Since Sri Lanka is quite big Island, which has many beaches and resorts, then you should not ignore the issue of choosing a vacation spot on this island. It is important to remember that different areas of Sri Lanka can experience very different weather at the same time. So if you are thinking about where it is better to go in Sri Lanka, then you should not forget about the climate. Even if you find a resort in Sri Lanka that suits you completely, take the time to look at what the climate is like in this resort in the month in which you plan to travel.
The most popular resorts in Sri Lanka are located in the west and south of the island, but there are also several good resorts located in the east and north of Sri Lanka. Since the west and south of the island were not so badly damaged due to civil war and the 2004 tsunami, tourism development here was much faster than in the east and north of Sri Lanka. It is therefore not surprising that most of the popular resorts are located in the south and west of the island, despite the fact that the north and east of Sri Lanka have great tourism potential.
If you are thinking about where to go in Sri Lanka, then our article about resorts in Sri Lanka may be very useful for you. In this article we will present short descriptions of popular resorts in Sri Lanka, but you can always get more information on our website detailed information for a specific resort. After reading all the information, you will be able to understand which resort in Sri Lanka is best to choose for a holiday at this or that time of the year.

Map of Sri Lanka with resorts

To begin with, it would be nice to find out about the location of all the resorts on the map of Sri Lanka. This page presents General Map resorts of Sri Lanka and a map of the southern coast of the island with resorts. Perhaps some of the resorts described in this article are not marked on the maps, but the most popular resorts in Sri Lanka are still marked.

Beruwela Resort

This resort is great for couples, although all tourists can find good holiday conditions in Beruwala. When it is winter in Russia, the weather around the Beruwela resort in Sri Lanka is warm and relatively dry. This is the peak tourist season here. From May the weather begins to change as the southwest monsoon arrives here, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall.
The Beruwela resort owes its great popularity among tourists to its beach. This is a magnificent sandy beach, one of the most beautiful in Sri Lanka, and with countless palm trees and colorful bird life. Another advantage of Beruwela is a wide selection of housing to suit every taste and budget. There are both simple ones here guest houses and luxury villas for rent. But especially popular here are the large hotel complexes, which offer not only all-inclusive meals, but also numerous sports and entertainment events.
It is worth noting that the Beruwala resort in Sri Lanka focused on health-improving holidays. Several hotels in this resort specialize in Ayurveda. So if you want to delve into the world of traditional Indian healing, Beruwala is definitely suitable place for those who want to combine a holiday on a beautiful beach with Ayurveda.
Beruwela Resort is located approximately 56 km south of the capital Colombo and 90 km from Bandaranaike International Airport. Typically, a taxi ride from the airport to this resort takes about two hours.
Beruwela Beach, 1.2 kilometers long, pleases with its light, fine sand. If you also remember the crystal clear ocean and countless coconut palms that provide shade on the beach, it is not difficult to understand why Beruwela is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. Families with children will appreciate the shallow waters around this beach, which offer good conditions for bathing and swimming. Thanks to the reef, Beruwela is also a good place for snorkeling and diving.
At the southern end of the beach, the Bentota River flows into Indian Ocean. The diverse flora and fauna of the river and its valley invites you to explore in detail. Boat trips of three hours or more pass through beautiful mangrove forests to Little Adam Peak.

Bentota Resort

Over the past 40 years, Bentota has transformed from a sleepy fishing village into a first-class resort. Large hotels with spacious swimming pools, specialized restaurants and luxurious wellness centers are no longer able to accommodate everyone who wants to relax in these perfectly fitting beautiful landscape resort complexes. Like many other resorts on the west coast of Sri Lanka, Bentota has several all-inclusive hotels. Guests from all over the world appreciate hotels operating under this concept not only for the numerous included services, but also for the fact that they do not need to think about spending during their vacation and do not need to constantly count money.
In addition to large hotel complexes, Bentota also has guest houses for tourists with a smaller wallet. As a rule, such guest houses are located a few steps from the beach.
The undisputed advantage of the Bentota resort is its magnificent sandy beach. This is a four-kilometer long beach with light and very fine sand, which is bordered by a strip of palm trees. Water sports enthusiasts will appreciate the good conditions for surfing, sailing, diving or snorkeling at this beach. But those who simply want to swim in the calm waters of the Indian Ocean will also find a suitable place for themselves. At the northern end of the beach, the ocean is usually quite calm, making it ideal for swimming. More high waves can be seen at the southern end of the beach.
Bentota is located right at the mouth of the river of the same name, approximately 62 km south of the capital of Sri Lanka. The international airport is located approximately 100 kilometers from Bentota. It can be reached in about an hour and a half drive.
The Bentota Ganges, which flows into the Indian Ocean near the resort, is home to countless birds and other diverse flora and fauna of Sri Lanka. We recommend taking a mangrove boat tour along this river to Little Adam Peak.
An interesting place of peace and serenity is located 10 kilometers from the resort of Bentota. This is a garden designed by Bevis Bava in 1920 with beautiful tropical plants that can be seen in a paradise with small ponds and winding paths.
If you want to get an insight into the life of the locals, then you should visit the weekly market in the nearby village of Aluthgama. While walking around the market, you can see a lot of interesting things, including unique products that are sold only in Sri Lanka.

Hikkaduwa Resort

If you are interested in the most popular resorts in Sri Lanka among Russian tourists, then you simply do not have the right to ignore the Hikkaduwa resort.
Initially, there was a small fishing village on the site of the Hikkaduwa resort, but later a secret place for "selected" tourists. Today Hikkaduwa is one of the most famous resorts Sri Lanka. Despite the many hotels, this place has retained its charm.
The beach resort of Hikkaduwa in the far southwest of Sri Lanka is a popular destination, especially for active tourists. During the day, most tourists here engage in water sports, and in the evening they spend time in bars. The resort of Hikkaduwa is especially popular among young people. Divers and surfers appreciate good nightlife in Hikkaduwa, which is mainly concentrated in the southern part of the resort.
Recently, in addition to small hotels and guest houses, Hikkaduwa has also received large resort hotels, which offer all the necessary amenities so that guests do not feel the need to leave the hotel premises.
The sandy beach of Hikkaduwa is covered with beautiful light sand and countless coconut palms. Surfers can expect good waves at this beach. Both beginners and professionals will be satisfied with the surfing conditions here. In general, Hikkaduwa is considered the best place for surfing in Sri Lanka, where there are many surf schools, board rental stations, and shops offering everything you need for surfing.
The coral reef in the Hikkaduwa area is one of the most famous diving spots in Sri Lanka. Moreover, it is located near the coast. Many of the corals are unfortunately dead, but the variety of colorful fish will satisfy even seasoned divers.
The capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo, is located approximately 115 kilometers from Hikkaduwa, and international Airport near Negombo - 147 kilometers. Therefore, a taxi ride from the airport to Hikkaduwa will last from 2.5 to 3 hours.
Galle, the most important city on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is approximately 25 minutes' drive from Hikkaduwa.
For nature lovers, we recommend taking a boat trip to the lagoon near Dodanduwa, which is just five kilometers south of Hikkaduwa. You can also go to the lake of the same name, where there is a beautiful temple on an island in the middle of the water. North of the city is a moonstone mine. During a tour of this place, you can get an idea of ​​how popular jewelry is created.

