Ancient Greek geographers called it Taprobane. Arabs referred to it as Serendib. Later European mapmakers called it Ceylon, a name still used occasionally for trade purposes. It wasn’t until 1972 that it officially became Sri Lanka: The Resplendent Island.
Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean like a pearl in an oyster, Sri Lanka beckons travelers with promises of unparalleled beauty and a warm embrace from its people. Picture-perfect beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, framed by swaying palms that whisper secrets of ancient times. But beyond its postcard-worthy landscapes lies a land teeming with stories, laughter, and a zest for life that's as contagious as it is endearing.
Step foot onto this island paradise, and you're not just greeted with a friendly "Ayubowan," but with an invitation to embark on a sensory adventure unlike any other. It's a place where time seems to slow down, where the aroma of spicy curries wafts through the air, tempting even the most disciplined of taste buds to surrender to its flavorful embrace. Then there’s those exhilarating tuk-tuk rides through the bustling streets, where every turn feels like a scene from an action movie, complete with a soundtrack of blaring horns that somehow harmonize into a chaotic symphony.
But it's not just the landscapes or the flavors that make this destination truly special. It's the people who call this place home. Whose smiles light up even the darkest of nights and whose warmth envelops you like a comforting embrace. Theirs is a spirit as resilient as the waves that crash upon their shores, a spirit that welcomes strangers as family and weaves them into the intricate fabric of their culture. So, as we embark on this months’ journey of discovery, let's surrender to the allure of the unknown and allow ourselves to be swept away by the charm of this enchanting destination.
What’s in a name?: Few countries have gone through as many name changes over the millennia as Sri Lanka. The first name ever given to the island was Lanka, a word that simply means “island”. This is the name used for the island in the ancient story of the Ramayana, in which King Ravana steals the princess Sita and takes her to Lanka. Rama later saves her with Hanuman the monkey king, when the monkeys built a bridge from India to Lanka to retrieve her.
When Prince Vijaya landed on the island in the 5th century BCE, he saw the copper sands and called it "Tambapanni", meaning copper in Sanskrit. In the 4th century B.C.E., the ancient Greeks interpreted "Tambapanni" as "Taprobane," a name that persisted through the European colonial era, finding its way into notable works of literature such as John Milton’s epic poem Paradise Lost and in Don Quixote as a magical place. Another significant name, "Serendib," was coined by Arab and Persian traders which later inspired the term "serendipity". It was a transformation of a name the Indians used to use for the island, a version of Sidhaleepa, meaning “the dwelling place of lion’s island”.
With the arrival of colonial powers, the island's name underwent further changes. The Portuguese, who were the first Europeans to arrive in Sri Lanka in the 16th century, referred to it as "Ceilão," which was a phonetic rendering of the native Sinhalese name. Later, the Dutch, who succeeded the Portuguese, pronounced it as "Ceylon." This name persisted during British colonial rule, which began in the early 19th century and lasted until a couple of decades after independence in 1948.
In 1972, the country adopted a new constitution and changed its name from "Ceylon" to "Sri Lanka." "Sri" is a Sanskrit term meaning "resplendent" or "radiant," while "Lanka" continues to reference the island's ancient name.
Today, Sri Lanka remains known by its adopted name, reflecting its independent status and the enduring significance of its cultural heritage.
Sometimes referred to as India for beginners, this magically diverse island is really another world entirely. Sri Lanka has a population of approximately 22 million and is home to a variety of cultures, languages, and ethnicities. The Sinhalese people form the majority of the population, followed by the Sri Lankan Tamils, who are the largest minority group and are concentrated in northern Sri Lanka; both groups have played an influential role in the island's history.
Ageless: Sri Lanka's documented history goes back 3,000 years, with evidence of prehistoric human settlements dating back 125,000 years. The earliest known Buddhist writings of Sri Lanka, known collectively as the Pali canon, date to 29 BCE. And if this little bit of history isn’t impressive enough for you, try this: the oldest living human-planted tree in the world is said to have been a cutting from the historical Sri Maha Bodhi tree at Buddha Gaya in India (the tree under which the Buddha is said to have attained enlightenment.) It was planted in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka in 288 BC.
