Galle is the capital of the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Galle - the capital of the Southern Province of Sri Lanka Sri Lanka major cities and population

Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte - a city with such a long and almost unpronounceable name is the official, nominal capital of Sri Lanka. In fact, the capital is located in the city of Colombo. Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is officially the capital city with the longest name in the world!

This city is located in the southern suburbs of Colombo and is part of the Greater Colombo agglomeration. The name of the city translated from Sinhalese means “blessed fortified city of coming victory.” This name was given to it in the 13th century by Alagakkonara, the founder of the city, who began the construction of a local fortress. By the way, local residents The city is simply called Kotte, which means “fortress”.

In 1415-1565, Kotte was the capital of the Sinhalese state, and the Portuguese, who captured the island, moved the capital to Colombo. In 1979, the city was returned to its former, historical name and in 1983 Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte became the official capital of the state.

Today Kotte is a beautiful, quiet city, with a population of about 115 thousand people, an extensive infrastructure, in which a large number of universities, colleges and higher schools are located and, accordingly, there are always a lot of students.

The capital now houses the parliament and the supreme court. A huge, luxurious new building was built here for the parliament in 1982, which is located on the island of Duva in the center of a beautiful lake. Some government institutions and structures were also moved here.

The city of Kotte is an original mixture of colonial European architecture, modern skyscrapers and traditional oriental temples. The city has a huge number of religious buildings, Buddhist, Muslim, and Christian. They attract tourists and pilgrims here. In the very center of the city there are remains of medieval fortifications, a moat and a rampart, which are gradually overgrown, leveled and simply disappear.

The city is also famous for its numerous magnificent beaches, which are not oversaturated with visitors and are famous for their cleanliness. There are also several interesting museums to visit, art galleries and a beautiful zoo.

Various festivals and fun carnivals are often held on the streets of the city, in which brightly and beautifully dressed elephants - the symbol and pride of Sri Lanka - always take part.

Nuwara Eliya is a city in the highlands of the central province of Sri Lanka. Its name means "city on the plain" or "city of light". The city is the administrative capital of the Nuwara Eliya district, with picturesque landscapes and a temperate climate. It is located at an altitude of 1886 meters and is considered the most important area in tea production. The city is located at the foot of Mount Pidurutalagala - the most high mountains Sri Lanka. Nuwara Eliya is known for its cool temperate climate - it is the coldest area

The city of Batticaloa got its modern name during the period of English colonial rule. The town was originally called Madakalapuwa (the first "M" changed to "B" during the time the Dutch ruled the island), which means "muddy lagoon" in Sinhala. This name in turn is derived from the Tamil Madurankernikulam. Batticaloa is located on east coast Sri Lanka, on a flat, flat spit separating the lagoon from the ocean. The city rises above sea level by an average of only 5 meters. Near

Ella is a small beautiful town in the southern highlands of Sri Lanka. It is located in the middle of picturesque countryside, with small vegetable gardens in the valleys, tea plantations on the hillsides and forests covering the mountain slopes. The climate for most of the year is typical of the Sri Lankan highlands, with hot sun at midday but moderate temperatures. There may be showers in the afternoon, but they usually last within an hour. At night you may need a jumper or

Trincomalee or simply Trinco is the main port city and administrative capital of the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, located on the east coast of the island, approximately 180 kilometers south of Jaffna. The population of the city is 99,135 people. The city is built on a peninsula that separates the inner and outer port. Trincomalee is one of the main centers of Tamil language culture on the island. A famous ancient temple Koneswaram, which is mentioned in the Tamil chronicle Thirukonamalai,

Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka. Located in the Western Province, Colombo District. Population - 672.7 thousand inhabitants (2007), population of Greater Colombo (which also includes big cities Moratuwa, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia and Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte - the capital of the country) - 5,648,000 people. History The name of the city comes from the Sinhalese “Kola-amba-thota”, meaning “mango harbour”. Arab, Chinese, and Roman merchants visited Colombo harbor more than 2,000 years ago. In the 8th century AD e. Arabs settled here for a long time, controlling almost the entire maritime

Ratnapura is a city in the southwest of Sri Lanka, at the foot of Mount Adam's Peak, and the administrative center of Sabaragamuwa province. Population: about 48 thousand people. (2002). Trade and transport center in the area of ​​rubber plantations and tea plantations. Connected by rail to Colombo and Badulla. Ratnapura is famous for its precious stones. Stones such as cat's eye, aquamarines, amethysts, and sapphires have been mined here since the Middle Ages. The largest sapphire weighing over 400 carats, the Blue Beauty of Asia, was found near Ratnapura. Also near the city

Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the official capital of Sri Lanka (since 1982). Located in the southern suburbs of Colombo. Population - about 115 thousand people. (2002). The name Jayawardenepura means "city of advancing victory" in Sinhala. This name was given to the city by its founder Alagakkonara. The name “Kotte” comes from the Tamil “kottey” - fortress: fortified structures arose on this site in the 13th century. Historically, the part of the city bounded by the moat was called Etul Kotte (inner fort), and outside it - Pittakotte (outer fort).

Badulla is a city in the southwest of Sri Lanka, is the capital of the Uva province and is considered one of the most ancient settlements Sri Lanka. Located at an altitude of 680 meters above sea level. The city is surrounded on almost all sides by the Badulla River and mountains. As a result, a special microclimate is created in the city and its surroundings, characterized by high humidity and frequent dense fogs, as well as relatively low average temperatures for the region. Population - about 43 thousand people (2004).

Negombo - popular resort town, famous for his historical heritage and scenic beauty. Negombo is a beautiful resort town located along the beautiful west coast Sri Lanka. The city's close proximity to the Sri Lanka International Airport has made it popular among tourists who usually begin or end their trip to Sri Lanka here. Exuding old world charm, Negombo has a rich historical heritage and is widely known for its magnificent and picturesque coastlines. Here in Negombo there are many attractions that make...

In terms of economic situation, the city of Kandy, with a population of about 100 thousand people, ranks second in the republic after Colombo. Situated in a mountain range at an altitude of 488 meters above sea level, the city is very picturesque. Its unique necklace is the Mahaweli Ganga River with its shady banks. The city was founded in the 14th century. At the end of the 16th century, when the Portuguese captured the southwestern and northern coast islands, the Sinhalese rulers went to the mountains and founded a state with its capital in

Sri Lanka - small Island state, located in South Asia near the Hindustan Peninsula. The country received its current official name, the Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, in 1972. Previously, the state was known as Ceylon. Official capital Sri Lanka - 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 the nationalities. The most common religion is Buddhism, which is followed by the majority of 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, Northern, Northwestern, Western, Southern, Eastern, 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 places holidays in Sri Lanka - the resorts of Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Wadduwa, Beruwela 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 transfers)
from Kazan - from 12 hours 30 minutes. (1-4 transfers)
from Yekaterinburg - from 11 hours 55 minutes. (1-4 transfers)
from Novosibirsk - from 11 hours 50 minutes. (1-4 transfers)

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

The most developed sport is cricket, which is exotic for Russians. The state pursues an active foreign policy, Sri Lanka is a member of well-known international organizations - the UN (United Nations), 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 most optimal way to get to Sri Lanka is by this moment are flights of Emirates 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 to fly? If you choose a non-stop flight on the route Moscow - Sri Lanka, the flight will take 8 hours 45 minutes (flight to the capital of the country - Colombo). With connections it will be about 14 hours, but it depends on the connection times, which vary among 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. Average monthly temperature usually does not exceed 30 degrees. The seasons here differ in the amount of precipitation that falls. Most rain falls in summer. The coastal areas of Sri Lanka are the most comfortable for living. In large cities located inland, the weather is hot and humid. average temperature The water in the Indian Ocean near the country is 27 °C, which differs from the air temperature by only a couple of degrees.