Kalutara resort

Tourists who are only interested in best resorts Sri Lanka, for some reason, the Kalutara resort is often overlooked, which, together with Wadduwa, Beruwela and Bentota, forms the most important resort region to the south west coast Sri Lanka. This is due to the long beautiful beaches, excellent water sports facilities and excellent hotel industry. These premises are also complemented by the magnificent surroundings, which boast of its lush nature and countless coconut palms. The Kalutara area is also famous for its mangosteen fruit, which is considered the best on the island.
Along the beautiful Kalutara beach there are many hotels that offer a high level of comfort and service. The spacious resorts blend harmoniously into the tropical environment and are fully catered for international guests. Spacious swimming pools, good restaurants, as well as exclusive wellness centers where Ayurvedic treatments are often carried out, are available in many of these hotels. As in other resort areas of Sri Lanka, hoteliers in Kalutara are increasingly using the all-inclusive concept, which is especially popular among guests from Russia and Europe.
Kalutara's lively town center has small markets and shops offering a wide range of souvenirs. The selection ranges from textiles or small art pieces to the palm frond or coconut fiber bedding that Kalutara is famous for.
The quiet, kilometer-long Kalutara beach is one of the most popular in the country. Particularly pleasant is the northern area of ​​the beach, where the sandy beach remains almost untouched. Kalutara Beach offers ideal conditions for walking, swimming, surfing and snorkeling.
The Kalutara resort is located at the mouth of the Kalu Ganga River, approximately 45 kilometers from the capital and 80 kilometers from Bandaranaike International Airport. To travel from the airport to Kalutara you will need from 1.5 to 2 hours.
The main attraction of Kalutara is temple complex Gangatilaka Vihara. At the center of the temple is the impressive Dagobah, whose white dome can be seen from afar. Although the temple has no historical significance, it is still a popular pilgrimage site for devout Buddhists. The reason for this is the 2000 year old Boddhi tree under which Buddha was enlightened. For visitors, the fact that Dagobah is the only one accessible in Sri Lanka is a special reason to visit the temple. Also a popular excursion destination is the Kalu Ganga River, where boat trips are available. The flora and fauna along the lush banks of the river, as well as the opportunity to watch local fishermen as they work, make this excursion very popular among tourists.

Marawila Resort

If you are thinking about which resort in Sri Lanka to choose, then it is important to understand how you want to spend your time. If you are an amateur active rest and water sports, then the picturesque fishing village of Marawila, just north of Negombo, is the place to be. However, you can find here quiet place away from crowds of tourists.
Only a few hotels in the Marawila area have been carefully integrated into nature to preserve the originality of the surroundings. Hotel buildings have no more than three floors and offer a high level of comfort. Luxury hotels with spacious swimming pools, international restaurants and a variety of sports and entertainment activities often offer an all-inclusive concept for their guests. But there are also comfortable middle-class hotels and simple guest houses in the Marawila resort area.
The three-kilometer Marawila beach is washed on one side by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, and on the other hand it is bordered by a strip of countless coconut palms, which provide the shade necessary for sunny days. Families with children and those tourists who cannot swim will appreciate the shallow waters of this beach. Like all beaches in Sri Lanka, Marawila Beach is also open to the public. Water sports enthusiasts and anyone who wants to become one can find good conditions for diving and surfing at this beach. Reef diving tours, where there are many colorful fish and coral reefs, are recommended for all diving enthusiasts.
Marawila Resort is located in the Gampaha region, north of the famous tourist resort Negombo. About 30 kilometers - this is the distance you need to cover to travel from Colombo airport to Marawila. Typically the journey takes about 40 minutes, depending on traffic.
Although Marawila does not have a dream beach, this resort is a famous place in Sri Lanka because the village is the center of batik in Sri Lanka. The exclusive Budhi company operates here, which has branches in the capital, as well as numerous small family businesses. Although the art of batik originated on the island of Java, the people of Marawila have been practicing this craft for many years. Art lovers should visit one of the companies, where they can watch the colorful fabrics being made and learn about the complex production process. If you want, you can buy some of the fabrics which will cost much less than in souvenir shops, especially in other parts of Sri Lanka.

Negombo Resort

Once a small fishing village, Negombo has grown into the fifth largest city in Sri Lanka with a population of under 150,000 inhabitants. Today the city, although one of the most important fishing ports on the west coast, is a renowned holiday destination. Already in the 1970s, tourism began to develop in this region of Sri Lanka.
Beautiful beach, good opportunities for water sports, as well historical Buildings and various cultural influences have made Negombo a popular holiday destination. Along the long sandy beach of Negombo there are large and small hotels of different levels of comfort and in different price categories. Particularly popular among travelers are large hotels offering comprehensive services and a high level of service. Almost every major hotel has its own wellness center, offering massages, treatments and Ayurvedic treatments.
There is some pattern in Negombo related to the level of hotels when moving from north to south. Hotels in the north tend to be more luxurious, but also more expensive, than in the south of the city. Behind the beach is the main Negombo road, where there are numerous restaurants, cafes or souvenir shops. It is also worth adding that Negombo has a pretty vibrant nightlife.
Negombo beach is well suited for families with children, as the entrance to the water is gentle. The eight-kilometer beach has tall palm trees that provide shade, but such palm trees are not everywhere here. Not far from the shore there is an interesting coral reef with colorful sea life. Additionally, in the waters near Negombo there is the Kudapaduwa shipwreck.
Negombo has an excellent location: the capital of Sri Lanka is only 40 kilometers south, and Colombo International Airport is only six kilometers south of Negombo. Due to its proximity to the airport, Negombo is ideal not only for a long beach holiday, but also for a stopover at the beginning or end of a trip to Sri Lanka.
The Portuguese, Dutch and British played important roles in Negombo's history. Evidence of the city's interesting past are numerous buildings and churches, as well as the colonial Old city. The most impressive feature here is the Cinnamon Canal, a 100-kilometer canal leading from Colombo to Puttalam. It was created in order to facilitate the transportation of the popular spice.

