Combining a rich cultural heritage with amazing beach holidaySri Lanka becomes very popular in the tourist plan of the country. Majestic architectural monuments, endless national parks, snow-white beaches and the Warm Waters of the Ocean are unlikely to leave someone indifferent. Do you want to know Sri Lanka closer? If yes, then let's start with the main language of the country.

Sri Lanka languages

It so happened that, being a multinational country, Sri Lanka has two official languages \u200b\u200bat once - Sinhalean and Tamil.

Sinhalean language is the most common on Sri Lanka, about 16 million people are talking on it. This is due to the fact that it belongs to the Indo-European family is the most numerous ethnic group of the country. The basis of the Sinhalean language - fell (Buddha's language) and Sanskrit (the language of Buddhist monks). The syngal language vocabulary includes a large number of words borrowed from Europeans, so it is rather rich and interesting. Also, Sinhalean in its word formation has some similarity with the languages \u200b\u200bof East India. The official language of Sri Lanka is represented by the Sinhalese alphabet, which consists of 55 characters.

Tamil language is the most southern of Dravidian languages \u200b\u200band is the official language for Tamilov. The most common in the southern and eastern part of the country. The language has a rich literary history and is considered a favorite poets.

Thanks to the fact That Sri Lanka becomes very popular in the tourist plan and the proximity of the English-speaking neighbor of India, English is widespread on the island. It is actively used in business, tourism and administration of the country. Also, English plays a far from the last role in education. Many Schools and Institutes of Sri Lanka use two languages \u200b\u200bin their training at once - English and Sinhalean. Nevertheless, English is not considered official in the country and has the status of a "auxiliary".

The language barrier

Attempts to use the official language of Sri Lanka to communicate, the locals react with a mixture of surprise and fun. This is because Sinhalean and Tamil languages \u200b\u200bhave many dialects, and sometimes some words are not understood even to Lankans.

That's why For communication it is better to use English. Near resort zones On him all speak a lot. But going to an independent trip to the country deep, better stock dictionary, because Local Inglish leaves much to be desired. And of course, do not forget about the most popular language of the world - gestures.

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All about Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka - This is the Democratic Socialist Republic, managed by the president, elected for a period of 6 years. The president appoints the Prime Minister, who, in turn, forms the Cabinet. The legislature is the National State Assembly, or a unicameral parliament, consisting of two hundred and twenty-five deputies, elected to the same period of 6 years.

Sri Lanka The country began to be called only from May 22, 1972. Up to this point, the island changed many titles. The indigenous population always called his Lanka - which means the land in Sinhalean. Later he became known under the name of the Taproban. During the times of Arabs-merchants, the island was named Serendip or the island of precious stones. In general, the word "Serendip" happened from the word of serenity meaning the ability to accidentally make successful and unforeseen discoveries or more briefly - the ability to surprise unexpectedly. Under the same name, he entered the stories about Sinbade-Savior and legends 1000 and 1 night. Many navigators came here for noble metals and precious stones: rubies, sapphires, tourmalines, amethysts, opals that decorated the crowns and kept in the treasures of many kings and sultans.

The long-term history of colonial seizures also changed the name of the island. Until the middle of the 16th century, the island was called Sinhala-Dvipa - Sinaltsev Island or Lion Island. During the Portuguese domination, which lasted 153 from the middle 16 (1505) until the middle of the 17th century (1658), the name of the island was transformed into Ceilao for the convenience of pronunciation. Dutch for the period of its 140-year-old colonization from 1656 to 1798 changed it to Ceilan, and the British during his reign from 1802 to 1948 - to Ceylon. Island independence received on February 4, 1948, but only in 1972, 24 years after independence, began to be called Sri Lanka, where Lanka is translated as land, and Sri prefix - as a favorable, magnificent or fertile. Those. Sri Lanka translated from Sinhalesky is a gracious or blessed land.

10 reasons to relax on Sri Lanka!

"Sri Lanka is unique worldwhere there is such a variety of cultures, landscapes and climatic zones, how much will not find even in countries whose territory is ten times more. "

(Sir Arthur Clark)

1. Unique, diverse climate.

For 3 - 4 days of rest on Sri Lanka, you can feel the tropics on the coast Indian Oceanenjoying the sun on endless sandy beaches, to see the ancient shrines of Buddhism and the oldest tree Bodhi, which is more than 2250 years old, make South African Safari on the 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 is growing on the tightened fog plantation.
Sri Lanka has the largest number of waterfalls in relation to the territory occupied by it than any country of the world.

