Most tourists who are tired of popular popular places are looking for countries that are not too exotic and not known to everyone for their vacation. One of these wonderful places for tourists is Sri Lanka, where it is best to start relaxing in November. What is attractive about rest here, what you need to know about this country, what sights Sri Lanka is famous for, when it is better to relax when going to this island and much more, you will learn right now.
The unique country of Sri Lanka
Indeed, Sri Lanka is a country unique in every way. This is not just an exotic island and the birthplace of coconut trees, elephants, and also tea. It's much more:
- here you will see the last relic forest;
- near Kandy you can watch unspoiled and dense views;
- you visit the ancient city, as well as the ruins of Buddhist shrines and palaces that are lost in the jungle;
- you will find rivers teeming with crocodiles and forests overgrown with thick lianas.
Even all this will already be enough for your separate trip to visit Sri Lanka, right? And now remember the endless beaches of the island and you will understand that you need at least a month to visit them all. So, when and where is the best time to relax in Sri Lanka?
The best time to relax
All year round the island has a hot, humid climate, or at least warm, although it cannot be said that it is the same everywhere - it is influenced by the extent of Sri Lanka and the relief. On the plains the average annual temperature is kept at +31 degrees, in the mountainous part up to +24. The rainy season starts from May and ends in September for the southern and western coasts of the country, and for the eastern - from October to April.
Hence the conclusion: for beach holiday on the west and south coast the best time is October - April, and for the eastern - May - September. However, it is worth noting that such a division is rather arbitrary, since in any direction at any time of the year in Sri Lanka there are always enough sunny days for a pleasant pastime, so you can go in any direction.
The most popular resorts of the island, according to tourists
In Sri Lanka, in addition to wonderful weather, there are also many excellent resorts with developed infrastructure and magnificent beaches. By analyzing the reviews of tourists who have already been here, you can find out which resorts or areas are the most popular on the island.
And in which resort of Sri Lanka do you want to relax, have you decided?
What must-see attractions in Sri Lanka
The island of Sri Lanka, which is surrounded by the Indian Ocean, attracts travelers with both a beach holiday and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the sights. When planning your vacation, take seriously the question of what to see on the island, because there are quite a lot of natural and historical places that you want to visit. Unfortunately, in a short period of time, you will not be able to visit everywhere, but it is quite possible to see the main sights.
In Sri Lanka, first of all, inspect the architecture of the most ancient cities, such as:
Hindu temples are no less interesting - Ganeshan and Kanestan, which are located in Colombo in the Pettah area on Sea street. The Jami Ul Alfar Mosque is the main Muslim shrine of the city. It attracts everyone's attention with its facade, which is painted in white and red stripes.
The sights of Colombo include the Brown Gardens, offering guests of Sri Lanka to walk in the shade of various exotic plants. A huge park is laid out on former cinnamon plantations. There is a statue of the Buddha, around which there are bushes, flower beds and a rounded pool. From this sculpture stretches the main alley with green lawns and fountains.
Sri Lanka.
The Lost State of Ceylon.
Years of existence: from 1505 to 1972
In ancient times, the land on which the tribes of the Veddas lived had the historical name of Sri Lanka.
In the 6th century BC, the Sinhalese invaded the island.
In the 3rd century Tamil invasion.
At different times, Sinhala and Tamil states existed here.
By the beginning of the 16th century, there were at least thirty principalities in Sri Lanka, the rulers of which were at enmity with each other.
In the XVI century, the island became Portuguese, a fortress was built here. The Portuguese exported cinnamon, gems and elephants.
In the middle of the 17th century, the Portuguese power was replaced by the Dutch,
By the end of the 18th century, the British had gained a foothold on the island. Sri Lanka became Ceylon and was declared a British colony in 1802. The British managed to subjugate the entire territory of the island.
On February 4, 1848, Ceylon became an independent dominion state, part of the British Commonwealth of Nations.
In 1972, the Democratic Republic of Sri Lanka was proclaimed. The ancient name was returned to the independent state.
The capital is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte.
Geographical coordinates
Latitude
7°38′30″N (7.641643)
Longitude
80°41′31″E (80.691979)
Travel from Moscow
By plane - 12 hours. to Bandaranaike Airport.
Travel from St. Petersburg
By plane - 13 hours. to Bandaranaike Airport.
Distance from Moscow
Distance from Saint Petersburg
Description in the encyclopedic dictionary of Brockhaus and Efron (published on the border of the 19th-20th centuries)
Ceylon, ancient. Ta probane, native. Singhala - Bol. island in the Indian Ocean, the crown colony of Great Britain, to the SE. from the peninsula of Hindustan, between 5°53′-9°51′ N. sh. and 76°42′-81°55′ E. d.
Space around 64000 sq. km, the greatest length from north to south is 450 km, width - 230 km.
residents 3576000 (1901); the main element of the population is the Sinhalese; some of them are the descendants of colonists from the Ganges valley who first settled here in 543 BC. In 1901, there were 2334570 Sinhalese, Tamils (a race of South India) 950844, Moors (Moormen) 249572, Euphrasians and others 23253, Europeans 9583. There are also Veddas (see), Afghans and Malays.
Orographically, Ceylon is divided into two extremely different regions.
The northern half of the island is low-lying plains, mostly covered with extensive tropical forests; southern - a country of mountains and valleys; the central part of the south. The region is occupied by a mountain range stretching between 6°40′-7°40′ N. sh. and reaching an average height of 2000-2500 m; the most significant peak, Pedrotallagalla, rising in the center of the ridge, at 2524 m; the most famous of these mountains is Peak-Adam (2262 m high), according to the native Samanella, in Buddhist books called Kripada (Saripada, Cripada), which means "The imprint of the sacred foot" of the Buddha, as well as Sumanakuta, Devakuta.
Others most elevated peaks of the main range: Kirigalpolla (2380 m) east of Pik-Adam and Totapolla (2353 m). This whole mountainous region, rightly called Sinhalese Switzerland, abounds in picturesque views and beautiful and fertile valleys; well irrigated and cut through by forests and cultivated fields and enjoys one of the best climates in the world. Geologically, the range of mountains consists of gneiss intersected by veins of quartz and, in places, granite; near the coast, basalt looms in many places. Separate spurs of mountains and hills dot vast undulating plains that encircle the mountain range and gradually slope towards the coast. On N. and NW. the coast islands are flat, monotonous, dotted with lagoons; in the south and east they are elevated and rocky. Although Ceylon, in its general circumference, is rich in small bays, it has only one true roadstead, vast, deep, well protected and combining all the conditions of an excellent military and commercial port - Trincomalee, on the eastern coast of the island; the other two, Pointe de Galle and Colombo, are minor.