Wadduwa Resort

The fishing village, located near the resort of Kalutara, is well known for its fantastic beach and charming surroundings. Lovers have a relaxing holiday And water sports You will appreciate the beautiful sand and clear ocean in this place.
Wadduwa is a popular destination for foreign tourists, but it is also a popular holiday destination for locals. So it's no surprise that it gets crowded on weekends. But on other days of the week the atmosphere in the resort is quite calm.
Wadduwa has accommodation to suit every taste. Many hotels here operate on a tried-and-true all-inclusive concept, which includes meals as well as numerous sports and entertainment activities. The large resort hotels on Wadduwa Beach have been cleverly integrated into the lush landscape. Therefore, they are characterized by low, usually only two-story buildings.
Wadduwa has several shops selling traditional wood carvings and other souvenirs, as well as several restaurants and bars. Also worth visiting is the original village of Wadduwa, home to local fishermen and rice farmers.
If you choose Wadduwa as your Sri Lanka holiday destination, you will be rewarded with a beautiful beach and a relaxed atmosphere. The golden yellow sandy beach of Wadduwa is one of the most beautiful places on the west coast of Sri Lanka. It is surrounded by fine sand, countless shady palm trees and a sparkling ocean. Moderate waves offer good conditions for windsurfers. However, the beach is relatively safe for swimmers most of the year.

Koggala Resort

East of Galle you will find beautiful beaches that have not yet been covered mass tourism. One of these beaches is Koggala, which belongs to the resort of the same name. Although the resort offers good tourist infrastructure, the three-kilometer-long beach does not feel overcrowded. Koggala Beach is wide and covered with fine sand, as well as countless coconut trees and bizarre rock formations.
Koggala Resort is especially popular with couples who appreciate a peaceful and tranquil environment. At Koggala Beach, walks along the ocean provide much-needed rest and relaxation. Families with children also sometimes choose this place to relax because the gentle entrance to the ocean is ideal for children.
There are several hotels and guest houses in Koggala that offer simple and comfortable accommodation. The all-inclusive concept is not as common here as in popular resorts west coast of Sri Lanka.
Main city south coast, Galle, is only 15 kilometers from Koggala, and charming city Matara is located just 30 km east of this resort. True, the distance to Colombo International Airport is quite impressive, because it is 175 kilometers. Therefore, it will take you about three hours to get from Colombo airport to Koggala.
The Koggala resort is famous for its fishermen who catch fish while sitting on a pole. In many other fishing villages in Sri Lanka, this traditional fishing technique is already history. However, in Koggala, during the morning and afternoon hours, visitors can see fishermen sitting on poles.
Big lake Koggala is located a few kilometers from the resort of the same name. Although it is actually a natural lake, the water is salty due to the fact that ocean water does flow into it. Boat tours are offered on this lake, during which you can admire the mangroves and tropical plants growing along the shores, as well as the variety of animals and birds that live in the area. There are several islands in the lake, such as the island with a Buddhist monk temple or the cinnamon island, where cinnamon is grown and processed by one family.
Another interesting place is the Koggala Folk Museum, which is located in a beautiful garden. The museum is located in the birthplace of the most important Sinhala writer of the 20th century, Martin Wickramasingh. Numerous exhibits provide insight into the culture and traditions of Sri Lanka, as well as the work of the famous author.

Tangalle Resort

Located away from the main tourist centers On the western and southern coasts of Sri Lanka, the small fishing village of Tangalle has not yet been touched by mass tourism. Although there are several guest houses and small hotels on the coast, their number is still small. Small but sophisticated boutique hotels on Tangalle Beach offer a good level of comfort.
Tangalle resort attracts with its tranquil atmosphere: here tourists enjoy their holiday picturesque beach during the day and spend quiet time in restaurants and cafes in the evening. Tangalle is also a stopover for some travelers on trips to the famous Bundala and Yala National Parks, which are located to the east of the city.
The two kilometer long Tangalle Beach is covered in golden yellow sand and is good for swimming. Not far from this beach you will find other picturesque coves and deserted beaches such as Rekawa Beach, located ten kilometers from Tangalle.
Tangalle resort is located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, approximately 37 kilometers west of Matara and 80 kilometers from Galle. To the east is only the larger town of Hambantota, which is located about 50 kilometers from Tangalle, in close proximity to the Bundala National Park. The famous Yala National Park, also east of Tangalle, can be reached in about two hours. A taxi ride from the international airport, which passes through the interior of Sri Lanka, usually lasts between 3 and 3.5 hours.
An interesting place near Tangalle is the Howling Hole, which is a hole in the rock with a diameter of about one meter and a depth of 20 meters. It “shoots” strong fountains of water every 10-15 minutes. During the southwest monsoon, from May to September, the height of such a fountain can reach 15 meters.

Trincomalee Resort

Now it's time to present the best holiday resorts in Sri Lanka on the east coast. The most popular of them are Trincomalee and Batticaloa. We will talk about them below.
Beautiful beaches and the photogenic harbor are located in the coastal city of Trincomalee, on the northeastern peninsula of Sri Lanka. Trincomalee is the capital of the eastern province, often called "Trinco". Particularly noteworthy here are the beaches in the north of the city, the natural harbor surrounded by hills, the ferry port and the idyllic suburbs.
Trincomalee is of interest mainly to beach lovers and nature lovers, as well as people who simply want to experience the vibrant life of a typical Sri Lankan city. However, if you are looking for interesting sights, you will be disappointed with this harbor city as there is not much to admire here. The main attraction of the city is the so-called Fort Frederick with the Hindu sanctuary of Koneswaram, which is located on Swami Rock, at an altitude of about 130 meters above sea level. Here, next to the main Shiva temple, there is a small Ganesha temple.
Fort Frederick is certainly worth a visit, but today it is mainly used as a barracks by the Sri Lankan military and as such only a small part of it is open to the public.
There are several small islands off the coast of Sri Lanka in the Trincomalee region, one of which is Pigeon Island. This island has a very beautiful coral reef that attracts snorkelers and divers. The island can be reached in just 10 minutes by boat from Trincomalee.

Batticaloa Resort

On the shores of the Bay of Bengal on the east coast of Sri Lanka lies a little visited and small town ok Batticaloa. It has retained much of its original charm. Being half located on an island in a lagoon, the city was only slightly damaged by the tsunami. The 54-kilometer saltwater lagoon has truly scenic spots, which are recommended to be explored during a boat trip.
The Batticaloa resort area is mainly known for its "singing fish" phenomenon, the existence of which has not yet been proven. However, it is mentioned even in the Encyclopedia Britannica. To experience this phenomenon, you need to plunge the oar into the water on a moonlit and calm night and keep your ear on the other end of the oar. In this case, you can hear various subtle sounds. This natural phenomenon has not yet been scientifically proven, but it is still a major attraction in the area.
More tangible attractions are many Hindu temples Batticaloa, as well as a magnificent 17th century Dutch fort. It is located right on the shore of the lagoon. Many remains of the walls are well preserved.
Another interesting place in Batticaloa is the Lady Manning Bridge, which connects the land to the island. The steel bridge dates back to the British colonial period and is one of the most long bridges in Sri Lanka.
Off the coast of Batticaloa, the Japanese air force sank the British aircraft carrier Hermes in 1942. The sunken aircraft carrier is located at a depth of 55 meters and is one of the most interesting places for diving in Sri Lanka.
If you are interested in beaches in the Batticaloa area, then the best of them, in our opinion, is Kalladi Beach. It is not very crowded and is therefore recommended for those looking for a quiet place to relax.