2. Smiling faces and legendary Lankan hospitality.

Lankan hospitality is famous for all over the world. People are characterized by friendliness and are ready to help those who are not familiar with local customs. Sri Lankans are very hospitable and with pleasure invite people to their homes, no matter how modest they are. The first time will seem unusual that everyone around you smiles. However, after your return from the trip of the smile of the inhabitants of the island, coming from the heart, will warm you in cold times.

3. Rich cultural heritage of civilization with a 2000-year history.

The richness of the culture of Sri Lanka was recognized by UNESCO, which announced 7 archaeological monuments of the country with world heritage sites:
The sacred city of Anuradhapura (4 in. BC) - the first ancient capital
The ancient city of Polonnaruva (10 V. AD) - the second ancient capital
Golden cave temple in Dambulla (1 in. BC)
Lion fortress on the rock of Sigiriya (5 V. AD)
The sacred city of Kandy (17 century AD) - the last royal capital
Vintage city of Galle and his fortress (17 century. N.E.)
Sacred Mountain Peak Adam (Sri Pada) - on which the footprint is located and where the pilgrims of all religions make pilgrimage annually from December to May.

Two more objects world Heritage represent natural natural reserves and attractions, including:
- Ecological reserve - tropical wet forest of Sygarage, whose jungle is officially one of 34 unique places planets in their biodiversity
- Highlands Sri Lanka, including Horton Plains and the Knáclies Reserved Forest, located at an altitude of about 2500 meters above sea level and which are the habitat and grieving of extraordinary animals and plants. Here are forests, smoky meadows, ice streams and calm mountains, and plains - beautiful place For long walks on foot.

4. National holidays and festivals.

Multician Civilization Sri Lanka awarded the island of amazing cultural Heritage Colorful festivals related to Buddhism, Hinduism, Muslim and Christianity.
For each full moon there is a holiday singing. The most important of the singing days, weak, which takes place in May in honor of the birthday of the Buddha, his enlightenment and death.
The festival attracting the most attention of tourists visiting Sri Lanka is Candy Esala Peraher, held for 10 days at the end of July or early August. Among the Hindu festivals, it was necessary to note the led, held in July, and the festival in Cataragam on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, during which the procession with torches is satisfied. Also, Hindus celebrate Taii ("Harvest Holiday"), Mach Shivaratri ("Great Night Shiva"), the most important festival a year for the followers of the Shiva's God, which are most among the Hindus of Sri Lanka, and Dipali ("Festival of Lights").
Sri Lansky New YearThe usually coming in mid-April is a non-religious holiday that celebrates the entire population of the island, regardless of its religion.

5. Unique variety of wildlife.

Thanks to the influence of Buddhism, which calls to read all the living, in Sri Lanka pay great attention to the guard ambient. A total of 12 national parks and 52 reserves, occupying 14% of Sri Lanka area in the island.

Safari in the National Park gives you the opportunity to see 91 species of mammals (including 16 inhabited only in this region) - Elephants, Leopards, Bears-Gubachi, Deer-Gasbara, Spotted Deer, Wild Pigs, Mouse and Cutting Deer, Wild Boars, Dickerages, Muravies, Cywettes (Girth of Wild Cats), Lemur, Giant Squirrels, Monkeys (including Macaki , Languri gray and with pimples on the face).
National Park Yala is considered the place of the greatest concentration of leopards in the world. Valwa National Park is known for its huge elephant population.
Sri Lanka - one of best places On earth for observations of blue whales. Cachelotes, tales, Grindy and dolphins are also regularly found during travel along the Mirissa coast ( south coast Islands). On the beaches of the island, you can often see the turtles of seven varieties.
The island is a paradise for lovers to watch birds. 233 of their varieties (33 endemic) live here - the number of bird species, taking into account migration, increases to 482. On the island of 171 species of reptiles (101 of them, including two types of crocodiles, are found only here), 244 species of butterflies and 120 types of dragonflies.

6. Adventure and active sport.

The coast of 1.340 km long. is an an ideal place For windsurfing, water skiing and scooter, surfing, sailing, scuba diving (including immersion on sunken ships), swimming with a mask and tube, high-speed boats, riding on the inflatable "banana". Water sports centers supervise certified PADI instructors.

