What is the island of Sri Lanka famous for? Where is Sri Lanka located? Sri Lanka: the most important things about the currency

Inexperienced tourists who are not very well versed in geography are sometimes not only interested in where Sri Lanka is located on the world map, but also ask such stupid questions as, for example, “What country is this?” I remember after returning from my first trip to Sri Lanka, many of my friends and acquaintances said: “ Sri Lanka? Where is it?"It is not surprising that many people do not know where Sri Lanka is on the world map.
To begin with, we note that Sri Lanka is an island country. Previously, this island was called Ceylon. In general, it is stupid to ask what country this is, Sri Lanka, since Sri Lanka is an independent country within the borders of a large island.
Now let's answer the question of where exactly Sri Lanka is located. Former Ceylon is located in the Indian Ocean, between 5 and 10 degrees north latitude. The distance to India at the narrowest point of the strait dividing the countries is about 50 kilometers. The long but narrow island of Sri Lanka is home to 21 million people. Of these, Sinhalese constitute the largest proportion and Tamils ​​are the second largest population group.
Thanks to its favorable location in Southeast Asia and the northern part Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka has always been considered an important place on many trade routes. The population of the island knew this and managed to properly take advantage of this advantage by exporting coconuts, spices and the world famous Ceylon tea and rubber.
Where is Sri Lanka on the world map? The island can be found fairly quickly at a glance at the map. To do this, you must first find the Indian Ocean, and at the very top of this ocean, to the right of India, you will see the island of Sri Lanka. Usually this island is marked on all general geographical maps.
Where is the capital of Sri Lanka? Colombo, the capital and economic center, is on the west coast and has coordinates of 7 degrees north latitude and 80 degrees east longitude. About 700,000 people live and work in Colombo. It is an important political and cultural center of Sri Lanka.

Area of ​​Sri Lanka, length, width and geographical coordinates

Belonging to the continent of Asia, Sri Lanka covers an area of ​​64,630 square kilometers of territory and 980 square kilometers of water area. This makes Sri Lanka the 123rd largest country in the world by land area, with a total area of ​​65,610 square kilometers.
Because Sri Lanka is big Island, then it is not correct to name any specific geographical coordinates. The northernmost major city, Jaffna, has the following coordinates: 9 degrees 40 minutes north latitude and 79 degrees 51 minutes east longitude. The southernmost major city, Halle, has coordinates: 6 degrees 2 minutes north latitude and 80 degrees 13 minutes east longitude.
The length of the island of Sri Lanka is 452 km, and the width at its widest point is 227 km.

Map of Sri Lanka with resorts in Russian

If you want to study in more detail the location of cities, resorts and other objects on the island, then you will need detailed map Sri Lanka with resorts in Russian. There are many maps of this island, but nowadays it is best to use interactive maps, one of which you will see below. This map allows you to find any object and zoom in to such a value that you can see any house on the streets of the cities of Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka has a warm climate. From May to October there are often unpredictable storms, but the rest of the time you can enjoy gentle sea breezes. Sri Lanka rarely gets very hot, but the island's high humidity worries many Russian travelers. Climate-sensitive travelers usually need a few days to acclimatize. Depending on the region of the island, the air temperature during the day can fluctuate between 16 and 35 degrees. While in the wetter southwestern region of the island, especially from May to October, you can expect very a large number of precipitation, the northeastern region remains relatively dry. The sunniest weather in Sri Lanka usually occurs between January and April.
Most of Sri Lanka is covered with tropical forests, which is typical for a region with a predominantly humid and warm climate. The enormous wealth of plants and trees is the result of these climatic conditions. The Bodhi Tree, the oldest tree in the world, defies all the unevenness of nature today and is truly attractive. In the north and east of the island, due to the drier climate, there are noticeably more bushes and shrubs.
Another gift of nature in Sri Lanka are the beautiful ones, which are appreciated by numerous tourists.
Sri Lanka's diverse fauna have adapted to the warm, humid climate. Animal lovers will be delighted to see monkeys jumping from tree to tree, Asian elephants and a beautiful palm squirrel, which is similar to the chipmunks we know. Even thousands of crawling animals feel very comfortable here.

