Sri lanka what a country. Ceylon - the famous tea island of the Indian Ocean

All about Sri Lanka, the land of ancient ruins, religious relics, beautiful beaches and colorful reefs. It looks like India, but it's not. We talk about best places what you need to know and where to go.

Contents of the article

Sri Lanka- This paradise island with a rich history that attracts travelers from all over the world and remains forever in their hearts. An island located in the Indian Ocean is an exotic world of romantic holidays and adventures in natural natural conditions. Each city in Sri Lanka is unique in its own way, one with its rich history, the second with the untouched nature of the surrounding world, the third with its developed infrastructure for tourism.

General information about the country

Location

Sri Lanka- a small island in the Indian Ocean, located at the southeastern tip of India. By area it occupies 65600 sq.. This is a country that has EVERYTHING: beautiful beaches, high mountains(more than 2000 m), tropical forests and a variety of animals such as wild elephants, leopards, sea turtles, dolphins and whales.

Capital

Colombo city

Form of government

Mixed Republic

Religion

Buddhism 70%, Islam 8%, Christianity 6%

Sri Lanka is one of the most ancient countries of the Buddhist religion, which was first introduced to the island by the son of Emperor Ashoka in the 2nd century BC. A branch from the sacred Bodhi tree, under the shade of which Buddha achieved enlightenment, was installed in Anuradhapura; it was brought by the daughter of Emperor Senamitta. This relic is especially revered in the Buddhist world today. The atmosphere of Sri Lanka is literally saturated with religion; there are many sacred temples, the main of which is rightfully considered the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha, located in ancient capital Sinhalese state of Kandy. Traditionally, the temple is visited with lotus flowers - a symbol of purity and perfection. Although the lotus grows in a swamp, it is able to grow beautiful and unsullied. The philosophy of Buddhism is based on the teaching that, like a lotus, a person has the power to purify his soul and overcome all the difficulties of life.

Language

Sinhala - 74%, Tamil - 18%, Others - 8%. On English Approximately 10% of residents speak fluently. Menu (in tourist restaurants) are served in Sinhala and English.

Currency

Sri Lankan rupee

Population

22 million people

Country dialing code

Climate, when is the best time to go?

Tropical climate. Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, which run from May to July and from December to January. The average annual temperature is about 28°C in the lowlands and about 18°C ​​in the highlands.

The recommended time for a holiday in Sri Lanka is during the dry season - from April to November for east coast and December to March for the west coast and central highlands. Christmas and New Year a particularly popular time to travel to Sri Lanka

Do I need a visa to enter Sri Lanka?

Anyone wishing to visit Sri Lanka is required to apply for a visa from 1 January 2012. The exception is citizens of the Republic of Singapore, the Republic of the Maldives and the Republic of Seychelles. But don't worry, it's quite simple, the only thing you need to do is apply for an ETA Tourist Visa online before entering Sri Lanka. The online visa is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival and can be extended for up to six months. The cost of the visa is $35 (children under 12 years old are free).

If you were unable to obtain an ETA in advance, you will need to go through the procedure to obtain it at the airport upon arrival (but you will have to pay $40, children under 12 years old are free)

What are the entry requirements for Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is a very easy country to visit and there are not many entry requirements. The only thing you will need when entering Sri Lanka, other than the online visa, is at least one blank page in your current passport, which must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry, also a return ticket with the exact date of departure, a voucher, a migration card (must be completed in English, fill it out either on the plane or at the border) and cash based on $25-50 per day.

Insurance

Never travel without valid travel insurance! Travel insurance may seem expensive, but it's nothing compared to the fact that medical care can cost you even more. This is the one thing you should never skimp on!

How to get to Sri Lanka

It is more convenient to get to Sri Lanka by plane. During the season you can fly from Moscow with Aeroflot; in winter the following flights with stops to Male (Maldives) Turkish Airlines Airlines, Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways.

What to do in Sri Lanka?

The island has plenty of sun, sea and sand. The south coast is considered tourist center countries with golden sandy shores, calm lagoons and picturesque nature.

Types of recreation presented to tourists on the island:

• surfing
• sailing
• windsurfing
• deep sea fishing
• sightseeing tours

Due to its relatively small area, the island is easy to explore; it has excellent development transport system, which is based on bus and train connections

A paradise of eternal sunshine, the birthplace of aromatic tea and unforgettable holiday– Sri Lanka opens its arms to travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Places to visit in Sri Lanka

The island is home to all sorts of cultural and artistic monuments in abundance, eight of which are under UNESCO protection: - Anuradhapura - historical city; - Polonnaruwa is a historical city; - Sigiriya – rock fortress; - Singaraja – forest reserve; - Kandi – holy city; - the old part of the city of Halle with fortifications; Dambulla - golden temple; - the highlands of central Sri Lanka.