On Sri Lanka, more than 100 thousand rivers, lagoon and reservoirs. Round year Here you can ride kayaks and canoes, combining these classes with hiking. Alternative features for active rest Increasing paragliding, rock climbing climbing, speleotourism (campaign in the cave) and mountain bike riding.

7. Holiday B. best Hotels Asia combining highest service and design.

Sri Lanka exist different hotel options. In Colombo, you will find modern 5 * hotels, as well as the hotels of the colonial epoch, in which you can feel the charm and romance of past centuries.
On the coast a huge number of resort hotel. Several of them are designed by one of the most famous architects of Asia 20th century Jeffrey Bava. Bava projects are made in the style of tropical modernism, which is characterized by erasing the boundaries between the external and internal space, so the architecture and landscape of the surrounding area interact with each other. Also on Western and south shores The number of boutique hotels is growing.
In the cities of the mountainous region of the country, such as Kandy, Nuwar Elia and Bandarala, the hotels of the colonial era were concentrated. For those who are going to sufficiently distant regions of the island, perhaps for sports adventures, there will be beautiful colonial-style houses, the factory buildings on tea and rubber plantations, huts in the jungle, houses and eco-shelters, as well as campgrounds.

8. Exotic national cuisine.

The variety of rice species, spices, vegetables and fruits, in a compartment with customs, attained to the island by foreigners, formed a variety of interesting and interesting cuisine Sri Lanka. Rice is used with curry (any dish of eggplant, potatoes, green bananas, chicken, fish, etc. with the addition of spices) of various sharpness: from the piquant-sharp to the sharpness of the dynamite force. Also traditional hoppers (snack similar to pancakes), string hoppers (steam rice noodles) and peit (mixture of cocos with flour). The dish of the lamprais, rice and additional meat or vegetable ingredients, baked in the Banana leaves, was inherited from the Dutch. Always in large quantities there is fresh fish, shrimp, crabs, squid and lobs. Desserts include fermented milk cottage cheese of buffalo milk, powdered with palm honey, and, similar to caramel, Vatallap.

In Sri Lanka there are various cutlets, pies, Malu Pang (fish bun), and Kimbula Banis (crocodile shaped bun).
Mango fruit, pineapples, bananas, papaya, and less well-known, but wonderful Sapodilla, Mangostein, Rambutan, WoodApple (fruit with very solid peel, called wooden apple), Durian, Maracuy, avocado, etc.

9. Ayurvedic procedures and spa centers.

On Sri Lanka, you can restore not only the body, but also the Spirit. The most popular method to rejuvenate the tired body and soothe the tired soul remains Ayurveda - the world's oldest medicine system in the world. Ayurvedic programs consist of a variety of herbal procedures and various types of baths and massages, as well as techniques of purification and rejuvenation, such as yoga, meditation and special diets.

In the spa, located in hotels, guests are offered not only ayurvedic, but also other types of procedures, such as Thai massage, hydrophole, herbal baths, reflexology and cosmetic procedures. For those who need energy recharging, meditation courses are offered.

10. Favorable shopping.

You can make purchases in Sri Lanka in different ways:
- trading with souvenir seller, spending time on the beach;
- choosing fruit in a rustic shop, keeping his way between rice bags;
- visiting the sale of fashionable clothes (Sri Lanka - the main exporter of clothing), enjoying walking on modern shopping centers Colombo.
Go to the souvenir shop and purchase the product, decorated with national animal of the island, such as Makara (mystical animal), lion, swan, elephant and lotus, which are skillfully engraved on copper products (caskets, trays, lamps, vases) and silver products (decorated Filigue threads Jewelry, tea sets. In addition, national masks, lacquered ceramics, batik, textiles, lace, wood carving are very popular.
Sri Lanka has the widest possible selection of gems among countries that minimize them - here you will find blue sapphires, star sapphires, rubies, cat eye, grenades, lunar stones, aquamarines and topazy. In addition, jewelry art developed in Sri Lanka, so you can order jewelry from your stones or buy already ready.

Good afternoon, dear readers! As always, I start a new category with general information. Meet - Sri Lanka Information about the country: where is the island, what is the climate, about the locals, their religions and philosophy, security and attractions.

Sri Lanka - very beautiful tropical country with rich history and amazing nature. Official name States - Democratic Socialist Republic. Previously, before independence, it was called Ceylon, which means a glorious, blessed land.