Mountains of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka can be divided into three landscape zones. One of them is the mountainous terrain, where you can climb mountains up to 2500 meters high. This is also the area of ​​the world famous Ceylon tea. In the highlands of Sri Lanka you will find many attractions and very beautiful places, such as the giant Bambarakanda waterfall. This waterfall is famous for the fact that the water here falls from a height of 240 meters.
Mountains occupy a fairly large area of ​​Sri Lanka, but still the largest part of the island is covered by tropical areas.
The third zone, which is the most popular among holidaymakers, is the coastal zone with beautiful beaches and a large number of coconut trees.

Sri Lanka - small Island state, located in South Asia near the Hindustan Peninsula. Modern official name— The country received 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 gemstone mining. Recently, the tourism industry has been gaining momentum. The most popular places holidays in Sri Lanka - 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 major 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

In Sri Lanka there are many large and not big cities. 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 described best resorts 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 active rest: Ceylon’s most popular 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. Business card This place has 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 southwest coast 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. Among others historical monuments you can highlight the temple of Vatadage and carved into the rocks giant statues Buddha.

Nuwara Eliya - 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 all year round, amazing pure 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 is besides the most beautiful sea ​​creatures and underwater reefs contain 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 tour you will 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.
On the island 2 beach season: on the west and south coasts it blows from November to March north winds, 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 - 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 railway in the mountains, the railway network in the mountainous part of Sri Lanka is very scenic, especially on the Badullu-Nanu Oya line. If possible, it is better to sit on the right side of the train, this is where the most open 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 very 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 multilingual, and specialize in the history and culture of the country. For those who go to see historical places and nature reserves they will talk about the environment.

Without driver

Those who are not embarrassed by the oddities of traffic in Sri Lanka can rent a car for independent trips. Standard fee is 2400 rupees per day. This amount includes a 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 oriented towards 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, major 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 the 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 is the island of Sun and Sand. More than one thousand kilometers of sandy beaches with palm trees surround Sri Lanka. Until 1972, this country was called Ceylon. And although its name has changed, the best black tea in the world, Ceylon, is still grown there. In addition to beautiful beaches and tea, Sri Lanka has a large number of historical attractions, ranging from Buddhist and Hindu monasteries and temples to orchid gardens and colorful festivals.

Geography of Sri Lanka

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

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

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

Capital

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

Official language of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has two official languages- Sinhala and Tamil.

Religion

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

State structure

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

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

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

Climate and weather

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

The monsoon (rainy) season continues from May to July in the central, western and southern regions of the island. In the northern and eastern regions, the rainy season occurs in December and January.

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

Sea in Sri Lanka

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

Rivers and lakes

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

Story

The history of civilization in Sri Lanka goes back more than 2.5 thousand years. In former times this country was called Ceylon. The first settlers were the Veddas. Around the 6th century BC. The Sinhalese arrived on this island and founded their kingdoms there. From the 3rd century BC. Buddhism begins to spread there. Until the 11th century, the capital of the most powerful Sinhala kingdom was Anuradhapura, and then it was moved to Polonnaruwe.

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

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

It was not until 1948 that Sri Lanka achieved independence. In 1972, this country received its modern name - Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankan culture

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

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

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

Kitchen

Sri Lanka's cuisine reflects the multi-ethnic composition of the island's population. The main food of the locals is rice and curry made from a mixture of spices, herbs and coconut milk. In general, almost all local dishes are prepared using coconut milk and spices.

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

In addition, the people of Sri Lanka are real experts in preparing fish and seafood dishes. Fried fish is served with chips and salad, while curry fish is served with rice.