In addition to historical monuments, Sri Lanka is famous for its elephant nursery, turtle farm, and spice gardens. Near the city of Kandy is located the largest botanical garden in Asia, which displays rare tropical plants of various shapes and colors.

National cuisine of Sri Lanka

Thanks to the tropical climate Sri Lanka is rich fresh fruits, vegetables and spices, which are used in most dishes. Freshness plays a key role in cooking. Many families grow curry trees and vegetables, some of which are virtually unknown outside Sri Lanka, such as murunga (drumsticks), which are used in curries and accompaniments, and their leaves are a popular addition to the beloved crab curry.

A simple meal can consist of rice, sambol cooked with chillies, pickles or chutneys and of course vegetable curry or dhal. Also in local cuisine There is a huge assortment of meat, vegetable and seafood dishes.

Sri Lankan cuisine- This is a labor-intensive kitchen, as many dishes are difficult to prepare. For example, Hoppers- These are pancakes made from rice flour, which are used for brewing curry and rice. Even more labor-intensive are haircuts, which are thin pods of rice flour that are strained through a sieve and rolled into a small round mat and steamed.

Pros and cons of holidays in Sri Lanka

• Wonderful people. The people of Sri Lanka are wonderful! They are sweet, kind and hospitable.
• Delicious food. Sri Lankan food is fantastic! Their rice and curry dish is especially delicious.
• Excellent climate. Sri Lanka has a subtropical climate, making the country ideal for visiting.
• Magnificent beaches. Here you will find the most stunning beaches!
• Wildlife.Even though Sri Lanka is a small island, it has excellent wildlife. You can see animals such as wild elephants, crocodiles, leopards, sea turtles, whales, dolphins and many beautiful birds.
• Everything is within reach. The best thing is that Sri Lanka is a small island which makes it easy to travel and see a lot in a short time.

• Inflated prices. Probably one not-so-good thing about budget travelers is the rising prices in Sri Lanka. Just a few years ago, accommodation, transportation and entrance tickets the attractions and temples were much cheaper than today. Sri Lanka is more expensive than others Asian countries, to which we are accustomed, for example, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Cambodia.
• All entertainment is more expensive for tourists. Foreigners have to pay much more than local residents to visit attractions and temples in Sri Lanka. Just keep in mind that entry fees eat up a large portion of your budget when traveling in Sri Lanka.

Conclusion

In Sri Lanka, in an amazing way, representatives of different cultures and religions live in harmony; Buddhism is considered the main religion; Buddha statues in various variations are found everywhere on the island. It should be noted that it is indecent to take photographs in front of the Buddha, standing with your back to the statue, visiting temples barefoot, and your knees, shoulders and back should be covered. In short, the natural beauty of Sri Lanka is closely intertwined with the rich history of the country.

Sophisticated tourists will appreciate the golden border of beaches hundreds of kilometers long and clear waters Indian Ocean with a rich man underwater world, rice fields, lakes and rivers, forests and mountains from which waterfalls fall, clean air, saturated with the aromas of jasmine and lotus - the sacred flower of the Buddhist religion. Welcome to the paradise of Sri Lanka!

Somewhere far away, in the heart of the Indian Ocean, there is a “paradise island” - Sri Lanka. Some people mistakenly believe that this is part of India. However, this is not true. Sri Lanka is separated from the shores of sunny India by the Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar. This is a place with its own culture, a special flavor of traditions. The whole atmosphere of the island is imbued with something enchantingly mystical and peaceful. No wonder Sri Lanka is called heaven on earth!

Stepping onto the island for the first time, it is difficult not to appreciate the scale of beauty and inspiration for which these places are famous. But is it just incredibly bright sandy beaches will your soul rejoice with azure velvet water and tropical vegetation? No! Sri Lanka is more than a destination active tourism. There is something here that is difficult to find in the city smog of the usual everyday bustle. Let's look at what Sri Lanka is like.

Sri Lanka: attractions and features of the island

Sri Lanka – island state, located in South Asia near Hindustan. The official name of the state is Socialist Republic Sri Lanka. This status was assigned to the state in 1972.

The population of the island is 21.7 million people approximately at the end of 2018.

Languages ​​spoken are Sinhala and Tamil. The people inhabiting Sri Lanka are generally represented by these two nationalities.

The main religion is Buddhism. Hinduism, Islam and Christianity are also common on the island.

The country is divided into nine provinces.

The island is washed by the waters of the Laccadive Sea and the Bay of Bengal. Sri Lanka is connected to the southern part of India by a huge fifty-meter man-made bridge, built during the Ramayana. The island has a huge number of temples, parks and natural attractions. We will tell you about some corners of the island separately. But it’s better to see it once to understand that heaven on earth exists and it’s called “Sri Lanka”!

Sri Lanka: where is it located on the world map?

Sri Lanka on the map is indicated by a “pattern” that resembles a drop or tear falling from India’s cheek. This is all because one side of the island is longer than the other. The total area of ​​the area is 65 thousand kilometers. The small state is located near the southern part of India. Having found India, it is not difficult to find Lanka. By the way, the size of the island is 50 times smaller than India.