Rivers many and quite large, especially 10 on the west coast, between the bays of Pointe de Galle and Manard. There are more rivers on the east bank, but they are less significant; in low-lying areas, where there are terrible heats and where evaporation is very significant, the sources are insufficient for the constant supply of rivers. The most significant rivers of Ceylon are: Mahavelliganga in the North, forming a vast delta, the main branch of which flows into Trincomalee Bay; Kalaniganga, which flows into the West near Colombo; Malwatta-Oya - to the NW .; very few of pp. Ceylon is navigable; there are no lakes, but the ancient rulers of Ceylon dug reservoirs and irrigation channels, the dimensions of which are still a matter of amazement.
Climate Ceylon is more level and pleasant than that of the peninsula of Hindustan, from which it is separated by the Gulf of Manaar; generally hot and humid, with very little fluctuation during the year: the averages of the warmest and coldest months differ only by 2 ° -3 °, the average year in Colombo is 27 °, to the east. bank ½° higher. It is colder in the mountains, for example. in the famous sanatorium Nevera Elia (1890 m) 15.0. Ceylon is located in the monsoon region, from May to October southwest., Bringing rain to the western part of Ceylon. From November to April, north-east. monsoon and rains in the east. The division of the year into rainy and dry periods is sharp only in the north and east, where there is less rain, in the south and west there is little rain in all months, and even more even rain in the mountainous center. The average number on the coast is 1800 mm per year, in the north and east 1000-1200, in the mountains it is much more, up to 4000. The climate of Ceylon in populated and cultivated places is quite healthy; Fever rages in the dense forests in the north and east. Here in ancient times there was the most dense population and huge facilities for artificial irrigation. Some dams had hundreds of square meters. km area. Now all this is in decline, the water is stagnant, and the area has become unhealthy.
The population is now concentrated mainly in the west, where there are huge groves of coconuts and rice fields, and in the mountainous center, where the British set up huge coffee plantations, and from the 1870s, when coffee became diseased, plantations of the Assam variety of the tea bush. A significant part of the workers are Tamils from India.
The vegetation of Ceylon is splendid, as is that of the islands of the Malay Archipelago, with which it bears great resemblance, yielding to it only in the north and east. The main product of the soil is rice, cultivated for local consumption; under his crop in 1900 there were 672,584 acres, under other crops, 109,095 acres; tea occupied 405,405 acres, coffee, 7,086 acres, coconuts, 846,115 acres, and cinnamon, 39,619 acres. The forests are extensive, their species are diverse.
Ceylon is rich in minerals, especially precious stones (rubies, sapphires and in the greatest abundance - garnets); in the Gulf of Manaar, pearl fishing is plentiful. Gold, silver, iron (excellent quality), lead, coal (anthracite), kaolin. Almost all the animals of Hindustan are found in the forests of Ceylon, with the exception of the tiger and the horse; the main representative of mammals is an elephant; herds of elephants roam the southwest. areas of the island. Extraction of ivory; turtle and pottery, mat weaving, fan making, woodcarving. Salt mining is a government monopoly. 298 miles roads (1900), 367 post offices. and telegraph offices and 2451 miles of telegraph wires.
Ceylon administration in the hands of the Governor, a 5-member Executive Council, and an 18-member Legislative Council (including the Governor and members of the Executive Council). Representatives of the main races of the island sit in the legislative council. For administrative purposes, Ceylon is divided into 9 provinces, which are headed by government agents. Large cities have their own city government; in the districts, the natives retain their village councils and courts for matters of lesser importance.
Main religion Buddhist - 1877043 people; Hindus 615932, Mohammedans 211995, Christians 302127.
public education has made considerable progress since it was organized under a separate department of education; in 1899, 193,468 pupils attended schools. The only higher government school is the Royal College, but many private English higher schools receive subsidies. Technical college with 125 students; agricultural and forestry schools; 32 professional schools.
Ceylon Finance in 1900: income (in rupees) 27325930, expenses 28948925. Imports worth 122339758 rupees, exports 94962277.
The main city of Colombo; other remarkable cities are Yafna, Kandu and Gall. Ceylon was conquered by the Portuguese in 1505 in the west and south; about half of the 17th century. he was taken from them by the Dutch. In 1795-96. the British took possession of the foreign colonies of the island, which was attached to the Madras Presidency. In 1798, Ceylon was recognized as a separate colony. In 1815, after a successful struggle with the native tribes of the central regions, the entire island is subject to the rule of the British. Wed Emerson Tennent. Ceylon; Schmidt, "Ceylon" (1897); Geiger, "Ceylon" (1898); Van der Aa, Ile de Ceylon. Croquis, mœurs et coutumes" (Leven, 1899); Minaev, "Essays on Ceylon and India"; Klingen, Among the patriarchs of agriculture. T. II. Ceylon and India.
Video
Sri Lanka is a kaleidoscope country. Otherwise, I cannot name all the magnificent opportunities that it provides to tourists and travelers of any age, gender and religion.
The preparation of each trip to this seemingly small island turns for me into a new and new combination of elements of a large constructor: endless sandy beaches, the history and culture of antiquity, extreme sports, the romance of the ocean, travel to emerald mountain peaks and much more.
There are so many interesting things on the island that, as a rule, the trip is not limited to one destination. The ring is the ideal form of the route in Sri Lanka. The beginning and end is the Bandaranaike airport, and everyone chooses the points on the circle to their taste.
My first trip to Sri Lanka was very luxurious and expensive. But the island made such an impression on me that I wanted to return here again, so I began to look for more affordable ways to travel around Sri Lanka, to look closely at the life and life of the locals, gradually turning a seemingly unrealizable fairy tale into reality. So over time, Sri Lanka became my second home.
The island really has where to turn around in terms of attractions and interesting places, so I love not only to travel on it myself, but also to make routes for friends who come here.
Visa and border crossing
The popularity of Sri Lanka among independent travelers is associated, among other things, with the availability and ease of obtaining a visa. Package tourists can also appreciate the efficiency of the officers at the passport control of the airport.
The cost of a visa to Sri Lanka for Russians and citizens of the CIS: at the airport - $ 40, an electronic visa - $ 35. It is given for 2 entries within 30 days. This is convenient if you want to fly, for example, to the Maldives or India.
I recommend applying for an electronic visa on the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) website - it is both cheaper and faster to cross the border. And if you have problems with entry, then you will find out about it in advance, and not at the airport in Sri Lanka.
To apply for an e-visa, you must fill out a special form on the website.
Upon completion of registration, you will receive information that the application has been accepted, after a few hours (up to a day) - confirmation that the visa has been issued.