Cooler temperatures can be found in mountainous areas Sri Lanka. The town of Nuwara Eliya is located at 1884 meters above sea level. The local average annual temperature is 18 °C. In cold weather at night, the thermometer can drop to an unprecedented level of 10 °C for Sri Lanka. Such “frost” forces owners local hotels and hotels 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, your holiday at 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 their vacation in Ceylon. Local residents and tourists feel comfortable here at any time of the year.

Rainy season in Sri Lanka

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

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 head from May to September. They form in the Arabian Sea and move towards the island as a large wall of warm, humid air. Moreover, due to mountain range the rest of the country (which is three-quarters of the island) is more or less dry at this time. These three quarters are the eastern and northern parts of the country, where the average annual precipitation 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 influenced by the northeastern monsoons, which occur 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 suffers, 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 the strong wind, which creates big waves in the ocean, so it’s better to give up dreams of a calm and safe swim 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 there are so-called “zenithal rains”, often found in equatorial regions. Thus, the best time to relax in the southwest, which is attractive to 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

There are many large and small cities in Sri Lanka. Below is information about the cities that are most interesting for tourists.

Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka, which is actually the capital of the country, located in the Western Province of the state. Colombo is a 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) is 2 million 250 thousand inhabitants. Industry and high-tech manufacturing are booming in Colombo. The local port is one of the largest in the Asian region.

Interestingly, many areas have a specific vocational focus. This division has arisen since ancient times. In Colombo there is a district of artisans, poor people, traders, etc. Of course, today such a classification is gradually becoming obsolete, but is still largely relevant. A major international airport is located 30 kilometers from Colombo. The city is developed culturally and religiously - it has its own university, observatory, and religious institutions for various faiths.

The tourist center is located in the northern district of the city - Fort. Hotels, shops, restaurants and others are concentrated here entertainment venues. The main attractions of the city are Galle Face Green Park, the National Museum, the Local History Museum, 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. Population: 50,000 inhabitants. Most developed economic sectors- 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 attractions: in Anuradhapura there are remains of ancient temples, monasteries and other cultural monuments. Among the most famous sites are the Ruanvelli and Thuparama stupas, the Abhayagiri and Isurumuniya monasteries, and the famous Aukan Buddha statue 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 more than 150 thousand people. The city is among the objects included in the catalog world heritage UNESCO, and in the past it was 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 hosts the popular Esala Peraher festival, during which time the famous relic is put on display for the public to see. For ten nights in a row, a procession with elephants takes place on 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 its own unique Spice Garden.

Negombo - Not Big city OK, located 40 kilometers from Colombo. The resort is nicknamed "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 located here literally on every corner. Local beaches deserted, therefore they are popular among lovers of quiet and have a relaxing holiday. True, most tourists use Negombo only as a transit point for a day or two, and then head to other resorts. However, the city has a lot to offer and show vacationers. The most popular entertainment is fishing. Local villages have long been famous for fishing. The most significant attractions 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 on holiday all year round. Beach holidays, swimming in the Indian Ocean, trips around 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 going on vacation to Sri Lanka ask themselves is which resort to choose? Indeed, there is a lot here good places, each with its own character and flavor. Thus, Hikkaduwa gathers surfers, divers and young people on its beaches. Bentota is aimed at demanding tourists, Kogalla - at independent tourists and those who have arrived for the "winter", etc.

Below are described best resorts 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. Tourists have a full range of services to suit any budget. The resort will appeal to lovers active rest: Ceylon’s most popular water entertainment center, Confifi Marina, is located here. Vacationers will be able to ride a boat, water ski, scooter or go scuba diving. The club also organizes excursions and boat trips.

Beruwela is a resort located in the southwest of the country, near Colombo. This place will appeal to tourists who prefer a 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 tourists can enjoy 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 Beruveli is the ancient Kechimalai Mosque, to which thousands of Muslims from all over the world make pilgrimages every year.

Wadduwa is another Ceylon resort located near Colombo. The calling card of this place is its gorgeous coconut palms and amazing sandy beaches. The resort has developed infrastructure. A large number of hotels, shops, restaurants and cafes are concentrated here. There is a popular scuba 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 Gangatilaka Vihara.

Kalutara is a resort town on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. From time immemorial, the resort was famous for its herbs and spices. Throughout its history, little Kalutara has been under the yoke of Portuguese, Dutch and British colonialists. However, today the place has become one of the most modern and dynamically developing Sri Lankan resorts. The local specialty is amazing and juicy tropical fruits, which are placed in baskets created by local craftsmen using their own methods. However, the famous Kalutara 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 famous Ceylon resort. The relative distance from civilization (Colombo is more than 100 kilometers away) attracts tourists here who dream of taking a break from the bustle of large cities. On the other hand, Kogalla has all the necessary infrastructure, including golf courses, diving centers, tennis courts and other entertainment. Not far from the resort is the town of Polonnaruwa. It is famous for the fact that the remains of the legendary palace of the ancient Sinhalese state have been preserved on its territory. Among others historical monuments You can highlight the Watadage Temple and the giant Buddha statues 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 a hippodrome where horse racing takes place 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 wide sandy beaches here. The resort has several modern hotels. The main attractions are the Dehiwela Zoo, which is home to more than 300 species of animals, and the giant Bolgoda Lake with rich flora and fauna.

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

What to see

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and Recreation

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 with scuba gear, mask, fins and other equipment. The Indian Ocean, in addition to the most beautiful marine life and underwater reefs, keeps many secrets and mysteries. Diving near shipwrecks and underwater caves heightens the senses and makes diving in Sri Lanka simply unforgettable. Lankan diving centers have modern equipment and equipment, and are scattered around the entire perimeter of the island. When planning a diving holiday, you should take into account the travel time. The fact is that diving centers located in the southwest of Sri Lanka operate 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 Sri Lankan waters easily allows you to engage in this exciting activity, because the underwater delights are visible at a depth of several meters.

Surfing is riding waves using special boards. Surfers have chosen many areas of Sri Lanka. The 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 using 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 Arugam Bay.

