usually starts early in the morning. Tourist groups are taken out for fishing several tens of kilometers from the coast. Vacationers are accompanied by experienced local fishermen, and all necessary gear is included in the price of the excursion.

River Safari

The so-called boat safari is very popular on the island. This is a three-hour river boat ride. During the excursion you will be able to meet many exotic birds and animals. As you move away from civilization by boat, you can find more and more interesting and unusual things - small islands of land, aboriginal settlements and unique vegetation. A local guide will cost only $20.

Helicopter excursion

The opportunity to take a helicopter ride has appeared quite recently. This is a very expensive entertainment, but there are still people who want it. The helicopter base is located 15 kilometers from the capital of Sri Lanka. From here you can fly to almost anywhere in the country. The maximum allowed number of tourists in the cabin of one helicopter is four people. The most popular excursion to Sigiriya will cost $2,000 per helicopter, in addition, you will have to fork out another $112 for each hour you wait for the helicopter.

Hot Air Balloon Flight

Another excursion that allows tourists to admire the amazing Sri Lankan landscapes from a bird's eye view. Air travel is only carried out in light windy weather that is safe for flights. The standard duration of the excursion is one and a half hours, and the cost is approximately $1000 for the entire group, which cannot exceed four people.

Golf

This game began to develop in Sri Lanka back in the 19th century. Today, the country has created several high-quality golf complexes that meet international standards. Beginning athletes can also enjoy the game: golf clubs offer special individual and group lessons for beginners.

Sri Lankan wedding

Newlyweds from all over the world are increasingly choosing Sri Lanka as their wedding venue. The ceremony takes place according to local traditions - the bride and groom dress in bright national costumes, the procession is accompanied by elephants and the beating of drums, and boys and girls in colorful outfits dance nearby. After exchanging rings, the newlyweds give each other a taste of rice boiled in coconut milk and wash it down with water. This ritual symbolizes the future mutual care of husband and wife. There are a number of other traditional wedding rituals - tying the little fingers of the bride and groom with gold thread, breaking a coconut to sprinkle milk on the newlyweds' clothes and lighting an oil lamp together. The cost of the ceremony should be discussed in advance with the organizer. The amount will vary depending on the number of services selected. But on average you can spend $1000.

Beaches of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka boasts magnificent sandy beaches that stretch for 1000 km along the entire coast of the island. When swimming in the ocean, you should be careful: deep currents are quite dangerous, and you can cut yourself with fragments of coral. Topless sunbathing is not accepted in Sri Lanka.

The resorts offer all kinds of water sports: diving, surfing, yachting, snorkeling, sailing.
There are 2 beach seasons on the island: on the west and south coasts, from November to March, northern winds blow, the sea is calm, and the weather is comfortable. The western monsoon blows from April to October, bringing beach weather to the east coast.

Getting around the country

Bus

Buses are often crowded with passengers and very uncomfortable, but they can travel the entire island for almost nothing, for a few dollars. There are AC class buses, with air conditioning and guaranteed seats, they will cost twice as much.

Bus stops can be hectic, especially the larger ones, but almost everyone will be happy to practice their English and help out.

Private and municipal buses operate in major cities of the country. The fare for them is approximately the same. Public transport in Sri Lanka is one of the cheapest in the world.

Train

It is convenient to travel between Sri Lankan cities by train. From the capital you can get to any destination for no more than 300 rupees. Passengers have the opportunity to choose a carriage class with a suitable level of comfort. Sri Lanka has an extensive railway system, serving all the main cities of the island except the north and east.

Trains are more comfortable and colorful than buses, and thanks to the winding mountain railways, the railway network in the mountainous parts of Sri Lanka is very scenic, especially on the Badullu-Nanu Oya line. If possible, sit on the right side of the train as this offers the best views. For tourists who want to explore the local views, there are special excursion carriages with large windows.

Knock Knock

The most popular transport in Sri Lanka are small scooters with a cabin called tuk-tuk. They are unusual for us, but Sri Lankans regularly use them for everyday trips. A tuk-tuk is much cheaper than a regular taxi, the average price per kilometer is 15-20 rupees. It is not customary to pay tips in Sri Lanka.

Taxi

A more traditional type of transport will cost about 50% more. For a kilometer of travel you will have to pay about 30 rupees. If the taxi is not equipped with a meter, then the cost of the trip should be agreed upon in advance. You can “catch” a taxi driver right on the street or call him by phone.

Car rental

The country has a well-organized transport system, but Russians will be greatly surprised by two things - driving on the left and the possibility of animals driven by farmers and cars coexisting on the road.

With a driver

The car itself is often provided free of charge, and money is paid to the driver for his services. Some drivers/guides are licensed by the state to operate, some are extremely knowledgeable and speak multiple languages ​​and specialize in the history and culture of the country. They will tell those who go to see historical sites and nature reserves about the environment.

Without driver

Those who are not embarrassed by the oddities of traffic in Sri Lanka can rent a car for independent travel. Standard fee is 2400 rupees per day. This amount includes mileage of 80 kilometers, and for each additional kilometer you will have to pay an additional 8 rupees.

Airplane

The air carrier Aero Lanka operates domestic flights on the Colombo-Ratmalata, Colombo-Jaffna and Colombo-Trincomalee routes.

Communication

The main language of Sri Lanka is Sinhala, the second language is Tamil. English is used in government and tourism. Don't expect the entire population everywhere to speak English fluently. It is much more common in beach and tourist areas. Most people in rural areas do not know English at all, except for a few simple words.

• Sinhalese: The greeting in Sinhala is “aayuBOvan”, which literally means “stay longer”; thank you in Sinhala is "stuti";
• Tamil: The greeting in Tamil is “vanakkam”; thank you - “nanri”;
• Arabic(Lankan Moors): When meeting a Muslim, it is polite to say “Assalamu alaikum”; thank you sounds like “jaza-ka alla.”

Culture

The culture of Sri Lanka has managed to preserve many of its own ancient traditions, despite the fact that European colonialists had a great influence on it. The country has managed to preserve traditional customs in many areas. Most of the ancient national works of art are, in one way or another, connected with the dominant religion in the country - Buddhism. Painting, sculpture and architecture developed under his influence. Original dances and songs are also an important object of Sri Lankan culture. Contemporary art in Sri Lanka is actively developing cinema, radio and television.

