Sri Lanka is an island of Sun and Sand. More than one thousand kilometers of sandy beaches with palm trees surround Sri Lanka. Until 1972, this country was called Ceylon. And although its name has changed, it still grows the best black tea in the world - "Ceylon". In addition to beautiful beaches and tea, Sri Lanka has a large number of historical attractions, ranging from Buddhist and Hindu monasteries and temples, to orchid gardens and colorful festivals.

Geography of Sri Lanka

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

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

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

Capital

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

Official language of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has two official languages ​​- Sinhala and Tamil.

Religion

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

State structure

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

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

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

Climate and weather

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

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

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

Sea in Sri Lanka

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

Rivers and lakes

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

Story

The history of civilization in Sri Lanka has more than 2.5 thousand years. In former times this country was called Ceylon. The first settlers were the Veddas. Around the VI century BC. Sinhalese arrived on this island and founded their kingdoms there. From the III century BC. Buddhism began to spread there. Until the 11th century, the capital of the most powerful Sinhalese kingdom was Anuradhapura, and then it was transferred to Polonnaruwa.

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

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

It wasn't until 1948 that Sri Lanka achieved independence. In 1972, this country received its modern name - Sri Lanka.

Culture of Sri Lanka

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

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

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

Kitchen

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

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

In addition, the people of Sri Lanka are real experts in cooking fish and seafood dishes. Grilled fish is served with fried potatoes and salad, while curried fish is served with rice.

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

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

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

Sights of Sri Lanka

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

1. Buddhist temple Dalada Maligawa (it houses the tooth of the Buddha)
2. Fort in Colombo
3. Sigiriya fortress
4. Dawatagaha Mosque in Colombo
5. Cave Buddhist temple in Aluvihara
6. Hindu monastery Kochchikade in Colombo
7. Ruins of the city of Anuradhapura
8. Palace of King Cassiapa on the "Lion Mountain"
9. Buddhist cave temples of Dambulla
10. Buddha's footprints on Sri Pada

Cities and resorts

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

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

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

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

Souvenirs/Shopping

From Sri Lanka, tourists usually bring handicrafts, ceramics, jewelry, masks, leather goods (for example, bags), batik fabric, coconut shell souvenirs, spices, and, of course, local ("Ceylon" ) Black tea.

Office Hours

Sri Lanka or Ceylon? How to properly call exotic island, lost somewhere out there, in the equatorial expanses of the Indian Ocean?

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

When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

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

Where to live in Sri Lanka?

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

Well, where else in the tropics or on the equator is there such a concentration of the most ancient architectural and cultural values ​​of world significance dating back to the period BC and located at arm's length from the ocean?! In what other country will you have such an opportunity to combine serene relaxation on the coast of the majestic ocean with a romantic fabulous journey in a well-preserved ancient world. Many tourists are happy to combine a varied excursion program Colombo - Dambulla - Kandy - Nuwara Eliya - national park Yala with seaside holidays. The duration of the excursion program is from 3 to 7 days. Along the entire route, you will be offered unsurpassed hotels with a chic panoramic view and refined "colonial" service. What is worth, for example, resting in the mountains at an altitude of almost 2000 m above sea level in the Victorian style built by the English colonialists? Grand Hotel» in Nuwara Eliya! Or pay attention to new hotel in Kandy “Earl’s Regency Hotel” with a magnificent view of the mountain scenery and the Mahavelli River.

Of course, there are also fairly inexpensive high-quality 3 * hotels on the island. For example, Induruwa Beach. 3* in Sri Lanka is not like in London or Italy, it is rather similar to European 4*. And yet, if you covered a distance of 8 hours of flight, you bought by no means cheap ticket, then pay extra 10-15% and stay in a hotel of a higher category, so that later, upon returning to Russia, in a cold rainy autumn or frosty winter, indulge in sweet memories of a wonderful “abandoned paradise”.

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

Is it worth it to go to Sri Lanka with children?

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

How long to go to Sri Lanka?

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

What is a must-see in Sri Lanka?