Sri Lanka (Ceylon): flags, capital

Official capital The island state of Sri Lanka is Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, and the country's largest city and actual capital is Colombo. The words "Sri Lanka" are traditionally translated from Sanskrit as "Blessed Land", although the more correct word is "Island" rather than "Land". The former name of Sri Lanka was Ceylon.

The modern full official name of the country is the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. The official capital of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is a small town in the Colombo metropolitan area - largest city countries. Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte houses the country's parliament, as well as various government bodies and the Supreme Court of Sri Lanka. Colombo, the de facto capital of the country, is also its administrative, political and economic center.

• Serendib (pre-Sinhala era),
• Tambapanni (from the founding of the Sinhalese state until the arrival of the Portuguese in 1505),
• Ceylon (from 1505 to 1815),
• British Ceylon from 1815 to 1948 (actually from 1817, since before that time the Kingdom of Kandy existed),
• Dominion of Ceylon from 02/04/1948 to 1972 (after gaining independence from Britain, the country became a republic within the Commonwealth of Nations),
• Republic of Sri Lanka from 1972 to 1978,
• Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka since 1978.

You can often come across a question about the correct placement of stress in the name of the country “Sri Lanka”: L A nka or lank A? However, based on the original name, neither of the two options will be correct. There is no emphasis in the word "Lanka", since the Sinhala language has no accent, but only long and short sounds, and in this case only short ones are used.

Flags of Ceylon and Sri Lanka

Throughout history, the colors and motifs of the flags of the island nation have changed several times. The following shows exactly how this has been expressed over the past two centuries.

History of changing flags of Sri Lanka

Modern state flag The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka is the result of many years of transformation of its parts and elements since the state gained independence. The following shows the symbolism of the latest modern version of the national flag of Sri Lanka.

• 1815-02/04/1948 British Ceylon

A new flag was created, based on the British flag and placed on a blue background in the upper left corner and the symbols of the country (in the understanding of the British colonialists) in the form of a satellite in the middle on the right.

• 02/04/1948-03/02/1951 Dominion of Ceylon

In 1948, after the island was liberated from colonial rule by Great Britain, the new republic adopted the official flag of the last independent Kingdom of Kandy (1469-1815). It depicts the symbol of the country - a Sinhalese lion with a raised sword in its paw and 4 decorative elements at the corners of the canvas.

• 03/02/1951-05/22/1972 Ceylon

Colored stripes have been added to the flag, occupying 1/7 of the flag's area - the colors of the country's ethno-religious minorities: Muslim Moors and Hindu Tamils.

• 1972 - present Democratic Republic Sri Lanka

4 stylized leaves of the Bo tree (one of the symbols of Buddhism) were added to the composition at the corners of the flag, replacing the previous ornament.

Flag of the Republic of Sri Lanka: symbolism

After the flag of the Kingdom of Kandy was adopted as a basis, the changes and additions indicated above were made to it. Their appearance was primarily associated with interethnic problems in Sri Lankan society.

As a result, the interpretation of the symbolism of the national flag of Sri Lanka has been used by various political forces previously and continues to be used now in interests mainly aimed at increasing the severity of the national issue, rather than finding common ground.

The Sinhalese lion is the national symbol of Sri Lanka

After Ceylon gained independence from Britain in 1948, the question arose of creating a banner new republic. A special committee was created to develop the layout of the flag, which decided to return to the version of the flag of the last free Sinhalese kingdom, used during the reign of King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha: it depicted a Sinhala lion on a burgundy background.

Considering that there are no lions in Sri Lanka, the choice of symbol would seem somewhat strange. However, the fact is that the appearance of the Sinhala lion symbol dates back to the time of Prince Vijaya, who landed on the island in 543 BC. with a flag with a lion on it. According to legend, the founder of the Sinhala nation came from India, where lions in those days were found in large quantities. Thus, having appeared as the flag of Prince Vijaya, over time the Sinhalese lion became established as a symbol of royal power. For example, the paws of a lion on the flag of the Kingdom of Kandy meant the stability of Sri Lanka, its steadfastness; and equal distances from the paws to the body and from the body to the top of the head symbolized the equality of the ruler and the law.

Where is Sri Lanka
The majestic Mount Sigiriya is one of the main attractions of Sri Lanka. Built in the 5th century on the top of a mountain, the stone fortress was a reliable shelter for the king. After a short climb up the stone steps, 11 amazing frescoes are revealed, painted with natural paints of a special composition.

At the top of the “lion” rock there is still a giant royal throne.
Ruins remain in the city of Polonnaruwa ancient capital Sinhala state. Here you can see the remains of a palace with huge statues of Buddha and beautiful temple Vatadage. In the northern part of Polonnaruwa there is the largest sculptural ensemble of this area - three huge statues of Buddha carved into the rocks.
In the suburbs of Kandy - Peradeniya - there is the largest Botanical Garden with rare palm alleys, with a huge number different types tropical vegetation.