One of the main holidays for Sri Lankans is New Year. True, unlike our country, in Sri Lanka it is celebrated in April. There are many rituals associated with this event on the island, and of course there is a traditional chic fireworks display.

Sri Lanka's number one sport is cricket. The national team even became the world champion in this sport in 1996. In addition, American football, rugby and various martial arts are very popular. Among the latter are the Sri Lankan martial arts Cheena di, which was taught by Chinese monks, and Angampora, a fighting style using swords, daggers and other weapons.

Kitchen

National Sri Lankan cuisine has much in common with Indian cuisine, due to the geographical proximity of the two countries. Herbs, spices, juicy fruits, seafood - all these elements are traditional in both countries. The basis of the daily diet in Sri Lanka consists of dishes made from rice and curry. The latter, by the way, is not only seasoned with meat. The curry island serves side dishes, fish, vegetables and other dishes.

Since Sri Lankan and South Indian food are very similar, many local restaurants will list Sri Lankan cuisine and South Indian cuisine on their menus. In addition, different regions have their own cooking options. Food is generally very cheap, with an inexpensive lunch costing around a dollar. Rarely can a meal cost more than ten dollars, except in the most expensive places aimed at tourists. Colombo has a large selection of high quality restaurants.

Ceylonese cuisine often uses coconut ingredients - coconut juice, butter and shavings. There are many other dishes with other unusual ingredients for us.

String hoppers are rice vermicelli that are rolled and steamed.

Umbalakada is a small fish that has been ground into powder.

Hoppers are local rice flour pancakes cooked with coconut milk.

Bittara arra - pancake combined with fried eggs. To prepare it, place a chicken egg in the middle of the pancake.

Hakuru arra is a delicacy similar to Bittara arra, but sweetened with coconut.

Kiribath is a traditional white rice cooked in coconut milk.

Rotti is a regular flatbread seasoned with curry sauce.

Pittu - Prepared from water, rice flour and coconut. Also served with curry sauce.

Kottu Rotti is a mixture of chopped unleavened rice cakes, vegetables and your choice of meat. This dish is found only in Sri Lanka, the most delicious Kottu Roti is from street vendors, freshly prepared.

Beverages

In Sri Lanka, you should not drink tap water, as it can cause intestinal disorders. Buy plain bottled water in stores. But it’s better to avoid buying local milk altogether. Thanks to the Sri Lankan climate, it spoils very quickly, although it is quite expensive.

The traditional non-alcoholic drink among Sri Lankans is Tambili, juice from the king coconut. Fresh juice can be prepared before your eyes right on the street, and it will cost less than what is sold in bottles.

Other local drinks include ginger oil and cream soda. If you prefer classic Coke or Pepsi, you can buy them in almost any grocery supermarket on the island.

The most popular beers are Three Coins (brewed according to a Belgian recipe), Lion Stout (buttery with a chocolate flavor) and Lion Lager.

For those who prefer strong alcohol, we can recommend the local drink - Arrack. It usually costs about $4 a bottle and is often drunk with ginger beer. Quality depends on price, but the Old Reserve brand is widely recommended and costs $7.50.

Purchases

Shopping in Sri Lanka is represented by both fairly modern shopping centers and traditional markets with all kinds of folk goods - from spices to clothes made from natural fabrics. Prices for goods from local producers are very reasonable. The greatest opportunities for shopping, of course, are in Colombo, but the Sri Lankan outback, and even more so the tourist centers, also have something to offer tourists in terms of shopping.

You can read more about store opening hours, what to buy, where to buy, and how to bargain in the article “Shopping in Sri Lanka”.

Connection

Telephone communications

Telephone service is available in almost any hotel, but calling from your room is usually very expensive. It is more economical to use special telephone cards and call from automatic machines or make calls from the nearest post offices. Cards in denominations of 100, 500 and 1000 rupees can be purchased at supermarkets, shopping kiosks and post offices. To call Russia you need to dial 007, the area code and the phone number.

Sri Lanka dialing code: +94.

Useful phone numbers

Internet

Cellular communications on the island are poorly developed and unstable. You can use a mobile phone only in the capital, as well as in large cities and popular resorts.

You can access the global network through Internet cafes located in large cities. In the outback of the country, gaining access to the World Wide Web is very problematic.

Safety

Tourists going on holiday to Sri Lanka should follow a number of simple measures to ensure safety. You should be careful when walking through parks and reserves - watch your step, do not turn off the tourist path and use mosquito repellents. If you are going on an excursion to the jungle, then before the trip, just in case, you need to take anti-malarial tablets. You need to be more careful with animals. There are often cases when monkeys steal various things from unlucky tourists.

As in many other tourist areas, in Sri Lanka you should be wary of pickpockets and do not leave valuables unattended. It is better for women not to be alone on the streets or on the beach at night. Over the past few years, there has been a slight increase in crimes against tourists, but these cases are rare.

Tourists are advised not to travel to areas controlled by the Tamil Tigers (LTTE). Some areas are mined, and armed clashes occur in cities. In addition, military action by the government is also possible. However, thanks to the large number of government checkpoints, the likelihood of entering military territory through negligence is extremely low. These areas are significantly removed from the places that tourists usually visit. However, it is not uncommon to see heavily armed soldiers on the streets, main highways and at the airport.

Before traveling to this country, it is recommended to be vaccinated against hepatitis A and B, polio, and tetanus. If you plan to travel outside of tourist areas, especially during the rainy season, you should be vaccinated against typhus. The areas of Gampaha (eg Negombo), Colombo, Kalutara, Galle, and Nuwara Eliya, as well as the city of Kandy (but not the district), are considered malaria-free. In other parts of the country, there is malaria and the greatest likelihood of getting sick is in Anuradhapura. During the dry season, during the day when traveling or traveling by train to Kandy (including trips to Peradeniya Gardens) or Nuwara Eliya, using a DEET repellent should be sufficient. The risk of infection increases after sunset. Antimalarial prophylaxis protects against infection when traveling to the north (especially Anuradhapura), east, and southeast (however, some types of drugs are not available there).