Ayurveda

Traditional treatment in Sri Lanka is very developed. Ayurveda, which literally means the science of life, is especially popular. This is a whole range of traditional treatment methods, including aromatherapy, relaxation, meditation, massage, and healthy eating. Ayurveda implies comprehensive healing of the body, and not the treatment of only diseased organs. The most important thing is that this direction has no side effects or contraindications. All medical products are made entirely from natural ingredients. Several hotels in Sri Lanka offer to combine relaxation with treatment according to the Ayurveda system.

Ecotourism

Around the world, ecotourism has long been popular destination recreation. Recently, this type of recreation has begun to gain popularity among our compatriots. Tours to Sri Lanka offer a wide variety of ecotourism offerings. Vacationers can choose from rafting down mountain rivers, driving off-road vehicles over rough terrain, riding elephants, mountain climbing and other original excursions.

Camping and safaris

For tourists who are tired of the comfort of modern hotels and want to join natural world, in Sri Lanka a special excursion program is offered with accommodation in tent camps in national parks. The tour program is compiled taking into account the individual wishes of vacationers. Tourists independently choose the parks to visit and other recreation criteria. Among the latter are the comfort of tent rooms, the number of days on the tour, the purchase additional excursions. The standard program lasts 9 days, during which all major National parks countries. The camps provide all 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 care for domestic animals. As part of agrotourism packages, vacationers get acquainted with local culture, customs, and learn to cook national cuisine.

Fishing

The coastal waters of Sri Lanka are replete with the number of fish and other representatives of the underwater world living there. The abundance of plankton attracts a wide variety of species - from tuna to sharks. Excursion fishing usually starts early in the morning. Tourist groups They are taken out to fish several tens of kilometers from the coast. Vacationers are accompanied by experienced local fishermen, and all necessary gear is included in the price of the excursion.

River Safari

The so-called boat safari is very popular on the island. It's three hours river walk on the boat. During the excursion you will be able to meet many exotic birds and animals. As you move away from civilization by boat, you can find more and more interesting and unusual things - small islands of land, aboriginal settlements and unique vegetation. A local guide will cost only $20.

Helicopter excursion

The opportunity to take a helicopter ride has appeared quite recently. This is a very expensive entertainment, but there are still people who want it. 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 allowed number of tourists in the cabin of one helicopter is four people. The most popular excursion to Sigiriya will cost $2,000 per helicopter, in addition, you will have to fork out another $112 for each hour you wait for the helicopter.

Hot Air Balloon Flight

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

Golf

This game began to develop in Sri Lanka back in the 19th century. Today, the country has created several high-quality golf complexes that meet international standards. Beginning athletes can also enjoy the game: golf clubs offer special individual and group lessons for beginners.

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 the beating of drums, and boys and girls in colorful outfits dance nearby. After exchanging rings, the newlyweds give each other a taste of rice boiled in coconut milk and wash it down with water. This ritual symbolizes the future mutual care of husband and wife. There are a number of other traditional wedding rituals - tying the little fingers of the bride and groom with gold thread, breaking a coconut to sprinkle milk on the newlyweds' clothes 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 services selected. But on average you can spend $1000.

Beaches of Sri Lanka

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

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

Getting around the country

Bus

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

Bus stops can be hectic, especially the larger ones, but almost everyone will be happy to practice their English and help out.

Private and municipal buses operate in major cities of the country. The fare for them is approximately the same. Public transport in Sri Lanka is one of the cheapest in the world.

Train

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

Trains are more comfortable and colorful than buses, and thanks to the winding mountain railways, the railway network in the mountainous parts 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, this is where the most open best views. For tourists who want to explore the local views, there are special excursion carriages with large windows.

Knock Knock

The most popular transport in Sri Lanka are small scooters with a cabin, called tuk-tuk. They are unusual for us, but Sri Lankans regularly use them for everyday trips. Tuk-tuk is much cheaper than a regular taxi, average price per kilometer - 15-20 rupees. It is not customary to pay tips in Sri Lanka.

Taxi

A more traditional type of transport will cost about 50% more. For a kilometer of travel 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 agreed upon in advance. You can “catch” a taxi driver right on the street or call him by phone.

Car rental

The country has a well-organized transport system, but Russians will be very surprised by two things - driving on the left and the possibility of animals driven by farmers and cars coexisting on the road.

With a driver

The car itself is often provided free of charge, and money is paid to the driver for his services. Some drivers/guides are licensed by the state to operate, some are extremely knowledgeable and speak multiple languages ​​and specialize in the history and culture of the country. For those who go to see historical places And nature reserves they will talk about the environment.

Without driver

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

Airplane

The air carrier Aero Lanka carries out domestic flights in the directions 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 speak English fluently. 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 “aayuBOvan”, which literally means “stay longer”; thank you in Sinhala is "stuti";
• Tamil: The greeting in Tamil is “vanakkam”; thank you - “nanri”;
• Arabic(Lankan Moors): When meeting a Muslim, it is polite to say “Assalamu alaikum”; thank you sounds like “jaza-ka alla.”

Culture

The culture of Sri Lanka has managed to preserve many of its own ancient traditions, despite the fact that European colonialists 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 are, in one way or another, connected 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. Contemporary art in Sri Lanka is actively developing cinema, radio and television.

One of the main holidays for Sri Lankans is New Year. True, unlike our country, in Sri Lanka it is celebrated in April. There are many rituals associated with this event on the island, and of course there is a traditional chic fireworks display.

Sri Lanka's number one sport is cricket. The national team even became the world champion in this sport in 1996. 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

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

Since Sri Lankan and South Indian dishes are very similar, many local restaurants the menu indicates which cuisine is Sri Lankan and which is South Indian. Besides, in different regions There are different cooking options. Food is generally very cheap, with an inexpensive lunch costing around a dollar. Rarely can a meal cost more than ten dollars, except in the most expensive places oriented towards tourists. Colombo has a large selection of high quality restaurants.

Ceylonese cuisine often uses coconut ingredients - coconut juice, butter and shavings. There are many other dishes with other unusual ingredients for us.

String hoppers are rice vermicelli that are rolled and steamed.

Umbalakada is a small fish that has been ground into powder.

Hoppers are local rice flour pancakes cooked with coconut milk.

Bittara arra - pancake combined with fried eggs. To prepare it, place a chicken egg in the middle of the pancake.

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

Kiribath is a traditional white rice cooked in coconut milk.

Rotti is a regular flatbread seasoned with curry sauce.

Pittu - Prepared from water, rice flour and coconut. Also served with curry sauce.

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

Beverages

In Sri Lanka, you should not drink tap water, as it can cause intestinal disorders. Buy plain bottled water in stores. But it’s better to avoid buying local milk altogether. Thanks to the Sri Lankan climate, it spoils very quickly, although it is quite expensive.

The traditional non-alcoholic drink among Sri Lankans is Tambili, juice from the king coconut. Fresh juice can be prepared before your eyes right on the street, and it will cost less than what is sold in bottles.