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

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

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

Sights of Sri Lanka

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

1. Dalada Maligawa Buddhist Temple (Housing Buddha's Tooth)
2. Fort in Colombo
3. Sigiriya Fortress
4. Dawatagaha Mosque in Colombo
5. Cave Buddhist temple in Aluvihara
6. Kochchikade Hindu Monastery in Colombo
7. Ruins of the city of Anuradhapura
8. Palace of King Kassiapa on Lion Mountain
9. Buddhist cave temples of Dambulla
10. Buddha's footprints on Sri Pada mountain

Cities and resorts

The largest cities in Sri Lanka are Kandy, Tricomalee, Kurunegala, Galle, Ratnapura, Kurunegala and Colombo.

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

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

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

Souvenirs/shopping

From Sri Lanka, tourists usually bring handicrafts, ceramics, jewelry, masks, leather goods (for example, bags), batik fabric, souvenirs made from coconut shells, spices, and, of course, local (“Ceylonese” ) Black tea.

Office hours

Few of us living in northern latitudes have wondered: what is the island of Sri Lanka, where is it located, what country is it, how to find it on the world map, what is it washed with? Many people are interested in the question - is Sri Lanka India or not? And what part of the world does Sri Lanka belong to?

In recent years, holidays on this piece of land in the middle of the vast expanses of the ocean have become increasingly popular. Tourists come here for warm sea, sandy beaches, eternal summer, unique souvenirs, the opportunity to see whales.

In contact with

Geographical location

Geographically, Sri Lanka is located at the southern tip of the Hindustan Peninsula, it can easily be found on the world map in the Indian Ocean, since the state is located in the south of Asia, then the part of the world to which it belongs is Asia. Sandy shores, with a total length of about 1300 km, are washed by the waters of the Indian Ocean.

The island has an elongated shape from south to north; it is separated from the mainland by the Polk Strait, more than five tens of kilometers wide. The southern part of the island consists of mountain terraces that move towards the center into the highlands.

Geographic coordinates of Sri Lanka - 7°45′00″ N. la., 80°46′00 e. d.

Brief information about the country

When Sri Lanka was colonized by England, Portugal and Holland in the 16th century, it was called Ceylon. Now the island is called Sri Lanka, and regarding how the official name sounds in Russian, Wikipedia answers - “Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka”.

Form of statehood – Democratic Socialist Republic. Type of government - presidential republic. The main nationality is Sinhalese. The first states appeared in the 5th century BC. The ancient inhabitants of the island traded with the Chinese, Arabs, and Romans.

From the 16th century to the mid-20th century it was a colonial possession:

• Portuguese;
• Dutch;
• English.

Capital

note: officially in charge administrative center, the seat of government, is the city of Sri Jayawardanapura Kotte, founded in the 13th century as the Kotte fort. Located between the Diyavana Oya and Kolonnava Oya riverbeds.

In fact, the economic and cultural center of the country is the city of Colombo, founded in the 7th century, presumably by Arab merchants. Initially, the city developed as a trading port.

Languages

The country has two official state languages– Sinhala and Tamil. In tourist areas, residents understand English.

Visa

Residents of Russia must obtain a visa to visit. The easiest way is to fill out in advance the electronic form posted on the embassy’s website. Upon arrival, pay $35, present a valid passport, completed arrival card and receive a visa.

Note: A visa can also be issued directly upon arrival. However, this will cost more and take more time.

Population

Ceylon is home to more than 21.5 million people. More than ¾ of the population is the titular nation - the Sinhalese, 1/6 - the Tamils. The descendants of Arabs and Austronesians, who are immigrants from, do not exceed 1/12 of the country's population.

In addition, descendants of European colonialists live here: the Portuguese, the Dutch, the British. Their number is about 1/15 of the total number of citizens.

Religion

Take note: Four world religions are officially recognized: Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Christianity.

The Sinhalese, the bulk of the population, profess Buddhism. Tamils ​​are Hindus, Islam is traditionally preached by Arabs and Austronesians. The descendants of Europeans are Catholics.