Try to respect local cultural values. You cannot appear in temples in shorts, short skirts or other clothes that are too revealing, and you must take off your shoes before entering the sanctuary. When buying jewelry and treasures, do not forget to ask for a license to export the goods from the country, otherwise problems may arise at customs. On full moon days, drinking alcohol in public places is prohibited on the island.

Some traditions take some getting used to, especially for Europeans.

Embassy of the Russian Federation in Sri Lanka:

Address: Embassy of the Russian Federation, 62 Sir Ernest de Silva Mawatha, Colombo-7, Sri-Lanka.

Phone: (8-10-941) 57-4959, 57-3555.

Where to stay

Standard hotels

Classic hotels with room capacity from 50 to 500 rooms. A suitable hotel of this class can be found for any budget. Because of their convenience, standard hotels are loved by vacationers with families or large groups. The all-inclusive system is often used.

Boutique hotels

Recently, hotels of this type have become increasingly popular. Boutique hotels are small hotels with 3-15 rooms. Guests of such hotels prefer silence, comfort and tranquility, which are so lacking in large hotels. Boutique hotels are on average more expensive than regular hotels, but they have their own unique look. Customers receive much more attentive service and service. The standard cost for renting a double room is $100-$250 per day.

Bungalow

Bungalows are usually small private houses, renovated and converted to suit the needs of tourists. Sometimes there is a private kitchen, maid or cook. Renting a bungalow is not cheap, but if you are going on vacation with a large group, then there is an opportunity to save money. Rental cost $100-$200 per day.

Villas

A villa is a luxurious home with many rooms, all possible amenities and maximum comfort. They are usually rented out entirely and are suitable for wealthy people. A villa, like a bungalow, is profitable to rent for a large group of people, for example, several families. The average rental cost is $300-$1000 per day. It varies depending on the level of the villa and the distance from the sea.

Sri Lanka or Ceylon? What is the correct name for an exotic island lost somewhere out there in the equatorial expanses of the Indian Ocean?

In those days, when the British ruled the emerald island, the country was called Ceylon. In 1948, Ceylon gained independence from the British crown, and in 1972, the proud islanders returned to their island the ancient name of Sri Lanka, which means “blessed land” in Sanskrit.

When is the best time to go on holiday to Sri Lanka?

Thank God, now you can fly to the blessed island at any time of the year. Moreover, Sri Lanka is a year-round tourist destination. The concept of “off season” does not exist on the island. There is a so-called rainy season. But this is not at all what they show in the movies about Robinson Crusoe - pouring rain day and night. As a rule, the rainy season is limited only to night showers and short rains during the day, and the rest of the time it is warm and sunny. The maximum that can darken your trip during the monsoon period is the lack of scorching sun. The sun is hidden behind a gentle haze, but don’t be upset: you will still tan, and the tan will be more gentle and even. Two monsoons occur in Sri Lanka at different times on different halves of the island. The western monsoon season lasts from May to July. At this time it rains mainly in the southwestern part of the island. The northeast monsoons last from November to January. Thus, if you are planning to relax on the western or southern coast, then the best time for this is the period from October to April.

Where to live in Sri Lanka?

The star rating of hotels in Ceylon is a very arbitrary concept, depending on the quality and quantity of services provided and, of course, importantly, on the location. On the emerald island there are accommodation options for every taste: hotels of different categories, resorts, guest houses, villas, private housing. The cost of accommodation can vary from $20 to $2000 per night, but for $2000 you will have an entire villa at your disposal - the latest in fashion. But in general, the price range of Sri Lankan hotels fluctuates, or, more correctly, “waves” between the prices for holidays in Egypt and Turkey. The largest number of decent hotels are located along the western and southern coasts, in the ancient capital of Kandy and in the central historical part of the island. In general, cheaper hotels are located north of Colombo, more expensive hotels are located to the south. The most respectable holiday destination can be considered the west coast south of Colombo, starting from Kalutara to Beruwela and Bentota. As a rule, our compatriots prefer to relax on the most famous southwestern coast. Back in Soviet times, employees of the Soviet embassy went to the Beruwela area on weekends. And our diplomats knew a lot about rest. After the modern highway was built along the west coast, local resorts became even more attractive. Only 30-60 km from Colombo! Here are the best sandy beaches, low ocean waves (not like the “thug waves” in the southeast in the area of ​​Yala National Park!), and a large number of decent 4* and 5* hotels. There aren’t many “fives” here, but there are some! Just look at the Indian luxury hotel Taj Exotica and the unrivaled Helitance Ahungala hotel. Do not forget that we are not talking about the developed tourist infrastructure of Patong Beach on the island. Phuket (Thailand), where in the full sense of the word “the apple has nowhere to fall”! Sri Lanka has not yet been truly explored by tourists. And that's great! There are not many such oases left on our planet! And while Sri Lanka is still like this, don’t waste time. Let's go!

Well, where else in the tropics or on the equator is there such a concentration of ancient architectural and cultural values ​​of world significance, dating back to the period BC and located at arm’s length from the ocean?! In what other country will you have such an opportunity to combine serene relaxation on the coast of the majestic ocean with a romantic fairy-tale journey into a perfectly preserved ancient world? Many tourists are happy to combine the varied excursion program of Colombo - Dambulla - Kandy - Nuwara Eliya - Yala National Park with a sea holiday. The duration of the excursion program is from 3 to 7 days. Along the entire route, unsurpassed hotels with gorgeous panoramic views and polished “colonial” service are at your service. What is it worth, for example, to relax in the mountains almost 2000 m above sea level in the Victorian-style Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya, built by the English colonialists! Or check out the new hotel in Kandy, Earl’s Regency Hotel, with magnificent views of the mountain scenery and the Mahawelly River.

Of course, there are also fairly inexpensive quality 3* hotels on the island. For example, "Induruwa Beach". 3* in Sri Lanka is not the same as in London or Italy, it is rather similar to European 4*. And yet, if you covered a distance of 8 hours of flight, bought a far from cheap ticket, then pay an extra 10-15% and stay in a hotel of a higher category, so that later, upon returning to Russia, in the cold rainy autumn or frosty winter you can indulge in sweets memories of a wonderful “abandoned paradise”.