Weather: No matter what time of year you choose to visit Sri Lanka, you’ll be treated to wonderful weather. The northern and eastern regions tend to be drier and hotter, while the central highlands see the most rainfall. Sri Lanka experiences two monsoon seasons, which affect different parts of the country during different months. This means that, at any given time, travelers can expect a sunny climate somewhere on the island. The temperature across Sri Lanka remains around 28-32 degrees celsius (82-88 degrees fahrenheit) for much of the year. The mercury in the high-altitude hills can drop to single figures at night. The monsoon season rarely incurs full days of rain – instead the weather is quick to change. Dramatic monsoonal showers will break out, usually last an hour or two before the sun breaks out again.
Nature: Sri Lanka’s total area is around 65,000 sq km (around 25,000 sq miles) – about the size of Ireland - and within this area you’ll find lush jungles, rain forests, tropical beaches, cool to chilly hill country, majestic mountains, powerful waterfalls, and dry savannahs. Indeed, within just a few hours’ drive you can find yourself in an entirely different climate. Sri Lanka has 26 national parks and two marine parks and boasts the largest herds of wild elephants outside of East Africa.
The most well-known of the national parks is Yala which, in addition to having the highest density of leopards in the world,
also has 215 species of birds, crocodiles and other reptiles, elephants, and the coastline bordering the park is a nesting spot for five species of sea turtle.
A Sri Lankan safari might also include sightings of wild boar, buffalos, langurs, toque macaques, sun bears, whales, dolphins, and the countless other species that reside there.
The many varied terrain means many different landscapes. Whether you’re watching the rolling tea hills in Nuwara Eliya, the jungle landscape from Sigiriya Rock, or all of Sri Lanka from above on Adam’s Peak at 2243 meters height (7,400 feet) - the landscapes of Sri Lanka are sure to take your breath away!
Colombo: The capital of Sri Lanka (well, not really. The legislative capital of Sri Lanka is actually Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, but it’s just a suburb of Colombo, and way too long to pronounce) is the place to begin or end your trip around the island. Sadly, it’s a place that’s often overlooked. But we disagree. (Full disclaimer – we lived for nearly four years in Colombo and, even during the time of Covid, found it one of the most charming, welcoming, and laid back “capital” cities in the world). If you need your fix of international cuisine, want to see the latest movies, or do a little shopping, Colombo will provide.
It’s the country’s most populated city with a large port and a rich colonial heritage. Plus, there are some interesting tourist sites as well. Here’s a couple not to miss…
Galle Face Green: This popular seaside promenade is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the sea breeze. The area is also home to many food stalls, so it is a good place to grab a snack or a drink. How many capital cities in the world can boast both the ocean and a long stretch of green belt for people to enjoy themselves?
Gangaramaya Temple: Sri Lanka is nearly 80% Buddhist, and this famous Buddhist temple, located in the heart of Colombo is known for its ornate architecture and beautiful gardens. The temple is also home to a museum with a collection of Buddhist artifacts and artworks.
Old Town: The Old Town area of Colombo is home to many historic buildings, including the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, directly opposite the Hilton Hotel (which itself if a landmark in the country, being the only international hotel not to close its doors throughout the 20+ year civil war). The hospital, built in the late 1600’s, has been converted into a shopping and dining destination. The area is also home to many small street food stalls, so it's a good place to try some local specialties.
Beaches & Surfing: Sri Lanka has some of the most pristine coastline in Asia. All 1340km (833 miles) of coastline are filled with unspoiled sandy beaches, palm trees, and turquoise waters. And is has so many ridiculously perfect beaches, it’s hard to know where to start and how to end.
But time and space being of the essence, here’s just a couple of our favorites:
Weligama: Translating to ‘sandy village’, Weligama offers a postcard-perfect view of coastal Sri Lanka, complete with deep bays dotted with moored catamarans, sweeping beaches lined with dense tropical flora, and abundant reefs for underwater exploration. Whether it’s bike tours, day trips to serene temples, a visit to the Sri Lankan Snake Farm or just lazy days spent enjoying the sun, Weligama has an abundance of attractions to suit all tastes.