In Sri Lanka, the UNESCO list includes 8 oldest objects of world cultural and historical heritage. Among them is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This place is sacred to the Sri Lankans. Legend has it that when the Buddha was cremated, his disciples removed four teeth from the funeral pyre. One of them is still kept in the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. When visiting the temple, women should fully cover their arms and legs, and men should wear long trousers; you can only walk around the temple barefoot, so you need to be prepared for the fact that you will be asked to take off your shoes and leave them in a special wardrobe. Another object - old City Galle, located almost in the very southern point Sri Lanka, with a fortress and buildings from the time of the Portuguese colonialists (XVI-XVII centuries). This seaport has been known since ancient times. There is a legend that King Solomon himself exported precious stones from the port of Galle. We list further: Sinharaja Reserve (virgin jungle, many endemic trees, birds, mammals, insects, amphibians), Dambulla Golden Temple (cave temple complex with 157 Buddha statues and wall paintings, a place of pilgrimage for 22 centuries), ancient city Sigiriya (5th century AD; famous wall paintings); the ancient city of Polonnaruwa (the second capital of Sri Lanka since 993), holy city Anuradhapura (the first capital of the country where you can see Buddhist shrines, including ficus, derived from the sprout of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment), sacred mountain Adam's Peak (Sripada), which is climbed by pilgrims from December to May. What national parks are worth visiting in Sri Lanka?

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

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

Sri Lankan traditional festival. Is it worth visiting?

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

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

Tell us about ways to prevent diseases? How not to get sick in Sri Lanka?

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

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

Is Ayurveda practiced in Sri Lanka?

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

What water sports are there in Sri Lanka?

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

What opportunities for active tourism exist in Sri Lanka?

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

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

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

How to dress in Sri Lanka?

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

What is worth trying in Sri Lanka?

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

Reminds me of a banana cocktail (the islanders are great!) on the terrace of a hotel restaurant in Beruwala with an amazing view of the ocean! With a breathtakingly beautiful sunset of the solar disk! With caressing ocean breeze! The spirit is captivating! It seemed like time had stopped! I just can't believe that this could be real! Fantasy!

What can be brought from Sri Lanka? What to buy in Sri Lanka?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to get there

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

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

Climate and weather in Sri Lanka

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

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

Rainy season in Sri Lanka

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

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

The north and east of the country are under the influence of the northeast monsoons, operating here from November to February. Most of the cyclones that form in the Bay of Bengal hit Bangladesh and the coast of India, but Sri Lanka also sometimes gets it, even despite some remoteness.

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

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

Cities and regions

Provinces of Sri Lanka

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

Cities of Sri Lanka

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

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

Interestingly, many districts have a certain professional orientation. This division has been around for a long time. In Colombo there is an area of ​​artisans, the poor, merchants, etc. Of course, today such a classification is gradually becoming obsolete, but is still largely relevant. 30 kilometers from Colombo there is a large international Airport. The city is developed culturally and religiously - it has its own university, observatory, spiritual institutions for various faiths.

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

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

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

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

Resorts of Sri Lanka

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

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

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

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

Beruwala is a resort located in the southwest of the country, not far from Colombo. This place will appeal to tourists who prefer beach holiday. However, lovers of a more active lifestyle will also find something to entertain themselves with. Large hotels have sports facilities - golf courses, tennis courts, and on the beaches traditional water activities. Along the coastline of the resort there are several hotels of different classes for people with different income levels. The main attraction of Beruweli is the ancient mosque of Kechimalai, to which thousands of Muslims from all over the world make pilgrimages every year.

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

Kalutara is a resort town on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. From time immemorial, the resort has been known for its spices and spices. Little Kalutara in its history had a chance to be under the yoke of the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonialists. However, today the place has become one of the most modern and dynamically developing resorts in Sri Lanka. The local trademark is amazing and juicy tropical fruits, which are put into baskets created by local craftsmen using their own method. However, the famous Kalutarian spices are still respected all over the world. The main attractions of the resort are the Gangatilaka Vihara Stupa and the February Navam parade.

Kogalla is a small but well-known resort in Ceylon. The relative remoteness from civilization (more than 100 kilometers to Colombo) attracts tourists here who dream of taking a break from the hustle and bustle major cities. On the other hand, all the necessary infrastructure is developed on Kogalle, including golf courses, diving centers, tennis courts and other entertainment. Not far from the resort is the town of Polonnaruwa. It is known for the fact that on its territory the remains of legendary palace states of the ancient Sinhalese. From others historical monuments you can highlight the Watadage temple and the giant statues of Buddha carved into the rocks.

