Sri Lanka is small Island state located in South Asia near the Indian subcontinent. The country received its modern official name - the Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka in 1972. Previously, the state was known as Ceylon. The official capital of Sri Lanka is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. In fact, the capital functions are performed by the largest city in the country - Colombo.

The population of Sri Lanka is 21.6 million inhabitants. Sinhalese and Tamils ​​dominate among nationalities. The most common religion is Buddhism, which is followed by most Sinhalese. In addition, Hinduism, Christianity and Islam are widespread in the country. The form of government in Sri Lanka is a semi-presidential republic. Administratively, the country is divided into 9 provinces - Central, North-Central, North, North-West, West, South, East, as well as the provinces of Sabaragamuwa and Uva.

The main sectors of the economy are agriculture, textile production and mining of precious stones. AT recent times the tourism industry is growing. The most popular holiday destinations in Sri Lanka are the resorts of Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Wadduwa, Beruwala and Kalutara.

Flight time:
Flights to Bandaranaike Airport, Colombo
from Moscow - from 8 hours 30 minutes.
from St. Petersburg - from 11 hours 25 minutes. (1-3 transplants)
from Kazan - from 12 hours 30 minutes. (1-4 transplants)
from Yekaterinburg - from 11 hours 55 minutes. (1-4 transplants)
from Novosibirsk - from 11 hours 50 minutes. (1-4 transplants)

Current time in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte:
(UTC +5:30)

The most developed sport is cricket, which is exotic for Russians. The state pursues an active foreign policy, Sri Lanka is a member of well-known international organizations - the UN (United Nations), the IMF (International Monetary Fund), ADB (Asian Development Bank) and others.

How to get there

Currently, the issue of direct regular flights between Moscow and Colombo remains open, but it is known that Aeroflot operates flights on this route during the season. Excluding this option, the best way to get to Sri Lanka on this moment are Emirates flights Moscow - Dubai - Colombo, Qatar Airways Moscow - Doha - Colombo and Etihad Moscow - Abu Dhabi - Colombo. All aircraft arrive at Colombo International Airport.

Many people are interested in an important question when buying a ticket from Moscow to Sri Lanka: how long is the flight? If you choose a non-stop flight on the route Moscow - Sri Lanka, the flight will take 8 hours 45 minutes (flight to the country's capital - Colombo). With connections, it will be about 14 hours, but it depends on the time of connections, it is different for airlines.

Climate and weather in Sri Lanka

The climate in Sri Lanka is warm and humid. The temperature is very even, without sharp fluctuations throughout the year. The difference between the warmest and coldest months is only 2-3 degrees Celsius. The average monthly temperature usually does not exceed 30 degrees. The seasons here differ in the amount of precipitation. Most of the rain falls in summer. The coastal regions of Sri Lanka are the most comfortable for living. In large cities located inland, there is hot weather and high humidity. The average water temperature in the Indian Ocean near the country is 27 ° C, it differs from the air temperature by only a couple of degrees.

Cooler temperatures can be found in the highlands of Sri Lanka. Nuwara Eliya is located at 1884 meters above sea level. The local average annual temperature is 18 °C. In cold weather at night, the thermometer can drop to an unprecedented mark of 10 ° C in Sri Lanka. Such a “frost” forces the owners of local hotels and inns to use heating devices that turn on in the evening and at night. It will be useful and pleasant for tourists to know that it usually rains at night in Sri Lanka. Therefore, rest in the resort should not be overshadowed by precipitation. The even and favorable climate throughout the year allows vacationers not to think about choosing a month for a holiday in Ceylon. Here, at any time of the year, locals and tourists feel comfortable.

Rainy season in Sri Lanka

It is quite difficult to understand how famously the climate in Sri Lanka is changing from the first time, so you need to be more careful with its features. The island is dominated by an equatorial climate, a distinctive feature of which is the division into two seasons: dry and rainy seasons.

In addition, the Central Mountain Range rises in the middle of the island, creating a “rain shadow” for the southwestern part of Sri Lanka. This is the so-called "wet zone" of the island, where the southwest monsoons go from May to September. They form in the Arabian Sea and move towards the island as a large wall of warm, moist air. At the same time, due to the mountain range in the rest of the country (and this is three-quarters of the island), it is more or less dry at this time. These three quarters are the eastern and northern parts of the country, where the average annual rainfall is 1200-1800 mm. For comparison, in the southwest this figure is much higher - from 2540 to 5080 mm per year.