Mirissa: Just next door to Weligama lies Mirissa, a smaller, less frantic version of its neighbor. You’ll feel a world away from the hotel chains and fast-food fare that can be found further north. Instead, Mirissa is loved for its quiet beach shacks, slower pace, and relaxed atmosphere (but the evenings can be lively). In February and March blue whales migrate along the coast, and plenty of whale-watching trips depart from here to see them. While you’re lying back in your hammock, coconut in hand, don’t be surprised to see monkeys snacking on mangoes up in the trees, and wild peacocks perching on roofs.
Bentota: The well-established west coast resort of Bentota is one of the more popular beaches for families, thanks to the glut of facilities: boutique hotels, restaurants serving fresh seafood and Sri Lankan curries, and activity outfitters offering everything from boat safaris to windsurfing and jet-skiing. The beach is pretty terrific too: a long strip of butter-colored beach ending in a spit of sand separating the Indian Ocean from a big lagoon.
Pasikudah & Kalkudah: Expect good, safe swimming, with calm shallow waters edging a crescent of white sand dotted with palm trees. There has been development here in recent years, with an emphasis on low-rise hotels. Keep walking south along the beach and you’ll arrive at Kalkudah, a similarly blissful tract of sand, but much quieter than its northern neighbor. It's about as close to Robinson Crusoe-like perfection as you can find.
Negombo: A great spot to recuperate from jet lag, or to see out the last day or two of your holiday, Negombo is just a 30-minute taxi ride from the airport at Colombo. Restaurants, souvenir shops and hotels line the wide expanse of sand, and there are multiple options for activities, including snorkeling, windsurfing, and boat trips round the lagoon. Be sure to have a beer or cocktail positioned in front of you before dusk - the sunsets are spectacular here.
And finally, SURFING! Sri Lanka is fast becoming one of the most popular surf destinations in the world, with its warm waters, consistent waves, and (in case you haven’t been paying attention) beautiful beaches. The south and east coasts of the country are home to the most popular surf spots, with Arugam Bay – more familiarly referred to as A-Bay, this surfing mecca is the jewel of the east coast. It’s known for having brilliant conditions during the summer months between June and October, when the more popular southwest coast of the island is under the monsoon.
And Hikkaduwa – possibly the most popular surf spot on the south-west coast just a two-hour drive from the capital, Colombo. It was ground zero for the devastating 2004 Tsunami but has come back in a big way.
For more surfing info from the experts, take a look at this video.
Ancient Wonders: Each of these are listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list and all are worth a visit.
Kandy: This sacred Buddhist site was the last capital of the Sinhala kings whose culture flourished for more than 2,500 years until the occupation of Sri Lanka by the British in 1815. It is also the site of the Temple of the Tooth Relic (the sacred tooth of the Buddha), which is a famous pilgrimage site.
Sigiriya: The ruins of the capital built by King Kassapa I (477–95) lie on the steep slopes and at the summit of a granite peak standing some 180m high (nearly 600 feet).
The ‘Lion’s Rock’ dominates the lush expanse of jungle from all sides. A series of galleries and staircases emerging from the mouth of a gigantic lion constructed of bricks and plaster provide access to the site. It’s 1200 steps from the lion’s paws to the top, but well worth the climb.
Anuradhapura: A four-hour drive from Colombo, this sacred city was established around a cutting from the 'tree of enlightenment', the Buddha's fig tree, brought there in the 3rd century B.C. Anuradhapura flourished as a political and religious capital for 1,300 years. At its height, it was home to over 10,000 monks. It was abandoned after an invasion in 993. Hidden away in dense jungle for centuries, the spectacular site, with its palaces, monasteries, and monuments, is now accessible once again.
Polonnaruwa: Polonnaruwa was the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura in 993. It comprises, besides Brahmanic monuments, the monumental ruins of the fabulous garden-city created by King Parakramabahu I in the 12th century.