Sea and ocean

In fact, Sri Lanka is washed by the waters of two seas included in the Indian Ocean. The Palk Strait, separating Ceylon from the mainland, connects the Gulf of Mannar in the west with the Bay of Bengal in the east.

The northwestern shores are washed by the waters of the Gulf of Mannar, which is part of the Laccadive Sea.

The northeastern part is washed by the waters of the Bay of Bengal, which by its characteristics is a sea. The bay is famous for its coastal mangrove forests, rich in unique underwater world.

Rest coastline The islands are washed by the waters of the Indian Ocean itself. The sea coast with lazy surf is great for beach holiday. Fans of active recreation should choose ocean beaches with their ever-roaring waves.

Currency

The national currency of the republic is the Sri Lankan rupee. 1 US dollar costs about 153 Sri Lankan rupees. 1 Russian ruble costs approximately 2.62 rupees; a euro costs about 166 rupees.

Transport

Sri Lanka has a fairly developed ground transport infrastructure:

• tuk-tuks are the main type of transport, and are a cross between a motorbike and a pedicabs. It is allowed to bargain on the price of the trip;
• city ​​buses;
• an extensive network of intercity buses, which is the most comfortable form of transport;
• railway connections between populated areas;
• Taxi. Developed only in tourist areas and capitals.

Car and scooter rentals are also available. Just keep in mind that:

• the authorities do not recognize any rights other than local ones;
• Only persons over 21 years of age are allowed to drive.

Difference in time

Moscow time is 2.5 hours behind Sri Lankan time. The time is 4.5 hours ahead of Sri Lanka, and 1.5 hours ahead of Novosibirsk. It is located in almost the same time zone as Sri Lanka: the difference is only 30 minutes.

What to bring

Since ancient times, the island has been famous for its tea plantations, spices, and pearls. The number of tea varieties is so large that it is almost impossible to taste them all.

For decades, precious stones mined from the depths of Sri Lanka have been highly valued in jewelry markets: sapphires, emeralds, almandines, opals, tourmalines, topazes.

Therefore, you should bring from your trip:

• ceylon tea. You can buy it on plantations, in stores, and in the market. The price greatly depends on the proximity to tourist areas;
• spices: vanilla pods, pepper, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon sticks;

• natural essential oils tropical plants: vanilla, cinnamon, cloves, sandalwood, wild lemongrass, vetiver;
• jewelry with precious stones.

Advice: When purchasing, you should pay special attention to the metal: gold and silver are exported, so no one is responsible for the quality of the metals.

The stones have a mineralogical passport, which will need to be presented when going through customs;

• cotton clothing. For its production, Indian cotton is used, characterized by long fibers that give the fabrics softness.

Climate

The island is entirely located in the zone of humid equatorial climate with a transition to subequatorial climate. The climate on the coast is monsoon.

The high season is winter. The climate is mild. There is practically no change in seasons. Ceylon is the kingdom of eternal summer. Even in the mountains, snow never falls. There are practically no average daily temperature fluctuations.

Note: the pole of cold is Nuwara Eliya, where the average daily temperature ranges from +11° to 13°C.

Air temperatures and ocean water always almost the same, 30°-32°C. The sea water temperature is 1–2°C lower. Night temperatures rarely drop below +25°C.

In the highlands the climate is less hot, the temperature rarely rises above +25°C. Climatic conditions are such that the local southern winter is much warmer than our northern summer.

How to get there

Direct scheduled flights from international airport Colombo is visited only in one Russian city- Moscow. Flight period: from June to August.

Direct flights are organized from other Russian cities to Colombo. charter flights, information about which can be obtained from the tour operator organizing the trips.

It is convenient for residents of the Asian part of the country to fly with transfers at the following airports:

• Beijing;
• Seoul;

There are year-round regular direct flights with these cities. Russian airlines have tariff agreements with Asian airlines operating flights to Ceylon.