The north and east of the country are under the influence of the northeast monsoons, operating here from November to February. Most of the cyclones that form in the Bay of Bengal hit Bangladesh and the coast of India, but Sri Lanka also sometimes gets it, even despite some remoteness.

The rainy season in Sri Lanka is characterized by heavy and short (about 15 minutes) downpours, most often occurring at night. The main disadvantage for vacationers in such a situation is a strong wind that forms large waves in the ocean, so it is better to part with dreams of a calm and safe swimming at this time.

The winter and autumn months on the island are characterized as inter-monsoon periods, when there are no heavy monsoon rains, but sometimes the so-called "zenithal rains" occur, often found in equatorial regions. Thus, the best time to relax in the attractive southwest for tourists is winter, and, accordingly, in the north and east - summer.

Cities and regions

Provinces of Sri Lanka

• Central
• North Central
• North Eastern
• Northern
• Sabaragamuwa
• South
• Western

Cities of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has many large and small cities. Below is information about the cities most interesting for tourists.

Colombo - the largest city of Sri Lanka, which is actually the capital of the country, is located in the Western Province of the state. Colombo is the center of business, trade and culture. The population of the city is 740 thousand inhabitants, and the agglomeration (together with the suburbs, including the formal capital of Sri Jayawardenepura Kote) - 2 million 250 thousand inhabitants. Industry and high-tech production are booming in Colombo. The local port is one of the largest in the Asian region.

Interestingly, many districts have a certain professional orientation. This division has been around for a long time. In Colombo there is an area of ​​artisans, the poor, merchants, etc. Of course, today such a classification is gradually becoming obsolete, but is still largely relevant. A major international airport is located 30 kilometers from Colombo. The city is culturally and religious- has its own university, observatory, spiritual institutions for various faiths.

The tourist center is located in the northern district of the city - Fort. Hotels, hotels, shops, restaurants and other entertainment facilities are concentrated here. The main attractions of the city are Galle Face Green Park, National Museum, Museum of Local Lore, Presidential Palace and Independence Square. In the suburbs of Komlombo, you can visit one of the largest zoos on the continent - Dehiwala Zoo.

Anuradhapura is the district capital of the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The city is named after its founder, the Indian prince Anuradha. The population is 50,000 inhabitants. The most developed economic sectors are agriculture and handicrafts. The air temperature is warm and favorable throughout the year, the climate is characterized by high humidity. The city is known for its sights: the remains of ancient temples, monasteries and other cultural monuments have been preserved in Anuradhapura. Among the most famous sites are the Ruanvelli and Thuparama stupas, the Abhayagiri and Isurumuniya monasteries, as well as the famous statue of Aukan Buddha, located near the city.

Kandy is one of the oldest Sri Lankan cities. It is located in the central part of the country. The city was previously known as Senkadagalapura. The population of Kandy is over 150 thousand people. The city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was once the capital of ancient Ceylon. The most significant cultural monument is the Dalada Maligawa Temple. The Sacred Tooth of Buddha is located here, and this famous artifact has become an object of pilgrimage for Buddhists. Every year, Kandy becomes the venue for the popular Esala Peraher festival, at which time the famous relic is brought to the public. For ten nights in a row, a procession with the participation of elephants takes place in the streets, which is accompanied by ethnic music, fakirs and other local attributes. In the suburbs of Kandy is the largest Botanical Garden on the continent. It contains many rare species of tropical plants. In the vicinity of Kandy, there is a unique Spice Garden.

Negombo is a small town located 40 kilometers from Colombo. The resort has the nickname "Little Rome". The fact is that Negombo is the unofficial center of Christianity in Sri Lanka. The city is quite developed, shops, restaurants, rental offices and other services are literally on every corner. local beaches deserted, so they are popular with lovers of a quiet and relaxing holiday. True, most tourists use Negombo only as a transit point for a day or two, and then go to other resorts. Nevertheless, the city has much to offer and show to vacationers. The most popular pastime is fishing. Local villages have long been famous for fishing. The most significant sights are the remains of a Dutch fort and a Buddhist temple in Kelaniya, which is located 10 kilometers from Negombo.