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

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

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

What to watch

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and recreation areas

Leisure

Transport

Private guides in Sri Lanka

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

Things to do

Water sports

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

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

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

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

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

Ayurveda

Traditional treatment in Sri Lanka is very developed. Especially popular is Ayurveda, which means the science of life. This is a whole complex of folk methods of treatment, including aromatherapy, relaxation, meditation, massage, healthy eating. Ayurveda implies a comprehensive improvement of the body, and not the treatment of only diseased organs. The most important thing is that this direction has no side effects and contraindications. All medicinal products of the medical direction are completely made from natural ingredients. Several hotels in Sri Lanka at once offer to combine relaxation with Ayurveda treatment.

Ecotourism

Ecotourism has long been a popular holiday destination all over the world. Recently, this type of recreation has begun to gain popularity among our compatriots. Tours to Sri Lanka are distinguished by a wide variety of ecotourism offers. The choice of vacationers is rafting on mountain rivers, off-road trips over rough terrain, elephant riding, mountain climbing and other original excursions.

Camping and safaris

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

Agritourism

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

Fishing

The coastal waters of Sri Lanka abound in the number of fish and other representatives of the underwater world living there. Saturation with plankton attracts a large variety of individuals - from tuna to sharks. Excursion fishing usually starts early in the morning. Tourist groups take out fishing for several tens of kilometers from the coast. Vacationers are accompanied by experienced local fishermen, and all the necessary equipment is included in the price of the tour.

River safari

The so-called boat safari enjoys great success on the island. This is a three hour river walk on the boat. During the tour you will be able to meet many exotic birds and animals. Moving away from civilization on a boat, you can meet more and more interesting and unusual things - small islands of land, aboriginal settlements and unique vegetation. The services of a local guide will cost only $20.

Helicopter tour

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

Hot air balloon flight

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

Golf

This game began to develop in Sri Lanka in the 19th century. To date, several high-class golf complexes have been created in the country that meet world standards. Novice athletes will also be able to enjoy the game: for beginners, golf clubs offer special individual and group lessons.

Sri Lankan wedding

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

Sri Lanka beaches

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

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

Movement around the country

Bus

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

Bus stops are hectic, especially the big ones, but just about everyone will be happy to practice their English and help out.

Private and municipal buses run in major cities of the country. The fares are about the same. Public transport Sri Lanka is one of the cheapest in the world.

A train

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

Trains are more comfortable and colorful than buses, and thanks to the winding railway in the mountains, the railway network in the mountainous part of Sri Lanka is very scenic, especially on the Badullu-Nanu Oya line. If possible, it is better to sit on the right side of the train, where the most the best views. For tourists who want to see the local views, there are special sightseeing cars with large windows.

Knock Knock

The most popular form of transport in Sri Lanka is a small cabin scooter called a tuk-tuk. For us, they are unusual, but the Sri Lankans regularly use them for everyday trips. Tuk-tuk is much cheaper than a regular taxi, average price per kilometer - 15-20 rupees. Tipping is not customary in Sri Lanka.

Taxi

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

Car rental

The country is well organized transport system, but Russians will be very surprised by two things - left-hand traffic and the possibility of neighbors on the road of animals driven by farmers and cars.

With a driver

The car itself is often provided free of charge, and money is paid to the driver for his services. Some of the drivers/guides have a state license to carry out their activities, some of them are extremely knowledgeable and multilingual, specializing in the history and culture of the country. For those who go to see historical places and nature reserves they talk about the environment.

Without a driver

Those who are not embarrassed by strangeness traffic in Sri Lanka, they can rent a car for independent trips. The standard fee is 2400 rupees per day. This amount includes a run of 80 kilometers, and for each additional kilometer you will have to pay an extra 8 rupees.

Airplane

The air carrier "Aero Lanka" carries out domestic flights in the directions of Colombo-Ratmalata, Colombo-Jaffna and Colombo-Trincomalee.

Communication

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

• Sinhalese: the greeting in Sinhala is "aayuBowan", which literally means "stay a little longer"; thank you in Sinhalese it will be "stuti";
• Tamil: the greeting in Tamil is "vanakkam"; thank you - "nanri";
• Arabic(Sri Lankan Moors): when meeting with a Muslim, it will be polite to say "Assalamu alaikum"; thank you sounds like "jazz-ka alla."

culture

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

One of the main holidays for the Sri Lankans is the New Year. True, unlike our country, in Sri Lanka it is celebrated in April. Many rituals are associated with this event on the island, and of course, the traditional chic fireworks are not complete.