The island is located in the Indian Ocean, not far from Industan. Its length is 430 km., Width is 225 km., Square, approximately 65,000 square meters / km. Coastline stretches 1340 km. In the central part of Sri Lanka there are mountains, along the entire coast - plain.

Climate

Sri Lanka is just 650 km away. From the equator, therefore here is a sub-screen monsonic climate. And at the same time, in every place of the country, weather different. From October to March in the northeast there are rain and blows a strong wind, and in the south-west, such weather from June to October. Accordingly, the dry season in the first case comes in the summer, and in the second - in winter. Be sure to accept this note information when you plan to rest on Sri Lanka.

The air temperature of the seasons is almost independent. On the coast she fluctuates from +27 to +32, in mountain terrain Daytime temperature +18 - +20, night sometimes lowers up to + 10 degrees.

In the monso season at night there are short-term shunters, a strong wind is often blowing. The ocean becomes restless, big waves rise, but the coast of the coast remains as warm as in the dry season, +27 - +29 degrees.

Population and religion

Sri Lanka is a multinational state in which people live different nationalities and denominations, about 20 million people.

The main population of the country is the Singhals, Tamila lives in the northeast. Sinhalean and Tamil languages \u200b\u200bare state. English is used for international communication.

The main religion of Sri Lanka is Buddhism. Hinduism was the main religion before the introduction of Buddhism, now the Hindus is small. Even fewer people confess Islam and Christianity.

Currency

Government money Sri Lanka - Lankan rupees (LKR). One Lankan Rupee is equal to 100 cents. The course is changing slowly, but over the years Rupey is cheaper, relative to the dollar.

sights

Sri Lanka is rich in its cultural heritage. There are many historical monuments that are part of UNESCO World Heritage Site. These include historical cities Anuradhapura and Polonnaruva, the rock fortress of Sigiriya, Sacred Candy, the Golden Temple in Dambulla, the old part of Galle and its fortifications, the Forest Reserve of Sygarage, the Highlands of the Central Sri Lanka.

It is very interesting to visit waterfalls and tea plantations in Nuwar Elia, Plateau Horton, Peak Adam / Sri Pad, Royal Botanical Garden, National parks Yala, Mineria, Bundala and Breathava. Excursions for these places will allow you to learn a lot interesting information About Sri Lanka.

Safety

For many years, Tamilo-Sinhalean conflict proceeded in the country, but in 2009 he ended with the victory of government troops. However, safety measures have so far been improved on Sri Lanka, people in military uniform often meet on the streets, and the roads are found.

The criminal situation on the island of Sri Lanka is quite favorable. Serious crimes occur not often. Basically, thefts and fraud prevail.

In big cities and tourist centers The orders of the tourist police are followed.

Each country is unique in its own way. Any resort has its own characteristics. Going on the journey, it is better to familiarize yourself with the nuances of the rest in advance. Useful for tourists Information about Sri Lanka You can read in my article. Short review beach resorts Islands study.

Dear friends! Be careful when entering the water. The ocean near the coast of Sri Lanka is cunning, in many places huge waves, there are hazardous underwater flows. I wrote about this in more detail.

With a description of some attractions of the island and my personal impressions, you can find in the heading. You may also want to tell you about your holiday in Sri Lanka, write a review, a review or story, be sure to publish it in the heading "Travel readers". How to do it? Read.

Leave Comments, subscribe to blog updates, a lot more useful information. Do not forget to share an article on social networks, let your friends also recognize about this wonderful place.

Now I say goodbye to you, to new meetings!

Tatyana Solomatina

Sri Lanka Island invariably attracts many tourists every year. This is not surprising: beautiful nature, rich history and culture, excellent beaches, wonderful climate ... We will talk about all these features of the island. We suggest you to discover such amazing placelike Sri Lanka Island.

Briefly about Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka - very ancient countrywhich is also known as Ceylon. Bescraine and extensive are the pride of this island. The local population adheres to tradition, but at the same time there is freedom of religion on Sri Lanka. Lots of sacred temples (mainly Buddhist) and relics attract pilgrims to this country from around the world. Mysterious south Sri Lanka Manit to me different categories tourists. They come here in order to see the full exotic world, enjoy nature, as well as swim in the waters of the Indian Ocean. Local beaches With golden sand is amazing.

In Sri Lanka, you will find hidden bays and bays, underwater coral gardens, as well as the remains of sunken ships and much more ... Holidays on the ocean coast, admission to Buddhist shrines, national natural parks, the secrets of growing tea and its production, communication with the cheerful and open Lankans - all this guarantees you unforgettable impressions From visiting this island.