Dambulla Cave Temple: A sacred pilgrimage site for 22 centuries, this cave monastery, with its five sanctuaries, is the largest, best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. The Buddhist mural paintings, covering an area of 2,100 sqm (more than 22,600 sq ft) are incredible to see in person, as are the 157 statues.
Not-So-Ancient Wonders:
Nuwara Eliya: Part of Sri Lanka’s lush hill country, and either a 4-hour drive or 6-hour scenic train ride from Colombo, Nuwara Eliya is a sleepy town in the center of Sri Lanka. Dubbed Little England for its colonial-era buildings and bungalows, Tudor-style hotels, and well-manicured hedges and gardens, it gives the impression of a town from a bygone era.
Ella: Ella is a small town tucked away in the hill country of central Sri Lanka. It’s famous for its lush landscapes and great hiking trails, attracting trekkers and outdoorsy types. The chilled-out vibe and relaxed nightlife makes it a great stopping point for all.
Nine Arches Bridge: This iconic bridge is a short distance from Ella and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The bridge is often crowded, but it is still worth a visit for the views and for the opportunity to take some Instagram-worthy photos.
Tea plantations: Ella is located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country, and there are many tea plantations in the area that offer tours and tastings. Historical note - Lipton Tea was founded in Sri Lanka in 1898. This is a great opportunity to sample some of the country’s finest teas.
Galle: At the southernmost tip of the country, but only about a 2-hour drive from Colombo, Galle is surrounded on three sides by ocean. This walled and cobblestoned city is a must on any visit to Sri Lanka. Built by the Dutch in 1663, Galle Fort is the largest and best-preserved sea fort in all of South Asia.
Cuisine: Sri Lankan cuisine isn’t particularly well known on the international stage. And, although it is often misunderstood to be an extension of Indian food, it is a very unique cuisine. Once you try it, it’ll be love at first taste! Sri Lankan cuisine consists mainly of fragrant curries and starchy accompaniments, which include hoppers (crispy bowl-shaped fermented rice flour pancakes),
string hoppers (steamed rice flour vermicelli ‘nests’),
and rotis (flatbreads).
A cross between Thai and Indian cuisine, traditional Sri Lankan curries are cooked using a fresh spice paste, comprising ginger, garlic, fresh chili, and sun dried spices, with flavors influenced by region. Almost any fruit or vegetable can be used to make a curry or an accompanying dish such as a sambol (usually hot and fiery), mallung (shredded greens), or chutney, and a typical meal includes a meat or fish dish, a few vegetable dishes and a lentil curry (dhal). Coconut milk is used in some curries to add creaminess while others are left ‘dry’, and the result is a really healthy balanced cuisine.
Rice and curry is typically eaten for lunch whereas hoppers and string hoppers are often on breakfast and dinner menus, usually served with a fish and/or dhal curry, a fiery kata sambol (tomato, onion and dried chilli) or a sweet onion relish. Sri Lankans aren’t big on desserts, and usually end a meal with fresh tropical fruit, ice cream or a crème caramel-like dish, watalappan.
Odds & Ends: As with any country, Sri Lanka – and Sri Lankan’s – have a few idiosyncrasies of their own. Things that make this place unique. Things that make you go – whaaaat??? Here’s a couple to be on the watch for.
Liquor & wine bottles used as water bottles: This is something a visitor to Sri Lanka will likely see while riding in a tuk-tuk.
The tuk-tuk driver reaches for a bottle of booze, unscrews the top and starts chugging straight out of the bottle. You’ll be wondering whaaaat’s going on, while you try convincing yourself that it’s not actually hard liquor he’s guzzling out in the open. Not to worry as drinking water out of glass bottles is just as common as are the ubiquitous tuk-tuks. If you visit an office, you’ll definitely spot multiple people with liquor and wine bottles at their desks. However, being drunk on the job is definitely not acceptable in Sri Lanka. They’re simply giving the finger to plastic and reusing glass bottles for drinking water.