Lore from all over the tropical world is represented here.
Sri Lankan cuisine and its features
Curried rice is the most common food item. They also serve dishes of meat, fish and seafood (sea shrimp and lobster), poultry, and vegetables. Magnificent and inexpensive tropical fruits: pineapples, bananas (more than 200 varieties), avocados, mangoes, papaya, oranges, and coconuts. Arak and beer are popular local drinks.
Population, language, religion
70% of the population of Sri Lanka are Sinhalese, 20% are Tamils. Small nations and ethnic groups of mixed origin include the Moors - descendants of ancient Arab and Persian traders, the burghers - descended from mixed marriages between the Portuguese and Dutch, on the one hand, and the Sinhalese and Tamils, on the other. About 42 thousand Malays live on the island. In the mountainous forest region of the island's interior, near the city of Nuwara Eliya, small groups of Veddas (about 850 people) - descendants of the island's oldest population - have survived.
The official languages ​​are Sinhala, Tamil, and English.
The bulk of the inhabitants (70%) profess Buddhism - mostly Sinhalese. Most of The Tamil population is Hindu. The Malays and Moors (7%) adhere to the Muslim religion. There are also 7% of Catholic Christians on the island - these are burghers and part of the Sinhala population. Veddas - where Sri Lanka is located, the country of primitive religion. Religious beliefs and superstitions are very strong among the population of Sri Lanka; there is still a division into castes. There are about 20 castes in total.
Customs regulations, visa, currency, embassies
Visa. The usual time frame for processing documents at the embassy is 1 day. Required: international passport, 1 application form with photo and air tickets. A consular fee will be charged. For Russian citizens staying for up to 1 month, a visa is not required - a tourist voucher is enough.
GEOGRAPHY
Sri Lanka is an island in the Indian Ocean, located 800 km. north of the equator. total area The islands are 65,610 sq. km, length from north to south is 445 km, and from west to east is 225 km. The main part of the island is occupied by a plain, the height of which rarely exceeds 100 m above sea level. Central is located in the center of Sri Lanka mountain range. Average height The mountains range from 1000 to 2000 m above sea level, but some peaks rise much higher. Numerous rivers of the country flow down from the mountains. The largest river is the Mahaweli Ganga 335 km. Some of the island's rivers are navigable. The highest points of the island - Mount Pidurutalagala has a height of 2524 m. Then Mount Kirigalpotta has a height of 2395 m. However, the most famous is the majestic Adam's Peak (Mount Sri Pada) - 2243 m. See more >
FARM
Tea production is of utmost importance in Sri Lanka. The island produces 9-11% of the world's tea. More than half a million people work on the plantations. Almost all the tea produced on the island is exported. As a tea exporter, Sri Lanka ranks leading position in the world. Another important export crop is the rubber plant Hevea. As in tea production, the bulk of rubber is produced by relatively large plantations. They have factories where the collected latex is processed and sheet rubber is produced. The third export crop is coconut. A significant amount of copra, coconut oil, and coconut milk powder are exported from Sri Lanka. Of the other agricultural commodities exported, spices (especially cinnamon) are the most important. Exports of industrial goods have increased in recent years. Of these, the most significant part is textile products. Precious stones continue to be an important source of income.
ECONOMY
Modern Sri Lanka is a country of plantations created during the times of the British. In 1977, the country was the first in South Asia to take the path of transition from a centralized state economy to a market economy. Colombo has the largest sea ​​port, through which a huge volume of container traffic passes. The state receives its main income from the following sources:
- free trade zone, attracting foreign investment -

“Sri Lanka is unique world, where in a small area there is such a diversity of cultures, landscapes and climatic zones that you cannot find even in countries whose territory is tens of times larger.”

Sir Arthur Clarke

Autumn has come. The rays of the last autumn sun are flickering outside the windows, and everyone begins to think about how to extend their summer. Many of you will soon be chasing the warm rays. However, this raises the question “where?”
The answer is obvious. We are all going to Sri Lanka, the land of eternal summer, located near the equator. You will ask why"? There are many reasons, because in Sri Lanka everyone can find something to their liking.

1.

Meet the amazing unique, diverse climate.

In 3 - 4 days of travel you can feel tropics on the coast Indian Ocean, enjoying the sun on the endless sandy beaches, see ancient shrines of Buddhism and the oldest Bodhi tree, which is more than 2250 years old, to perform south african safari by jeep in national reserve, enjoy the temperate climate of the central part of the island, admire the waterfalls and feel the coolness of the highlands, where the best famous Ceylon tea grows on fog-shrouded plantations.
Sri Lanka has the largest number waterfalls in relation to the territory it occupies than any country in the world.

2. Meet smiling faces and feel Sri Lankan hospitality, about which there are legends.

Sri Lankan hospitality is renowned throughout the world. People are friendly and ready to help those who are not familiar with local customs. Sri Lankans are very hospitable and are happy to invite people into their homes, no matter how humble they are. At first, it will seem unusual that everyone around you is smiling. However, after you return from your trip, the smiles of the island's residents, coming from the heart, will warm you in cold times.
Sri Lanka is a multi-ethnic society, the result of several waves of immigration. The main ethnic groups are Tamils ​​and Sinhalese. Muslims, Malays and Chinese also live here. The Portuguese and British brought with them Kaffirs from Africa, and the Dutch brought a special type of European traders - burghers.

3. Admire the rich cultural heritage civilization with 2000 years of history.

The richness of Sri Lanka's culture has been recognized by UNESCO, which has declared 6 archaeological sites countries objects World Heritage:

• Holy City Anuradhapura(4th century BC) - the first ancient capital
• Ancient city Polonnaruwa(10th century AD) - second ancient capital
• Golden Cave temple in Dambulla(1st century BC)
• Lion fortress on the rock Sigiriya(5th century AD)
• Holy City Kandy(17th century AD) - last royal capital
• Old City Halle and him fortress(17th century AD)

The seventh World Heritage Site is an ecological reserve - Sinharaja tropical rainforest, whose jungle is officially one of 34 the most unique places planet in terms of its biodiversity.
Visiting the area called the “Cultural Triangle” , travelers can see huge dagobas(domed structures or stupas) and the remains of ancient buildings in the ruins of the cities of Anuradhapurai Polonnaruwa, climb the amazing stairs to the Dambulla Temple , behold sensual frescoes with the image of girls of divine beauty on the Sigiriya rock.
In the central part of the country is the last royal capital, the city of Kandy, considered cultural center islands and where it is located Dalada Maligawa Temple or the Temple of the Tooth, where it is kept sacred tooth of Buddha.
Galle Fort, with its 14 massive fortifications, regular streets and original Dutch-style single-storey houses, is as bustling with life as it was in the Middle Ages.

4. Feel the pulsating energy national holidays and festivals.

The diverse civilization of Sri Lanka has endowed the island with a stunning cultural heritage of colorful festivals related to Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity.
For every full moon there is a holiday Singing. The most important of holidays, Vesak, Full moon day in May, which celebrates the birth of Buddha, his enlightenment and death.
The festival that attracts the most attention from tourists visiting Sri Lanka is Kandy Esala Perahera held in Kandy for 10 days in late July or early August . Among the Hindu festivals, it is worth noting Vel, held in Colombo in July, and festival in Kataragama on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, during which a torchlight procession is held. Hindus also celebrate Thai Pongal("harvest festival") Maha Shivaratri(“Great Night of Shiva”), the most important festival of the year for followers of the god Shiva, who are in the majority among Hindus in Sri Lanka, and Deepavali(“Festival of Lights”).
Sri Lankan New Year, usually falling in mid-April, is a non-religious holiday that is celebrated by the entire population of the island, regardless of their religion.