And more about hotels and reservations. There is no need to compare Sri Lanka with the popular large-scale resorts of Egypt, Turkey and even Thailand. There are traditionally few hotels here. If even during the conflict in the north of the island there were not enough hotel rooms during the high season, then what can we say about the present times, when everything is peaceful and quiet. Peace and grace! Sri Lanka is now more popular than ever all over the world. And Western Europe is “ahead of the rest of the world” in terms of bookings, so our compatriots risk being left without a coveted vacation on the shores of the azure Indian Ocean with enchanting sunsets and amazing ancient cultural monuments during the New Year and holidays.

Is it worth going to Sri Lanka with children?

Sri Lanka has all the conditions for recreation and living with children. Restaurants on the island offer a special children's menu; in supermarkets you can buy baby food, diapers, and anything else you want. Hotels offer accommodation in a two-room family room, but the number of two-room rooms is usually limited and must be booked in advance. Animation in Sri Lanka is not always the best. The hotels have a more intimate, secluded atmosphere. It is clear that the best place for a child will be the beach. It is necessary to use sunburn protection and follow safety rules when swimming in the ocean. Also remember that only bottled water is suitable for drinking, brushing your teeth and washing fruit. Always remember the rules of hygiene, do not buy food and fruit from random street vendors, feed your children only in trusted restaurants and cafes (check with your guide first). And then the rest for you and your children will not be overshadowed by anything. Children will enjoy seeing elephants in their natural habitat at the nursery in Pinnawala, or take an impressive train journey to the center of the island and visit the zoos in Colombo and Dehiwala. If you want to go on an excursion that is too tiring for children or go shopping, you can leave your child in a safe place. A number of hotels have special play areas and experienced animators. Children will not be bored, they will be supervised. Of course, do not forget about acclimatization and take older children with you and for a longer period. It is better to go during the mid-season, so that there is less contrast between the “home” and “colonial” climate.

How long should you go to Sri Lanka?

“Two weeks in Sri Lanka - a year’s worth of impressions. Until next trip. Same way". 14 days is enough to stay on the island. In 1 week you are unlikely to have time to visit all the sights of the blessed land. Usually they choose a tour for 10-11 nights, including a holiday on the coast and an excursion tour lasting 3-4 nights, for example, the “Golden Triangle” Sigiriya - Dambulla - Kandy. Of course, 10-11 nights is a standard rest period for our eternally busy citizens. At the same time, we would like to draw your attention to the fact that the “ticket part” of the tour cost is usually at least 80%, i.e. each additional day of your stay on the “island”, where, clearly, there is “no calendar”, not too much will affect your budget. Well, for example, the cost of accommodation in a 4* hotel is $30-50 per day per person (“a modest dinner for a Moscow worker”). If possible, then 3 or 4 weeks in Ceylon, taking into account acclimatization, is just right! By the way, in Sri Lanka, at every step you can meet “new European Sri Lankans” - Western Europeans waiting out the long slushy winter in a paradise on the planet.

What is a must-see in Sri Lanka?

In Sri Lanka, the UNESCO list includes 8 ancient sites of world cultural and historical heritage. Among them is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This place is sacred to Sri Lankans. Legend has it that when the Buddha was cremated, his disciples removed four teeth from the funeral pyre. One of them is still preserved in the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. When visiting the temple, women must completely cover their arms and legs, and men must wear long trousers; You can only walk around the temple barefoot, so you must be prepared to be asked to take off your shoes and leave them in a special wardrobe. Another site is the ancient city of Galle, located almost at the southernmost point of Sri Lanka, with a fortress and buildings from the times of the Portuguese colonialists (XVI-XVII centuries). This seaport has been known since ancient times. There is a legend that King Solomon himself exported precious stones from the port of Galle. We list further: the Sinharaja Nature Reserve (pristine jungle, many endemic trees, birds, mammals, insects, amphibians), the Golden Temple of Dambulla (a cave temple complex with 157 Buddha statues and wall paintings, a place of pilgrimage for 22 centuries), the ancient city of Sigiriya (V century AD; famous wall paintings); the ancient city of Polonnaruwa (the second capital of Sri Lanka since 993), the holy city of Anuradhapura (the first capital of the country, where you can see Buddhist shrines, including a ficus tree grown from the shoot of the tree under which Buddha achieved enlightenment), the sacred mountain Adam's Peak (Sripada), which is climbed by pilgrims from December to May. Which national parks are worth visiting in Sri Lanka?

The island has 14 national parks, a rich fauna (of the 91 species of mammals living in this region, 16 can be found only in Sri Lanka), including Indian elephants, wild Asian buffalo, water buffalo, Indian sambar, sika deer, mouse deer , Sri Lankan sloths, Ceylon leopards, Asian fish cats, red spotted Sri Lankan cats, Sri Lankan gray mongooses, black-necked Ceylon hares, porcupines, giant squirrels, water and Bengal monitor lizards, crocodiles, turtles, dozens of species of monkeys and many other animals, birds and insects , which will not leave anyone indifferent. The largest and most famous national park in Sri Lanka is Yala National Park. A jeep safari through the national park will allow you to see elephants (and possibly leopards) in all their glory in their natural habitat. Uda Walawe Park is home to the largest population of elephants.

From vivid memories. Breakfast on the veranda of the Yala Beach Hotel restaurant, located on the territory of a national reserve, to the sound of the powerful ocean surf. The ocean is hysterical. And what do you want? After all, this is the southern, overly “exciting” coast! The waiter, all in white, brings bright red aromatic tea in a snow-white cup of the finest English bone china. The tea, of course, is elite Ceylon tea, indescribably delicious. The gentle morning sun, not at all “burning”, everything around is fragrant, the birds are chirping. But the most impressive thing is that literally 200-300 meters from the restaurant terrace, before our eyes, a mother elephant with her trunk takes water from a river sparkling in the sun, flowing into the ocean, and washes her two elephant cubs with such an impromptu shower. Impressive! Everyone is delighted! It is for the sake of such impressions that it is worth visiting the island of breathtaking beauty!

Lankan traditional festival. Is it worth visiting?