Other local drinks include ginger oil and cream soda. If you prefer classic Coke or Pepsi, 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 (buttery with a chocolate flavor) and Lion Lager.

For those who prefer strong alcohol, we can recommend the local drink - Arrack. It usually costs about $4 a bottle and is often drunk with ginger beer. Quality depends on price, but the Old Reserve brand is widely recommended and costs $7.50.

Purchases

Shopping in Sri Lanka is represented by both fairly modern shopping centers and traditional markets with all kinds of folk goods - from spices to clothes made from natural fabrics. Prices for goods from local producers are very reasonable. The greatest shopping opportunities are, of course, in Colombo, but in the Sri Lankan outback, and even more so tourist centers it also has something to offer tourists in terms of shopping.

You can read more about store opening hours, what to buy, where to buy, and how to bargain in the article “Shopping in Sri Lanka”.

Connection

Telephone communications

Telephone service is available in almost any hotel, but calling from your room is usually very expensive. It is more economical to use special telephone 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 purchased at supermarkets, shopping kiosks and post offices. To call Russia you need to dial 007, the area code and the phone number.

Sri Lanka dialing code: +94.

Useful phone numbers

Internet

Cellular communications on the island are 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 in large cities. In the outback of the country, gaining access to the World Wide Web is very problematic.

Safety

Tourists going on holiday to Sri Lanka should follow a number of simple measures to ensure safety. You should be careful when walking through parks and reserves - watch your step, do not turn off the tourist path and use mosquito repellents. If you are going on an excursion to the jungle, then before the trip, just in case, you need to take anti-malarial tablets. You need to be more careful with animals. There are often cases when monkeys steal various things from unlucky tourists.

As in many other tourist areas, in Sri Lanka you should be wary of pickpockets and do not leave valuables unattended. It is better for women not to be alone on the streets or on the beach at night. 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 occur in cities. In addition, military action by the government is also possible. However, thanks a large number State checkpoints are extremely unlikely to enter the territory of hostilities due to negligence. These areas are significantly removed from the places that tourists usually visit. However, it is not uncommon to see heavily armed soldiers on the streets, major highways and at the airport.

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

Try to respect local cultural values. You cannot appear in temples in shorts, short skirts or other clothes that are too revealing, and you must take off your shoes before entering the sanctuary. When buying jewelry and treasures, do not forget to ask for a license to export the goods from the country, otherwise problems may arise 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 of the 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 room capacity from 50 to 500 rooms. A suitable hotel of this class can be found for any budget. Because of their convenience, standard hotels are loved by vacationers with families or large groups. An all-inclusive system is often used.

Boutique hotels

Recently, hotels of this type have become increasingly popular. Boutique hotels are small hotels with 3-15 rooms. Guests of such hotels prefer silence, comfort and tranquility, which are so lacking in large hotels. Boutique hotels are on average more expensive than regular hotels, but they have their own unique look. Customers receive much more attentive service and service. Standard rental price double room$100-$250 per day.

Bungalow

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

Villas

Villa - luxury home With big amount rooms, all possible amenities and maximum comfort. They are usually rented out entirely and are suitable for wealthy people. A villa, like a bungalow, is profitable to rent big company people, for example, several families. The average rental cost is $300-$1000 per day. It varies depending on the level of the villa and the distance from the sea.

The historic city of Galle (Sri Lanka) is located at south coast country, 116 km from Colombo and only 5 km from Unawatuna Beach. Built in the 16th century by Portuguese explorers, the port embodies South Asian traditions and elements of European architecture, and is a UNESCO protected site.

Before Colombo, Galle remained a major city and the main port of the country for 400 years. Then the Dutch recaptured it, redesigning the entire defensive system. The city was recaptured from the Dutch by the British, who did not change anything, so the atmosphere of that era is still preserved here. In the late 19th century, the British expanded Colombo's borders, making it a major port.

Galle was once Sri Lanka's largest center for trade between Persian, Arab, Indian, Greek and Roman merchants. Just over 100 thousand residents live here, among whom there are Buddhists, Hindus, Islam and Catholicism are preached. Developed industries include textile, food and glass.

Halle has many good hotels and restaurants, and although the city is located on the coast, tourists prefer Hikkaduwa. Despite the clear water of a greenish-turquoise hue, there are stones everywhere under the water; the city does not have a sandy beach.

Galle Fort

The city of Galle in Sri Lanka is divided into an old and a new part. The boundary is marked by three powerful bastions above the cricket stadium. Here you will find many ancient buildings made in European style. Popular attractions in Galle include Galle Fort, built from granite by the Dutch at the end of the 17th century.

The ancient fort has hardly changed since colonial times, so the old part of the city is a must-visit to experience that atmosphere. Above the gate you will see a symbol Ottoman Empire– a stone with the image of a rooster. According to legend, the lost Portuguese sailors only thanks to his cry swam to an unnamed harbor, after which the city was named.

The fort is a UNESCO heritage site. The architectural structures of the fort are considered especially interesting. The weight of the roof is supported only by the walls, without the use of internal supports. You can walk inside the fort all day long. The popular New Oriental Hotel is located on its territory. This is the oldest hotel in the country, and it was built at the end of the 17th century for the governor. High-ranking officials and wealthy people prefer to relax here even now.

The port of Galle in Sri Lanka still receives fishing and cargo ships, as well as private yachts. The most prominent part of the fort is the lighthouse; in the evening it illuminates the way for distant ships. The harbor has its own unique and inimitable atmosphere, which tourists love so much. Photos of Galle in Sri Lanka show that you can admire there not only historical buildings, but also the most beautiful Indian Ocean and unique sunsets.

New town

In the new part of the city there is a shopping center with shops and small cozy cafes. The train stations and the central market are located on the banks of the Dutch Canal. Tourists enjoy visiting St. Mary's Cathedral.

Although there are almost no significant ancient monuments here, modern Halle is considered the heart of the city. The narrow streets of Morishe-Kramer-straat and Lane-Bahn still have open windows with wooden shutters, terraces and spacious rooms in the best Dutch traditions.

Attractions Galle

You will always find something to see in Halle. The city is usually visited for excursions to learn more about the culture of this region.

On Tserkovnaya Street there is National Museum culture, where you can learn all about the history of the city. Admission is paid, visiting hours are from 9.00 to 17.00 from Tuesday to Saturday.

National Maritime Museum

Deserves attention National Maritime Museum on Queen Street. On the ground floor you will find an exhibition dedicated to fishing life. The Museum can be accessed from 9.00 to 17.00. Working days are Tuesday-Saturday.

IN Dutch Period Museum The most interesting exhibits from the era of Dutch rule are exhibited. The museum is located in private houses on Leyn Baan street. Admission is free, visiting hours are from 8.30 to 17.30 daily.

Meera Mosque

Tourists also like to visit ancient Gothic church Grote Kerk, which is located near the Amangalla Hotel, on Church Street. There you will find ancient tombstones with images of skulls and bones.