Capital of Sri Lanka

Jayawardenepura Kotte is translated from Sinhala as "blessed fortified city of approaching victory."

The official capital of the state in question is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. However, in fact, many consider Colombo to be the capital. And for good reason. The presidential residence is located in Colombo. But the Supreme Court and Parliament are located in Jayawardenepura Kotte. It's comparative small town, in which most government and administrative buildings are concentrated. There are many temples and cultural monuments in this town. The architecture is predominantly colonial European style. The area of ​​the capital of Sri Lanka is 17 square kilometers. The city's population is about 115 thousand people. The name Jayawardenepura Kotte is translated from Sinhalese as “blessed fortified city of approaching victory.”

Excursions are often taken to this city, since the place is interesting both from the point of view of architecture and in terms of its special cultural flavor. After all, ancient traditions are carefully preserved in the capital of Sri Lanka. At the same time, the city's infrastructure is developed. Convenient transportation, many hotels, restaurants and cultural centers available in this corner of the island.

In terms of amenities, the official capital of Sri Lanka can only compete with Colombo. The city is located on west coast islands. This is the most large city the state of Sri Lanka, with an area of ​​37.7 thousand kilometers. Population – 800 thousand people. The largest shopping centers, the most important administrative facilities, banks and luxury hotels are concentrated on this territory of the island. Many people go on excursions to Colombo. And some people prefer to relax there. This is a landscaped area where you can find both the noise of the bustle of the city and secluded corners with beautiful natural landscapes.

Colombo Airport – Sri Lanka

Main air gates – international airport Bandaranaike is also located near Colombo. This air harbor accepts regular flights from different countries peace. You can get to the nearest cities from the airport by taxi. The journey will take no more than 1 hour.

How long does it take to fly from Moscow to Sri Lanka?

The remoteness of this wonderful corner of the world from our country leaves no doubt that the best means of transport to get to the shores of Sri Lanka relatively quickly and without problems is an airplane. The distance from Moscow to the island in a straight line is 6,700 kilometers. A direct flight from Moscow to Sri Lanka will take approximately 8 hours 40 minutes. In addition, those wishing to travel to Sri Lanka are offered connecting or connecting flights. Flight time with these options increases and can take 10 hours or more.

Visa

To travel to Sri Lanka, Russians need a visa. This does not depend on the length of stay in the state. Therefore, if you want to visit a paradise on earth, you should take care of obtaining a visa in advance. The duration of the visa varies depending on the intended purpose (tourist, residence, work). You can obtain this document online or upon personal request at the embassy.

Climate of Sri Lanka

Many view the island as an exotic resort. It's all about the climate of this corner of the world. Sri Lanka is famous for its distinct tropical climate. The division into summer and winter periods is quite formal here. After all, the air temperature during the daytime always remains stably around 28-30 degrees. The water temperature is also pleasantly high. Always here comfortable conditions for swimming and beach holiday. However, there is a seasonal period of rainfall in Sri Lanka. At this time, it is better to stay home and not visit the island if you are not a prepared traveler, but a completely ordinary tourist. From May to October there are heavy rains on the island, which often turn into storms. Therefore, during this period, rest is difficult and the flow of tourists to the island is significantly reduced.

Sri Lankan cuisine

Traditional Sri Lankan spices (vanilla, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon), aromatic tea, exotic fruits are what this small state is famous for. Many of you have been drinking ceylon tea and we didn’t even think that it was grown in the vastness of Sri Lanka. After all, the island used to be called Ceylon.

Local cuisine is distinguished by spicy, colorful dishes, but still not as spicy as in neighboring India. Once you try something prepared according to local culinary traditions, you will definitely remember it, and perhaps you will want to repeat it! It’s also worth saying that most of the residents are vegetarians. After all, the main religion here is Buddhism.

Sights of Sri Lanka

You can literally fall in love with this island at first sight. Every corner is imbued with a special flavor. There are resort areas everywhere. No matter where you go in Sri Lanka, there is something to see. Detailed Description attractions in the article about

Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy

This is the most famous Buddhist temple on the island. The building is part architectural ensemble royal palace. Another name is Sri Dalada Maligawa. The temple was founded in the 16th century. However, the previous temple building was destroyed and re-erected in the 17th century.

This is a permanent place of pilgrimage for Buddhists. Incredibly beautiful architecture and the true spirit of culture are combined in this place.

Ancient city of Anuradhapura

The ancient city - the capital of the Sinhala kingdom is located in the north-central part of the state. The place was founded back in the 10th century BC. In the ancient city of Anuradhapura you will find the giant dagobas of Jevatanarama and Ruvanveli. The sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree is located here.