Resorts of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an island where people go to relax all year round. Beach holidays, swimming in the Indian Ocean, trips to exotic places, complete relaxation, meetings that will be remembered forever, authentic village life, centuries-old traditions - one way or another, this is exactly what is expected from the island.

The main question that tourists who are going on vacation to Sri Lanka ask themselves is which resort to choose? Indeed, there are many good places here, each with its own character and color. So, Hikkaduwa gathers surfers, divers and young people on its beaches. Bentota is focused on demanding tourists, Kogalla - on independent and those who arrived for the "wintering", etc.

Below are the best resorts in Sri Lanka. Additionally, you can read about Sri Lankan beaches.

Bentota is a popular beach resort in Sri Lanka. This romantic spot is popular with young families and adventure seekers. It offers tourists a full range of services designed for any budget. The resort will appeal to lovers active rest: the most popular Ceylon water entertainment center "Confifi Marina" is located here. Vacationers will be able to ride a boat, water skiing, scooter or scuba diving. The club also organizes excursions and boat trips.

Beruwala is a resort located in the southwest of the country, not far from Colombo. This place will appeal to tourists who prefer a beach holiday. However, lovers of a more active lifestyle will also find something to entertain themselves with. Large hotels have sports facilities - golf courses, tennis courts, and traditional water activities are offered to tourists on the beaches. Along coastline The resort has several hotels of different classes for people with different income levels. The main attraction of Beruweli is the ancient mosque of Kechimalai, to which thousands of Muslims from all over the world make pilgrimages every year.

Wadduwa is another Ceylon resort located near Colombo. The visiting card of this place is chic coconut palms and amazing sandy beaches. The resort has a developed infrastructure. A large number of hotels, shops, restaurants and cafes are concentrated here. There is a popular diving center on Wadduwa. Diving enthusiasts will be able to fully appreciate the beauty of the local ocean depths. Just a few kilometers away is another resort town - Kalutara, famous for the Buddhist temple of Gangatilaka Vihara.

Kalutara is a resort town on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. From time immemorial, the resort has been known for its spices and spices. Little Kalutara in its history had a chance to be under the yoke of the Portuguese, Dutch and British colonialists. However, today the place has become one of the most modern and dynamically developing resorts in Sri Lanka. The local trademark is amazing and juicy tropical fruits, which are put into baskets created by local craftsmen using their own method. However, the famous Kalutarian spices are still respected all over the world. The main attractions of the resort are the Gangatilaka Vihara Stupa and the February Navam Parade.

Kogalla is a small but well-known resort in Ceylon. The relative remoteness from civilization (more than 100 kilometers to Colombo) attracts tourists here who dream of taking a break from the hustle and bustle of large cities. On the other hand, Kogalla has all the necessary infrastructure, including golf courses, diving centers, tennis courts and other entertainment. Not far from the resort is the town of Polonnaruwa. It is known for the fact that the remains of the legendary palace of the state of the ancient Sinhalese have been preserved on its territory. Other historical monuments include Watadage temple and giant statues of Buddha carved into the rocks.

Nuwara Eliya is a famous resort in the mountains of Sri Lanka. The place is known as one of the few islands of coolness in sultry South Asia. Numerous local waterfalls are popular with tourists. Among other attractions, it is worth noting the unusual architecture of local buildings in the British style. The main places for recreation are a magnificent modern golf complex, Victoria Park, the picturesque Gregory Lake and the racetrack, which hosts horse races every spring.

Mount Lavinia is a popular Sri Lankan resort, located just a few kilometers from the country's capital. The place is a fairly large commercial, industrial and economic center. The population of the city is 155 thousand inhabitants. Tourists especially note the local wide sandy beaches. The resort has several modern hotels. The main attractions are the Dehively Zoo, which is home to more than 300 species of animals and the giant lake Bolgoda with a rich flora and fauna.

Hikkaduwa is a resort town located in the south of Sri Lanka. This city is considered the Mecca of diving. Extraordinarily beautiful local coral reefs and other inhabitants of the underwater world attract tourists from all over the world. The coral has become the unofficial emblem of the city. In addition, there is a coral reserve in the city. Other attractions include a Buddhist temple and a large, beautiful lake.