5. Meet someone unique diversity of wildlife.

Thanks to the influence of Buddhism, which calls for honoring all living things, Sri Lanka pays great attention to environmental protection. In total, on the island there is 12 national parks and 52 reserves, occupying 14% of the total area of ​​Sri Lanka.
A safari in the national park gives you the opportunity to see 91 species of mammals (including 16 that live only in this region) - elephants, leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, sika deer, wild pigs, mouse and barking deer, wild boars, porcupines, anteaters, civet cats (a genus of wild cats), lemurs, giant squirrels, monkeys(including macaques, langurs gray and with pimples on the face).
National Park Yala considered a place highest concentration leopards in the world. National Park Uda Walawe famous for its huge population elephants.
Sri Lanka is one of the best places on the ground to observe blue whales And. Sperm whales, killer whales, pilot whales and dolphins also regularly meet during trips along the coast of Mirissa ( South coast islands). On the beaches of the island you can often see turtles seven varieties.
The island is a paradise for those who love to watch birds. 233 species live here (33 endemic) - the number of bird species, taking into account migration, increases to 482. There are 171 species on the island reptiles(101 of them, including two species of crocodiles, are found only here), 244 species butterflies and 120 species dragonflies.

6. Replenish the lack of adrenaline adventures and active sports.

An island with a coastline of 1,340 km. is ideal place For windsurfing, water skiing, jet skis, surfing, sailing, scuba diving(including diving on sunken ships), snorkeling, speed boats, banana boat rides. Best places for water sports are located on the west coast - in the Negombo area ; on the southwest coast - in Wadduwa, Kalutara and Beruwella; and also in Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Koggala, Tangalle and Hambantota on the south and southeast coast. Aquatics centers are supervised by certified PADI instructors.
Sri Lanka has more than 100 thousand rivers, lagoons and reservoirs. You can ride here all year round kayaking And canoe, combining these activities with on foot and stops at a campsite. The fast current and rapids of the Kelani Ganges next to Kitulgala ideal for rafting between November and April.
Alternative activities include activities paragliding, rock climbing, caving (caving) and mountain biking.

7. Relax in the best hotels Asia, combining the highest service and design.

There are various hotel options in Sri Lanka.

In Colombo you will find modern five star hotels, and colonial era hotels, in which you can feel the charm and romance of past centuries.
The island has stunning hotels in amazingly beautiful places. On the coast, especially in the west and south, great amount resort hotels. Several of them were designed by one of Asia's most famous 20th-century architects, Geoffrey Bawa. Bawa's designs are in a style called "tropical modernism", which is characterized by blurring the boundaries between external and internal space, so that the architecture and landscape of the surrounding area interact with each other. Also in the western and southern shores the number is growing boutique hotels.
In the cities of the mountainous region of the country such as Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Bandarawela , concentrated hotels of the colonial era. For those who are going to fairly remote regions of the island, perhaps for the purpose of sporting adventures, there are wonderful colonial-style houses, factory buildings on tea and rubber plantations, jungle huts, tree houses And eco-shelters, and campings.

8. Enjoy exotic national cuisine.

The variety of types of rice, spices, vegetables and fruits, coupled with the customs brought to the island by foreigners, formed the varied and interesting cuisine of Sri Lanka. Rice used with curry(any dish made from eggplant, potatoes, green bananas, chicken, fish, etc. with the addition of spices) of varying degrees of spiciness: from spicy-spicy to dynamite-like spiciness. Just as traditional hoppers(a snack similar to pancakes) thong hoppers(steamed rice noodles) and pita(a mixture of coconut and flour). Dish lamprais, rice and additional meat or vegetable ingredients baked in banana leaves, was inherited from the Dutch. Always available in large quantities fresh fish, shrimp, crabs, squid and lobsters. Desserts include fermented milk buffalo milk curd, watered palm honey, and similar to caramel, vatallapam.
In Sri Lanka there are various cutlets, pies, malu pang(fish bun), and Kimbula Banis(crocodile shaped bun).
Fruits mango, pineapple, banana, papaya, and lesser known but wonderful sapodilla, mangosteen, rambutan, woodapple(a fruit with a very hard skin, called wood apple), durian, passion fruit, avocado, etc.

9. Try Ayurvedic procedures and relax in spa center.

Sri Lanka is a place where you can restore not only your body, but also your spirit. The most popular method to restore and rejuvenate a tired body and soothe a weary soul remains Ayurveda- the world's oldest system of medicine.

Ayurvedic programs consist of a number of herbal treatments and various types bath And massages, as well as cleansing and rejuvenation techniques such as yoga, meditation and special diets.
In spas located in hotels, guests are offered not only Ayurvedic, but also other types of treatments, such as Thai massage, hydrotherapy, herbal baths, reflexology and beauty treatments. For those who need an energy recharge, we offer meditation courses.

10. Commit profitable purchases.

There are different ways to shop in Sri Lanka:

• Bargaining with a souvenir seller, spending time on the beach;
• Choosing fruits in a village shop, making your way between bags of rice;
• Visiting fashion sales (Sri Lanka is a major clothing exporter), enjoying walking through modern shopping centers Colombo.

Stop by the gift shop and purchase a piece adorned with the island's national animals such as the makara (mystical animal), lion, swan, elephant and lotus, which are intricately engraved on the copper products(boxes, trays, lanterns, vases) and silver products(jewelry decorated with filigree carvings, tea sets. In addition, very popular national masks, lacquered ceramics, batik, textiles, lace, wood carving.

Where is Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is known as an exotic Island state.

But where is Sri Lanka?

Let's try to figure it out in more detail...

Sri Lanka is known as an exotic island state located off the southeastern coast of Hindustan in the Indian Ocean. It is located in the tropical zone 650 km from the equator.It is located in the tropical zone 650 km from the equator.

When the cold season comes, many residents of northern latitudes begin to dream of the tropics. "Where to go, what to choose - Goa or Sri Lanka? Where is it better to relax?" - such thoughts flash through the heads of those whose vacation falls in the winter months. But the Indian state cannot be compared with the island state in terms of holiday style. In Sri Lanka, foam discos and trance music on the beach are not popular. Entertainment there is very decent and always within the law: fishing, picnics, barbecues, quiet beach holiday. Life itself in Ceylon flows slowly and as if in languid bliss. Unfortunately, this also applies to service personnel in hotels and restaurants. There is no rush here. The exception is chain hotels with European management. And this circumstance must be taken into account first of all when choosing a hotel in Sri Lanka. As for the resort, not everything is so simple here. Our article is devoted to this problem. Indeed, in addition to the “specialization” of the resort, climate plays a big role. The legendary island of Ceylon, and now independent state Sri Lanka is small in size. But in different time In regions, the weather may differ significantly.

Island climate

The proximity to the equator reliably links summer to these places. It only gets cold in the mountains, where the temperature in winter and at night can drop to +10 degrees. In other regions the thermometer all year round stubbornly stays at +28-30°C. The problem for tourists is not the air or water temperature (the sea, by the way, is always very warm here), but precipitation. Sri Lanka's climate is controlled by monsoons. From May to the end of September, a strong southwest wind brings heavy rains from the equatorial zone. Ninety-five percent of the annual precipitation falls during this season. However, there are some nuances here too. For those who, for financial reasons, want to visit island country during the rainy season, we can tell you where is the best place to relax in Sri Lanka. Choose the north or east coast. There, showers occur mainly at night, and the sun shines during the day. These are resorts such as Jaffna, Trincomalee, Batticaloa, Anuradhapura.