At the end of July - beginning of August, for 10 days, Sri Lanka is immersed in a festive atmosphere. This is Kandy Esala Perahera, the most famous Buddhist festival. Peralesa ("procession") takes place in Kandy. For 10 days, every night on the streets of the city you can see a procession of drummers, dancers, dressed up elephants and acrobats, mahouts with whips that drive away evil spirits. The “obligatory” caparisoned elephant carries the symbol of the festival - the sacred tooth of Buddha; all believers have the opportunity to honor the relic. The Buddhist festival Posong Poya is also held every full moon. Vesak Poya is a major festival that takes place in May. On this day, Buddhists celebrate the birthday, enlightenment and immersion in nirvana of Gautama Buddha. On this day, it is customary to decorate local temples and light lanterns at nightfall, which symbolizes enlightenment. People send postcards to their friends: they usually depict some memorable events from the life of Gautama Buddha. The Hindu festival Vel (July-August) takes place in Colombo, the main event of this festival is the passage of the sacred chariot of the god of war Skanda. Hindus also celebrate the harvest festival (Tai Pongal), the Great Night of Shiva (Maha Shivaratri) - the most important festival of the year for followers of the god Shiva, the festival of lights (Deepavali). Lankan New Year falls in mid-April. This holiday is celebrated by everyone, without exception, regardless of religion and religious beliefs.

If you want to get acquainted with the centuries-old traditions and history of Sri Lanka, then visiting the festival on the Island is what you need. Sri Lankans are always smiling, kind and, of course, will only be happy if you want to share their festivities.

Tell us about ways to prevent diseases? How to avoid getting sick in Sri Lanka?

In Sri Lanka the sea is not knee-deep. Firstly, it is necessary to observe basic hygiene standards. Never drink tap water, and avoid iced drinks and juices in places where bottled water is not used. Therefore, choose only proven catering places (check with your guide first). Of course, it is necessary to maintain the body's water balance. It is important to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and overwork, as this, coupled with acclimatization, can lead to stomach upset. Always use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. In the evening and when going into the jungle, repellent must be used. You should not play with stray dogs. Don't forget about your headdress! After drinking alcohol (even in small quantities), it is contraindicated to approach the sea or ocean; jump into the pool and splash around in it, come out of the shadows into the sun.

If you do get sick, you should not self-medicate; it is better to consult a doctor immediately. There are doctors in the resort area and in all settlements who can provide the necessary medical care. The best clinics where conventional methods of treatment and surgery are used are located in Colombo. It is important to note that, although Sri Lanka traditionally belongs to a third world country, the level of medicine in the country is traditionally high, and there are good prospects for the development of medical tourism.

Is Ayurveda practiced in Sri Lanka?

Ayurveda translated from Sanskrit means “science of life.” Medicine was first mentioned in the original Vedas. This science has been described as a traditional healing system that respects human individuality. According to Ayurveda, the health of every person depends on the harmonious interaction of body, spirit and living environment. When inconsistencies occur in any of these areas, a person feels unhealthy. Ayurveda allows you to restore human harmony, balance between body, spirit and the outside world. With the help of Ayurveda, one can not only prevent and treat diseases, but also control behavior and psychological state. The whole body is treated, not just specific organs. In Sri Lanka, there are Ayurveda centers in most hotels. Here, ancient healing traditions are combined with modern treatment methods. Sri Lanka has about 6,500 graduates, many of whom completed a seven-year training course followed by two years of practice in traditional hospitals. A qualified doctor can determine the individual problem of each organism and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Ayurvedic medicinal preparations are based only on natural plants, herbs, resins, and oils from them.

What water sports are there in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka has a great variety of rivers, lagoons and reservoirs. You can kayak and canoe here year-round, combining these activities with hiking and camping. The fast currents and rapids of Kelani Ganga near Kitulgala are ideal for rafting between November and April. The coast of the island, which is almost one and a half thousand kilometers long and with a water temperature of 28? C, is a kind of mecca for water tourism all year round. Windsurfing, water skiing, surfing, kitesurfing, sailing, snorkeling, diving, yachting, swimming, sea and river fishing, spearfishing - it's all there. Sri Lanka attracts divers from all over the world with a variety of corals and marine life of unusual appearance and with unusual names (angel fish, Moorish idols, parrot fish). From March to April you can watch dolphins and whale sharks. But the main feature of diving in Sri Lanka is visiting underwater rocks, grottoes and sunken ships. About 20 ships of the 19th and 20th centuries, lying at a depth of 8 to 30 m, are open for inspection. These are tankers, steamships, bulk carriers, merchant ships and even a modern cargo ship. Many of them are well preserved, you can even examine them inside. On the southwest coast of the island, diving centers operate from November to April, and on the northeast - from March to May and from August to December. The best dive sites are on the east coast around Trincomalee and Batticaloa. In the west, you can dive off the coasts of Negombo, Beruwela and Bentota, while in the south, divers prefer the areas of Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna. Here in the south, in the region of unabated winds, there is a haven for windsurfing lovers. Among athletes who already have training, the waters of the lagoon in Negombo and the ocean coast of the northeast near Nilaveli Beach are popular. Currently, windsurfers are exploring new places in Kalpitiya (opportunities for practicing this sport have appeared at the Alankuda Beach Hotel). The best conditions for experienced surfers are on the east coast of the island in the Arugam Bay area. This place is most popular among fans of regular surfing. The best time for windsurfing is when there is minimal ocean swell and a constant breeze (on the southwest coast - from November to April, and on the northeast and east coasts - from May to October).

What opportunities for active tourism exist in Sri Lanka?

Extreme lovers in Sri Lanka can engage in caving (descent into caves), mountain biking, rock climbing, and paragliding. Those who are interested in ecotourism can visit the cloud forests of Horton Plains, the Sinharaja rain forest, the Hakgala National Park and Knakles mountain range. If you love playing golf, there are golf clubs at your service in Colombo, near Kandy (Victoria Club) and in Nuwara Eliya.

Is it possible to combine a trip to Sri Lanka with a holiday in the Maldives?

And how! This is a fairly popular way among tourists to combine relaxation and diving in the Maldives with a more active educational pastime in Ceylon. There are regular flights between Colombo and Male. The flight from the Maldives to Sri Lanka lasts an hour. Transaero regularly flies to Male (the capital of the Maldives), and Aeroflot flies to Colombo (in season). A combination of flights is possible: arrival in Colombo - departure from Male and vice versa. "Moscow Tour" specializes in such tours to Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

How to dress in Sri Lanka?