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

Kitchen

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

Since the dishes of Sri Lanka and South India are very similar, in many local restaurants the menu indicates where the cuisine is from Sri Lanka and where it is from South India. In addition, different regions have their own cooking options. As a rule, food is very cheap, an inexpensive lunch will cost about a dollar. Rarely, a meal can cost more than ten dollars, except in the most expensive tourist-oriented places. Colombo has a large selection of high quality restaurants.

Coconut ingredients are often used in Ceylonese cuisine - coconut juice, oil and shavings. There are many other dishes with other ingredients that are unusual for us.

String hoppers are rice vermicelli rolled up and steamed.

Umbalakada is a fine powdered fish.

Hoppers are local rice flour pancakes cooked in coconut milk.

Bittara arra is a pancake combined with scrambled eggs. For cooking, a chicken egg is placed in the middle of the pancake.

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

Kiribath is a traditional white rice cooked in coconut milk.

Rotti is a flatbread flavored with curry sauce.

Pittu is made from water, rice flour and coconut. Also served with curry sauce.

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

The drinks

In Sri Lanka, you should not drink tap water, it can be fraught with intestinal disorders. Buy plain bottled water from stores. But it is better to refuse to buy local milk altogether. Thanks to the Sri Lankan climate, it spoils very quickly, although it is quite expensive.

The traditional non-alcoholic drink among the Sri Lankans is Tambili, juice from the royal coconut. Fresh can be cooked in front of you right on the street, and it will cost less than bottled.

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

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

For those who prefer strong alcohol, we can recommend a local drink - Arrack. It usually costs about $4 a bottle and is often drunk with ginger beer. The quality depends on the price, but the Old Reserve brand is generally recommended at a price of $ 7.5.

Purchases

Shopping in Sri Lanka is presented as quite modern shopping malls, and traditional markets with all kinds of folk goods - from spices to clothing made from natural fabrics. The prices for local products are very democratic. The most shopping opportunities, of course, are in Colombo, but the Sri Lankan outback, and even more so the tourist centers, also have something to offer tourists in terms of shopping.

You can read more about the opening hours of stores, what to buy, where to buy, and how to bargain in the article "Shopping in Sri Lanka".

Connection

Telephone communications

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

Sri Lanka phone code: +94.

Useful phone numbers

Internet

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

You can access the global network through Internet cafes located on the territory of large cities. In the outback of the country to get access to the "world wide web" is very problematic.

Security

Tourists traveling to Sri Lanka should follow a number of simple safety measures. You should be careful while walking in parks and reserves - look under your feet, do not turn off the tourist path and use mosquito repellents. If you go on an excursion to the jungle, then before the trip, just in case, you need to drink antimalarial pills. You need to be more careful with animals. Often there are cases when monkeys steal various things from unlucky tourists.

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

Tourists are advised not to travel to areas controlled by the Tamil Tigers (LTTE). Some areas are mined, and armed clashes are taking place in cities. In addition, military action by the government is also possible. However, thanks to a large number the probability of entering the territory of hostilities through negligence is extremely small. These areas are far removed from places that are usually visited by tourists. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon to see well-armed soldiers on the streets, major highways, and at the airport.

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

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

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

Embassy Russian Federation in Sri Lanka:

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

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

Where to stay

Standard hotels

Classic hotels with 50 to 500 rooms. A suitable hotel of this class can be found for any budget. Because of their convenience, standard hotels have become popular with families or large groups. The all-inclusive system (all inclusive) is often used.

boutique hotels

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

Bungalow

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

Villas

A villa is a luxurious home with a large number of rooms, all possible amenities and maximum comfort. They are usually rented in their entirety and are suitable for wealthy people. A villa, like a bungalow, is beneficial for renting a large group of people, for example, several families. The average rental price is $300-$1000 per day. It varies depending on the level of the villa and the distance from the sea.

ශ්‍රී ලංකා ප්‍රජාතාන්ත්‍රික සමාජවාදී ජනරජය

Capital- the city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte
Square– 65,610 sq. km.
Population- 21.6 million people
Language- Sinhala and Tamil
Form of government- mixed republic
Date of Independence (from UK)- February 4, 1948
The largest city —
Currency— Sri Lankan rupee
Timezone — +5:30
Telephone code — +94

At the official level, the country is called Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. The state is located in the south of Asia on the territory of the island of Sri Lanka in the southwestern part of the coast of Hindustan. Until the moment when the country gained independence, it was called Ceylon. The official capital of the state is the city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, where the supreme court and parliament are located. However, the actual capital is the city. Here is the residence of the President of the country and the government sits. Dondra is the southern cape of the island, Dutch Bay is the western one.