Mosques were built behind the Catholic Church of All Saints, tourists especially like Meera Masjid, but you need to visit this place in appropriate clothing.

Opposite the Dutch church is the house of the Dutch rulers with the original ovens inside. Rumor has it there are ghosts there.

Cricket is a popular sport here and the national team here has won many prizes. The cricket ground is considered to be immaculate for the game and is located among the oldest and most valuable monuments near the Galle Fort, which makes it even more unique.

What to see in the area

Located in the central part of Weligama Bay beautiful island Taprobane or in Sinhala Yakinige-Duva. At the beginning of the 20th century, a luxurious house was built here by the French Count de Manet, and the writer P. Bowles used it in his novel “The House of the Spider.” Now this place is a private resort where you can rent a villa.

Unawatuna. The secluded beach of Unawatuna is surrounded by coral reefs from all directions and is only 5 km from Galle. There is a highway running through the central part, unlike the city, so it is quite busy here. Popular resort place is popular with tourists and local residents, because here you can not only relax and swim, but also go diving, snorkeling and surfing.

Mirissa. In this small resort village near Weligama you can spend your holiday economically. In addition to spacious beaches, there are excellent conditions for surfing and snorkeling. Tourists who value a relaxing holiday will especially like it here.

More detailed information with photos about the Mirissa resort is presented in.

How to get to Galle

Inside the city, the transport interchange is quite developed and has many branches. The city is connected to the nearest major cities and Matara by railway tracks. You can get to Galle by train, bus and taxi; at the station you can always find out where the city of Galle is and how to get to it.

From Colombo. WITH railway station to Galle station. Only 2nd and 3rd class carriages or Rajadhani Express carriages, tickets for which can be purchased online. Travel time is 2.5-3 hours.

From Nuwara Eliya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Kandy, take a train to Colombo Fort, then transfer to the Colombo Fort – Galle train. Look before you go current schedule railway traffic and ticket prices on the website www.railway.gov.lk.

There are many bus services from Colombo Bus Station to Galle. You can get there by highway in 2-3 hours. If the route runs along the coast, the journey will take approximately 4 hours. The bus station in Galle is located across the road from the Fort, the main attraction of the city.

For drinking and cooking, use water from plastic bottles.

There is traffic flow in the city of Halleactive, so be careful on the roads.

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Weather

You can visit this resort center at any time of the year. It is always warm in Galle (Sri Lanka). Summer and winter are characterized by slight temperature changes. There is almost no rain here from December to April. Even from May to November, short rains do not interfere with sightseeing.

What Halle looks like from the air and some practical information for those who want to visit the city are in the video.

Related posts:

Sri Lanka is a kaleidoscope country. Otherwise, I cannot name all the magnificent opportunities that it provides to tourists and travelers of any age, gender and religion.

The preparation of each trip to this seemingly small island turns for me into a new and new combination of elements of a large construction set: endless sandy beaches, history and culture of antiquity, extreme species sports, romance of the ocean, travel to the emerald mountain peaks and much more.

There is so much to see on the island that, as a rule, the trip is not limited to one destination. A ring is the ideal form of a route in Sri Lanka. The beginning and end are Bandaranaike Airport, and everyone chooses the points on the circle to their own taste.

My first trip to Sri Lanka was very luxurious and expensive. But the island made such an impression on me that I wanted to come back here again, so I began to look for more affordable ways to travel around Sri Lanka, take a closer look at the life and way of life of the locals, gradually turning a seemingly impossible fairy tale into reality. So over time, Sri Lanka became my second home.

The island really has a lot to offer in terms of attractions and interesting places, so I love not only traveling around it myself, but also creating routes for friends who come here.

Visa and border crossing

Popularity of Sri Lanka independent travelers is also related to the accessibility and ease of obtaining a visa. Package tourists can also appreciate the efficiency of the officers at the airport's passport control.

The cost of a visa to Sri Lanka for Russians and CIS citizens: at the airport - 40 dollars, electronic visa - 35 dollars. It is valid for 2 entries within 30 days. This is convenient if you want to fly, for example, to the Maldives or India.

I recommend applying for an electronic visa on the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) website - it’s cheaper and faster at the border. And if you have problems with entry, you will find out about it in advance, and not at the airport in Sri Lanka.

To apply for an e-visa, you must fill out a special form on the website.

Upon completion of registration, you will receive information that the application has been accepted, and after a few hours (up to 24 hours) you will receive confirmation that the visa has been issued.

Please note that closer to the time of arrival in Colombo, flight attendants begin to offer migration cards for registering entry into Sri Lanka. In this form you need to enter the following parameters in Latin:

• First Name Last Name;
• nationality;
• passport number;
• place of stay on the island (if you plan to travel around the island, then indicate the name and address of the first hotel on your route);
• signature.

You can fill out a migration card on the plane and immediately go to passport control at the airport. The procedure is that you hand over the issued card and passport (it must be valid for at least 6 months after the expected end of the trip). Printout of the e-visa, tourist voucher and no one ever asked me for a return air ticket; all the necessary information is already contained in the electronic database of the Sri Lanka visa service. However, keep these documents handy just in case.

A Sri Lankan visa can be extended up to 3 months and in special cases up to six months. The Sri Lanka Department of Immigration and Emigration, where you can go through the relevant procedure, is located at 41, Ananda Rajakaruna Mawatha, Colombo.

Depending on the severity of the violation of migration laws in Sri Lanka, various fines are provided, including inclusion in the list of persons for whom entry to the island is prohibited.

How to get there

By plane

Basic transport node Islands - Bandaranaike International Airport - located near Colombo, the largest city in Sri Lanka.

How and how long to fly is the first question any traveler asks. There are no direct regular flights from Moscow to Colombo, however there are charters to high season(in winter). This is about an 8.5 hour flight.

The main way to get from Moscow to Sri Lanka is daily regular flights of Arab airlines that make 1 transfer:

• Emirates - ;
• Qatar Airways -Doha;
• Etihad - .

Flight time including connections increases to 12-14 hours. Ticket price - from 28,000 rubles.

You can get there from other Russian cities using the low-cost airline FlyDubai, which operates flights to major Russian cities with a transfer in Dubai. For cities such as, this is the most cost-effective flight in terms of time and cost.

Airlines hold promotions and sales of tickets to Sri Lanka around March and October. During this period, the cost of the flight can be reduced by 25-35%. Conveniently keep track of prices and discounts.

Tourist regions

The most famous resorts Sri Lanka is located in the south ( best beach- from Tangalle to Weligama) and southwest () of the island. Eastern Sri Lanka every year it is gaining popularity among tourists, attracting with its cleanliness, desert and coral reefs. Also interesting are two central areas countries: mountainous Sri Lanka with developed trekking routes among green hills and the so-called “cultural triangle” – historic district between the three ancient capitals of Ceylon (Anuradhapura,).

Each resort has its own characteristics and offers vacationers a vibrant range of entertainment and interesting excursions.