Please note that closer to the moment of arrival in Colombo, flight attendants begin to offer migration cards for registering entry into Sri Lanka. In this form, you need to enter the following parameters in Latin:
- First Name Last Name;
- nationality;
- passport number;
- place of stay on the island (if you plan to travel around the island, then indicate the name and address of the first hotel in your itinerary);
- signature.
You can fill out a migration card on the plane, and at the airport go straight to passport control. The procedure is that you hand over the issued card and passport (it must be valid for at least 6 months after the expected end of the trip). No one ever asked me for a printout of an electronic visa, a tourist voucher and a return air ticket, all the necessary information is already contained in the electronic database of the Sri Lanka visa service. However, keep these documents handy just in case.
A Sri Lankan visa can be extended up to 3 months and in special cases up to six months. The Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka, where you can go through the relevant procedure, is located at 41, Ananda Rajakaruna Mawatha, Colombo.
Depending on the severity of the violation of migration laws in Sri Lanka, various fines are provided, up to being included in the list of persons who are denied entry to the island.
How to get there
By plane
The main transport hub of the island - Bandaranaike International Airport - is located near Colombo, the largest city in Sri Lanka.
How and how much to fly is the first question that any traveler asks. There are no direct regular flights from Moscow to Colombo, but there are charters during the high season (in winter). This is about 8.5 hours of flight.
The main way to get from Moscow to Sri Lanka is the daily regular flights of Arab airlines, which carry out 1 transfer:
- Emirates - ;
- Qatar Airways-Doha;
- Etihad - .
The flight time, taking into account the connection, increases to 12-14 hours. Ticket price - from 28,000 rubles.
You can get from other Russian cities with the help of the FlyDubai low-cost airline, which operates flights to major Russian cities with a transfer in Dubai. For cities such as, this is the most advantageous flight in terms of time and cost.
Promotions and sales of tickets to Sri Lanka are carried out by airlines around March and October. During this period, the cost of the flight can be reduced by 25-35%. Easy to keep track of prices and discounts.
Tourist regions
The most famous resorts of Sri Lanka are located in the south (the best beach is from Tangalle to Weligama) and southwest () of the island. Eastern Sri Lanka is gaining popularity among tourists every year, attracting with its cleanliness, desert and coral reefs. Also of interest are two central regions of the country: mountainous Sri Lanka with developed trekking routes among the green hills and the so-called "cultural triangle" - a historical region between the three ancient capitals of Ceylon (Anuradhapura,).
Each resort has its own characteristics and offers vacationers a bright range of entertainment and interesting excursions.
southwest coast
Since the southwest of Sri Lanka is famous for its wide variety of beaches, I made my personal rating of the best of them:
- - the untwisted resort of Sri Lanka. Its beaches are preferred by newlyweds for a romantic trip or a wedding ceremony. You can navigate the prices for tours to Bentota. In addition, there is a special program to support the Bentota area as an Ayurvedic resort, so several specialized centers operate here, and each hotel has its own SPA programs. On one of its beaches is the most popular water entertainment center on the island, there is everything from fishing, surfing to water skiing, yachting
The quiet lagoon of Bentota allows you to swim here all year round - this is its big plus. And the relative proximity to the airport (115 km) makes the resort one of the most accessible on the island. - Beruwala- a resort with many attractions related to Islam. The main one is the ancient mosque of Kechimalai. Muslims from all over the world make pilgrimages here during religious holidays. Beruwala also has a number of large hotels with Ayurvedic SPA-salons, tennis courts, golf courses, traditional water activities on the beaches - surfing, diving, fishing. This area, as a continuation of Bentota, is also very clean, but it is cheaper. Among the minuses is the city of Beruwala itself. If you decide to get out into the areas where the locals live, then you will be met by dirt and restless beggars - both children and adults.
- Hikkaduwa- a great place for surfing and diving, which, although not fashionable, is adored by young people and extreme lovers. Unlike most resorts in Sri Lanka, there are many fun bars and discos here. And the main attraction of Hikkaduwa is the coral reserve.
Especially popular, including with me and my friends, are local seafood, which can be tasted in street restaurants. - Mount Lavinia- a resort with a long history and several large modern hotels. Currently, it is a large city adjacent to the economic center of the country, Colombo. Of the main attractions, one can note the Dehivela Zoo with more than 300 species of animals, as well as the huge Bolgoda Lake - the largest reservoir of fresh water in Sri Lanka. The resort is maximally focused on tourists: many hotels and even hostels do not basically populate the Sri Lankans themselves. The main advantage of Mount Lavinia is its proximity to the airport (49 km).
- Tangalle- one of the southern resorts of Sri Lanka, designed for lovers of solitude (!!!), endless sandy beaches. There are also excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
In this area you will find both luxury hotels and cheap guest houses. Local fishermen daily catch several types of fish and seafood, which are skillfully prepared in local restaurants. - - the southernmost resort of Sri Lanka. Near its beaches is the city of Matara and Cape Dondra - extreme point relative to the equator. The beaches of Mirissa are characterized by calmness and tranquility. A few resort hotels are intended more for those who travel around Sri Lanka on their own, there is no infrastructure for package tourists.
The hallmark of the resort is a boat trip to the blue whales that winter nearby. Also among the advantages of Mirissa is the ability to get in 1.5 hours from Colombo by bus along the high-speed autobahn. - Kalutara- a modern developing resort. It is known all over the world for its spices, as well as juicy tropical fruits that grow in the area. The Gangatilaka Vihara Temple is the city's most famous landmark. This is a huge hollow stupa (the only one in Sri Lanka) that you can enter. I highly recommend visiting this one-of-a-kind facility. The downside of the resort is the relative proximity of the city of Kalutara, its noisy streets, bustle, railway, city drains that go past the beaches into the ocean. Also in Kalutara there is no shallow water as such, so I do not recommend holidays with children.
northeast coast
Since the Sri Lanka airport is located on the opposite side of the island, getting to the northeast is more difficult. Nevertheless, there are several resorts with their own unique features:
central highlands
An unforgettable contrast with the beach of Sri Lanka is guaranteed!
It is always very hot here during the day, and at night the temperature drops to 12 degrees, so you will need a jacket or a warm sweater to travel to these parts.
The two main points of visit to the mountainous part of Sri Lanka, each of which has its own unique look and history, are Nuwara Eliya and Ella. 
By the way, between them you can make a fascinating three-hour journey by train among the pristine eucalyptus groves and emerald tea plantations.
"Cultural Triangle"
4 of the 8 UNESCO sites of Sri Lanka are located in a small area, which is formed by lines connecting the cities of Anuradhapura, Pollonaruwa and Kandy. At different times, each of them was the capital of Ceylon.
