SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon lies in the Indian Ocean. It is around 4 hours from Dubai and 3 hours from destinations like Singapore.
HISTORY OF SRI LANKA
The name Sri Lanka stands for Resplendent Land meaning impressive and expensive looking. People have found remains of humans in Sri Lanka from 38,000 years ago. The island has been split up into multiple kingdoms over its existence developing slight differences in each part such as religions, parades, and food. The religions here are 70.2% Buddhist, 12.6% Hindu, 9.7% Muslim and 7.4% Christian. Sri Lanka declared independence at the same time as India in 1948. Till 1972 Sri Lanka remained a dominion of the British Empire. During this time, it was not called Sri Lanka, it was called Ceylon but Sri Lanka changed its name in 1972 when the British Empire. The two main ethnic groups that are here in Sri Lanka are the Sinhalese and the Tamils. Before the British occupation, Sri Lanka was formerly colonized by the Portuguese first, followed by the Dutch. Today you can still see numerous buildings designed by the British and Dutch architects.
FUN FACTS
- The national sport is not Cricket surprisingly but volleyball!
- The first ever female Prime Minister was also elected in Sri Lanka.
- The oldest tree to be planted is thought to be planted here in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is now Malaria-free.
- Sri Lanka was one of the most effected countries by malaria in the 20th century. This all changed due to the malaria campaign.
- Due to the shape of Sri Lanka, it is known as the “Tear drop of India” and “The Pearl of the ocean.”
- The Highest point in Sri Lanka is called Pidurutalagala and it stands at 2,524m (8280 ft).
- Lipton Tea was founded here in Sri Lanka in 1890.
- When you reach the town of Nuwara Eliya you will be fooled as it feels as if you are in England.