What to watch

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and recreation areas

Leisure

Transport

Private guides in Sri Lanka

Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with Sri Lanka in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.

Things to do

Water sports

Comfortable weather throughout the year, amazingly clear water and the beauty of the underwater depths of Sri Lanka attract many outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world.

Diving - scuba diving, mask, fins and other equipment. The Indian Ocean, in addition to the most beautiful marine life and underwater reefs, holds many secrets and mysteries. Diving near wrecks and underwater caves heightens the senses and makes diving in Sri Lanka simply unforgettable. Sri Lankan diving centers have modern gear and equipment, and are scattered around the entire perimeter of the island. When planning a diving holiday, consider the travel time. The fact is that diving centers located in the southwest of Sri Lanka work from mid-autumn to mid-spring, and in the northeast - from early spring to mid-autumn.

Snorkeling also allows you to contemplate the splendor of the underwater world, but only at shallow depths: snorkeling requires only a mask, fins and a snorkel. The purity and transparency of the Sri Lankan waters easily allow you to engage in this exciting activity, because underwater delights are visible at a depth of several meters.

Surfing is riding the waves using special boards. Surfers have chosen many parts of Sri Lanka. The picturesque landscape, the relaxed atmosphere of the resort and, of course, good high waves make the island ideal for this sport.

Windsurfing is riding the waves with a board equipped with a sail. This sport can be practiced in Negombo, Trincomalee, Bentota. Equipment is rented at specialized rental points. Some hotels specialize in windsurfing and offer tourists all the necessary equipment. The gathering place for experienced athletes was the bay - Arugam Bay.

Ayurveda

Traditional treatment in Sri Lanka is very developed. Especially popular is Ayurveda, which means the science of life. This is a whole complex of folk methods of treatment, including aromatherapy, relaxation, meditation, massage, healthy eating. Ayurveda implies a comprehensive improvement of the body, and not the treatment of only diseased organs. The most important thing is that this direction has no side effects and contraindications. All medicinal products of the medical direction are completely made from natural ingredients. Several hotels in Sri Lanka at once offer to combine relaxation with Ayurveda treatment.

Ecotourism

Around the world, ecotourism has long been popular destination recreation. Recently, this type of recreation has begun to gain popularity among our compatriots. Tours to Sri Lanka are distinguished by a wide variety of ecotourism offers. The choice of vacationers is rafting on mountain rivers, off-road trips over rough terrain, elephant riding, mountain climbing and other original excursions.

Camping and safaris

For tourists who are tired of the comfort of modern hotels and want to join the natural world, Sri Lanka offers a special excursion program with accommodation in tent camps at national parks. The tour program is compiled taking into account the individual wishes of vacationers. Tourists independently choose parks to visit and other criteria for recreation. Among the latter - the comfort of tent rooms, the number of days on the tour, the purchase of additional excursions. The standard program is designed for 9 days, during which all the main national parks of the country are visited. The camps provide all the necessary living conditions and three meals a day.

Agritourism

Agrotourism - best direction rest for those who want to get acquainted with the peculiarities of Sri Lankan life from the inside. Tourists can not only live in the usual conditions of a Ceylon village, but also take part in agricultural work, as well as take care of pets. As part of the agro-tourism packages, vacationers get acquainted with the local culture, customs, learn how to cook national dishes.

Fishing

The coastal waters of Sri Lanka abound in the number of fish and other representatives of the underwater world living there. Saturation with plankton attracts a large variety of individuals - from tuna to sharks. Excursion fishing usually starts early in the morning. Tourist groups take out fishing for several tens of kilometers from the coast. Vacationers are accompanied by experienced local fishermen, and all the necessary equipment is included in the price of the tour.

River safari

The so-called boat safari enjoys great success on the island. This is a three-hour river boat trip. During the tour you will be able to meet many exotic birds and animals. Moving away from civilization on a boat, you can meet more and more interesting and unusual things - small islands of land, aboriginal settlements and unique vegetation. The services of a local guide will cost only $20.