South West Coast

Since the southwest of Sri Lanka is famous for its wide variety of beaches, I have compiled my personal rating of the best of them:

• - a popular resort in Sri Lanka. Its beaches are preferred by newlyweds for romantic trip or holding a wedding ceremony. You can find your way around prices for tours to Bentota. In addition, there is a special program to support the Bentota area as an Ayurvedic resort, so there are several specialized centers here, and each hotel has its own SPA programs. On one of its beaches there is the most popular water entertainment center on the island, there is everything from fishing, surfing to water skiing, yacht trips
  The quiet lagoon of Bentota allows you to swim here all year round - this is its big advantage. And the relative proximity to the airport (115 km) makes the resort one of the most accessible on the island.
• Beruwela- a resort with many attractions related to Islam. The main one is the ancient Kechimalai Mosque. Muslims from all over the world make pilgrimages here on religious holidays. Beruwala also has a number of large hotels with Ayurvedic SPA salons, tennis courts, golf courses, traditional water activities on the beaches - surfing, diving, fishing. This area, as a continuation of Bentota, is also very clean, but it is cheaper. Among the minuses is the city of Beruwala itself. If you decide to go to areas where local residents live, you will be greeted by dirt and restless beggars - both children and adults.
• Hikkaduwa- perfect place for surfing and diving, which, although not fashionable, is adored by young people and extreme sports enthusiasts. Unlike most resorts in Sri Lanka, there are plenty of fun bars and discos. And the main attraction of Hikkaduwa is the coral reserve.
  Local seafood, which can be tasted in street restaurants, is especially popular, including with me and my friends.
• Mount Lavinia– resort with centuries-old history and several large modern hotels. Currently, it is a large city adjacent to the economic center of the country, Colombo. Among the main attractions are the Dehiwela Zoo with more than 300 species of animals, as well as the huge Bolgoda Lake - the largest fresh water reservoir in Sri Lanka. The resort is aimed at tourists as much as possible: many hotels and even hostels do not accommodate Sri Lankans themselves. The main advantage of Mount Lavinia is its proximity to the airport (49 km).
• Tangalle– one of the southern resorts of Sri Lanka, designed for lovers of solitude (!!!), endless sandy beaches. There are also excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
  In this area you will find both luxury hotels and cheap guest houses. Local fishermen daily catch several types of fish and seafood, which are skillfully prepared in local restaurants.
• - most southern resort Sri Lanka. Near its beaches is the city of Matara and Cape Dondra - extreme point relative to the equator. The beaches of Mirissa are characterized by calm and tranquility. The few hotels in the resort are intended more for those traveling around Sri Lanka on their own; there is no infrastructure for package tourists here.
  
Business card The resort's main attraction is a boat trip to the blue whales that spend the winter nearby. Also among the advantages of Mirissa is the ability to get there in 1.5 hours from Colombo by bus along the expressway.
• Kalutara- a modern developing resort. It is known throughout the world for its spices, as well as the juicy tropical fruits that grow in the area. The Gangatilaka Vihara Temple is the most famous landmark of the city. This is a huge hollow stupa (the only one in Sri Lanka) that you can enter. I definitely recommend visiting this unique object of its kind. The downside of the resort is the relative proximity of the city of Kalutara itself, its noisy streets, bustle, Railway, urban drains that flow past the beaches into the ocean. Also in Kalutara there are no shallow waters as such, so I do not recommend holidays with children.

Northeast coast

Since Sri Lanka's airport is located on the opposite side of the island, getting to the northeast is more difficult. But nevertheless, several resorts with their own unique characteristics can be distinguished here:

Central Highlands

An unforgettable contrast with beach Sri Lanka is guaranteed!

It is always very hot here during the day, and at night the temperature drops to 12 degrees, so you will need a jacket or warm sweater to travel to these parts.

Two main points of visit to the mountainous part of Sri Lanka, each of which has its own unique appearance and history, are Nuwara Eliya and Ella.

By the way, between them you can take a fascinating three-hour voyage by train among pristine eucalyptus groves and emerald tea plantations.

"Cultural Triangle"

4 of the 8 UNESCO sites of the island of Sri Lanka are located in a small area, which is formed by lines connecting the cities of Anuradhapura, Pollonaruwa and Kandy. IN different time each of them was the capital of Ceylon.

To explore the main cities of the “triangle”, it is enough to allocate 1 day. You can spend a little less time exploring Anuradhapura, but a little more time exploring Kandy. Each city has the minimum necessary tourist infrastructure: hotels, guest houses, restaurants, shops. In Kandy, of course, it is more developed, since it is the second largest city in Sri Lanka.

In addition to the above cities, the number of attractions " cultural triangle"also includes, inspection of which takes about 3 hours for each object. But you can allocate a separate day for them.

It is convenient to book hotels in Sri Lanka on Booking - before you can compare hotel prices. You can view offers from owners for apartments and apartments at.

Top cities

In order to know Sri Lanka from A to Z, I recommend visiting cities that will show the island from different sides:

Islands

Sri Lanka is an island in itself, but nevertheless, it has a small number of satellite islands, some of which would be interesting to include in your travel itinerary.

The names of some northwestern islands end with “thivu”, which means “island” in Tamil: Punkuduthivu, Mandaitivu. Some of the islands have retained the names of Dutch cities since the colonization of the country. For example, an island.

The most notable:

Top attractions

The peculiarity of Sri Lanka lies in the unique opportunity to combine a relaxing holiday on the ocean with educational excursion program. The island is home to 8 UNESCO sites, as well as various historical and natural attractions. You can view them both within independent travel(cheaper and more interesting with preliminary preparation), or buy excursions from agencies and representatives of travel agencies (very expensive, but reliable and more comfortable).

• Sigiriya- a historical complex (UNESCO heritage site), located on a high cliff in the very center of the island. King Kasapa, who came here, turned the caves of the monks into magnificent city with a palace, temples, outbuildings. The pearls of Sigiriya are a huge (140 by 40 meters) gallery of frescoes, as well as images of a snake and a giant lion carved into the rocks, of which only the lower part with paws has survived. Read all about Sigiriya.

• Golden Temple- a complex of cave temples shrouded in legends, which contain a huge number of Buddha images - frescoes, drawings, statues. The paintings on the walls tell about the main moments of the Buddha's life. Read more about the temple and its surroundings.

• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Sacred place for Buddhists all over the world! Perhaps this is one of the most luxurious temples in Sri Lanka. Previously, this location was Royal Palace, so you can see a lot of interesting things: wood carvings, gilding, paintings, religious objects and much more. I wrote in detail about the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Weather

Luck or not, it’s summer all year round in Sri Lanka: daytime air temperatures range from +28 °C to +33 °C (at night +24 °C ... +26 °C). The water temperature in Sri Lanka is +27 °C ... +29 °C.