To visit the main cities of the "triangle", it is enough to allocate 1 day each. You can spend a little less time exploring Anuradhapura, but a little more - Kandy. Each city has the minimum necessary tourist infrastructure: hotels, guest houses, restaurants, shops. In Kandy, of course, it is more developed, as it is the second largest city in Sri Lanka.
In addition to the above cities, the attractions of the "cultural triangle" also include, which take about 3 hours to visit for each object. But you can set aside a separate day for them.
It is convenient to book hotels in Sri Lanka at Booking - before that, you can compare hotel prices. You can view offers from owners for apartments and apartments by.
Top cities
In order to know Sri Lanka from A to Z, I recommend visiting cities that will show the island from different angles:
Islands
Sri Lanka is an island in itself, but nevertheless, it has a small number of satellite islands, some of which will be interesting to include in the travel itinerary.
The names of some of the northwestern islands end in "tivu", which means "island" in Tamil: Punkudutivu, Mandaytivu. Some of the islands have retained the names of Dutch cities since the colonization of the country. For example, an island.
Most noteworthy:
Top attractions
The peculiarity of Sri Lanka lies in the unique opportunity to combine a relaxed vacation on the ocean with an educational excursion program. There are 8 UNESCO sites on the island, as well as various historical and natural attractions. You can see them both as part of an independent trip (cheaper and more interesting with preliminary preparation), or buy excursions in agencies and representatives of travel agencies (very expensive, but reliable and more comfortable).
- Sigiriya- a historical complex (UNESCO heritage site), located on a high cliff in the very center of the island. The caves of the monks, who came here, the king of Kasapa turned into a magnificent city with a palace, temples, outbuildings. The pearls of Sigiriya are a huge (140 by 40 meters) gallery of frescoes, as well as images of a snake and a giant lion carved into the rocks, of which only the lower part with paws has been preserved. Read all about Sigiriya.
- golden temple- a complex of cave temples shrouded in legends, in which there is a huge number of images of the Buddha - frescoes, drawings, statues. The drawings on the walls tell about the main moments of the life of the Buddha. Read more about the temple and surroundings.
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Sacred place for Buddhists around the world! Perhaps this is one of the most luxurious temples in Sri Lanka. Previously, there was a royal palace at this place, so you can see a lot of interesting things: wood carving, gilding, paintings, religious objects and much more. I wrote in detail about the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Weather
Luck or not, it is summer in Sri Lanka all year round: daytime air temperature ranges from +28 °С to +33 °С (at night +24 °С ... +26 °С). The water temperature in Sri Lanka is +27 °С ... +29 °С.
The tropical climate and monsoon winds determine the seasons on the island. There are two of them: dry and cool, wet and hot season. Basically, the comfort of a beach holiday and swimming depends on this. Otherwise, you can go to Sri Lanka at any time of the year, as there is sure to be something interesting in every period.
The northeast and southwest coasts take turns sharing the palm among visitors to Sri Lanka. In addition, tourists travel all year round to the sightseeing objects of the island, and also climb the mountains located in the central part of the country.
Conventionally, the periods of the high tourist season on the coasts can be divided according to the principle - in summer it is better to go to the northeast, and in winter - to the southwest. More detailed information by month:
The off-season in Sri Lanka is characterized by unpredictable weather - it may not be ideal, but it is quite suitable for relaxation. For example, in April, the best time to visit the mountainous part of Sri Lanka with its emerald tea plantations, but you can quite comfortably spend a few days on the beaches of the southwest coast:, Hikkaduwa,. May is a good time for a sightseeing holiday, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites located on the island. An excellent addition to this route will be rest on the northeast coast: Trincomalee, Nilaveli, Appuveli.
The rainy season in Sri Lanka brings with it partly cloudy, short-term, usually 2-5 minute (sometimes up to 15 minutes) heavy heavy rains. As a rule, precipitation occurs at night, but there are exceptions. A strong wind can frighten tourists in the off-season, as well as large waves in the ocean, which practically nullify swimming.
If you choose a hotel with a swimming pool, then the rest can be quite comfortable, in addition, housing prices drop significantly in the low season.
Swimming in the ocean during the rainy season is still possible if you choose the right beach with a lagoon or closed islands. This location calms the raging waves. There are similar stretches of beaches in the southwest and northeast of Sri Lanka.
Moving around the country
Sri Lanka is a former colony of Great Britain, which is probably why the traffic here is left-handed.
Move around the island public transport(buses, trains) very cheap. For example, a car transfer from the airport to Bentota is 68 dollars (10,000 rupees), the same distance on 2 buses is 2 dollars (300 rupees), by bus and then train - 0.85 dollars (120 rupees).
Connection
Roaming or local calls
Sri Lanka is actively developing cellular communications and the Internet.
The island, by analogy with Russia, has its own "big three" mobile operators - Mobitel, Dialog, Etisalat, each of which has its own travel offers for dialing minutes for international, domestic calls and Internet traffic.
Having bought a local SIM card, talking to Russia will be much cheaper than paying for roaming to domestic operators. For example, the cost of a minute for MTS is 250 rubles, and for Dialog - 9 rubles. Calls from a landline from a hotel are also not cheap.
Which tariff to choose
In my experience, the most stable connection is Dialog, Etisalat. But Dialog is cheaper, so I prefer it for relaxation. The minimum fare is 5.5 dollars (780 rupees). This is enough for calls to Russia and communication in social networks for a couple of weeks. You can play it safe and, in order to be always in touch, purchase a more expensive Dialog tariff - more minutes and Internet traffic.
If there is a need for frequent calls or remote work via the Internet, then the best option is Etisalat. A little more expensive, but the volume of minutes provided and Internet traffic is larger.
Where to buy a SIM card
A SIM card from one of the local operators can be purchased directly at the Colombo International Airport in the waiting room (right behind the exchangers). Representatives of the mobile operator will perform all the manipulations with your phone in order to activate the tariff, but you can simply buy a card and do all the operations yourself according to the instructions or with the help of English-speaking call center operators.
Similar SIM cards can also be purchased at mobile phone stores in cities. It is also widely available to replenish the account using phone cards, which can be bought in stores, shops, post offices and gas stations.
The territories of Colombo and the resorts of the southwestern part of the island are best covered by mobile communications. In the north and east, only large cities can boast of stable mobile communications and the Internet.
WiFi
As a rule, hotels in Sri Lanka have wi-fi. In large chain hotels, it is available everywhere, and in small hotels and hostels - at the reception and in common areas. Most of the time, this service is free.
In large cities and resorts, there are also Internet cafes that allow you to access the Global Network, but they look very suspicious and unsafe.
