Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka – an extraordinary island nation blending ancient Dravidian and Aryan traditions with later Buddhist practices and local tribal cultures. Experience the fusion of antiquity and modernity set against a backdrop of exotic tropical nature and the ocean. You will visit Power Spots – Shakti Peeths connected to the divine energy of the Mother and Shiva Mahadeva in Trincomalee and Chilaw. Explore the history of Buddhism and sacred temples housing relics of Buddha Shakyamuni. Discover the legendary Ramayana epic and its heroes as you climb the walls of Sigiriya and visit Nuwara Eliya. Immerse yourself in the harmony and unique rhythm of this land to attune to the vibrations of tranquility, joy, and self-discovery. Yoga sessions will help rejuvenate your energy and renew yourself in the ocean’s waters.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

The optimal period to visit Sri Lanka is from November to March, especially for the hill country and the south and southwest coast. From May to September is ideal for the eastern coastal areas, as it is dry during this period. However, Sri Lanka is a destination that can be enjoyed year-round, whether in winter or summer.

Climate & Weather

Sri Lanka’s tropical climate is influenced by its proximity to the equator. The plains and coastal areas have an average temperature of around 27°C, making the climate hot and humid with humidity levels ranging from 70% to 90% throughout the day and night. The sea breeze from the ocean helps to moderate the temperature. The hilly areas are cooler and more pleasant, with an average temperature of about 20°C.

Rainfall is abundant throughout Sri Lanka. The southwestern monsoon brings heavy rains to the southern, western, and central parts of the island from May to July. The northern and eastern regions experience rainfall from the northeast monsoon in December and January.

Cuisine

Sri Lankan cuisine primarily consists of rice and curry, which can include vegetables, fish, chicken, or meat. This dish is commonly served for lunch and dinner, and sometimes even breakfast. Curries are typically hot and spicy, with a meal often featuring red lentil dhal, spiced green leaves, lightly stir-fried vegetables, and a mixture of grated coconut with chili and spices.

Sri Lankan cuisine reflects its history, with influences from South Indians, Arabs, Dutch, and Portuguese, whose recipes have gradually become part of the local fare. Desserts are also notable, with options like Kiri Peni (curd and honey), Wattalappam (egg pudding), and Kiribath (rice cooked in coconut milk, usually served on special occasions).

Culture

Sri Lankan society is diverse and multi-religious. The majority Sinhalese population practices Buddhism, while a significant Tamil population follows Hinduism. There are also communities of Christians and Muslims.

The caste system, though diminished, still influences social structure. In Sinhalese society, castes are hereditary, while in Tamil communities, the caste system is strongly influenced by Hinduism. Higher castes traditionally avoid contact with lower castes to maintain purity.

Sri Lankan art, sculpture, and architecture are largely Buddhist, with stupas and large Buddha sculptures, such as those at Aukana and Buduruvagala. Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa are known for their archaeological sites, while Kandy is a vibrant cultural center. Colonial influences are visible in the remnants of Dutch forts, British buildings, and churches. Galle is renowned as one of the finest colonial cities on the island.

Sri Lanka is famous for its gems, and crafts such as weaving, metalwork, woodcarving, and pottery are prominent. Ratnapura is a key center for the gem trade.

Sinhalese dance bears similarities to Indian dance but with distinct differences. Kandy is known for its up-country dances, while Colombo and Ambalangoda offer opportunities to see drumming, devil dances, masked drama, and various folk performances.

History

Sri Lankan history dates back nearly 2,500 years. Known as Ceylon before, the island saw the rise of various Sinhalese kingdoms, including Anuradhapura, established around the 4th century BC. Buddhism was introduced by Mahindra, the son of the Indian emperor Ashoka, in the 3rd century BC and soon spread across the island. Anuradhapura served as the capital of ancient Sri Lanka, and conflicts between Sinhalese and South Indian kingdoms lasted over 1,000 years.

The Portuguese were the first Europeans to arrive in 1505, establishing a monopoly on the spice trade and controlling the island by 1597. They were eventually ousted by the Sinhalese with Dutch assistance in 1658. The Dutch focused on trade rather than ruling, and the British took over in 1796. By 1815, the British had defeated the Sinhalese, leading to British domination. The British controlled the cinnamon, coconut plantations, and introduced English as the national language.

Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948 and adopted a democratic system. However, a racial conflict between Tamils and Sinhalese ensued, resulting in significant loss of life. Peace talks, mediated by Norway, eventually led to the government's victory over Tamil extremists and the establishment of peace.

Tourist Attractions

Sri Lanka offers a wealth of attractions, including historical monuments, coral sanctuaries, beaches, cultural sites, bird sanctuaries, national parks, art galleries, and museums. The island's extensive coastline features stunning beaches, making it an excellent destination for beach holidays.