The tropical climate and monsoon winds determine the seasons on the island. There are two of them: dry and cool, wet and hot seasons. Comfort mainly depends on this beach holiday and bathing. Otherwise, you can go to Sri Lanka at any time of the year, as there is sure to be something interesting in every period.

The northeast and southwest coasts take turns sharing the palm among visitors to Sri Lanka. In addition, tourists travel throughout the year excursion sites islands, and also rise to the mountains located in the central part of the country.

Conventionally, the periods of the high tourist season on the coasts can be divided according to the principle - in summer it is better to go to the northeast, and in winter - to the southwest. More detailed information by month:

The off-season in Sri Lanka is characterized by unpredictable weather - it may not be ideal, but it is quite suitable for relaxation. For example, in April the most best time to visit the mountainous part of Sri Lanka with its emerald tea plantations, but at the same time you can quite comfortably spend a few days on the beaches of the southwest coast: , Hikkaduwa, . May is a good time for excursion holidays, visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are located on the island. An excellent addition to this route would be a holiday on the northeast coast: Trincomalee, Nilaveli, Appuveli.

The rainy season in Sri Lanka brings with it partly cloudy weather, short-term, often 2-5 minute (sometimes up to 15 minutes) heavy torrential rains. As a rule, precipitation occurs at night, but there are exceptions. In the off-season, tourists can be frightened by strong winds, as well as large waves in the ocean, which practically reduce swimming to nothing.

If you choose a hotel with a swimming pool, your stay can be quite comfortable; in addition, during the low season, housing prices drop significantly.

Swimming in the ocean during the rainy season is still possible if you choose the right beach with a lagoon or one closed by islands. This location calms the raging waves. There are similar stretches of beaches in both the southwest and northeast of Sri Lanka.

Moving around the country

Sri Lanka is a former British colony, which may be why traffic It's left-handed here.
Navigate around the island public transport(buses, trains) very cheap. For example, a car transfer from the airport to Bentota costs 68 dollars (10,000 rupees), the same distance by 2 buses costs 2 dollars (300 rupees), by bus and then by train costs 0.85 dollars (120 rupees).

Connection

Roaming or local connection

Cellular communications and the Internet are actively developing in Sri Lanka.

The island, by analogy with Russia, has its own “big three” mobile operators - Mobitel, Dialog, Etisalat, each of which has its own travel offers for a set of international minutes, domestic calls and Internet traffic.

By purchasing a local SIM card, talking to Russia will be much cheaper than paying for roaming to domestic operators. For example, the cost of a minute for MTS is 250 rubles, and for Dialog it is 9 rubles. Calls from a hotel landline are also not cheap.

Which tariff to choose

In my experience, the most stable connection is Dialog, Etisalat. But Dialog is cheaper, so I prefer it for relaxation. The minimum tariff is 5.5 dollars (780 rupees). This is enough for calls to Russia and communication on social networks for a couple of weeks. You can play it safe and, in order to be always in touch, purchase a more expensive Dialog tariff - more minutes and Internet traffic.

If there is a need for frequent calls or remote work via the Internet, then the best option– Etisalat. A little more expensive, but the volumes of minutes and Internet traffic provided are greater.

Where to buy a SIM card

A SIM card from one of the local operators can be purchased directly from international airport Colombo in the waiting room (right behind the exchange offices). Representatives of the mobile operator will perform all the manipulations with your phone to activate the tariff, but you can simply buy a card and do all the operations yourself according to the instructions or with the help of English-speaking call center operators.

Similar SIM cards can be purchased at mobile phone stores in cities. Topping up your account using telephone cards is also available everywhere, which can be purchased in stores, shops, post offices and gas stations.

The best thing mobile communications The territories of Colombo and the resorts of the southwestern part of the island are covered. In the north and east, only large cities can boast of stable mobile communications and the Internet.

WiFi

As a rule, hotels in Sri Lanka have wi-fi. In large chain hotels it is available everywhere, and in small hotels and hostels - at the reception and in common areas. Most often this service is free.

In large cities and resorts there are also Internet cafes that allow you to access the Global Network, but they look very suspicious and unsafe.

Helpful information

Service numbers: ambulance and fire - 112, police - 119

Language and communication

In total, Sri Lanka has about 22 million citizens, of which 10 million live in Colombo, the economic capital of the island.

The official languages ​​in Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil, but English is actively used in government agencies and the tourism sector. At the everyday level, it is mainly city residents who speak a foreign language, but even in the outback they will try to answer you or find someone who speaks at least a little English.

In resort areas, the Russian language is becoming increasingly popular among residents involved in the tourism sector, knowledge of which allows a Sri Lankan to find a better-paid job in this industry.

10 phrases you need to know

• Hello (may your years last) – Ayubovan;
• Thank you – Situtius;
• Please – Kurunakara;
• Yes – Oh;
• No – Epa;
• How much does it cost - Kiyade gane;
• Expensive – Ganan;
• Cheap – Labayi;
• The other is Anyt;
• Drink - Bonava;
• Doctor - Dostara.

Features of mentality

Among the population of the island, two nationalities can be distinguished:

• Sinhalese (75%), who mostly profess Buddhism;
• Tamils ​​(12%), who live mainly in the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka, their main religion is Hinduism.

Basically, religious communities live separately, forming entire districts of the city or region. From my own experience, I can note that the cleanliness and comfort of the area greatly depends on the religion professed by the local residents. Buddhism implies the formation of harmony around, so its adherents constantly wash, sweep, repair something - they attach great importance to order. This contrast is striking when driving through the country. In Muslim or Hindu areas, they don’t think so much about the existence of things, hence the garbage, and there are many times more unkempt places.

In general, Sri Lankans are very friendly and always ready to help. Of course, there are swindlers, but they clearly do not think about their karma, as the vast majority of the island’s inhabitants do. Even if they are poor now, it is very important for them to move on to the next life with a “clear conscience.”

I love local residents for their high moral principles, for their family life (good upbringing of children and respect for elders). Sometimes it all reminds us Soviet time, although European values ​​are slowly being introduced into the minds of young people, destroying traditional foundations.

It is customary for them to set a large table with a huge amount different dishes. But if a foreigner comes to the family, then he is fed first, and only then the owners themselves begin to eat.

Sri Lankans also love holidays, often visit temples, and attach great importance to rites and rituals.

Food and drink

Features of Sri Lankan cuisine

The hot and spicy food of Sri Lanka can be a big challenge. A magical phrase comes to the aid of the traveler “but spicy”, however, this does not guarantee that the food will be similar to European. This is a classic feature of the cuisines of all Asian countries.

The charm of Sri Lankan cuisine is in its simplicity. The basis of most dishes is vegetables, rice, fish, spices. This is still the same constructor, in the center of which is rice. Various curry sauces are placed around it - a mixture of ginger, turmeric, pepper, coriander, cinnamon, garlic. A lot of dishes local cuisine prepared using coconut juice, oil, shavings.

What do the locals eat?