Cotton and linen clothes are what you need in the hot sun! Don't forget your hat! For footwear, flip-flops or sandals are suitable. When traveling to the mountains, take a sweater, trousers and comfortable shoes with you. Put mosquito repellent in your purse. If you are going to the provinces, dress more conservatively. When visiting temples, men should cover their knees and shoulders, women should completely cover their arms and legs.

What is worth trying in Sri Lanka?

The resorts of the coast of Sri Lanka are a haven for lovers of fish and seafood. Lobsters, king prawns, crabs and other shellfish are waiting in the wings in restaurant aquariums. Ceylonese cuisine is largely reminiscent of South Indian cuisine. A huge amount of spices, hot pepper and a minimum of meat. Many cafes and restaurants generally serve only vegetarian food (look for the “Pure Veg” mark on the sign next to the name). To truly get a feel for what Sri Lanka is and “what it’s eaten with,” choose local dishes with sonorous names: dal, tandoori, roti, devil tuna, curry. Focus on vegetable dishes, here on the island they know how to cook them well. Fruits in Sri Lanka are not too expensive, and the range of tropical fruits amazes even experienced gourmets: pineapples, bananas, mangoes, jackfruit, mangosteen, papaya and much more. It is easier to list fruits that do not grow in Sri Lanka.

I remember a banana smoothie (the islanders make it great!) on the terrace of the hotel restaurant in Beruwela with an amazing view of the ocean! With a breathtakingly beautiful sunset of the solar disk! With a caressing ocean breeze! Breathtaking! It seemed as if time had stopped! I just can’t believe that this could be real! Fantastic!

What can you bring from Sri Lanka? What to buy in Sri Lanka?

Figurines of lions, elephants, swans, lotuses, various copper boxes, vases, trays, lanterns, silver items, jewelry, jewelry, batik, tea sets, Sinhalese masks, textiles, lace, finely carved wooden crafts, lacquered ceramic items - all this, upon returning home, will remind you of the unforgettable and beautiful blessed land - the island of Sri Lanka. A hand-carved round table for 3-4 persons made of precious wood can be bought for $1000-2000 in a large tourist store on the road from the ancient capital of Anuradhapura to the ancient capital of Kandy. Make a purchase and a table will be sent to you. Don't worry and don't doubt! Sri Lankans are honest and obliging. In Moscow, such a table costs at least $10,000. If not with impressions, then with souvenirs you can definitely “pay off” a trip to an exotic “equatorial” island.

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

Departure city	Number of nights	Number of people	1-3 *	4*	5*	All inclusive
Moscow	7	2	from 70 000	from 89 000	from 95 000	from 110 000
Saint Petersburg	7	2	from 90 000	from 105 000	from 115,000	from 135,000

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

Hotel	Price for 1 night
Ranweli Holiday Village 4*	From 2800 rub.
Villa Kapuru 3*	From 2300 rub.
Shanelo 2*	From 2600 rub.
Blue Elephant Boutique 3*	From 1800 rub.
The Gateway Airport Garden by Taj 4*	From 5300 rub.

Bentota. Hotels, prices

Hotel	Price for 1 night
Vivanta by Taj 5*	From 6600 rub.
The Surf 4*	From 4300 rub.
Mihin	From 1200 rub.
River View	From 3600 rub.
Siroma Villa	From 2500 rub.

Kalutara. Hotels, prices

Hotel	Price for 1 night
Jasmine 3*	From 1800 rub.
Seasand Holiday Home	From 2900 rub.
Feel Homestay	From 2000 rub.
Karl Holiday Bungalow	From 1600 rub.
Feel	From 2400 rub.

Colombo. Hotels, prices

Hotel	Price for 1 night
Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo 5*	From 5100 rub.
The Kingsbury 5*	From 8200 rub.
Taj Samudra 5*	From 9200 rub.
Residence by Uga Escapes 5*	From 9500 rub.
Ellen's Place	From 3900 rub.

Halle. Hotels, prices

Hotel	Price for 1 night
Unawatuna Beach Resort 4*	From 5800 rub.
Niyagama House 5*	From 8300 rub.
The Fort Printers 5*	From 8700 rub.
Green Casa	From 3800 rub.

Induruwa. Hotels, prices

Hotel	Price for 1 night
Jungle Villa	From 2800 rub.
Happy Man Guest House	From 3100 rub.
Paradise Villa	From 3000 rub.
Janus Paradise Rest	From 2300 rub.
The Fence	From 3500 rub.

Unawatuna. Hotels, prices

Hotel	Price for 1 night
Ridee Villa 4*	From 8200 rub.
La Villetta	From 2400 rub.
Unawatuna Nor Lanka 3*	From 2100 rub.
Beach Grove Villas 4*	From 3100 rub.
Flower Garden 3*	From 3000 rub.

Mirissa. Hotels, prices

Hotel	Price for 1 night
Citrine Mirissa	From 9200 rub.
Handagedara Resort	From 7200 rub.
Hostel First Mirissa	From 5100 rub.
Hangover Hostel Mirissa	From 3300 rub.

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:

National flag of Sri Lanka.

Bentota's beaches are famous for their fine sand and shady palm trees.

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

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

Colombo. Hindu temple. Detail of 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 head of the executive branch 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.

In terms of ethnic composition, 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 nations and ethnic groups of mixed origin include the Moors - descendants of Arab and Persian traders, the burghers are descended 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 island's interior, near the city of Nuwara Eliya, small groups of Veddas - descendants of the island's oldest population - have been preserved.

The official language of the country is Sinhala, which is spoken by more than 70% of the island's inhabitants. English is widely used (especially among the burghers). In the north and east of the country, Tamil is spoken. The bulk of the inhabitants (70%) profess Buddhism - mostly Sinhalese. Most of the Tamil population is Hindu. The Malays and Moors adhere to the Muslim religion. 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, and there is a division into castes. There are about 20 castes in total.

Geography

"Lanka" in ancient Indian Sanskrit language means "country, land." The prefix "Sri", widely used in South Asia when addressing highly respected people, reflects the great love that the Sri Lankan people feel for their homeland. He calls her “blessed, venerable Lanka.” The island of Sri Lanka is located in South Asia. Occupying an area of ​​about 60 thousand sq. km, it is approximately equal to such large islands as 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-lying plain (100 m above sea level). In some places, large rocks (up to 700 m) rise above the loose sedimentary rocks - protrusions of the crystalline foundation. They often have bizarre shapes, reminiscent of a huge animal, a giant book, or the ruins of an ancient temple. In the southern, most extended part of the island, the crystalline basement reaches the surface over a large area. Huge blocks of stone, raised to great heights, 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), reminiscent of a huge pyramid. The peaks of most mountains are leveled, which is why they are called table tops.

