Sri Lanka offers a variety of transportation options, making it relatively easy to navigate the island. From public transport to private vehicles, it is easy to choose the best method that suits your needs and budget. Public Transportation Buses Extensive Network The bus system is extensive and covers most areas of the country. Buses are an affordable way to travel between cities and towns. Types of Buses There are standard buses for local travel and luxury coaches for longer

Sri Lankan cuisine is a vibrant blend of flavors, influenced by its diverse cultures, history, and geography. Meals are typically aromatic and spicy, featuring a variety of ingredients like rice, lentils, vegetables, and an array of spices. Popular Dishes Rice and Curry A staple dish that includes steamed rice served with several curries, such as dahl (lentils), vegetable curries, and meat or fish options.  Kottu Roti A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) s

Monkeys The most common species are the toque macaque and the purple-faced langur. Where to Spot Them: Frequently seen in urban areas, parks, and near temples. They can be quite curious and may approach people, especially if food is present. ​ Stray Dogs You may encounter stray dogs, which are generally friendly but should be treated with caution.  Local Dogs Many locals have pet dogs that might be seen on the streets. ​ Stray Cats Like dogs, there are many stray cats in urb

Tropical Rainforests Location Primarily found in the southwestern region, particularly in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Characteristics Dense, lush vegetation with high humidity and rainfall. Home to a variety of endemic species, including birds, reptiles, and insects. Biodiversity Known for its rich biodiversity, including rare flora such as giant trees and numerous medicinal plants. ​ Dry Zone Forests Location Spread across the northern and eas

Total Population: Approximately 22 million people (as of 2023). Population Density: About 340 people per square kilometer, making Sri Lanka one of the most densely populated countries in Asia. ​ Demographics Age Distribution: A significant portion of the population is young, with a median age of around 32 years. Urbanization: Approximately 18% of the population lives in urban areas, with Colombo being the largest city and economic center. ​ Ethnic Groups Sinhalese: About 75%

Festivals Vesak Celebrated in May, it commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. It's marked by lantern displays, processions, and religious observances. Pongal A Tamil harvest festival celebrated in January, featuring traditional food, music, and dance. Ramadan Observed by Muslims with fasting and special prayers, culminating in the festival of Eid al-Fitr. Traditional Arts Sri Lanka is known for its intricate handicrafts, including wood carving, batik, and

Official Currency The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Notes and Coins The currency is available in denominations of notes (20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000 LKR) and coins (1, 2, 5, 10, 25, and 50 LKR). ​ Currency Exchange Exchanging Money Currency can be exchanged at banks, authorized exchange bureaus, and hotels. Airports also offer exchange services, but rates may be less favorable. ATMs ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Most accept

This site includes several protected areas, such as Horton Plains National Park, Knuckles Mountain Range, and Peak Wilderness. It is known for its unique montane ecosystems and diverse wildlife. The Central Highlands are home to many endemic species, including the Sri Lankan leopard and various bird species found nowhere else. Horton Plains features the famous "World's End" escarpment, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The area is also significant for

The Cultural Landscape encompasses the ancient hydraulic civilization of Sri Lanka, showcasing advanced irrigation systems used for agriculture, particularly in the Cultural Triangle region. The landscape includes ancient reservoirs and canals that demonstrate impressive engineering skills and sustainable practices. The site highlights the interrelationship between humans and their environment, showcasing the importance of water management. The Cultural Landscape is a testam

Galle Fort is a well-preserved colonial-era fortress built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch. The fort’s architecture reflects a blend of European and South Asian influences. The fort is surrounded by ancient walls and bastions, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Galle Fort was a crucial port for maritime trade in the region and played a significant role in the spice trade. The fort is home to a vibrant community, with cafes, art

The Dambulla Cave Temple complex consists of five caves adorned with stunning Buddhist murals and over 150 statues of the Buddha, dating back to the 1st century BCE. The caves feature some of the best-preserved examples of Buddhist art in the world, with murals covering over 2,000 square meters. The largest cave, the Dambulla Cave, contains a massive reclining Buddha statue measuring 14 meters in length. Dambulla has been a significant pilgrimage site for over two millennia.

Sinharaja is a tropical rainforest and a biodiversity hotspot, covering approximately 11,000 hectares. It is home to many endemic species of flora and fauna, making it a critical area for conservation. Sinharaja is recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its unique ecosystems and conservation efforts. Over 50% of the tree species found in Sinharaja are endemic to Sri Lanka. The reserve is vital for the preservation of many endangered species, including the purple-face

Kandy is known for the Temple of the Tooth, which houses a relic of the Buddha. The city is surrounded by picturesque hills and features a serene lake at its center, making it a cultural and spiritual hub. The Temple of the Tooth is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world and attracts thousands of pilgrims annually. The Esala Perahera festival features traditional dancers, drummers, and beautifully decorated elephants, celebrating the relic. Kandy was the last capi

Anuradhapura is one of the oldest capitals in the world, established around the 4th century BCE. It features significant Buddhist monuments, including the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree and numerous stupas. The Sri Maha Bodhi tree is a direct descendant of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Anuradhapura is home to several massive stupas, including the Jetavanaramaya, which is one of the tallest brick structures in the world. The city played a crucial role in

Polonnaruwa served as the capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to the 13th centuries. The city is filled with well-preserved ruins, including temples, palaces, and intricate Buddha statues, reflecting the artistry and architectural advancements of the time. The Gal Vihara complex features four impressive rock-cut Buddha statues, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship. The city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its extensive archaeological significance. Polonnaruwa’s ir

Sigiriya, or Lion Rock, is a magnificent rock fortress rising nearly 200 meters above the plains. Built in the 5th century CE by King Kasyapa, it features impressive frescoes, extensive gardens, and the remains of a royal palace. Sigiriya is renowned for its sophisticated water gardens, considered one of the oldest in the world. The frescoes, depicting celestial maidens, are considered some of the finest examples of ancient Sri Lankan art. The site is believed to have been in