Helicopter tour

The opportunity to take a walk in a helicopter appeared recently. This is a very expensive entertainment, but those who wish are still there. The helicopter base is located 15 kilometers from the capital of Sri Lanka. From here you can fly to almost anywhere in the country. The maximum allowable number of tourists in the cabin of one helicopter is four people. The most popular excursion to Sigiriya will cost $2,000 for a helicopter, in addition, you will have to fork out another $112 for each hour of waiting for a helicopter.

Hot air balloon flight

Another excursion that allows tourists to admire the amazing Sri Lankan landscapes from a bird's eye view. Air walks are made only in low wind, safe weather for flights. The standard duration of the tour is one and a half hours, and the cost is approximately $1000 for the entire group, the number of which cannot exceed four people.

Golf

This game began to develop in Sri Lanka in the 19th century. To date, several high-class golf complexes have been created in the country that meet world standards. Novice athletes will also be able to enjoy the game: special individual and group lessons are held for beginners in golf clubs.

Sri Lankan wedding

Newlyweds from all over the world are increasingly choosing Sri Lanka as their wedding venue. The ceremony takes place according to local traditions - the bride and groom dress in bright national costumes, the procession is accompanied by elephants and drumming, young men and girls in colorful dresses dance nearby. After exchanging rings, the newlyweds give each other a taste of rice boiled in coconut milk and drink it with water. This ritual symbolizes the future mutual care of husband and wife. There are a number of other traditional wedding rites - tying the little fingers of the bride and groom with gold thread, breaking a coconut to sprinkle milk on the clothes of the newlyweds, and lighting an oil lamp together. The cost of the ceremony should be discussed in advance with the organizer. The amount will vary depending on the number of selected services. But on average, you can meet $1000.

Sri Lanka beaches

Sri Lanka boasts magnificent sandy beaches that stretch for 1000 km along the entire coast of the island. When swimming in the ocean, you should be careful: the deep currents are quite dangerous, besides, you can cut yourself with coral fragments. Sunbathing topless in Sri Lanka is not accepted.

The resorts offer all kinds of water sports: diving, surfing, yachting, snorkeling, sailing.
There are 2 beach seasons on the island: north winds blow on the west and south coasts from November to March, the sea is calm, and the weather is comfortable. From April to October, the west monsoon blows, so beach weather sets in on the east coast.

Movement around the country

Bus

Buses are often crowded with passengers and very uncomfortable, but they can travel the entire island for next to nothing, for a few dollars. There are AC class buses with air conditioning and guaranteed seats, they will cost twice as much.

Bus stops are busy, especially the big ones, but just about everyone will be happy to practice their English and help out.

Private and municipal buses run in major cities of the country. The fares are about the same. Public transport in Sri Lanka is one of the cheapest in the world.

A train

It is convenient to travel between Sri Lankan cities by train. From the capital, you can get to any end point for no more than 300 rupees. Passengers have the opportunity to choose a class of carriage with a suitable level of comfort. Sri Lanka has an extensive rail system serving all the major cities of the island except the north and east.

Trains are more comfortable and colorful than buses, and thanks to the winding railway in the mountains, the railway network in the mountainous part of Sri Lanka is very scenic, especially on the Badullu-Nanu Oya line. If possible, sit on the right side of the train for the best views. For tourists who want to see the local views, there are special sightseeing cars with large windows.

Knock Knock

The most popular form of transport in Sri Lanka is a small cabin scooter called a tuk-tuk. For us, they are unusual, but the Sri Lankans regularly use them for everyday trips. Tuk-tuk is much cheaper than a regular taxi, average price per kilometer - 15-20 rupees. Tipping is not customary in Sri Lanka.

Taxi

A more traditional mode of transport will cost about 50% more. For a kilometer of the way you will have to pay about 30 rupees. If the taxi is not equipped with a meter, then the cost of the trip should be negotiated in advance. You can “catch” a taxi driver right on the street or call by phone.

Car rental

The country has a well-organized transport system, but Russians will be very surprised by two things - left-hand traffic and the possibility of neighbors on the road of animals driven by farmers and cars.

With a driver

The car itself is often provided free of charge, and money is paid to the driver for his services. Some of the drivers/guides have a state license to carry out their activities, some of them are extremely knowledgeable and multilingual, specializing in the history and culture of the country. For those who go to see historical places and nature reserves, they will talk about the environment.

