Sri
Lanka is a land of ancient cities, lush landscapes and vibrant
cultural traditions. Discover the surprising facts, hidden stories
and essential insights that reveal the deeper character of this
extraordinary South Asian island nation.
• Sri Lanka is one of the world’s top tea producers, with vast hillside plantations.
• The island has the highest density of leopards of any country.
• Stilt fishing is still practised in some coastal villages.
• The Sri Lankan elephant is a protected subspecies unique to the island.
• Sri Lanka has both a “wet zone” and “dry zone” climate within short distances.
• The world’s first female prime minister, Sirimavo Bandaranaike, was Sri Lankan.
• Ancient Sri Lankan engineers developed advanced irrigation systems still admired today.
• The Sigiriya frescoes are considered one of the earliest examples of portrait art in Asia.
• Sri Lanka pioneered several forms of traditional Ayurvedic healing.
• Shoes must be removed before entering temples and religious sites.
• Modest clothing is recommended when visiting cultural or sacred areas.
• Public displays of affection are kept discreet.
• Photography near government and military buildings may be restricted.
• Giving and receiving items with the right hand is considered polite.
• C.W.W. Kannangara, known as the father of free education.
• Kumar Sangakkara, one of cricket’s greatest batsmen.
• Geoffrey Bawa, a renowned architect who shaped “tropical modernism.”
• Muttiah Muralitharan, the highest wicket-taker in international cricket.
• Sri Lanka has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• The cultural triangle includes Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya.
• Adam’s Peak is famous for its “sacred footprint.”
• The island has golden beaches, rainforests, tea estates and wildlife-rich national parks.
• The Galle Fort blends Dutch and Portuguese colonial history.
• Sri Lankan cuisine varies widely by region, influenced by spices, seafood and coconut.
• Hospitality is central to social life — visitors are often offered tea immediately.
• Cricket is a major national passion.
• Festivals celebrating Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity occur throughout the year.
• Rice and curry is a staple, often eaten by hand.
• Kandyan dance and low-country dance are vibrant cultural traditions.
• Colourful saris and sarongs are still worn in daily life.
• Tea breaks (“tea time”) are a cherished daily ritual.
• Sri Lanka’s ancient cities date back over 2,000 years.
• Sigiriya, the “Lion Rock,” was once a fortress palace.
• Dutch, Portuguese and British rule influenced architecture and language.
• Buddhism has shaped Sri Lankan identity for centuries.
• Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of Asia’s most iconic archaeological sites.
• Yala National Park is famed for its leopard population.
• Ella offers misty mountains, waterfalls and scenic train rides.
• The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites.
• Sri Lanka is a top global tea producer.
• The leopard density is among the world’s highest.
• Sigiriya is over 1,500 years old.
• The island has eight UNESCO sites.
• Elephants are protected and culturally symbolic.
• Sri Lanka has both wet and dry climate zones.
• Cricket is widely celebrated.
• Stilt fishing is still practised.
• Adam’s Peak draws pilgrims annually.
• Coconut is used in most dishes.
• Ayurveda is part of daily life.
• Sri Lanka has a 2,000-year-old heritage.