For residents of the European part, it is convenient to fly via Dubai or Doha. In addition, you can fly from Russia to Ceylon via, Mumbai, Delhi, Tashkent. These routes require 2-3 transfers.

Resorts

Resort areas are located in almost all corners of the country:

Negombo

In the western part of the country, the most popular resort is the fishing village of Negombo, located on the shores of the lagoon of the same name. Historically, the area is notable for its Portuguese fort, which the Dutch turned into a prison. Of interest to fans of history, cultural studies, and ethnography.

Advice: Negombo is ideal for those who love a lazy time on the beach.

Colombo

Popular youth resort Colombo – cultural capital country, located on the shores of the bay of the same name in the west of the country. Like any eastern city, Colombo lives in contrasts: poverty borders on wealth, shacks of the poor huddle next to fashionable buildings.

The cleanliness of wealthy neighborhoods is replaced by the trash of slums. Glitter and poverty, eternal celebration and eternal work, past and future - all this is intertwined on the streets of Colombo. Of interest to lovers of active recreation.

Bentota

A romantic resort on the sea coast is perfect for peace and lazy relaxation. It is a quiet place with a leisurely pace under the shade of palm trees. The main type of recreation is beach. Located southwest of Colombo.

Kalutara

It is located on the shores of the Laccadive Sea, where the Kalu River flows into it.

Aimed at lovers of active recreation and water sports.

Halle

The city is located in the southwest and is notable for its architecture. This resort is suitable for a relaxing, secluded holiday.

Induruwa

Located in the west of the country. It recently acquired the status of a resort, so the flow of tourists is still small. Fans of a leisurely, measured holiday will appreciate the sandy beaches in the vicinity of the town.

Unawatuna

A small town in the south of Sri Lanka on the shore of a bay protected from ocean waves by a coral reef. Popular among lovers of individual travel.

Take note: Unawatuna is ideal for a relaxing holiday with children.

Resort on the southern tip of the island. Quiet place far from civilization. The unique underwater world attracts diving fans.

Kogalla is famous for its boat excursions, where you can spot wild whales and dolphins.

Mirissa - the best beach

Experienced surfers come to Mirissa for the high waves. Untouched, wonderful nature and lack of economic activity create a feeling of paradise. The place is secluded and conducive to a romantic getaway. The usual resort entertainment is missing.

Surf paradise

The open ocean coast of the southern tip of the island is popular with surfers. The surf allows surfing all year round. Sandy beaches are good for beginner surfing. Experienced surfers catch waves among rocks and reefs.

Interesting to know: Hikkaduwa is the most popular beach among surfers. Beginners can take individual lessons from professional instructors or sign up for classes at surf schools.

Surfing schools also operate in Kogalle, Unawatuna, and Weligama.

Shopping

Shopping is amazing in its variety and will bring true pleasure to those who love to shop.

Note: like everywhere else in the east, it is customary to bargain here. Local merchants do not like those who buy without bargaining. For them, this is one of the types of communication, a centuries-old tradition that is observed to this day. In addition, by haggling it is quite possible to reduce prices by several orders of magnitude.

While vacationing on the island, you should visit numerous jewelry factories with shopping centers. Jewelry assortment shopping centers amazes with the variety and beauty of the products presented. Local jewelers can create custom jewelry with your favorite stones.

After taking a trip to the tea plantations, strolling through the spice gardens, it is worth visiting the shops. True, prices there are much higher than in small shops and markets.

At local markets you can buy exotic fruits, spices, herbs, and essential oils. In addition, here you can purchase clothes made from cotton or have them custom-tailored.

This is especially true for the countries of Southeast Asia. Even if tourists bring any plants or seeds, they can simply be confiscated at customs. To prevent this, it is recommended to refuse the purchase or issue a herbal passport. It is better to carry fruits in packed luggage, this way they will definitely not be confiscated.

Tips

Leaving a tip is voluntary. Hotel staff, guides, porters, and drivers are advised to tip a dollar.