Ancient city of Polonnaruwa

Another ancient city in Sri Lanka deserves the attention of travelers. For some period Polonnaruwa was lost in the jungle. Today she is on the list world heritage UNESCO. Here you will find the ruins of the garden city, a man-made lake, as well as other architectural monuments.

Nine Arch Bridge Demodare

There is a “bridge to the sky” in Sri Lanka - the famous nine-arch bridge located between the small mountain towns of Ella and Demodara. This bridge still spans railway(current). Not only is the architecture of the bridge remarkable, but also the fact that it was built without a single steel part. The bridge was erected during the First World War.

Adam's Peak

A cone-shaped rock with a height of 2,243 meters is Adam's Peak, or Sri Pada. Many people visit this attraction as part of a trip around the island. At the top of this hill is a temple that houses the footprint of Buddha. An interesting fact is that this place is attractive not only for Buddhist pilgrims, but also for Hindus, Muslims, and Christians.

These and other beautiful places on the island will leave an indelible impression on you. small state called paradise! Visiting this corner of the world is like plunging into a fairy tale! Here you can touch another culture, feel a completely different rhythm of life, measured, leisurely, imbued with age-old wisdom and special traditions.

This is useful and interesting to know!

When going to Sri Lanka, it is worth knowing a few small features of life in this country. For example:

• If you want to say “yes” with a gesture, then you need to shake your head, but a nod means “no”.
• You should point somewhere or at something only with your right hand. The left hand is considered “unclean” and offering this hand for a handshake, handing it to someone or pointing somewhere is a sign of disrespect.
• When visiting Buddhist temples and other shrines of the island, you should dress modestly, covering your body as much as possible.

Other features of walking around the island relate more to household tricks. The climate in Sri Lanka is very hot and humid. If you can't stand the heat well, you should walk for a short time, giving yourself plenty of rest. Be sure to drink plenty of water and have a hat with you to avoid overheating in the sun.

There are a lot of souvenir shops, markets and shops on the island. You shouldn't rush to buy everything at once. It’s better to bring back something from your trip that truly reflects the local flavor. In Sri Lanka, it is worth purchasing spices, aromatic tea or aromatic oils. Agree, this is more interesting than magnets and trinkets.

This is such a wonderful island of Sri Lanka, washed by the waters of the Indian Ocean and the sea! When you get here, you begin to understand everything differently. Here you appreciate every moment of exhalation and inhalation and truly enjoy every minute of your life. Some everyday difficulties and concerns fade into the background during such a journey. Understanding comes, heaven on earth exists! This means that life is beautiful, this and every subsequent life...

Useful information for tourists about Sri Lanka, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of Sri Lanka, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions in Sri Lanka.

Geography of Sri Lanka

The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, known as Ceylon until 1972, is an island state in South Asia.

Most of the island is occupied by a low-lying plain, “broken” by outcrops of crystalline basement in the form of rocks and mesas. All southern part the island is occupied by a low stepped mountainous country Central Massif. The slopes are abundantly overgrown with forests and dissected by short but stormy rivers. The most high point islands - Mount Pidurutalagala (2524 m.).

State

State structure

Democratic Socialist Republic. Member of the Commonwealth. The head of state and government is the president, who has broad powers. The legislative body is a unicameral parliament (National State Assembly).

Language

Official language: Sinhala

Almost the entire population speaks English.

Religion

Buddhists - 69%, Hindus - 15%, Christians - 8%, Muslims - 8%.

Currency

International name: LKR

1 Sri Lankan rupee equals 100 cents. In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 rupees, as well as coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents and 1,2,5 rupees. Large hotels and shops accept international credit cards for payment. Foreign currency brought into the country must be declared.

It is recommended to exchange money at Colombo Airport. The receipt received during the official currency exchange should be kept until the end of the trip. In this case, when departing from Colombo, you have the opportunity to convert unspent money at the airport bank at the purchase rate. You can also exchange money at any hotel and bank.

History of Sri Lanka

The island of Sri Lanka was inhabited about 100 thousand years ago and constantly attracted more and more new settlers, thanks to which a significant number of representatives of the most dissimilar races, cultures and religions were concentrated on its small territory in ancient times. This enriched the island and led to constant conflicts and wars.

In the 5th century BC, Indo-Aryan conquerors created the first state here, which collapsed in the 5th century AD and was conquered by the Negroid South Indian Tamil tribes. In the 8th century, dominance again passed to the Aryan branch of the newcomers, and in the 15th century, there were three kingdoms of different ethnicities in Sri Lanka, constantly at war with each other. The Portuguese colonialists took advantage of this, establishing their dominance over the coast of the island in the 16th century; they were replaced by the Dutch in the 17th century. The British who came after them in 1796 declared the conquered region to be another royal colony - Ceylon. But they managed to conquer the island only in the first half of the 19th century.