Where is Sri Lanka on the map?

This is located on a small island in the Indian Ocean. The list of protected UNESCO historical values \u200b\u200b(only 130) contains seven objects on this island. Sri Lanka is an oldest state with deep traditions and a rich history. This is the center of Buddhism, where there are important monuments of this teaching. However, not only historical heritage Forms the exoticism of the country. Sri Lanka on the map is only 800 kilometers from the equator. Here you will find all the riches of the tropical islands. Lankans say that they are known only three colors - blue ocean and sky, yellow tones of beaches and greenery of vegetation.

Flight from Moscow to Sri Lanka

Currently there is only one direct flight Moscow - Sri Lanka (Colombo). At the same time, it acts only in winter time and does not have a strict schedule. Charter flight Moscow - Sri Lanka is carried out by Aeroflot Aeroperer. The distance from Moscow to Colombo is about 6700 km. Consequently, the time on the way is approximately 8.5 hours.

Sri Lanka: time and climate

Those who gathered on the island will probably interest what time difference is here. On the island, the time is 1.5 hours ahead of Moscow in the summer period, and in the winter - by 2.5. As for climate, it is here as a subequatorial and equatorial monsoon. It complicates the relief, as well as the orientation of the island, its location from north to south. About 29-31 ° C is an average annual temperature in the flat terrain of Sri Lanka Island. The season practically does not affect the temperature. In the mountain part, it varies from 16 to 24 ° C. All year round water temperature in the sea is held above 25 ° C on Sri Lanka Island. In January, therefore you can safely swim, as in July.

As for humidity, it is high here and almost always exceeds 75%. The amount of precipitation is from 1000 (oriental and northern regions) to 5000 mm per year ( southwest coast). From May to September, the rainy season lasts, which causes the southwest monsoon. Northeast Musson defines rainy weather from October to April on Sri Lanka Island. The rainy season, however, may be somewhat shifted over time. It depends on the area. In general, the climate is very favorable for tourism has Sri Lanka Island. In January, when in our country it is cold and so you want summer, tours here are very popular.

Population of the island

The population of this island is about 18 million people. Of these, more than 500 thousand people live in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. The ethnic composition of the population is rich. This is a multinational country. Her population consists of Tamilov, Singalov, Burgers (descendants of the Dutch and Portuguese) and Mavrov.

Language and religion

Singhal is state language on Sri Lanka. Also, Tamil and English is equal to the state. As we mentioned, Buddhism is very common on the island. In addition to him, the major religions are Christianity, Islam, Judaism. Sri Lanka Island's clothes do not impose strict requirements, but temples are not recommended to visit clothing with open shoulders and back, in shorts. In addition, when entering the shoes should be removed. Buddhists is about 70% of the population, Tamils \u200b\u200b(Hindu) - 15%, Christians - 8%, Muslims - 7%. In this country, freedom of religion is guaranteed by the Constitution, but Buddhism is given the dominant position here.

sights

Many attractions for every taste offers Sri Lanka Island. Tours here will be interested in various categories of tourists. Sri Lanka's resort triangle is the most popular excursion program on the island. It includes a familiarity with three cities - Candy, Polonnarvoy and Anuradhapura. Tell about each of them.

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is the first capital of the Singhalese state. This city is unique, it was built by another 2nd. BC e. In his century he was afterbinding 113 kings. An accurate date of the base of Anuradhapura is unknown. According to the astrological tradition of Indoarians, he was named after Anuradha - the stars in the constellation of Scorpio. King Pangukabhai in 380 BC. e. Approved this city as the capital. To the west of it for supplying the population with water, a tank of Basavak Kulam was built. The city during the heyday occupied the area of \u200b\u200babout 52 square meters. km, and his population reached several tens of thousands. In the 1st century n. e. Water pipes, bridges and roads, palaces, temples, monasteries, cemetery and hospitals were built.

For 1.4 thousand years, Anuradhapura was the capital. This is a real masterpiece of Lankan architecture. And in our time, Anuradhapur is the capital of Buddhism. In order to visit it, many tourists arrive at Sri Lanka Island annually. The city is located on the Aruvi River. Tourism is developed here, the processing of agricultural products is carried out, as well as a number (wood carving, etc.).