Hotels Are Not Always Hotels: Everywhere in Sri Lanka you will see places called “Hotel Paradise”, “Hotel Rolodex” or "Hotel Whatever", however most of these places are not actually hotels. It's common for restaurants to place the word “hotel” either before or after their name. The reasons for this are a bit vague but it seems that there was a time in Sri Lanka when if you wanted good food, you had to go to a hotel. Although the word stuck, we’re happy to report that you now can find really good food on every street in the country.
Beethoven Means Bread: Forget the ice-cream man because the sound of Beethoven’s Für Elise only means one thing in Sri Lanka: bread. Throughout the day you'll hear the tune broadcast loudly from tuk-tuks that circle the streets selling bread and other baked goods. These vendors are referred to as choon paan – or tune bread – sellers. They are a uniquely Sri Lankan part of daily life.
Time is only a concept: Time is an interesting concept that is valued differently all over the world. In Sri Lanka, time operates on a different wavelength entirely, a sort of cosmic dance where seconds stretch into minutes and minutes dissolve into hours with a casual shrug. While punctuality might be a prized virtue in some corners of the globe, here it's more of a loose guideline, a suggestion rather than a strict rule.
Picture this: you arrive fashionably late to a gathering, and instead of awkward glances, you're met with welcoming smiles and an invitation to unwind. It's not that being on time isn't appreciated—it's just that time itself seems to have a mind of its own here. It's more of a suggestion than a rule. So, if you come from a land where tardiness is frowned upon after the 15-minute mark, consider this a recommendation to recalibrate your internal clock upon touchdown in Sri Lanka. Lunch or dinner appointments, meetings, even the most eagerly anticipated events—they all operate on "island time." However, once you surrender to the rhythm of Sri Lankan time, you'll find yourself enveloped in a tranquil state of mind where deadlines melt away and the only schedule worth adhering to is the one dictated by the ebb and flow of life itself.
The Flag: The Sri Lanka National Flag is an improvisation of the civil standard of the last king of Sri Lanka, Sri Wickrama Rajasingha. When Sri Lanka gained independence from Great Britain on February 04, 1948, it was the lion flag of the last king of Sri Lanka that was hoisted once again.
The lion in the flag represents the Sinhala race. The sword of the lion represents the sovereignty of the country. Curly hair on the lion’s head indicates religious observance, wisdom, and meditation. The beard denotes purity of words. The handle of the sword highlights the elements of water, fire, air, and earth. The vertical stripe of orange represents the minority Tamil race and the green vertical stripe the minority Muslim race. The border round the flag, which is yellow in color, represents other minority races. The bo-leaves at the four corners of the flag represent Buddhism and its influence on the nation and also stand for the four virtues - Kindness, Friendliness, Happiness and Equanimity.
Kindness, Friendliness, Happiness and Equanimity. We can think of no better words to describe the people of Sri Lanka and the feeling that visitors will experience wherever they go throughout this incredible country. You could say that Sri Lanka has been hiding in plain sight for a long, long time. Countless travelers have passed overhead on their way to more familiar destinations. And it’s true that years of uncertainty have kept Sri Lanka off many itineraries. All that has changed now. And even in the darkest moments, the natural beauty of the country and its people always shone through.
In this island nation, you’ll find an entire world unto itself, and there’s much we didn’t have time to touch upon in this blog post.
There’s probably nowhere else in the world where you can view a species of both the world’s largest land mammal, the elephant, and the largest water mammal, the blue whale in the same day. There are few places that have as many UNESCO World Heritage sites (8) packed into such a small area. It’s a place where time dances to its own rhythm and whispers of ancient tales echo through the air.
But, amidst the natural beauty and the history, amidst the chaos and the culinary delights, it's the people of Sri Lanka who will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Their smiles, as radiant as the sun that bathes their shores, beckon you into a world of warmth and generosity. Whether you're savoring a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea or exploring ancient ruins steeped in history, their kindness and hospitality will weave a tapestry of unforgettable moments that linger long after your journey has ended.
If you’re in search of a destination that seamlessly blends rich history, diverse culture, pristine nature, spotlessly clean and safe streets, and incredible cuisine, look no further than Sri Lanka. It’s a place that always defies expectations. If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of the “pearl of the Indian Ocean” yet, bucket list it today!
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