Helpful information
Telephone services: ambulance and fire - 112, police - 119
Language and communication
In total, there are about 22 million citizens in Sri Lanka, of which 10 million live in Colombo, the economic capital of the island.
The official languages in Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil, but English is actively used in government agencies and tourism. At the household level, mostly residents of cities speak a foreign language, but even in the outback they will try to answer you something or find someone who speaks at least a little English.
In resort areas, the Russian language is becoming increasingly popular among residents involved in the tourism sector, knowledge of which allows the Sri Lankan to find a better-paid job in this industry.
10 phrases you need to know
- Hello (may your years last) - Ayubovan;
- Thank you - Situtiy;
- Please - Kurunakara;
- Yes - oh;
- No - Epa;
- How much does it cost - Kiyade gane;
- Expensive - Ganan;
- Cheap - Labai;
- The other is Anit;
- Drink - Bonava;
- Doctor - Dostara.
Features of the mentality
Among the population of the island, two nationalities can be distinguished:
- Sinhalese (75%), who mostly profess Buddhism;
- Tamils (12%), who live mainly in the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka, their main religion is Hinduism.
Basically, religious communities live separately, forming entire districts of the city, region. From my own experience, I can note that the cleanliness and comfort of the area is very dependent on the religion practiced by the locals. Buddhism implies the formation of harmony around, so its adherents are constantly washing, sweeping, repairing something - they attach great importance to order. This contrast is striking when you drive through the country. In Muslim or Hindu areas, they don’t think so much about the existence of things, hence the garbage, there are many times more unkempt places.
In general, the Sri Lankans are very friendly and always ready to help. Of course, there are swindlers, but they obviously do not think about their karma, as the vast majority of the inhabitants of the island do. Even if they are poor now, it is very important for them to go into the next life with a "clear conscience". 
I love the locals for their high moral principles, for the family way of life (good upbringing of children and respect for elders). Sometimes all this reminds us of our Soviet times, although European values are slowly being introduced into the minds of young people, destroying traditional foundations.
They usually set a large table with a huge number of different dishes. But if a foreigner came to the family, then the first to feed him, and only then the owners themselves start the meal.
And the Sri Lankans are very fond of holidays, often visit temples, attach great importance to rites and rituals.
Food and drink
Feature of Sri Lankan cuisine
The spicy and spicy food of Sri Lanka can be a big challenge. The magic phrase comes to the aid of the traveler “but sleepy”, however, this does not guarantee that the food will be similar to European. This is a classic feature of the cuisines of all Asian countries.
The charm of Sri Lankan cuisine is in its simplicity. The basis of most dishes is vegetables, rice, fish, spices. This is still the same constructor, in the center of which is rice. Around it are various curry sauces - a mixture of ginger, turmeric, pepper, coriander, cinnamon, garlic. A lot of local dishes are prepared using coconut juice, oil, shavings.
What do the locals eat
As true Buddhists, the Sri Lankans practically do not eat meat and very rarely consume poultry. Mostly pork, beef, chicken dishes are prepared for tourists in resort areas and large cities. The cow is a sacred animal, but in Sri Lanka they are more tolerant in terms of eating its meat than in neighboring India.
As for seafood, they are not always available to a simple Sri Lankan, because. prices are high by local standards. The entire catch is sold to cafes and restaurants. As a rule, the Sri Lankans eat small fish or umbalacada - fish powder, which is added to sauces. But to visit here and not try the lobsters, the freshest fish, is simply impossible. For those who cook on their own, you can buy cheaply at special fish markets. They work from 4 am to 7 am.
Where to eat
In Sri Lanka, you can eat on almost every corner. These are mainly street eateries, cafes, restaurants.
Don't be afraid to eat in street places. The chance to taste stale and tasteless food is higher in cafes and restaurants. On the street, dishes are cooked in front of your eyes, and if a lot of customers sit in this eatery, then the products are definitely fresh, the reputation of the institution has not been spoiled in any way.
In expensive restaurants, various surprises and inconsistencies in expectations can lie in wait for you. Although it must be admitted, in Colombo there are the most upscale restaurants in Sri Lanka with amazing luxury national and European cuisine.
All fast food restaurants (KFC, MCDonalds, Burger King) are also concentrated in large cities. It should be noted that even in such establishments, local food habits are taken into account - there are many vegetarian dishes. A full meal at a local MCDonalds will cost $4 (600 rupees).
Prices for local food in Sri Lanka are very low.
In street eateries you can eat for 1-1.4 dollars (150-200 rupees). Lunch in a good restaurant in the resort area will cost 10-20 dollars (1500-2500 rupees) for 1 person.
About drinks
- In such a hot country like Sri Lanka, you must definitely drink a lot. Tap water can only be consumed after boiling, but it is better to always buy bottled water, which is sold everywhere and is very cheap. The bottle must be SLS label(Sri Lanka Standards Institute).
- Milk is expensive here. It spoils quickly, so preservatives are often added to it. Everywhere they sell milkshakes in bags with the addition of cocoa, vanilla, etc. Pay attention to the expiration date. I advise you to buy milk in the areas of Nuwara Eliya, where many farms and large dairy plants are located.
- A popular drink in Sri Lanka is coconut milk. But do not forget that this is a strong diuretic.
- Ceylon tea is a classic drink, fragrant and strong, so locals often dilute it with milk. The environment of the island makes the usual ritual of tea drinking more elite and unforgettable.
- Fruit juices (from mangoes, bananas, papaya) and lassi (yogurt, fruit, sugar, ice). Fresh will be prepared for you right in the street stalls. The magic words to the seller are “but ice, but sludge” (ice is made from no one knows what kind of water, and fruits are already quite sweet).
- Ginger beer is a soft drink similar to soft cola, but with a ginger flavor and aroma.
- Arak (Arrack) - coconut vodka. Often used with Zhinzha to remove the fortress. Price: around $3.5 (500 rupees) per bottle. The best variety of Arak is Old Reserve, which costs about 7 dollars (1000 rupees).
- The most popular types of beer in Sri Lanka: Anchor, Lion (Stout and Lager), Three Coins (similar to Belgian).
You will not find alcohol in supermarkets. It is sold in specialized Wine Stores.
Prices in them are usually high, because. Sri Lanka has high import duties on liquor. In addition, the sellers themselves make a decent margin. Alcohol and beer in hotels and restaurants are sold without restrictions.
5 dishes worth trying
shopping
The shopping you can do in Sri Lanka has a special national flavor. This is felt regardless of the place, be it a market or a shopping center.
Everywhere you can find all kinds of goods: from spices to clothes and precious stones.