Without a driver

Those who are not embarrassed by the oddities of traffic in Sri Lanka can rent a car for independent trips. The standard fee is 2400 rupees per day. This amount includes a run of 80 kilometers, and for each additional kilometer you will have to pay an extra 8 rupees.

Airplane

Air carrier Aero Lanka operates domestic flights to Colombo-Ratmalata, Colombo-Jaffna and Colombo-Trincomalee destinations.

Communication

The main language of Sri Lanka is Sinhala, the second language is Tamil. English is used in government and tourism. Don't expect the entire population everywhere to be fluent in English. It is much more common in beach and tourist areas. Most people in rural areas do not know English at all, except for a few simple words.

• Sinhalese: the greeting in Sinhala is "aayuBowan", which literally means "stay a little longer"; thank you in Sinhalese it will be "stuti";
• Tamil: the greeting in Tamil is "vanakkam"; thank you - "nanri";
• Arabic(Sri Lankan Moors): when meeting with a Muslim, it will be polite to say "Assalamu alaikum"; thank you sounds like "jazz-ka alla."

culture

The culture of Sri Lanka has managed to preserve many of its own ancient traditions, despite the fact that European colonizers had a great influence on it. The country has managed to preserve traditional customs in many areas. Most of the ancient national works of art, one way or another, are associated with the dominant religion in the country - Buddhism. Painting, sculpture and architecture developed under his influence. Original dances and songs are also an important object of Sri Lankan culture. From contemporary art Film, radio and television are actively developing in Sri Lanka.

One of the main holidays for the Sri Lankans is the New Year. True, unlike our country, in Sri Lanka it is celebrated in April. Many rituals are associated with this event on the island, and of course, the traditional chic fireworks are not complete.

The number one sport in Sri Lanka is cricket. The national team in 1996 even became the world champion in this sport. In addition, American football, rugby and various martial arts are very popular. Among the latter are the Sri Lankan martial arts Cheena di, which was taught by Chinese monks, and Angampora, a fighting style using swords, daggers and other weapons.

Kitchen

The national Sri Lankan cuisine has much in common with Indian cuisine, due to the geographical proximity of the two countries. Spices, spices, juicy fruits, seafood - all these elements are traditional in both countries. The basis of the daily diet in Sri Lanka is dishes made from rice and curry. The latter, by the way, is seasoned not only with meat. Side dishes, fish, vegetables and other dishes are served on the curry island.

Since the dishes of Sri Lanka and South India are very similar, in many local restaurants the menu indicates where the cuisine is from Sri Lanka and where it is from South India. In addition, different regions have their own cooking options. As a rule, food is very cheap, an inexpensive lunch will cost about a dollar. Rarely, a meal can cost more than ten dollars, except in the most expensive tourist-oriented places. Colombo has a large selection of high quality restaurants.

Coconut ingredients are often used in Ceylonese cuisine - coconut juice, oil and shavings. There are many other dishes with other ingredients that are unusual for us.

String hoppers are rice vermicelli rolled up and steamed.

Umbalakada is a fine powdered fish.

Hoppers are local rice flour pancakes cooked in coconut milk.

Bittara arra is a pancake combined with scrambled eggs. For cooking, a chicken egg is placed in the middle of the pancake.

Hakuru arra is a treat similar to Bittara arra but sweetened with coconut flakes.

Kiribath is a traditional white rice cooked in coconut milk.

Rotti is a flatbread flavored with curry sauce.

Pittu is made from water, rice flour and coconut. Also served with curry sauce.

Kottu Rotti is a mix of chopped unleavened rice cakes, vegetables and meat of your choice. This dish is found only in Sri Lanka, the most delicious Kottu Roti from street vendors, freshly prepared.

The drinks

In Sri Lanka, you should not drink tap water, it can be fraught with intestinal disorders. Buy plain bottled water from stores. But it is better to refuse to buy local milk altogether. Thanks to the Sri Lankan climate, it spoils very quickly, although it is quite expensive.

The traditional non-alcoholic drink among the Sri Lankans is Tambili, juice from the royal coconut. Fresh can be cooked in front of you right on the street, and it will cost less than bottled.