Transition period

In terms of area, the island of Ceylon can be compared with a standard region Russian Federation. However, in terms of climate, Sri Lanka shows itself to be a full-fledged country with different regions. The rainy season is leaving the island gradually. Prices in mid-autumn are still very low, and the amount of precipitation in some regions decreases sharply. So, Sri Lanka in October: where is the best place to relax? It's better to rephrase the question. Where is it definitely not worth going in mid-autumn? These are the resorts of the south and west. Starting from Negombo and towards the equator, the entire coast is flooded with rain. “Wet period” seems to want to have a final rant so that they will remember. And in the northern and east coasts more or less dry. Showers occur only sporadically and at night. But at the beginning of the “wet season”, in April, it is better to avoid the resorts of Negombo, Colombo and Anuradhapura. The rains come there first.

November

Both in Sri Lanka and in the northern latitudes the weather in this sad month is mostly cloudy. But it’s one thing when heavy clouds cover the sky and it’s snowing and raining, and another thing when it’s +30°C outside, and the sun comes out and instantly dries up the snow-white sand of the beaches. And for those who are deciding where is the best place to vacation in November in Sri Lanka, we advise you to choose resorts such as Dikwella, Mirissa, Koggala and Tangalle. Negombo and Trincomalee should be strongly avoided - there " wet season» lingers the longest. But these are zenithal rains. They pass when the sun reaches highest point in the sky. Such showers are stormy, but very short-lived. The tourist season opens throughout the rest of Sri Lanka. It is especially good on the southwestern tip of the island. It is dry there, air humidity decreases, which makes the rest of a European very comfortable. Sea water temperature +26°C. But the main thing is that the water area calms down, the storms stop.

Sri Lanka: where is the best place to relax in winter?

Since Ceylon lies in the Northern Hemisphere, the coldest periods are December, January and February. And the first month of winter is the harshest here. But what does this mean in Ceylon? High in the mountains, the thermometer can actually drop to + 10 degrees at night, and during the day it will rise to only + 16 ° C. But it’s real summer on the coast. The temperature in the shade during the day is +28-30°C, and at night it does not drop below +24°C. The ocean warms up to 28 degrees. This is Sri Lanka in December. Where is the best place to relax at the beginning of the month? To guarantee protection from rain, it is better to choose resorts on the southwest coast. Rain is still possible in the east of the island, but it is short-lived and mostly at night. In the second half of December it becomes dry throughout Sri Lanka. But in order not to give the rains the slightest chance to fall on your head, you should choose resorts in the west of the country, near the capital Colombo, or in the south, in the vicinity of Galle. Those tourists who vacation in Ceylon in December have a unique opportunity to observe the migration of sperm whales and whales off the coast of the island.

Peak season

The peak of the influx of tourists occurs between Christmas (December 25) and the Adoration of the Magi Day (January 6). In these new year holidays prices skyrocket like fireworks rockets. But even after the sixth day they decrease only a little. The first month of the year is not the time for budget tourists. Where is the best place to go in January in Sri Lanka? The north of the island state is still in the grip of a humid monsoon. Therefore, it is better to cross Trincomalee and its surroundings off the list of resorts to visit at this time. But the rest of the island is simply a tropical paradise. According to tourists, January in Sri Lanka is the most comfortable month for Europeans. During the day it is not too hot - + 28-30 ° C in the shade, and the completely calmed ocean warms up to + 29 degrees. The hottest places are Colombo, Galle, Hikkaduwa and Bentota. There the thermometer fluctuates between +30 and + 33°C. The first month of the year is a good time to go diving. The water is very clear, corals are blooming.

February

In the second month of the year, the high tourist season continues. Calm seas and comfortable weather for Europeans reign over the entire territory of the island. It is hottest in the southwest. Therefore, those who want to anneal their bones on the sand of the beaches can choose resorts in the Colombo or Beruwela area for their holiday. There daytime temperatures are consistently +30-32 degrees. What about excursions to Sri Lanka? Where is the best place to vacation in February? Buddhist holidays take place during this month. They are celebrated especially colorfully in the capital of the country, Colombo. To watch the elephant procession and other ceremonies, it is better to choose the resorts of Negombo or Beruwela.

Sri Lanka: where is the best place to relax in spring?

In March, the entire island experiences dry weather. But for those who cannot stand the heat well, it can cause a lot of trouble. The thermometer during the day does not fall below + 30 degrees. And the nights bring little relief (+ 25°C). However, the tourist season is in full swing. After all, the water temperature in the sea is about + 29 degrees! At the end of March, the wet monsoon sometimes makes itself felt in the southwest, in the resorts of Wadduwa, Negombo, Bentota and others. April in Sri Lanka is the hottest month of the year. During the day the air temperature is at least +33 degrees, and at night +27°C. But in the south the amount of precipitation is increasing. Therefore, in mid-spring you should prefer resorts north coast. May is the first month of the rainy season. They are on a rampage in the southwest of the island. The water becomes cloudy due to storms and rainfall. But the mountains in the central part of the island serve as reliable protection northern territories from the wet monsoon. In May, you should choose the Nuwara Eliya resort for your holiday.

Excursion tourism

Now let's look at the specifics of Sri Lanka's resorts. Where is the best place to relax for tourists who want to see the “real Ceylon”, and not just beaches and hotels? First of all, we should recommend big cities- Colombo and Galle. They are located in the west and south of the island, so best time their visits will be during the winter months and March. The historical and cultural sights of the state capital can be explored in three days. Colombo primarily attracts shopaholics. There is no city in Sri Lanka equal to Galle in terms of the abundance of attractions. His historical Center and the ancient fort are included in the UNESCO list. Ceylon supplies the world with tea. Not visiting the plantations of bushes that produce an aromatic drink would be unforgivable stupidity. However, it should be remembered that in the mountains where the famous Ceylon tea grows, in the winter months the temperature does not rise above + 16 degrees, so you should take warm clothes. For those visiting Sri Lanka during the wet season, the grand celebration of Buddha's birthday (May) and the Full Moon Festival (June) will be a consolation.

Beach holiday

Those who intend to use the tropics for sunbathing and swimming, in isolation from the cultural characteristics of Ceylon, should focus on the climatic indications that we wrote about above. But there are some nuances that should be taken into account when deciding where it is better to vacation in Sri Lanka. For example, in October, the waters off the coast of Trincomalee are attacked by poisonous jellyfish. In addition, there are a lot of mosquitoes there. At the height of the rainy season, in July, the Arugam Bay Surf Classic competition is held on the eastern shore of Arugam Bay, attracting surfers from all over the world. The most memorable event of July is the Esala Perahera. This festival with Buddhist rituals lasts ten days. Hikkaduwa also hosts an annual beach festival for building sand castles and sand sculptures in the summer. Hikkaduwa Beach Fest is accompanied by music and dancing.