What you need to know about shopping in this country
The key rule of shopping in Sri Lanka is “Bargaining is appropriate!”, because in the process you can drop the price up to 50% of the original one. On the other hand, the cost of souvenirs and spices can be so meager in terms of rubles that it’s easier to do without bargaining, but when buying precious stones, leather goods and clothes, be sure to bargain.
Fixed prices in duty-free stores, supermarkets, shopping centers.
The best cities for shopping
Shopping, similar to classic European, is perhaps only available in Colombo. There are a number of large shopping centers, including those with well-known international brands. In resort areas, shopping, as a rule, comes down to buying souvenirs.
What to bring from this country
- Ceylon tea (the best is from the highlands of Ella and Nuwara Eliya. I advise you not to buy Pekoe and Orange Pekoe; as well as Lipton and Dilmah);
- souvenirs: masks, ceramics, batik, leather goods (for a lover of the exotic);
- spices (the cheapest cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, etc. in supermarkets).
Vacation with children
For a comfortable stay with children, Sri Lanka is a very suitable place. The beaches are calm, the people are friendly, and the crime rate in the whole country is quite low. The Sri Lankans themselves are very fond of children and respect women with children. The main thing is to try to follow the following rules:
Safety
If you follow the minimum precautions, then a trip to Sri Lanka will be unforgettable for you with a plus sign. Things to consider:
- Taste a cup of real Ceylon tea from the highlands of Nuwara Eliya.
- Take part in the bright procession of the Esala Perahera festival in.
- Climb the rock of Sigiriya. This is a creation of nature framed by human hands.
- Stroll along the golden beaches of Bentota.
- Admire coral fish in coastal waters.
Money
The monetary unit of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). A trifle is somewhat similar to ours - 1 rupee 100 cents. Course for spring 2016:
- 1 dollar is equal to 146 Sri Lankan rupees;
- 1 euro - 170 rupees;
- 1 ruble - 2.02 rupees.
For convenience, you can divide all prices by 2 - as a result, you will get the cost of goods and services in rubles.
Yes, currency on the island can be exchanged at any hotel, bank, large shopping center, but I have never met a better rate than at Colombo airport for all trips to Sri Lanka.
You can find exchangers by going to the waiting area for those who meet you, after receiving your luggage. It is impossible to miss them - the doors open, and in front of you there are at least 6 “counters” where young people change currency at exactly the same rate for everyone. The check, which is issued at the currency exchange, allows you to convert rupees back into your currency, at the rate of its purchase.
By the way, please note that the export of the national currency from the country is prohibited, so do not forget to exchange the rest of the money back for dollars or euros.
Sri Lankan money is interesting to look at. The notes in circulation on the island are 10/20/50/100/500/1000/5000 rupees. On them you can see quite interesting, and most importantly, vivid images - local traditions, sights, animals, peacocks.
But no matter what, these are the most worn and dirty bills that I have ever seen. Either the state infrequently updates the money supply, or the citizens themselves are not particularly careful about banknotes.
The basis of the banking system is the 3 largest banks in Sri Lanka: Bank of Ceylon, People's Bank, Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC. Thanks to them, there will definitely be no problems with ATMs in big cities, they are here at every step. In smaller cities and on In beach resorts, these devices are concentrated, as a rule, in shopping centers or at large railway stations.In addition, in chain hotels and shopping centers, credit cards of international payment systems are accepted for payment.
Friends, you often ask, so we remind you! 😉
Flights- you can compare prices from all airlines and agencies!
Hotels- do not forget to check prices from booking sites! Don't overpay. This !
Rent a Car- also aggregation of prices from all distributors, all in one place, let's go!
Where is Sri Lanka
The majestic Mount Sigiriya is one of the main attractions of Sri Lanka. Built in the 5th century on the top of the mountain, the stone fortress was a reliable shelter for the king. After a short climb up the stone steps, 11 amazing frescoes are revealed, painted with natural paints of a special composition.
At the top of the "lion" rock, a giant royal throne is still preserved.
In the city of Polonnaruwa, the ruins of the ancient capital of the Sinhalese state have been preserved. Here you can see the remains of the palace with huge statues of Buddha and the beautiful Watadage temple. In the northern part of Polonnaruwa, there is the largest sculptural ensemble of the area - three huge Buddha statues carved into the rocks.
In the suburbs of Kandy - Peradeniya - is the largest in Asia Botanical Garden with rare palm alleys, with a huge number of different types of tropical vegetation.
Lora from all over the tropical world is represented here.
Sri Lankan cuisine and its features
Curry-flavored rice is the most common food item. Meat, fish and seafood dishes (sea shrimps and lobsters), poultry and vegetables are also served. Great and inexpensive tropical fruits: pineapples, bananas (more than 200 varieties), avocados, mangoes, papayas, oranges, and coconuts. Popular local drinks include arak and beer.
Population, language, religion
70% of the population of Sri Lanka are Sinhalese, 20% are Tamils. Small peoples and ethnic groups of mixed origin include the Moors - the descendants of ancient Arab and Persian traders, the burghers - descended from mixed marriages between the Portuguese and Dutch, on the one hand, and the Sinhalese and Tamils, on the other. About 42 thousand Malays live on the island. In the mountain-forest region of the inner part of the island, near the city of Nuwara Eliya, small groups of Veddas (about 850 people) have survived - the descendants of the ancient population of the island.
The official languages are Sinhalese, Tamil and English.
The main part of the inhabitants (70%) professes Buddhism - mostly Sinhalese. Most of the Tamil population is Hindu. The Muslim religion is followed by Malays and Moors (7%). Catholic Christians on the island are also 7% - these are burghers and part of the Sinhalese population. Vedda - where is Sri Lanka a country of primitive religion. Religious beliefs and superstitions are very strong among the population of Sri Lanka, there is still a division into castes. There are about 20 castes in total.
Customs regulations, visa, currency, embassies
Visa. The usual time for processing documents at the embassy is 1 day. Required: passport, 1 application form with a photo and air tickets. A consular fee is charged. For Russian citizens staying for up to 1 month, a visa is not required - a tourist voucher is enough.