Other local drinks include ginger oil and cream soda. If you prefer the classic Coca or Pepsi, then you can buy them in almost any grocery supermarket on the island.

The most popular beers are Three Coins (brewed according to a Belgian recipe), Lion Stout (oily with a chocolate flavor) and Lion Lager.

For those who prefer strong alcohol, we can recommend a local drink - Arrack. It usually costs about $4 a bottle and is often drunk with ginger beer. The quality depends on the price, but the Old Reserve brand is generally recommended at a price of $ 7.5.

Purchases

Shopping in Sri Lanka is represented by both fairly modern shopping centers and traditional markets with all kinds of folk goods - from spices to clothing made from natural fabrics. The prices for local products are very democratic. The most shopping opportunities, of course, are in Colombo, but the Sri Lankan outback, and even more so the tourist centers, also have something to offer tourists in terms of shopping.

You can read more about the opening hours of stores, what to buy, where to buy, and how to bargain in the article “Shopping in Sri Lanka”.

Connection

Telephone communications

Telephone communication is available in almost any hotel, but usually a call from the room is very expensive. It is more economical to use special phone cards and call from automatic machines or make calls from the nearest post offices. Cards in denominations of 100, 500 and 1000 rupees can be bought in supermarkets, kiosks and post offices. To call Russia, dial 007, area code and phone number.

Sri Lanka phone code: +94.

Useful phone numbers

Internet

Cellular communication on the island is poorly developed and unstable. You can use a mobile phone only in the capital, as well as in large cities and popular resorts.

You can access the global network through Internet cafes located on the territory of large cities. In the outback of the country to get access to the "world wide web" is very problematic.

Security

Tourists traveling to Sri Lanka should follow a number of simple safety measures. You should be careful while walking in parks and reserves - look under your feet, do not turn off the tourist path and use mosquito repellents. If you go on an excursion to the jungle, then before the trip, just in case, you need to drink antimalarial pills. You need to be more careful with animals. Often there are cases when monkeys steal various things from unlucky tourists.

As in many other tourist areas, pickpockets should be avoided in Sri Lanka and valuables should not be left unattended. It is better for women not to be alone at night on the streets or on the beach. Over the past few years, there has been a slight increase in crimes against tourists, but these cases are rare.

Tourists are discouraged from traveling to areas controlled by the Tamil Tigers (LTTE). Some areas are mined, and armed clashes are taking place in cities. In addition, military action by the government is also possible. However, due to the large number of state checkpoints, it is extremely unlikely to enter the territory of hostilities through negligence. These areas are far removed from places that are usually visited by tourists. Nevertheless, it is not uncommon to see well-armed soldiers on the streets, major highways, and at the airport.

Before traveling to this country, it is recommended to get vaccinated against hepatitis, A and B, polio, and tetanus. If you plan to travel outside the tourist areas, especially during the rainy season, you need to be vaccinated against typhus. Malaria-free areas are Gampaha (eg Negombo), Colombo, Kalutara, Galle, and Nuwara Eliya, as well as the city of Kandy (but not the district). In other parts of the country, there is malaria and the most likely to get sick exists in Anuradhapura. In the dry season during the day on the road, or traveling by train to Kandy (including trips to the gardens of Peradeniya) or Nuwara Eliya, you need to use a DEET-containing repellent, this should be enough. The risk of infection increases after sunset. Antimalarial prophylaxis protects against infection on trips to the north (especially to Anuradhapura), the east, and the southeast (however, some types of drugs are not available there).

Try to be respectful of local cultural values. It is forbidden to appear in temples in shorts, short skirts or in other clothes that are too revealing, and before entering the sanctuary, you must take off your shoes. When buying jewelry and jewelry, do not forget to ask for a license to export goods from the country, otherwise there may be problems at customs. On full moon days, drinking alcohol in public places is prohibited on the island.

Some traditions take some getting used to, especially for Europeans.

Embassy of the Russian Federation in Sri Lanka:

Address: Embassy of the Russian Federation, 62 Sir Ernest de Silva Mawatha, Colombo-7, Sri-Lanka.

Phone: (8-10-941) 57-4959, 57-3555.