The heavy foreign yoke, which turned the flourishing island into a raw materials appendage of the distant metropolis, forced the local population to rise up in the liberation struggle more than once and suffer bitter defeats. Intensified in connection with the First and Second World Wars and acute economic crisis The exploitation of the 1920s and 1930s made the national-patriotic front more decisive, numerous and united.

In 1948, the British government had to grant Ceylon independence as a dominion. In 1972, under public pressure, the island was proclaimed the Republic of Sri Lanka. All forms of political dependence on England were eliminated. Now this distant piece of land in the Indian Ocean good-naturedly reveals its secrets to all lovers of ancient exoticism and shares the gentle sun and warm water.

The island of Sri Lanka was inhabited about 100 thousand years ago and constantly attracted more and more new settlers, thanks to which a significant number of representatives of the most dissimilar races, cultures and religions were concentrated on its small territory in ancient times. This enriched the island and led to constant conflicts and wars....

Popular attractions

Tourism in Sri Lanka

Popular hotels

Tips

Tipping is not necessary; service fees (up to 10%) are often included in the bill. However, hotel porters and porters expect a small tip (20-30 rupees). You are also supposed to thank the waiter with a small tip, but only for good service.

Visa

Office hours

Banks are open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays. Shops are open from 10.00 to 22.00.

Souvenirs

Sri Lanka is famous all over the world for its precious stones: sapphires, rubies, amethysts, garnets, topaz and especially the famous “moonstone”, which is mined only here. It is recommended to purchase jewelry in specialized stores, requiring the issuance of an appropriate receipt or export certificate. The quality of the stones here is excellent, and the prices are relatively low. Also good souvenirs would be Ceylon tea, spices, aromatic oils, handicrafts, especially masks, batik, ceramics and leather goods. In cities you can buy inexpensive, high-quality textiles.

Medicine

There is a risk of contracting malaria, Japanese encephalitis B, hepatitis B, typhoid, Bengal cholera, diphtheria, tetanus, rabies, Dengue fever, etc., but only if basic hygiene standards are not observed. Prophylactic vaccination against malaria (there is a risk of infection in the interior of the country) or the use of anti-malarial tablets, as well as vaccination against hepatitis A and B, is recommended.

Safety

It is not recommended to drink raw water and use ice sold on the street - it can be made from raw water. It is recommended to use only mineral water V plastic bottles with a factory stopper, and wash your hands thoroughly and regularly with soap. Be sure to thoroughly wash (and preferably scald) vegetables and fruits, and do not allow the seller to cut the fruits with his knife.

Sri Lanka is a distant country beautiful island in the Indian Ocean. Of course, we know her better by her tea name Ceylon. But now this mysterious island has received its ancient and sacred name and invites you to visit. What to expect from Sri Lanka? It contains many different attractions. These are ancient cities and paradise beaches, these are tea plantations and picturesque mountains, lush vegetation, spicy food and unprecedented shopping! And all this fits on one island, the impressions of visiting which we will now tell you about.

Despite its tiny size, the island in the Indian Ocean of Sri Lanka has simply a scattering of a wide variety of attractions - from cultural and historical places to culinary and exotic wonders. In terms of the vividness of impressions and the mixture of different events and interesting places, Sri Lanka is somewhat reminiscent of.

We flew to the island of Ceylon in April and decided to devote two weeks to it. We had a little plan for our independent travel in Sri Lanka, compiled in the form of an approximate route. We began our acquaintance with the country from the cultural triangle, and then planned to go towards the famous beaches of Sri Lanka. Due to the fact that our plans were slightly adjusted during the trip, the original route also changed. But our impressions were very vivid.

Read more:

The best attractions in Sri Lanka

I decided to highlight the five best, in my opinion, attractions in Sri Lanka.

1. – a town in Sri Lanka in the province of Uva. Tiny and small, but with its cuteness and tranquility, it instantly won our hearts. And now, if we say that we should go to Sri Lanka again, we mostly mean to return to Ella. This city is the absolute champion in this ranking, the main attraction, this is indisputable.

Mount Ella Rock

Why is Ella so good? If you like to sit with a cup of tea, looking at the surrounding green hills and leisurely strolling from one restaurant to another along the only street, then this is the place for you. If you like walking through the hills to see not the most outstanding, but somehow attractive sights, then the city of Ella is also waiting for you. And of course, if you not only love tea, but are interested in how it grows, then welcome to the surrounding tea plantations!

A leisurely lifestyle is what attracts Ella. That’s why you so want to come back here, rent a house and live, working on projects and walking along the intricate mountain paths. The result was an idealistic image, but this is how Ella remained in our memories of Sri Lanka.

On the road to Adam's Peak in the city of Ella on the island of Sri Lanka

2. is the main sacred place for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. It was here that the march of Buddhism across the island began. Here are the first stupas and hidden sacred caves, which are arranged in such a magical way that fresh air always flows there. The huge boulders are cut in such a way that an analogy with Peru and Bolivia and their unknown technologies that were used in the construction of megalithic masonry immediately comes to mind. This sacred historical landmark of the island, a place of power and a witness to the times.