GEOGRAPHY
Sri Lanka is an island in the Indian Ocean, located 800 km. north of the equator. The total area of the island is 65610 sq. km, the length from north to south is 445 km, and from west to east 225 km. The main part of the island is occupied by a plain, the height of which rarely exceeds 100 m above sea level. The Central Mountain Range is located in the center of Sri Lanka. The average height of the mountains ranges from 1000 to 2000 meters above sea level, but some peaks rise much higher. Numerous rivers of the country flow from the mountains. The largest river Mahaweli Ganga 335 km. Some rivers of the island are navigable. The highest points of the island - Mount Pidurutalagala has a height of 2524 m. Then Mount Kirigalpotta is 2395 m high. However, the majestic Adam Peak (Mount Sri Pada) is most famous for everyone - 2243 m. See more >
ECONOMY
Tea production is of the utmost importance in Sri Lanka. The island produces 9-11% of the tea produced in the world. More than half a million people work on the plantations. Almost all tea produced on the island is exported. As an exporter of tea, Sri Lanka occupies a leading position in the world. Another important export crop is Hevea rubber. As in tea production, relatively large plantations provide the bulk of rubber. They also have factories where the collected latex is processed and sheet rubber is produced. The third export crop is coconut. Sri Lanka exports a significant amount of copra, coconut oil, coconut milk powder. Of the other agricultural exports, spices (especially cinnamon) are the most important. In recent years, the export of manufactured goods has increased. Of these, the most significant part is textile products. Gemstones continue to be an important source of income.
ECONOMY
Modern Sri Lanka is a country of plantations created in the days of the British. In 1977, the country was the first in South Asia to embark on the path of transition from a centralized state economy to a market economy. Colombo has the largest seaport, through which a huge volume of container traffic passes. The state receives its main income from the following sources:
— a free trade zone, with attraction of foreign investments -
“Sri Lanka is a unique world where in a small area there is such a variety of cultures, landscapes and climatic zones that you will not find even in countries whose territory is ten times larger.”
Sir Arthur Clark
Autumn has come. Behind the windows, the rays of the last autumn sun gleam, and everyone begins to think about how to prolong their summer. Many of you will soon set off in pursuit of warm rays. However, here the question arises "where?"
The answer is obvious. We are all going to Sri Lanka, to the country of eternal summer, located not far from the equator. You will ask why"? There are a lot of reasons, because in Sri Lanka everyone can find something to their liking.
1.
Meet the amazing unique, diverse climate.
For 3 - 4 days of travel, you can feel tropics on the coast Indian Ocean, enjoying the sun on the endless sandy beaches, see ancient shrines of Buddhism and the oldest Bodhi tree, which is over 2250 years old, South African safari by jeep in the national reserve, enjoy the temperate climate of the central part of the island, admire the waterfalls and feel coolness of the highlands, where the best famous Ceylon tea grows on plantations shrouded in mist.
Sri Lanka has more waterfalls in relation to its territory than any other country in the world.
2. Meet smiling faces and feel Sri Lankan hospitality about which there are legends.
Sri Lankan hospitality is famous all over the world. People are friendly and ready to help those who are not familiar with local customs. The Sri Lankans are very hospitable and gladly invite people to their homes, no matter how modest they are. At first, it will seem unusual that everyone around you is smiling. However, after your return from the trip, the smiles of the inhabitants of the island, coming from the heart, will warm you in cold times.
Sri Lanka is a multi-ethnic society, which is the result of several waves of immigration. The main ethnic groups are Tamils and Sinhalese. Muslims, Malays and Chinese also live here. The Portuguese and British brought with them kaffirs from Africa, and the Dutch - a special type of European merchants - burghers.
3. Admire the rich cultural heritage civilizations with 2000 years of history.
The wealth of culture of Sri Lanka has been recognized by UNESCO, which has declared 6 archaeological sites of the country as World Heritage Sites:
- holy city Anuradhapura(4th century BC) - the first ancient capital
- Ancient city Polonnaruwa(10th century AD) - the second ancient capital
- golden caveman Temple in Dambulla(1st century BC)
- Lion fortress on the rock Sigiriya(5th century AD)
- holy city Kandy(17th century AD) - the last royal capital
- Old City Halle and his fortress(17th century AD)
The seventh World Heritage Site is an ecological reserve - Sinharaja tropical rainforest, the jungle of which is officially one of the 34 most unique places on the planet in terms of its biodiversity.
Visiting the area, which is called the "Cultural Triangle" ,
travelers can see huge dagobas(domed structures or stupas) and the remains of ancient buildings in the ruins of the cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, climb the amazing stairs to the Dambulla temple ,
behold sensual frescoes with the image of girls of divine beauty on the rock of Sigiriya.
In the central part of the country is the last royal capital, the city of Kandy, which is considered the cultural center of the island and where Dalada Maligawa Temple or the Temple of the Tooth, where sacred tooth of Buddha.
Galle Fort, with its 14 massive fortifications, regular street layout and original Dutch-style one-story houses, is full of hectic life, just like in the Middle Ages.
4. Feel the pulsating energy national holidays and festivals.
The many-sided civilization of Sri Lanka rewarded the island with a stunning cultural heritage colorful festivals related to Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity.
There is a holiday every full moon Sing. The most important of the holidays, vesak, full moon day in May, which commemorates the birth of the Buddha, his enlightenment and death.
The festival that attracts the most attention of tourists visiting Sri Lanka is Kandy Esala Perahera held in Kandy for 10 days in late July or early August .
Among the Hindu festivals, it should be noted Vel, held in Colombo in July, and Festival in Kataragama on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, during which a procession with torches is arranged. Hindus also note Thai Pongal("harvest festival"), Maha Shivaratri(“Great night of Shiva”), the most important festival of the year for the followers of the god Shiva, who are the majority among the Hindus of Sri Lanka, and deepavali(“Festival of Lights”).
The Sri Lankan New Year, usually falling in mid-April, is a non-religious holiday celebrated by the entire population of the island, regardless of their religion.
5. Get to know the unique diversity of wildlife.
Thanks to the influence of Buddhism, which calls for the reverence of all living things, Sri Lanka pays great attention to environmental protection. In total, the island has 12 national parks and 52 nature reserves occupying 14% of the total area of Sri Lanka.
A safari in the national park gives you the opportunity to see 91 species of mammals (including 16 that live only in this region) - elephants, leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild pigs, mouse and barking deer, wild boars, porcupines, anteaters, civet (genus of wild cats), lemurs, giant squirrels, monkeys(including macaques, langurs gray and with pimples on the muzzle).
national park Yala is considered to be the place of greatest concentration leopards in the world. national park Uda Walawe known for its huge population elephants.
Sri Lanka is one of the best places on earth to watch blue whales and. Sperm whales, killer whales, pilot whales and dolphins they are also regularly encountered during trips along the coast of Mirissa (the southern coast of the island). On the beaches of the island you can often see turtles seven varieties.
The island is a paradise for lovers of watching birds. 233 species of birds live here (33 endemic) - the number of bird species, taking into account migration, increases to 482. There are 171 species on the island reptiles(101 of them, including two species of crocodiles, are found only here), 244 species butterflies and 120 kinds dragonflies.