In cafes and restaurants, tips are already included in the bill. In other cases, tourists determine the tip size themselves; the maximum amount can reach 10% of the check value.

Kitchen

The national cuisine of Sri Lankans is predominantly vegetarian with a lot of spices and herbs. The main food product is rice. Local cuisine originates from Indian cuisine; the Portuguese, Dutch, British, Arabs, and Chinese contributed to it.

Therefore, modern dishes are a mixture of the culinary traditions of these peoples. A spice for all occasions is curry, which is served as a side dish with boiled rice.

Hotels offer tourists the usual Europeanized menu. National dishes are served in adapted form. You can try authentic Sri Lankan dishes in restaurants frequented by locals. For most Europeans, national dishes seem very spicy; this must be kept in mind when ordering dishes.

Flora and fauna

The fauna of this corner of the planet is one of the most diverse. The island is home to many endemic species of animals, amphibians, birds, insects that are found only here - 16% of the total.

More than half of the species are threatened with extinction:

• Indian sambar deer;
• Sri Lankan leopard;
• Sri Lankan elephant;
• sloth bear.

The island is also home to more than 200 species of birds, a quarter of which are also endangered. More than half of the amphibians may also disappear forever, and more than a hundred species live here, 90% of them are endemic.

Scammers on the island

You can come across scammers everywhere: on the street, in restaurants, shops, in transport. Traders and drivers usually quote a price that is many times higher than the actual price. There is only one piece of advice: find out the cost in advance and bargain desperately.

You can also become a victim of scammers when exchanging currency; tourists are often lured by a tempting exchange rate. Therefore, it is necessary to remain vigilant, not to be fooled by tempting offers, while maintaining a critical perception. As the saying goes: free cheese only comes in a mousetrap.

Attractions

Sri Lanka is a country with a thousand-year history and unique nature.

Traveling around the island, you can see architectural monuments that are cultural heritage under the protection of UNESCO:

• the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, built three thousand years ago by Indians;
• ancient man-made lakes;
• the Sigiriya palace complex, located on mountain terraces;
• Horton Place National Parks, Yala;
• royal botanical garden;
• legacy of the colonial period;
• numerous ancient temples.

In fact, the whole of Ceylon is one big attraction. Nearby are the eras of Ancient India and colonization, modern buildings and ancient palaces, botanical gardens and thousand-year-old plantations.

tour cost

The cost of a week-long package tour for two with departure from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novosibirsk starts from 60 thousand rubles.

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 in different time 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 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 wave(not like the “thunder waves” in the southeast in the area of ​​Yala National Park!), 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 an “arm’s length” distance 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 fairytale trip to a beautifully preserved ancient world. Many tourists are happy to combine a varied excursion program Colombo - Dambulla - Kandy - Nuwara Eliya - national park Yala with a holiday at sea. 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 take a look at new hotel in Kandy “Earl’s Regency Hotel” with a magnificent view of the mountain landscapes and the Mahawelli 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. Even if during the conflict in the north of the island there was not enough hotel rooms, what can we say about the current 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 sightseeing 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 below: Sinharaja Nature Reserve (pristine jungle, many endemic trees, birds, mammals, insects, amphibians), Dambulla Golden Temple (cave temple complex with 157 Buddha statues and wall paintings, a place of pilgrimage for 22 centuries), ancient city Sigiriya (5th 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), 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. Jeep Safari 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 m 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. In the resort area and in all populated areas There are doctors 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 all year round, combining these activities with hiking and stops at campsites. 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. Best places dive sites are located on the east coast near 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). Best conditions for experienced surfers 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 interested in ecotourism can visit the cloud forests at Horton Plains, a rainforest a tropical forest Sinharaja, Hakgala National Park, 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. Do Male (capital) Maldives) regularly flies with Transaero, to Colombo - Aeroflot (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, Sinhala 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. Carved round table for 3-4 persons made of precious wood self made can be bought for 1000-2000 dollars in a large tourist store on the road from ancient capital 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.