Mihitnale

In Mikhintala you immediately understand the difference and see two time layers. Once upon a time, there was an ancient civilization on the island, comparable in power to those that left their mark on South America. And then another came to her place, she built from simple bricks, but understood that she needed to imitate the first buildings. And of course, among other things, there is something light and pleasant here.

It happens that in places ancient civilization the dark energy of those who no longer understood the meaning of the buildings and sacrificed innocent people is in the air. This is not the case in Mihintala in Sri Lanka. Here the lotuses actually bloom and their pure aroma spreads. Perhaps it was the influence of Buddhism that defeated the dark energy, or perhaps it was never here. In any case, for us Mihintale has become the place where a state of peace comes to the fore.

Two ways of building in Mihintala, Sri Lanka. The sandstone foundation was built by unknown people, the brick dagobah was created by the Sinhalese

3. The mountain is one of the main attractions of Sri Lanka. And we also fell victims to its unusualness and attractiveness. The most hyped feature of Sigiriya is the frescoes depicting apsaras, celestial dancers. But it seemed to us that even without the frescoes, Mount Sigiriya and the palace of Kasapa, the rebellious king, are so interesting that they are still remembered. And his stone throne, carved directly from the rock, surprised us no less than anything else and remained in our memory forever.

Stairs to Sigiriya

Of course, it is much more interesting for us to look at the megalithic masonry that the palace on the top of the mountain is rich in. And we were again convinced of the multi-layered nature of Sri Lanka's historical cake.

And the climb to Sigiriya will appeal to those who love active recreation and walking tracks. Even if it is just one mountain, there are not convenient steps everywhere, but climbing up is good for your health and eyes, which open to green views of Sri Lankan fields and hills.

Good to know:

And this is another miracle - the throne of Kasapa. Carved from a single rock on top of a mountain. Sigiriya, Sri Lanka.

4. – an ancient city on the shores of the artificial lake Minneriya in Sri Lanka. The city is very large and beautiful, rich in attractions. His buildings are amazing, especially the book in stone in the ancient Pali language. Closer to the lake there is a small temple with a stone lion. Of all the cities in the cultural triangle, we found Polonnaruwa the most attractive and interesting to explore.

5. . It's strange to describe a waterfall. You can, of course, indicate its height to give an idea of ​​the size of the waterfall. But is it worth it? A beautiful powerful stream in the morning rays of the sun is not a landmark of the island of Sri Lanka? We really liked the trail to the waterfall, Dunhinda itself seemed charming, and it greatly brightened up our impression of the city of Badulla, which we did not like at all and closes the ranking of our impressions from traveling around Sri Lanka.

Dunhinda Falls near Badulla, Sri Lanka

Tasty theme in Sri Lanka and shopping

While we were traveling on buses around the island of Ceylon, we constantly encountered loud sellers of everything under the sun. We noticed that wadis were the most frequently offered. As we found out, wadi are spicy lentil pies. Taking a risk, we decided to try it. How delicious it was! From then on, as soon as we heard the cheerful “wadi-wadi-wadi”, we immediately bought a whole package for ourselves and enjoyed it!

I would also like to say a few words about shopping in Sri Lanka. Our trips to markets and shops were very successful. First we visited the famous market of world brands in Nuwara Eliya, where we bought an excellent Burton jacket - high quality, beautiful and comfortable. There we bought delicious tea, which we still drink. We also visited several tea factories in Ella, where we also bought tea. Undoubtedly, tea is the main theme in Sri Lanka, and it can also be highlighted as an attraction of the island.

In a Sri Lankan cafe

We purchased durable trekking sandals from Kandy stores that lasted us quite a long time. And we love to walk! And in the capital, Colombo, we visited the House of Fashion shopping center. Again, it is surprising to say that the clothes bought in Sri Lanka lasted a very long time.

We are very happy with our shopping experience in Sri Lanka!

Good to know:

In one of the restaurants for locals

Worst impressions of Sri Lanka - what we didn’t like

The center of Buddhism in Sri Lanka in the city is very popular and important for all religious people of the country. However, I personally found it very unattractive. Of course, there is no point in suggesting that the cave could be beautiful place(although in Thailand, Laos and the USA we saw beautiful caves, religious and not so). And since we ourselves did not appreciate the holiness of the place, the impression turned out to be very average.

- turned out to be a mistake in the route. It’s not at all clear why I decided that this was a nice town. But Badulla is not pretty. At all. This is a typical Sri Lankan town - dirty, noisy. There is nothing special in the city itself, nor are there any special attractions. But there is Dunhinda Falls not far from the city, and after the nature trip I was resigned to the fact that we spent some time in Badulla. Although when we boarded the train towards Ella, I was very happy!