As true Buddhists, Sri Lankans practically do not eat meat and very rarely consume poultry. Mostly pork, beef, and chicken dishes are prepared for tourists in resort areas and large cities. The cow is a sacred animal, but in Sri Lanka they are more tolerant when it comes to eating its meat than in neighboring India.

As for seafood, it is not always available to the average Sri Lankan, because... their prices are high by local standards. The entire catch is sold to cafes and restaurants. Typically, Sri Lankans eat small fish or umbalakadu, a fish powder that is added to sauces. But it’s simply impossible to visit here and not try lobsters and the freshest fish. For those who cook on their own, you can purchase cheaply at special fish markets. They work from 4 to 7 am.

Where to eat

In Sri Lanka you can eat on almost every corner. These are mainly street snack bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Don't be afraid to eat at street establishments. The chance of tasting stale and tasteless food is higher in cafes and restaurants. On the street, dishes are prepared before your eyes, and if there are many customers sitting in this eatery, then the food is definitely fresh, the reputation of the establishment has not been damaged in any way.

In expensive restaurants, various surprises and discrepancies may await you. Although we must admit, Colombo is home to the most upscale restaurants in Sri Lanka with amazing luxury national and European cuisine.

All fast food restaurants (KFC, MCDonalds, Burger King) are also concentrated in large cities. It should be noted that even in such establishments local dietary habits are taken into account - there are many vegetarian dishes. A full meal at your local MCDonalds will cost you $4 (Rs 600).

Prices for local food in Sri Lanka are very low.

In street eateries you can have a snack for 1-1.4 dollars (150-200 rupees). Lunch at good restaurant in the resort area it will cost 10-20 dollars (1500-2500 rupees) per person.

About drinks

• In a hot country like Sri Lanka, you definitely need to drink a lot. Tap water can only be consumed after boiling, and it is better to always buy bottled water, which is sold everywhere and is very cheap. Must be on the bottle SLS label(Sri Lanka Standards Institute).
• Milk is expensive here. It spoils quickly, so preservatives are often added to it. Everywhere they sell milkshakes in bags with the addition of cocoa, vanilla, etc. Pay attention to the expiration date. I advise you to buy milk in the areas of Nuwara Eliya, where many farms and large dairies are located.

• A popular drink in Sri Lanka is coconut milk. But do not forget that this is a strong diuretic.
• Ceylon tea is a classic drink, aromatic and strong, so locals often dilute it with milk. The surrounding environment of the island makes the usual ritual of tea drinking more elitist and unforgettable.
• Fruit juices(mango, banana, papaya) and lassi (yogurt, fruit, sugar, ice). Fresh juice will be prepared for you right at the street kiosks. Magic words to the seller - “but ice, but slush” (the ice is made from unknown water, and the fruit is already quite sweet).

• Ginger beer is a soft drink similar to soft cola, but with ginger flavor and aroma.
• Arrack – coconut vodka. Often used with Zhinzha to remove the strength. Price: about 3.5 dollars (500 rupees) per bottle. The best variety of Arak is Old Reserve, which costs about $7 (Rs. 1,000).
• The most popular types beers in Sri Lanka: Anchor, Lion (Stout and Lager), Three Coins (similar to Belgian).

You won't find alcohol in supermarkets. It is sold in specialized Wine Stores.

Their prices are usually high, because... Sri Lanka has high import duties on alcohol. In addition, the sellers themselves make a decent markup. Alcohol and beer are sold without restrictions in hotels and restaurants.

5 dishes worth trying

Shopping

The shopping you can do in Sri Lanka has a special national flavor. This is felt regardless of the place, be it a market or a shopping center.

Everywhere you can find all kinds of goods: from spices to clothing and precious stones.

What you need to know about shopping in this country

The key rule of shopping in Sri Lanka is “Bargaining is appropriate!”, because in the process you can reduce the price by up to 50% of the original price. On the other hand, the cost of souvenirs and spices can be so meager in terms of rubles that it is easier to do without haggling, but when buying precious stones, leather goods and clothing, be sure to haggle.

Fixed prices in duty-free stores, supermarkets, shopping centers.

Best cities for shopping

Shopping, similar to the classic European one, is perhaps only available in Colombo. There are a number of large shopping centers there, including well-known international brands. IN resort areas shopping, as a rule, comes down to buying souvenirs.

What to bring from this country

• Ceylon tea (the best is from the highlands of Ella and Nuwara Eliya. I advise you not to buy the Pekoe and Orange Pekoe varieties; as well as Lipton and Dilmah);
• souvenirs: masks, ceramics, batik, leather goods (for those who like exotic things);
• spices (the cheapest cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, etc. in supermarkets).

Vacation with children

For a comfortable holiday with children, Sri Lanka is quite appropriate place. The beaches are calm, the people are friendly, and the crime rate throughout the country is quite low. Sri Lankans themselves love children very much and treat women with children with respect. The main thing is to try to follow the following rules:

Safety

If you take minimal precautions, your trip to Sri Lanka will be an unforgettable plus. Things to consider:

• Try a cup of real Ceylon tea from the highlands of Nuwara Eliya.
• Take part in the colorful procession of the Esala Perahera festival in .
• Climb the Sigiriya rock. This is a creation of nature framed human hands.
• Stroll along the golden beaches of Bentota.
• Admire the coral fish in the coastal waters.

Money

The monetary unit of Sri Lanka is the Lankan Rupee (LKR). The change is somewhat similar to ours - 1 rupee 100 cents. Course for spring 2016:

• 1 dollar is equal to 146 Sri Lankan rupees;
• 1 euro - 170 rupees;
• 1 ruble – 2.02 rupees.

For convenience, you can divide all prices by 2 - in the end you will get the cost of goods and services in rubles.

Yes, currency on the island can be exchanged at any hotel, bank, or large shopping center, however best rate than at Colombo airport in all my trips to Sri Lanka I have never met.

You can find exchangers by going to the greeters' waiting area after receiving your luggage. It is impossible to miss them - the doors open, and in front of you are no less than 6 “counters”, where young people change currency at the absolutely same rate for everyone. The check that is issued when exchanging currency allows you to convert rupees back into your currency at the purchasing rate.

By the way, please note that the export of national currency from the country is prohibited, so do not forget to exchange your remaining money back into dollars or euros.

Sri Lankan money is interesting to look at. Banknotes in circulation on the island are in denominations of 10/20/50/100/500/1000/5000 rupees. On them you can see quite interesting, and most importantly, vivid images - local traditions, landmarks, animals, peacocks.

But no matter what, these are the most worn and dirty bills I have ever seen. Either the state infrequently updates the money supply, or the citizens themselves are not particularly careful with banknotes.

The basis of the banking system is the 3 largest banks of Sri Lanka: Bank of Ceylon, People's Bank, Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC. Thanks to them, big cities There will definitely be no problems with ATMs, they are here at every turn. In smaller cities and beach resorts These devices are concentrated, as a rule, in shopping centers or at large train stations. In addition, chain hotels and shopping centers accept payment credit cards international payment systems.