Sri Lanka - video

Sri Lanka is bordered by the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. The Polk Strait and the Gulf of Manara separate Sri Lanka from Hindustan. In the past, the island was connected to the mainland by the so-called Adam's Bridge (a shallow in the Polk Strait), but according to legend, the bridge was destroyed during one of the earthquakes. Mountain ranges are located in the center of the country, the relief of the rest of the territory is predominantly lowland. The tallest Mountain peak is located at an altitude of 2,524 meters above sea level and is called Pidurutalagala. The subequatorial monsoon climate of the island is due to the northeast and southwest monsoons blowing throughout the year.
The largest rivers Sri Lanka are Kalu, Aruvi-Aru, Kelani, Mahaweli-Ganga.

According to the state census conducted in the summer of 2013, about 21.6 million people live in the country. On a national basis, one can distinguish Sinhalese (about 75%), Tamils ​​(about 18%), Sri Lankan Moors (about 7%), burghers (about 0.3%), Veddas (about 1 thousand people). In religious terms, the country's population is divided into followers of Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam - 70%, 15%, 8% and 7% respectively.

The calling card of the country is tea. In terms of its production, Sri Lanka is the third in the world, second only to China and. The country has achieved the greatest success in the extraction of precious stones, rubber and cinnamon. The textile industry occupies a leading position in terms of exports (about 63%), agriculture - about 20%. The country has a fairly extensive network of bus routes, which are served by both the state bus company and private enterprises. You can get by bus to any corner of the island, but traveling in it will bring little pleasure due to dirt, dust, crush and low speed (no more than 45 km / h). There are also more comfortable buses, but getting on them is quite difficult - tickets must be ordered in advance at bus stations or transport agencies.

It is worth mentioning the railway transport of the island. Railway communication connects large. The trains have cars of different classes with and without air conditioning. On one of the routes, the world-famous restored train runs, which was built back in 1928. Sri Lanka has Bandaranaike International Airport, located about 35 kilometers from. The airport was built by the British in 1940 and was initially used as a military one.

Sights of Sri Lanka

Waterfall Bambarakanda

Waterfall "Bridal Veil"

On the territory of the state are famous Ceylon tea plantations, which was first brought here from China in 1824. In the second half of the 19th century, tea was first grown here on an industrial scale - James Taylor, a planter from Scotland, did this, planting about 80 hectares of land with tea.

1. In Sri Lanka, internal conflicts often occur, so do not be surprised at the large number of military on the streets and roadblocks. Railway stations and bus stations in the country are usually surrounded by fences, and at the entrance all passengers must present identification documents. In the southern part of the country, the situation is somewhat calmer, so there are usually fewer checks here.

2. When visiting restaurants or cafes, pay attention to what the food you ordered is prepared from, as all dishes here are spicy. To avoid misunderstandings, ask the waiter serving your table about the composition of a particular dish. Sauces should be chosen carefully. If you have eaten very spicy food, then you do not need to drink it with water - it is better to eat bread or unleavened bread.

3. If you have a desire to order tea in a cafe, take the trouble to explain how you need to brew it, because here it is done a little differently than in Europe.

4. The main dish in Sri Lanka is rice, which is served on a separate large plate, along with which they bring small saucers with various spices and seasonings.

5. Do not be afraid if you are offered to buy light drugs on the street - this is considered a common occurrence here, despite the fact that the laws of the country provide for the death penalty for the distribution and possession of drugs.

6. Be sure to wash your hands very thoroughly before eating. Vegetables are best scalded with boiling water. Water should only be drunk from plastic bottles with factory caps.

7. Residents of the country are very friendly with tourists, although this attitude is not always pleasant, as sometimes it develops into obsession (this applies mainly to local street vendors and guides).

8. In Sri Lanka, entry to many beaches is free, however, the beaches at some hotels are closed. It is strictly forbidden to hunt animals and collect corals here.

9. It is best to dress in the country in light clothes made of natural fabrics in light colors. If you are going to climb the mountains, be sure to take warm clothes with you.