Other than a nice view of the sky, there's not much to do in Badulla

Negombo (Negombo) became our first city we visited in Sri Lanka. Immediately after our arrival, we arrived in Negombo and began looking for a hotel in complete darkness. We were tired, it was dark, and we were brought to some indecently dirty hotel (as is usually the case with a tuker friend), and we no longer had the strength to look for anything else. And we stayed there, and, as it turned out later, we overpaid. But I’ll be honest – it was the worst hotel in my life! Probably, even in Bolivia, during a tour of the Uyuni salt flat, we stopped in a more decent place.

We thought that if we went to the ocean, the impression would improve, but no, Negombo did not become any better. We don't even have any photos left! Although, of course, we ourselves were to blame for everything. We should have prepared better for the trip.

There is another reason to be unhappy with Sri Lanka. When we arrived in Anuradhapura, we immediately fell into the clutches of the driver Akila. He promised to take us for two days cultural triangle for the agreed amount and leave it in Kandy. We agreed, deciding that it would be easier if we had our own, and we would manage our time ourselves.

However, as our journey progressed, Akila reconsidered his obligations and tried to earn extra money from us. When we realized this, we decided to replay it. And they outplayed it. I wrote about this in detail in. Akila turned out to be a dishonest person, which even his compatriot admitted. Therefore, we want to warn other travelers about it. No matter how hard he tried, Akila did not spoil our mood and mood, and now we only remember him with a smile. But he, of course, believes that the Russians are just terrible people and did not fall into his traps! Ay-ay-ay!

Yes, we really want to return to Sri Lanka. As I already said, we all dream of living in Ella for a month or two. I would like to travel around the cultural triangle again, either on the buses ourselves or with a more sane driver. View others interesting places and sights that we missed during our first trip to the island of Ceylon. And of course, relax on best beaches Sri Lanka!

Read more:

• We visited the Little Adam's Peak in Ella, but we never climbed the real Adam's Peak (Sri Pada). And I would like to make an ascent on my next visit to the emerald island.
• Instead of or together with Sigiriya, we want to visit the neighboring Pidurangala Temple, which, as they say, is also interesting from a historical point of view, although not as famous as Lion Mountain.
• We also missed it last time port city Galle and the beaches of Sri Lanka, choosing instead a holiday in the Maldives. The only thing left to do is to find a specific place on the island where you would like to lie in the sun and swim in the ocean.
• There is also a very vague desire to go to the Yala Nature Reserve. I don’t yet have an opinion on whether to go on a safari in Sri Lanka, or leave the safari for Africa in Tanzania, Kenya or Namibia.

As you can see, despite its size, the island of Sri Lanka is a country of great beauty, diverse in attractions and rich in impressions.

How to go to Sri Lanka - tours, tickets and hotels

We always plan our trips in advance and try to find plane tickets according to favorable price. You can look at the cheapest air tickets to Sri Lanka, find out the cost of hotels or choose a tour online yourself:

• Find cheap flights to Sri Lanka on the Aviasales website →
• Book hotels in Sri Lanka on Booking →
• Pick up ready-made tour to Sri Lanka on the website

I have been and continue to visit the countries of South Asia very often, although most often for work, but I come back to the most interesting places again, this time for the sake of relaxation. In order to get impressions not on the run, but wisely and carefully. This time, I visited Sri Lanka or, as it is also called, the island of Ceylon.

How to get to the island of Ceylon

I bought tickets, which from Moscow cost about 20,000 rubles. A few hours of flight and I’m there. The airport on the island is located in the town of Bandaranaike. From here you need to get to Colombo, which is thirty-five kilometers away. Transport links in Sri Lanka are quite well developed, so you can safely choose both a bus and commuter train, and taxi.

I decided not to take risks with bus routes, so I took a taxi, which cost only 300 rupees. While still in Moscow, I booked a room in one of the hotels located on Negombo beach.

The trip took no more than twenty minutes, but this is not surprising, the distance is short. I really liked the guest house, and from its windows you can clearly see the sea and even have your own piece of the beach. It's very convenient. By the way, there are not many tourists here, so no one disturbed my peace. The price of the house was quite affordable - approximately 3,000 rubles per night.

A little about the history of Ceylon

The capital of the island is Sri Jayawardanapura, although there is also an unofficial one - this is Colombo, recognized by the international community. For many years the island was attacked by various conquerors. There were Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch and even British here.

Due to the fact that in Ceylon the leadership changed with enviable regularity, there is a huge mixture of architectural styles here. On at the moment, many modern high-rise buildings and houses have been built here.

Climate

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You can relax on the island all year round, thanks to the subequatorial climate. Average temperature air stays at 26 degrees. Ceylon is always warm, but very humid. True, tsunamis occur here in the summer, so a winter holiday would be safer. By the way, there is no rain here during the winter months.

Transport

Transport links here are quite well developed. You can get to any point on the island equally comfortably by bus, taxi, or even by rail.