Polonnaruva

The next city, Polonnaruva, was the medieval capital of Sri Lanka in the period from 11 to 13th century. This is one of the main cultural and historical centers of the country. To this day, Hindu and Ruins have been preserved Royal Palace. The main attraction of the city is Gal Vihara (12th century BC. Er). These are 4 huge buddha statues carved in a granite rock.

Kandy

Candy is the center of Buddhism and the religious capital of the island. Artificial lake was created in the center of this city. The temple of the sacred tooth of the Buddha (Dalada Maligava) is located on its shore (in the photo below).

The city is rich historical monuments. These include the courtyard and the palace of the last king of Kandy. Here is also available archaeological Museum, near which are located botanical Garden And the university with a picturesque student town. Near these historical monuments are rubber and tea plantations. Candy is located 116 km from the capital of the island, Colombo. It is famous for both center of crafts and arts, as well as bazaars, borders, museum of jewels. This place is great for sightseeing and shopping. Nearby you will find the types of legendary mountains with excellent Hindu and Buddhist temples.

Pirals

Pirasions (Royal Botanical Garden) is 4 km from Kandy. This is one of the largest gardens in Asia. Here is a large collection of tropical plants and trees. Gardeners of the island broke a large hilly area on the park areas. These zones present various types of flora of tropics. Other an interesting feature The garden is more than a hundred species of decorative orchids growing here.

Dambula

Another local attraction - Dambula. This is a temple built in the 1st century BC. e., carrying the name of the sleeping Buddha. He is the largest in South Asia cave temple. Dambula consists of five caves. Not only the temple itself, but his painting is the most large-scale in South Asia. In Dambul, a huge collection of Buddha statues is presented. At the same time, many of them are more than two thousand years.

Mount Sigihiya

We recommend visiting the lion's rock (sigiri mountain). This beautiful mountain Located in the center of Sri Lanka Island and is one of its main attractions. The lion rock is protected by UNESCO. On this grief, at an altitude of about 180 meters, built scenic city. It is surrounded by gardens with pools, fountains and unusual stairs, the steps of which are cut between the jaws, the throat and lion's lines of a huge size. One of the attractions of this place is the fresco gallery, which depict the procession of semi-naked palace ladies or princesses, which as if soared in the air. These frescoes are covered with a special composition of egg protein mixed with wild bees honey. To this day, they did not sweat their bright colors. Today, unfortunately, only 17 out of 500 frescoes have been preserved.

Peak Adam

One more interesting mountain - Peak Adam. With antiquity, this is the place of pilgrimage of believers. They climb this mountain in order to touch the lips to the sacred footprint on the top. Muslims believe that it is here that Adam, the first person, first stepped on Earth.

Colombo

The capital of Sri Lanka is Colombo. There are many temples, cathedrals and mosques. The most famous temple is the Kelia Raja Maha Vihara. This is an excellent sample of syngal art and architecture. The frescoes that decorate the walls of the building tell us about the numerous lives of the Buddha. For example, about how he visited the temple, about related to his name legends and myths. Among other sights of Colombo can be highlighted by the Church of St. Anthony and Peter, the Cathedral of St. Lucius, Jamul Alfar (Sri Lanka Mosque), as well as Hindu temples Old and New Katyresan and Ganeshan.

Nuwar Elia

Lots of interesting places offers tourists Sri Lanka. The weather, however, may not allow all the sights of this country. On hot days, many prefer the beach to travel around the island. However, inconveniences related to weather can be avoided if your choice is Nuwar Elia (Sri Lanka). The weather is rarely too hot for walking. The resort of Nuwar Elia is at an altitude of about 1900 m above sea level. It is located at the foot of the pidurutlage. This mountain is the most high peak Sri Lanka. Here you will be pleased with a favorable mild climate (the temperature is on average 15-20 degrees), as well as mountain scenery, picturesque valleys and meadows. All this makes this place a popular resort. Nuwar Elia, the edge of the blessed climate, is also known as "Little England", as it is called on Sri Lanka Island. Tours here enjoy unchanged demand for many years.

Elephant nursery and wood bo

Elephant nursery belonging to the state is located in the city of Pinavel. It was created to save animals that were injured from poachers or left without parents. Today more than 60 elephants live in it.

Sri Lanka is a country where the wood tree grows, which is considered the highest in the world. He is already over two thousand years old. We also recommend visiting the endless plantations of tea. This is the pride of Sri Lanka, thanks to which the island has received world fame. Lankan spices, gems, exotic fruits, batik are also very popular.

