Sri Lankan Culture and Society

A Overview of Sri Lanka

Situated in the Indian ocean, Sri Lanka is an island with rich numerous landscapes ranging from mountains to lakes, ravines to beaches. The recorded history extending to 543 BC has left many ruins of archaeological value that has become attractions for many tourists, academics, and enthusiasts of general world history. The ruins include those of the earliest recorded humans some 10,000 years back to those of the early kingdoms Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. The man made splendor of Anuradhapura ancient city takes the hearts of the weary traveler with the image of the white stupas (pagodas) of ancient times against the man-made lakes. Another attraction in Sri Lanka is the Fort on the Rock or Seegiriya (Lion Fortress). A man made fortress atop a natural stone marvel is a sight to witness and to be amazed at the ingenuity of the early stone carvers and engineers of Thaprobane. It also hosts the famous frescoes on the sides of Sigiriya,

Another popular attraction in Sri Lanka is the Temple of Tooth Relic in Kandy. This is a very holy site, where the main structure house the tooth relic of Lord Buddha and holds a special place in the hearts of Buddhists the world-over.

Being not only a naval hub, but also a resting place for migratory birds, the bird watchers also fancy the “Kumana Bird Sanctuary” as a place to visit to many migratory birds, as well as the the indigenous off-shoots of different bird species.

About Sri Lankans

Sri Lankans are known for their customs, their hospitality and their cuisine. Inspired by many travelers, and it’s colonial past, you are invited to wet your palate with Sri Lankan cuisine, that ranges from mildly spicy to the “take my breath away” spicy. Though not for the faint of heart, this culinary experience is something most tourists enjoy and take home as a novel experience.

Sri Lankans are known for their hospitality arising from culture enriched from different religions, and constant contact with sea-farers from the ancient Greeks, the Sino-Asians, and the Muslim world. 

Commercial capital: Colombo

Administrative capital: Sri Jayawardanepura Kotte

Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Photo credits to Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists, Dr Wajantha Kotalawala and Dr Ruchira Goonawardena

Nature

History