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

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

Climate

Sri Lanka is located near the equator. Its northern and central parts are located in the subequatorial, and the southern part - in the equatorial climatic zones. Therefore, the temperature here remains uniformly high all year round. Thus, 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 in mountainous areas is much lower, so mountainous areas are very popular among residents of the country 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 “a piece of the north” on the island. The average annual temperature here is around 15 °C.

The seasons in Sri Lanka are determined not by changes in temperature conditions, but by differences in precipitation patterns. Their greatest number occurs in the summer - when moisture-rich southwestern monsoon winds dominate. The summer monsoon begins in May and subsides in September. At the height of the monsoon period, from June to August, it rains daily, often in torrential downpours. The southwestern part of the island is the most humid, being the first to meet the summer monsoon. In one summer month, 400–500 mm of precipitation falls. On the path of the monsoon to the northern and eastern regions, there is the Central Mountain Range, creating 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, from December to February, the northeast monsoon dominates the island, bringing much less rainfall and irrigating mainly the northern and eastern parts of the island. Autumn and spring in Sri Lanka are inter-monsoon periods. There are no monsoon rains, but they are replaced by so-called zenithal rains, characteristic of equatorial regions.

Over 70% of the country's territory is covered with trees and shrubs. The most lush vegetation remains in the most humid southwestern region. There are still areas of evergreen tropical rainforest with a greenhouse atmosphere, 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. Widespread woods are mango, bread, melon (papaya), ebony, satin, and sandalwood. Colossal tree ferns also grow on the island. Occasionally there are cinnamon trees, from the bark of which cinnamon is obtained. Some plants are distinguished by their amazing beauty during flowering, among them orchids and lotus - a sacred flower of followers of Buddhism and Hinduism.

The island's fauna is diverse. Wild elephants remain in the mountain forest wilds of the southwest. In Sri Lanka there are predators: panthers, leopards, wild cats, lynxes, jackals, bears. There are many monkeys in the forests, and often in the trees surrounding village huts. In large rivers, far from villages, there are crocodiles up to 8 m long, so swimming there is prohibited. The world of insects is rich. Large butterflies amaze with their unusually bright colors. The world of birds is diverse. Pink flamingos, white storks, colorful parrots, bright peacocks, and tiny sunbirds resembling butterflies are often found.

Story

The island of Sri Lanka was inhabited about 100 thousand years ago and constantly attracted more and more new settlers, thanks to which a significant number of representatives of the most dissimilar races, cultures and religions were concentrated on its small territory in ancient times. This enriched the island and led to constant conflicts and wars. In the 5th century BC, Indo-Aryan conquerors created the first state here, which collapsed in the 5th century AD and was conquered by the Negroid South Indian Tamil tribes. In the 8th century, dominance again passed to the Aryan branch of the newcomers, and in the 15th century, there were three kingdoms of different ethnicities in Sri Lanka, constantly at war with each other. The Portuguese colonialists took advantage of this, establishing their dominance over the coast of the island in the 16th century; they were replaced by the Dutch in the 17th century. The British who came after them in 1796 declared the conquered region to be 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 materials appendage of the distant metropolis, forced the local population to rise to the liberation struggle more than once and suffer bitter defeats. Exploitation, which 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 decisive, numerous and united.

In 1948, the British government had to grant Ceylon independence as a dominion. In 1972, under public pressure, 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, and impenetrable jungles. Situated in 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 notch in the mountain, which resembles the footprint of a huge human foot (Buddhists consider it the footprint of Buddha, Christians - Adam, and Hindus believe that the god Shiva was at the top). The nearby gemstone mining sites are very popular. Jewelry collections can be seen in the National Museum and private museums in the nearby town of Ratnapura.

Sri Lanka. The majestic Adam's Peak (2243 m), reminiscent of a huge pyramid, is the sacred mountain of the Sri Lankans. The footprints of Buddha are preserved here.

In the central part of the island is the majestic Mount 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, lies the largest botanical garden in Asia. Palm alleys and a huge number of different types of tropical vegetation (about a thousand species of orchids alone) attract not only tourists, but also scientists from around the world. 10 km southeast of Nuwara Eliya (at an altitude of 1680 m) is located the equally famous Hakgala Park - a wonderful collection of the world's subtropical flora. The Henarasgoda Botanical Garden, 32 km from Colombo, houses 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 Walawe, 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 are located. 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 you run your finger. In the north of Sri Lanka there is a magnificent palmyra landscape of the Jaffna Peninsula. Not far from Jaffna there is a coral archipelago. The most famous island of this archipelago is Nainativu. Sinhalese Buddhists believe that it was this island that Buddha first entered on his way to Ceylon while walking across Adam’s Bridge.

All over 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 - this is 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 deputies were part of the state of Ruhuna. All that remained of his might were the ruins of ancient fortresses and monasteries. The nature of the park is a dry savannah, overgrown with bushes and umbrella plants. Occasionally there are small lakes overgrown with lush vegetation. The flat landscape is broken up by numerous hills and mounds. The park's territory covers more than 100 thousand hectares.

Yala is considered one of the best places to observe the life of leopards. Here you can often find bears, deer, and wild boars; many small animals - gray langurs, monitor lizards, sea and land turtles. The pride of Yalu is its feathered inhabitants: black-necked stork, ibises, herons, jacanas. The park offers excursions in jeeps and tent camps where you can stay for several 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 occupied by tropical forest, where you can meet sika deer, sambar, wild boar, leopards, and 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, and there are herds of up to fifty of these animals. Bundala Park is located on the southern coast of Ceylon, in the middle of a savannah with many lagoons and lakes. The park is famous for its abundance of water birds.

The Sindharaja Tropical Rain Forest is one of the few places where primary rain forests have not yet been destroyed by humans. Sindharaja can be translated into Russian as “The Lion King”. This forest is a paradise for bird watchers. In an area of ​​22 thousand hectares, 22 of Ceylon's 26 endemic birds are found. The rare black panther, many spotted deer, wild boars, langurs, mongooses, and chameleons also live here.