6. Replenish the lack of adrenaline adventure and active sports.
An island with a coastline of 1,340 km. is the ideal place for windsurfing, water skiing, jet skis, surfing, sailing, scuba diving(including diving on sunken ships), snorkelling, speedboats, banana boat rides. The best places for water sports are located on west coast in the Negombo area ;
on the southwest coast Wadduwa, Kalutara and Beruwala; and also in Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Koggala, Tangalle and Hambantota on the south and southeast coasts. Water sports centers are supervised by certified PADI instructors.
Sri Lanka has over 100,000 rivers, lagoons and reservoirs. You can ski here all year round. kayaks and canoe, combining these activities with hiking and camping stops. Rapid current and water rapids of the Kelani Ganga next to Kitulgala ideal for rafting during the period from November to April.
Alternative outdoor activities include activities paragliding, rock climbing, caving (cave hiking) and mountain biking.
7. Relax in the best hotels Asia, combining the highest service and design.
There are various hotel options in Sri Lanka.
In Colombo you will find modern five star hotels, as well as colonial era hotels where you can feel the charm and romance of past centuries.
The island has stunning hotels in amazingly beautiful places. On the coast, especially in the west and south, a huge number resort hotels. Several of them are designed by one of Asia's most famous architects of the 20th century, Joffrey Bawa. Bawa's designs are in a style dubbed "tropical modernism", which is characterized by the blurring of boundaries between outside and inside, so that the architecture and landscape of the surrounding area interact with each other. Also on the western and southern coasts, the number of boutique hotels.
In the cities of the mountainous region of the country, such as Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Bandarawela ,
concentrated hotels of the colonial era. For those who are going to fairly remote regions of the island, perhaps for the purpose of sports adventures, there are wonderful colonial-style houses, tea and rubber factory buildings, jungle huts, tree-houses and eco shelters, as well as campsites.
8. Enjoy exotic national cuisine.
The variety of types of rice, spices, vegetables and fruits, coupled with the customs brought to the island by foreigners, have formed a varied and interesting cuisine of Sri Lanka. Rice used with curry(any dish made from eggplant, potatoes, green bananas, chicken, fish, etc. with spices) of various spiciness: from spicy spicy to dynamite strength. Just as traditional hoppers(appetizer similar to pancakes) string hoppers(steam rice noodles) and pitu(mixture of coconut flour). Dish lamprais, rice and additional meat or vegetable ingredients baked in banana leaves was inherited from the Dutch. Always in in large numbers available fresh fish, shrimps, crabs, squids and lobsters. Desserts include sour milk buffalo milk curd, watered palm honey, and, similar to caramel, vatallapam.
In Sri Lanka there are various cutlets, pies, malu pang(fish bun), and kimbula banis(bun in the shape of a crocodile).
Fruit mango, pineapple, banana, papaya, and lesser known but wonderful sapodilla, mangosteen, rambutan, woodapple(a fruit with a very hard skin called a wood apple), durian, passion fruit, avocado, etc.
9. Try ayurvedic procedures and relax in spa center.
Sri Lanka is a place where you can restore not only the body, but also the spirit. The most popular method to restore and rejuvenate a tired body and calm a weary soul remains Ayurveda- the world's oldest system of medicine.
Ayurvedic programs consist of a range of herbal treatments and various types baths and massages, as well as cleansing and rejuvenation techniques, such as yoga, meditation and special diets.
In the SPA located in the hotels, guests are offered not only Ayurvedic, but also other types of procedures, such as Thai massage, hydrotherapy, herbal baths, reflexology and beauty treatments. For those who need energy recharging, we offer meditation courses.
10. commit profitable purchases.
Shopping in Sri Lanka can be done in different ways:
- Haggling with a souvenir vendor, spending time on the beach;
- Picking fruit in a village shop, picking his way between sacks of rice;
- Visiting fashion sales (Sri Lanka is the main exporter of clothes), enjoying walks in the modern shopping centers of Colombo.
Stop by the souvenir shop and purchase a piece adorned with the island's national animals such as makara (mystical animal), lion, swan, elephant and lotus, which are intricately engraved on copper products(caskets, trays, lanterns, vases) and silverware(jewellery decorated with filigree carvings, tea sets. In addition, very popular national masks, lacquered ceramics, batik, textiles, lace, woodcarving.
Where is Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is known as an exotic island nation.
But where is Sri Lanka?
Let's try to understand in more detail ...
Sri Lanka is known as an exotic island nation located off the southeastern coast of Hindustan in the Indian Ocean. It is located in the tropical zone 650 km from the equator. It is located in the tropical zone 650 km from the equator.
Sri Lanka (Skt. श्री लङ्का, "Blessed Land") is an island in the Indian Ocean. The largest island of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka is a unique, paradise island, one of the richest places on earth with history, attracts travelers from all over the world for recreation, and will forever remain in the memory of those who visited it!
Sri Lanka is a country with an incredible history, one of the oldest civilizations in the world, offering amazing historical treasures.
Sri Lanka is a country of exotics, a country for those who dream of a romantic getaway and adventure, a country of all shades of green tropical plants, a country of great natural beauty - this is how you can call a small island located in the Indian Ocean.
Each city of Ceylon is unique: some are famous for their rich history, others fascinate with their natural beauty. Every city in Sri Lanka has a well-developed tourism infrastructure and every city in Sri Lanka welcomes tourists with open arms.
Sri Lanka is the most ancient Buddhist country in the world.
More than one thousand kilometers of palm trees and white sandy beaches surround the island. Resorts of Sri Lanka are scattered throughout the country and offer ample opportunities for recreation in Sri Lanka: scuba diving, surfing, sailing and skiing, windsurfing, deep sea fishing, excursions to the caves. You can swim in calm waters, watch the sun descend like fireballs across the horizon, plunge into the vast ocean
Sri Lanka (Ceylon): photos
Polonnaruwa - the ancient city of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka: where is it located
The state of Sri Lanka is located on an island in the Indian Ocean, located south of the Hindustan peninsula between 5'54' and 9'52' north latitude, 800 km. from the equator. The northern and central parts of the island are in the subequatorial, and the southern part in the equatorial zones. The total area is 65610 sq. km, the length from north to south is 445 km, and from west to east 225 km.
Ceylon on the world map
How to get to Sri Lanka
There are no direct flights between Moscow and Colombo, but in winter charters fly here with a stopover in Male. In addition, flights with a fairly convenient connection are possible with Emirates (via Dubai), Etihad Airways (via Abu Dhabi) and Qatar Airways (via Doha). Travel time is about 14 hours including connections.
Direct flights to Sri Lanka from Minsk, Kiev and Alma-Ata also do not exist: only through other European cities.