Transport

It should be paid to the fact that in this country a left-sided movement. The bulk of the road is in the mountainous area. The rules of movement almost do not observe either pedestrians nor drivers. In this regard, it is best to rent a car with a driver on Sri Lanka Island. Prices for this type of service are acceptable - the estimated cost per 1 km is 20 cents. You can also rent a car for personal trips. At the reception in your hotel, you can get the necessary information about transport on Sri Lanka Island. Car rental prices start from $ 20 per day.

National cuisine

The kitchen is here, even close to the usual European version, is quite sharp. The most popular food type in hotels is a buffet. Those who do not like sharp, should be advised to take the waiter about what to take. Mineral water, like other drinks, is not included in Sri Lanka in the cost of dinner or lunch. This island is especially graspicious for vegetarians.

Failed curry rice is the most common food product on Sri Lanka. Seafood dishes are also popular here (with lobster and sea shrimp), fish, meat, vegetables and poultry.

It is not recommended to abuse local spirits. The main of them is Arak. This is a coconut moonshine, which even the local population does not drink a lot, but for a variety you can try slightly.

On the island you will find cheap and beautiful tropical fruits: avocado, bananas (more than two hundred varieties), papaya, mango, avocado, oranges, coconuts, etc. Particularly good pineapples here.

Tip

Typically, the accounts of bars, restaurants and hotels already include tips, which make up 12.5%. You can decide yourself, give it yet. Porters, chauffs and guys are taken to give tips. They are usually waiting from Russian tourists, but from the Germans - no.

One of the best places to stay is Sri Lanka Island. The time spent here is never forgotten.

Full name: Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
Capital: Sri Giaavretepura-Cott.
Area: 65,610 square meters. km.
Population: 21 675 648 people.
official languages: Singhalese, Tamil and English.
Official currency: Lankan rupee.

IN warm waters The Indian Ocean is not far from the shores of India, there is a small island, in shape resembling a drop.

Everyone heard each heard at least once, and every day probably enjoy his gifts - delicious black or green tea. Its real name is rarely pronounced, but the "nickname" of Ceylon for rumors in many. It is Sri Lanka!

From the Peninsula of Industan Sri Lanka separates the non-Ukrainian Polki Strait.

Residents of Sri Lanka are called Lankans.

At the beginning of the 19th century. The island was the colony ( dependent territory) Great Britain and was called Ceylon, and in 1972 he became independent and received a new name - Sri Lanka, which means "Blessed Earth" in the Sinhalean language.

Because of the former domination of Great Britain, today on Sri Lanka almost everyone speaks english language. Only he is not quite familiar. Often a resident British Islands Or the United States will not understand completely Lankan, although he, and the other will communicate in the same language. All because the locals add a lot of "their" words into speech.

Flag of Sri Lanka is one of the oldest. It shows Sinhalean lion and two multi-colored stripes. The lion is a symbol of the progenitors of modern Lankans, green and orange stripes mean a few Muslims and Hindus, and the red part of the flag symbolizes the prevailing on the island of Buddhists. In the corners of the flag - 4 Listers Pypula - sacred for Buddhists of a tree.

Sri Lanka is the island of precious stones. In his depths - rubies, grenades, moon rock, Amethysts. But the "king" stones are sapphire - blue, pink, yellow, white and very rare stars. Lankan sapphire even decorates the English crown!

As in other Asian countries, the Sri Lanka is the popular velaiks with a motor. Here they are called "Tuk-Tuk." This is the only one safe tool Movement, as it can easily drive around any obstacle. On the streets of Lankan cities, chaos is going on! Locals do not comply with the rules road. They can stop their vehicle When it swings and where it wanted only to skip a cow or go out to say hello to a friend who suddenly saw on the street ...

It is interesting!
To take out Lankan rupees abroad even as a souvenir is prohibited by law.

The umbrella on Sri Lanka is not a remedy for the rain, and the main protection of the sun. From the shower, which here go, he will not save, but under the hot sun without an umbrella. Therefore, umbrellas are sold even in grocery shops.

In the cafe, before putting a dish on a plate, a plastic bag is put on it. Thus, the Lankans observe hygiene, and no dishes after meals do not need.