Sri Lanka. Elephant nursery.

Culture

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

One of the most striking attractions of the island is the Sigiriya fortress, located 162 km from Colombo. The citadel with the palace ensemble rose on the 180-meter red Lion Rock fifteen centuries ago. Its builder was King Kassala. Here, on the inner walls of the caves, you can see rock paintings made with natural paints. The Sigiriya murals, famous throughout the world, are outstanding examples of ancient Sinhalese painting.

Kandy. Temple of Dalada Magilawa (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 rituals associated with the Tooth Relic have developed into lavish festivals. This is the Esala Perahera temple procession, which is held annually in August, on the full moon days. Just north of Kandy is the town of Aluvihara, where the words of Buddha were first written down on palm leaves.

Kandy. At the temple.

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

Anuradhapura is a city of monasteries and stupas, an open-air museum, a sacred place for 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 stands 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. Ruvanavelli is rivaled by the majestic dagobas of Jetavana and Thuparama. Under King Pandukabhai, a grandiose irrigation system with giant reservoirs and numerous canals was built in Anuradhapura. This chain of reservoirs was called Anuradha, and the city on its banks was called Anuradhapura. The city became the center for the spread of Buddhism on the island. In 380 BC, Pandukabkaya proclaimed Anuradhapura as the capital of the first Sinhalese state and the city remained in this capacity for 1,400 years. Thousands of pilgrims visit the city's holy places - the Bo tree and the seven dagobas. The sacred Bo (Buddha) tree is located in the courtyard of one of the temples, behind a golden fence. It supposedly grew from a branch, the same tree under which enlightenment descended on Buddha. According to legend, this branch was brought to Ceylon from India in the 3rd century BC.

Abhayagiri Monastery is the largest of the monastic complexes of Anuradhapura, 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 Buddha. The Et Pokuna pool, 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 temple is the beautiful Vatadage Temple. In the northern part of Polonnaruwa there is the largest sculptural ensemble of the area - three huge statues of Buddha carved into the rocks 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 there are the remains of ancient Buddhist buildings. is 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 Dambulla cave temple - the largest in Ceylon. For many centuries, this temple has been a stronghold of Buddhism and Sri Lankan identity. Its foundation dates back to the 1st century BC. The temple was built at an altitude of 350 meters and consists of five caves. In 1938, the temple was supplemented with columns and arched entrances. There is a huge collection of Buddha statues here, many of which are more than two thousand years old.

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

Polonnaruwa. Seated Buddha from the Gal Vihara cave temple.

Polonnaruwa. In front of the four entrances of the Watadage Temple lie semicircular slabs with intricate designs, the so-called “moon stones”.

Polonnaruwa. Rankot Dagoba.

Cities

Sri Lanka. Halle. Old city.

Sri Lanka. Halle. Lighthouse.

The name of the city Galle is related to the Sinhala word for "inn". During the heyday of sailing, Galle was the main port of the island. At the entrance to the port, the Dutch built a military fortress, which has survived to this day. Above the gate, a shield is carved in stone with the monogram of the East India Company - images of two lions and a rooster. Galle is famous for many ancient crafts, in particular the weaving of fine lace. The city, distinguished by its unique combination of vibrant 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 translated from Sinhala means “city of gems”. Ratnapura sapphires, rubies, and aquamarines are highly valued by jewelers all over the world. The Blue Beauty of Asia sapphire (400 carats) and the Star of India sapphire (536 carats) were found here. There is a museum of jewelry art in the city.

Sri Lanka. Ratnapura. Buddha statue.

Jaffna is the historical center of the northern Tamil region and the administrative center of the province, one of the largest cities in the country (over 100 thousand inhabitants) is located in its northernmost part, which is connected to the main territory of the island by a narrow strip of land, as well as an artificial dam. 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. From those times, the ruins of the fort have been preserved here. From a distance you can see the Catholic Church, built in the early 18th century. Jaffna is an important trade and transport center and a major center of Tamil culture. The city's artisans are famous for their filigree jewelry, weaving mats, baskets and other products.

Resorts

For tourists from Western Europe, North America and other regions, Sri Lanka serves as a winter resort. In coastal areas, water sports tourism predominates; the ancient Sinhalese capitals are the base of historical and cultural tourism. Mountain resorts and national parks attract many lovers of wildlife, safaris, and scuba diving. But no matter how attractive the golden seaside beaches are, in Sri Lanka it is not customary to swim in any place you like: powerful ocean currents, some fish, and sea animals are 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 periods of drought, are suitable for rafting and kayaking. The Kelani River in the Kitulgala region is most suitable for rafting. The ocean wave, in favorable weather conditions, allows surfing and windsurfing. The island is also interesting for diving enthusiasts. There are about 138 species of corals in the waters of Sri Lanka, including black coral. There are coral heads, soft corals, and many gorgonians - green, orange, red, blue. But the main wealth of the underwater world of Sri Lanka is its fauna - angel fish, moray eels, barracudas, moray eels, Moorish idols, parrot fish, clown fish, lion fish, marlin, flounder, sweetlips, silver and brown snappers, soldier fish , bristletooths, damselfishes, stingrays, surgeonfish, eels. Divers can also explore sunken ships, which are especially numerous in the Hikkaduwa area. About twenty wrecks from 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 in Ceylon. The resort is built with hotel buildings in the British colonial style. 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 Elia. To the south of the park there is a hippodrome. Lake Gregory is one of the resort's attractions.

Bentota Resort is located 64 km south of Colombo, on the west coast of the island. Here, in a picturesque place where the river flows into the sea, several hotels have been built, surrounded by a palm forest. There is a train station, a post office, a shopping arcade, cafeterias and an open-air theater where folk dance groups perform. Beruwela resort is located near Bentota.

Kalkudah resort is located on the east coast, 32 km from Batticaloa. This is an ideal place for swimming, as the beach on the sea side is protected by a reef. Nearby Passekudah has a beautiful bay with absolutely clear water. It is also a popular tourist destination with modern hotels and a variety of amenities. Five species of sea turtles are found in the Kozgod area. To maintain their population, turtle farms have been organized.