Sri Lanka is an island country situated in the Indian Ocean, to the southwest of the Bay of Bengal and southeast of the Arabian Sea. It is separated from the southern tip of India by the Palk Strait. The country has a diverse landscape, including lush tropical forests, beautiful beaches, and mountains.
Capital
The capital and largest city of Sri Lanka is Colombo, which is also its economic and cultural hub.
Official Languages
Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages of Sri Lanka, reflecting the country’s ethnic diversity.
Population
As of my last knowledge update in September 2021, Sri Lanka had a population of approximately 22 million people.
Economy
Sri Lanka’s economy is diverse and includes sectors such as agriculture (tea, rice, and spices), manufacturing, services, and tourism. The country is renowned for its production of high-quality tea, which is a significant export.
History
Sri Lanka has a rich and ancient history, with evidence of human settlement dating back thousands of years. It was known as Ceylon during its period of British colonial rule and gained independence in 1948. The country’s history is intertwined with the Sinhalese and Tamil ethnic groups and their cultural heritage.
Culture
Sri Lanka’s culture is diverse, influenced by Buddhism, Hinduism, and various other traditions. It is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Sinhala and Tamil New Year and Vesak, which celebrate important religious and cultural events.
Tourism
Sri Lanka is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, ancient temples, wildlife (including elephants and leopards). The country’s tourism industry has been a significant contributor to its economy.
Historic cities Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa
Natural Beauty
Sri Lanka is renowned for its natural beauty, including the lush greenery of its tea plantations in the central highlands, the pristine beaches along its coastline, and its national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.