One state - two capitals

Sri Lanka's small state boasts that he has not one capital, but two more! This is a major megapolis Colombo and a little-known town with a complex name of Sri Jiaward Danapura Cott. The first is the residence of the President of Sri Lanka, and in the second, the parliament of the country and the Supreme Court.

Translated from the Sinhale language Colombo means Mangrove Harbor. The city is really located in the area where there are many mangroves. But there is another version of the name. It is believed that so in honor of the navigator of Christopher Columbus, the city could call the Portuguese, who won Sri Lanka in the past.

Colombo - very big city On the island I. the largest port Sri Lanka. Here all the time is noisy and crowded, the streets are filled with cars and Tuk-Tuki. Colombo - single city Sri Lanka, where there are multi-storey houses and skyscrapers. And only here safely adjacent to the temples belonging to representatives of the three religions at once, - churches (Christianity), mosque (Islam) and Buddhist temples.
Colombo is one of the best Botanical Gardens of Asia. His raisins - house orchids and garden spices. The very rarest species of these plants grow in the world of orchids. And in the garden, all fragrant plants and herbs of Sri Lanka is collected. King Garden - Pepper, and Queen is cinnamon. It is thanks to the huge number of spices the island was wondering for many European countries. Their rulers have always dreamed of seizing fragrant pepper plantations, vanilla, cloves, ginger equal to which was not in the world.

Sri-Jiaward Danapura Cott - town in the suburb of Colombo. When at the beginning of the 16th century. The Messengers of the Portuguese King arrived on the island, the conductors managed the five-kilometer path between Colombo and Cott to stretch into a three-day hike throughout the island! It was done to confuse unborn guests and hide from them the exact location of the capital. The expression "go in the kitte" for the modern Lankans means to "drive by the neighbors".

The city of Colombo was the capital during the domination of Ceylon Portuguese, Dutch and the British. When the state became independent, the city's metropolitan function was received by the city of Cott.

Today, cott is a beautiful, quiet town, in which many universities, colleges. Lankan parliament is sitting here. For him, a luxurious building in the center of the city lake was specifically built. Different festivals and funny carnivals often pass on the streets, in which bright and beautifully dressed up elephants are often involved - symbol and pride of Sri Lanka.

Elephant city

In the past, elephants were the main transport on Sri Lanka. They transported people and cargo in the mountains and jungle. Today they make tractors and trucks, but the elephant is still the main animal and the symbol of the island.

Lankan elephant is different from his African brother. Residents of the hot continent of a larger size, their ears have another form and necessarily there are powerful testers. Sri Lanka elephants can be seen about one of 20 animals.

The elephant lives as much as a person - 70-80 years old. An adult animal weighs about 5 tons. On the day, he needs 250 kg of cane or coconut palm leaves and 200 liters of water.

For us, elephants are a symbol of wisdom and calm. But Lankans think differently. They consider the giants of a natural disaster and lead with them the struggle. Most animals are not killed by poachers. They are shooting ... farmers. Elephants will raise the fields, destroy the crops and even destroy at home. The flock of angry elephants can demolish the whole village! Giants do not stop either the fences, no traps, and try to "negotiate" with them useless. Lankan elephants are considered more aggressive and "stupid" than their African relatives.

Elephants on Sri Lanka every year becomes less and less. To protect animals from disappearance, an elephant pinnavel shelter was built on the island. This is a huge nursery where the elephant left without parents, disabled elephants and elephant pensioners live. By the way, the oldest animal here is more than 60 years old, and younger - only two months. It is dropped with warm milk from the nipple so that he fastened and felt well.

Elephants are the main participants of all holidays and festivals of Sri Lanka. They are dressed in special masks suits, decorate with jewels.

For speeches, elephants train for many years. When the elephants grow up, they "work out" the care and care of them the fact that tourists ride on their backs. This is the most popular attraction at visitors and chief business. local residents. Before riding an elephant saddown. It is done only for the sake of tourists. Sri Lanka residents are riding without a saddle. Keep equilibrium with horseback riding is very difficult, but an excellent review opens from the back of the animal. Traveling riding, make sure that the ebony seems only from the side. Despite his impressive weight, he moves almost silently. Usually an elephant comes with a pedestrian speed, but if necessary, giants can develop speeds up to 40 km / h.

An elephant arrived during the trip appetite, be sure to thank. The best way Do this - feed it with bananas - the most favorite elephant dessert.

Animal world Sri Lanka is very diverse. Beasts and birds on the island feel freely, they are not afraid of man and live next to him.

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