Tatiana Solomatina

What does a tourist need to know about Sri Lanka?

Good afternoon dear friends!

Every year this island state becomes more and more popular among tourists. Magnificent beaches, warm Indian Ocean and rich cultural heritage, allow you to spend an unforgettable vacation at any time of the year. However, as in every place, there are many subtleties that must be taken into account when going on vacation to this country. This is what we will talk about in this article.

Sri Lanka for tourists: how to get there, when is the season, how much money to take with you, which resort to choose, what to fear, what to see, useful phones. As you can see, I have collected the most necessary tourist information, which will help you better understand what awaits you there.

There is only one international airport in Sri Lanka, Bandaranaike http://www.airport.lk, located 35 km away. south of Colombo.

Aeroflot and Sri Lanka Airlines operate direct flights from Russia, but they only fly to high season and such a flight is very expensive.

Sometimes, tour operators allow direct charter flights, but this happens rarely and it is very difficult to buy a ticket for such a flight; this is the most profitable and cheapest option.

Many flights with transfers are offered by foreign airlines Qatar, Turkish, Etihad, Emirates, Air Arabia. However, you should prepare for a long flight with a layover in a third country, and possibly many hours of waiting for a connecting flight.

Please note that when long wait connecting flights, you will not be able to leave the transit area if the connection takes place at the airport of the country where you require entry visa, unless, of course, you arrange it in advance.

When is the season?

Traveling around Sri Lanka is comfortable all year round. Seasonality on the island is a relative thing. The low season is characterized only by short-term rain showers at night and big waves in the ocean, which prevents a comfortable beach holiday. Therefore, tourists need to carefully choose their route, depending on the time of year.

If you are interested in a beach holiday in the winter months, then it is better to go to the southwest and south coasts. In October, the rainy season ends here, the weather gets better, and the high season begins, favorable for a beach holiday. It will be comfortable in places such as Bentota, Beruwella, Wadduwa, Galle, Kalutara, Mount Lavinia , Negombo, Tangalla, Unawatuna .

From April to October, it is better to relax on the northeastern coast of Sri Lanka, where the main resort is Trincomalee. However, they are very promising for a beach holiday — Uppuveli, Nilaveli, Arugam Bay (bay).

Do you need a visa?

To visit this country you need a visa. To obtain it, you do not need to collect a lot of documents and run to the embassy. A visa can be obtained at the airport after arrival. You will be asked to fill out a migration card (on English language) and pay a visa fee of $25.

The usual requirements: stay in the country for no more than 30 days, the passport must be valid for another 6 months after leaving the country, a return ticket and hotel reservation, proof of solvency in the form of cash or a card at the rate of $25 per day of stay (rarely asked).

What money should I take?

As in other Asian countries, it is better to take dollars with you to Sri Lanka. You can exchange them at any bank, of which there are many throughout the country. Even in a small locality There is definitely a bank, and more often than not, more than one. To exchange currencies, you must present your passport or a copy thereof.

In hotels, the exchange rate is always unfavorable, changing on the market or from private individuals is completely unsafe; there are many reviews on the Internet from deceived tourists.

Completely calm, you can take it with you and bank card, which can be used to pay in many stores and at hotels. When withdrawing cash, your bank will definitely take a percentage and exchange it at its rate, and the local bank will retain the amount for withdrawing cash. Therefore, it is more profitable to use cards when making a purchase, and it is better to take cash with you. Before leaving, you must notify the bank about your trip to Sri Lanka, otherwise the card may be blocked. I wrote about which cards are more profitable when traveling.

Despite the fact that the official currency is the Sri Lankan rupee, in many small shops, with taxi drivers and for excursions, you can pay in dollars and euros. Local residents will gladly accept foreign currency, however, this method of payment will most often be disadvantageous to you (they will recalculate it at a rate that is favorable to them).

How much money should I take?

Holidays in Sri Lanka are considered relatively inexpensive. However, the cost of staying in the country depends on many things: season, number of days, resort, leisure, excursion program, etc.

If you are traveling on an all-inclusive package tour, your main expenses will be excursions and personal shopping. It’s hard to say based on purchases, but excursion program It's easy to calculate. WITH approximate prices can be found on the local website travel company http://besttour-lanka.com/ru/travel-tour-sri-lanka.html. I highly recommend this agency, in addition to the paid services, they helped us in a difficult situation. Curious? Read.

If your tour does not include meals, then the approximate cost of a full lunch in a budget cafe will cost 1000-1500 rupees ($10) for two. Portions are usually very large, so you can safely take one dish for two. For $30 you can have a full meal for 24 hours for two people. tourist place, visiting establishments will be even cheaper for locals.

The price of a standard room in an average 3*-4* hotel is $40-70 per Double Room per day. A room from a local resident will cost $15-25.

Prices for some products: water 1.5l - 70-90 rupees, bread - 50-100, milk 1l - 130-140, butter 180-200, coconut - 25-30, papaya - 50-60, bananas 1kg - 60- 70.

Car rental is $40, price per day, scooter rental is $6-10, gasoline is 170 rupees/liter.

Tuk-tuk from 100 rupees nearby, to 350 rupees for 10 km.

Which resort should you choose?

The choice of location directly depends on the time of year and the purpose of the trip.

If you are planning an active trip and expect to visit many attractions, then there is no point in staying in one place. The fact is that everything interesting is located quite far from the coast, and it is difficult to regularly go on excursions from one hotel. It is necessary to constantly move, so it is more convenient to book hotels along the entire route.

If you are planning a passive beach holiday, then you can safely choose the southwestern coast in the winter months, and the northeastern coast in the summer months.

You can find a brief overview of beach resorts.

What to see?

What to see? This is the second question that interests tourists after studying prices. The island will be interesting for literally everyone. Fans of historical monuments should definitely visit the ancient ruined cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. Many tourists speak enthusiastically about excursions to the rock fortress of Sigiriya and holy city Kandy, the Golden Temple in Dambulla is very interesting. The Galle fortress is worth visiting.

Nature lovers will be enchanted National parks, especially Yala, Sinharaja Reserve. Kandy has the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens. Nuwara Eliya has huge tea plantations and magnificent mountain scenery.

It’s romantic to watch the sunrise at Adam’s Peak and visit the Horton Plateau.

What to fear?

Many local residents live off tourism business. Near hotels you can often find people obsessively offering various services, ranging from all kinds of excursions, to rental of any transport and money exchange. These comrades should be treated with caution; there are often scammers who, after taking money from you, will either provide a poor-quality service or disappear completely.