True, the fastest way is to travel by Tuk-Tuk. These are such funny things that vaguely resemble a three-wheeled motorcycle. Behind the driver there is a passenger booth. The drivers of these cars drive their vehicles so professionally that they are able to bypass almost any traffic jam or congestion on the road.

National food of Sri Lanka

Local food is very different from all European dishes. The fact is that spices and seasonings predominate here. The locals' favorite is curry. By the way, they eat very little meat on the island, preferring vegetables and fruits.

Local chefs are excellent at preparing seafood delicacies, so it is better to choose fish and seafood.

I can give advice right away. Under no circumstances try to eat in roadside cafes or shops. Very high risk of food poisoning. I didn’t go to just one cafe, I went around a dozen establishments. And she made disappointing conclusions.

But, in addition to local restaurants, there are also European ones. So there is plenty to choose from.

Sights of Ceylon

There are a lot of religious sites on the island. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is considered one of the most important.

True, it was completed not so long ago - in the first half of the twentieth century, but the first mentions of it date back to the third century BC. I was especially impressed by the colorful frescoes on the walls. This temple is a true example of Sinhala architecture.

The Sri Ponnambala Vaneswaram Temple is curious because a harvest festival is held on its premises every year. Its walls are made of light gray granite. The surprising thing is that there is no riot of colors here, as is usually the case in local temples.

I also visited the Dutch Museum. There are many exhibits on display here dedicated to the times of the Dutch rule over Sri Lanka. There are coins, weapons, and household items here. Previously, this building housed an institute and a post office. Entry costs 500 rupees. To be honest, not a particularly interesting place. A museum is like a museum. I have seen exhibitions much more interesting than this one.

You can visit the Yami Ul Alfar Mosque for free, which is attractive with its red and white colors.

I didn’t go inside, I just took a few photos.

Sri Bala Selva Vinayagar Murti is a temple dedicated to the famous Hindu gods Shiva and Ganesha. By the way, the most beloved god among Hindus is Ganesha with the head of an elephant. He is believed to be the god of all that is good in the world. And that it was he who accomplished all the wonders of the world.

Island of Ceylon. Tea plantations

It was the tea plantations that glorified the island of Ceylon for many years. Many people probably remember that same tea in a yellow packet with an elephant drawn on it. This tea was brought exactly from this island. The quality of the tea is excellent. Ceylon offers excellent excursions to tea plantations.

Here you can see how tea grows and how it is harvested. There is also a factory for sorting and packaging tea leaves. There is also a restaurant on site where you can taste all types of tea growing on the island. There are so many of these types that I couldn’t try them all, I was afraid of bursting))). You can also buy aromatic tea here as a souvenir for your family. I picked up ten packs, probably out of greed.

Seafood market

It is better to come here very early, preferably around 6 am. Just at this time, fishermen return with a fresh catch. There is absolutely everything your little one wants: crabs, lobsters, shrimp, lobsters and much more. They also cook fish here.

Amazing smells emanate from everywhere. By the way, women cook here and adequate conditions have been created for cooking. I wasn't afraid to eat. The shrimp and mussels were absolutely delicious. And prices are significantly lower than in city restaurants.

Beach holiday

The cleanest and most well-groomed beaches of the coast are located along Lewis Place. This is where they are expensive hotels who monitor the cleanliness of the area. There are also a large number of restaurants and cafes for tourists. There are even a couple shopping centers. So, while on the island, be sure to take a walk along this street.

There is also Negombo beach on the island, but it’s better not to go here. He is somehow unkempt and uncomfortable. Although there are tourists who relax here like savages. The beach may not be particularly clean, but the water is crystal clear.

How to entertain yourself in Ceylon

There are a lot of entertainments for tourists here, albeit related to water. Diving is considered the most popular. Diving can be done in Hikkaduwa Bay or Trincomalee Bay. Equipment can be rented for a nominal fee.

My favorite thing was swimming with the sea turtles.

To do this, you need to go to the South Coast, since this is where the most of them are found. Probably the locals feed them. If there are no turtles nearby, you can rent a boat and go further from the shore. The guides know almost all the places where their flocks can be found.

You can go surfing at Hikkaduwa Beach. This is where huge waves arise, the height of which reaches four meters. On the beach itself there are themed clubs for surfers. Personally, I don’t like standing on the board, or rather, I can’t. And constantly falling and catching the board makes me very nervous.

Shopping in Ceylon

Many tourists, coming to the island of Ceylon, prefer to buy pearls and gems, such as rubies, sapphires and topazes. The extraction of these jewels is well established here. Even tourists are allowed to participate in the mining. True, for a fee. True, you need to purchase pebbles only in large stores, this way you can protect yourself from counterfeiting.

Conclusion

I was on the island for only 5 days, but I had enough time to enjoy the local beauty and attractions. I think that I will not visit the island of Ceylon again very soon. It is beautiful and interesting, but personally I prefer places where the infrastructure is more developed.