10. When visiting temples, you need to take off your shoes and hats. It is forbidden to enter such places in short skirts and shorts, as well as with bare shoulders and back. Do not turn your back on Buddha statues, do not show your feet or the soles of your shoes to others, do not take photographs of the local population without permission, and do not offend cows, as they are sacred animals here.

11. It is not necessary to leave a tip in restaurants or hotels. Sometimes they are included in the total bill for the service or lunch.

12. The voltage in the local electrical network is 230-240V, and the sockets are installed with three pins, so you need to purchase a special adapter to use them.

Good afternoon, dear readers! As always, I start a new section with general information. Meet - Sri Lanka information about the country: where the island is located, what is the climate here, about the locals, their religion and philosophy, safety and attractions.

Sri Lanka is a very beautiful tropical country with a rich history and amazing nature. The official name of the state is the Democratic Socialist Republic. Previously, before independence, it was called - Ceylon, which means glorious, blessed land.

The island is located in the Indian Ocean, not far from Hindustan. Its length is 430 km, width is 225 km, area is approximately 65000 sq/km. Coastline stretches for 1340 km. In the central part of Sri Lanka there are mountains, along the entire coast there is a plain.

Climate

Sri Lanka is only 650 km away. from the equator, so there is a subequatorial monsoon climate. Moreover, at the same time, in every place of the country, the weather conditions are different. From October to March in the northeast it rains and strong winds blow, and in the southwest, this weather is from June to October. Accordingly, the dry season in the first case occurs in summer, and in the second - in winter. Be sure to take this information into account when planning a holiday in Sri Lanka.

The air temperature is almost independent of the change of seasons. On the coast, it ranges from +27 to +32, in the mountains the daytime temperature is +18 - +20, at night it sometimes drops to + 10 degrees.

During the monsoon season, there are short showers at night, strong winds often blow. The ocean becomes restless, big waves rise, but the water near the coast remains as warm as in the dry season, +27 - +29 degrees.

Population and religion

Sri Lanka is a multinational state in which people of different nationalities and faiths live, about 20 million people.

The main population of the country is the Sinhalese, Tamils ​​live in the northeast. Sinhala and Tamil are official languages. English is used for international communication.

The main religion of Sri Lanka is Buddhism. Hinduism was the main religion before the introduction of Buddhism, now there are few Hindus. Even fewer people profess Islam and Christianity.

Currency

The state money of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). One Sri Lankan rupee is equal to 100 cents. The exchange rate changes slowly, but over the years the rupee has become cheaper against the dollar.

Attractions

Sri Lanka is rich in cultural heritage. There are many historical monuments that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. These include historical cities Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the rock fortress of Sigiriya, sacred Kandy, the Golden Temple in Dambulla, the old part of Galle and its fortifications, the Sinharaja forest reserve, the highlands of Central Sri Lanka.

It is very interesting to visit the waterfalls and tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plateau, Adam's Peak / Sri Pada, Royal Botanic Gardens, National parks Yala, Mineria, Bundala and Udawalawa. Excursions to these places will allow you to learn a lot interesting information about Sri Lanka.

Security

For many years, the Tamil-Sinhalese conflict flowed in the country, but in 2009 it ended with the victory of government troops. However, security measures are still increased in Sri Lanka, people in military uniforms are often found on the streets, and there are roadblocks on the roads.

The criminal situation on the island of Sri Lanka is quite favorable. Serious crimes do not happen often. Basically, theft and fraud prevail.

in big cities and tourist centers the order is monitored by detachments of the tourist police.

Each country is unique in its own way. Any resort has its own characteristics. Going on a trip, it is better to familiarize yourself with the nuances of the rest in advance. You can read useful information about Sri Lanka for tourists in my article. Study a brief overview of the island's beach resorts.

Dear friends! Be careful when entering the water. The ocean off the coast of Sri Lanka is treacherous, in many places there are huge waves, there are dangerous undercurrents. I wrote about this in more detail.

You can find a description of some of the island's attractions and my personal impressions in the section. You may also want to talk about your vacation in Sri Lanka, write a review, review or story, I will definitely publish it in the “Readers' Journey” section. How to do it? Read.

Leave comments, subscribe to blog updates, there is much more to come useful information. Do not forget to share the article on social networks, let your friends also know about this wonderful place.

Now I say goodbye to you for a while, until we meet again!

Tatyana Solomatina