Where to stay

Standard hotels

Classic hotels with 50 to 500 rooms. A suitable hotel of this class can be found for any budget. Because of their convenience, standard hotels have become popular with families or large groups. The all-inclusive system (all inclusive) is often used.

boutique hotels

Recently, hotels of this type are becoming more and more popular. Boutique hotels are small hotels with 3-15 rooms. The guests of such hotels prefer silence, comfort and tranquility, which are so lacking in large hotels. Boutique hotels are on average more expensive than usual, but they have their own unique look. Customers get much more attentive service and maintenance. The standard cost of renting a double room is $100-$250 per day.

Bungalow

Usually bungalows are small private houses, renovated and converted to the needs of tourists. Sometimes there is a private kitchen, a maid or a cook. Renting a bungalow is not cheap, but if you are going on vacation with a large company, then there is an opportunity to save money. Rental price $100-$200 per day.

Villas

A villa is a luxurious home with a large number of rooms, all possible amenities and maximum comfort. They are usually rented in their entirety and are suitable for wealthy people. A villa, like a bungalow, is beneficial for renting a large group of people, for example, several families. The average rental price is $300-$1000 per day. It varies depending on the level of the villa and the distance from the sea.

Sri Lanka is a kaleidoscope country. Otherwise, I cannot name all the magnificent opportunities that it provides to tourists and travelers of any age, gender and religion.

The preparation of each trip to this seemingly small island turns for me into a new and new combination of elements of a large constructor: endless sandy beaches, the history and culture of antiquity, extreme sports, the romance of the ocean, travel to emerald mountain peaks and much more.

There are so many interesting things on the island that, as a rule, the trip is not limited to one destination. The ring is the ideal form of the route in Sri Lanka. The beginning and end is the Bandaranaike airport, and everyone chooses the points on the circle to their taste.

My first trip to Sri Lanka was very luxurious and expensive. But the island made such an impression on me that I wanted to return here again, so I began to look for more affordable ways to travel around Sri Lanka, to look closely at the life and life of the locals, gradually turning a seemingly unrealizable fairy tale into reality. So over time, Sri Lanka became my second home.

The island really has a place to turn around in terms of sights and interesting places, so I love not only traveling on it myself, but also planning routes for friends who come here.

Visa and border crossing

The popularity of Sri Lanka among independent travelers is associated, among other things, with the availability and ease of obtaining a visa. Package tourists can also appreciate the efficiency of the officers at the passport control of the airport.

The cost of a visa to Sri Lanka for Russians and citizens of the CIS: at the airport - $ 40, an electronic visa - $ 35. It is given for 2 entries within 30 days. This is convenient if you want to fly, for example, to the Maldives or India.

I recommend applying for an electronic visa on the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) website - it is both cheaper and faster to cross the border. And if you have problems with entry, then you will find out about it in advance, and not at the airport in Sri Lanka.

To apply for an e-visa, you must fill out a special form on the website.

Upon completion of registration, you will receive information that the application has been accepted, after a few hours (up to a day) - confirmation that the visa has been issued.

Please note that closer to the moment of arrival in Colombo, flight attendants begin to offer migration cards for registering entry into Sri Lanka. In this form, you need to enter the following parameters in Latin:

• First Name Last Name;
• nationality;
• passport number;
• place of stay on the island (if you plan to travel around the island, then indicate the name and address of the first hotel in your itinerary);
• signature.

You can fill out a migration card on the plane, and at the airport immediately go to passport control. The procedure is that you hand over the issued card and passport (it must be valid for at least 6 months after the expected end of the trip). No one ever asked me for a printout of an electronic visa, a tourist voucher and a return air ticket, all the necessary information is already contained in the electronic database of the Sri Lanka visa service. However, keep these documents handy just in case.

A Sri Lankan visa can be extended up to 3 months and in special cases up to six months. The Department of Immigration and Emigration of Sri Lanka, where you can go through the relevant procedure, is located at 41, Ananda Rajakaruna Mawatha, Colombo.

Depending on the severity of the violation of immigration laws in Sri Lanka, various fines are provided, up to being included in the list of persons who are denied entry to the island.

How to get there

By plane

The main transport hub of the island - Bandaranaike International Airport - is located near Colombo, the largest city in Sri Lanka.

How and how much to fly is the first question that any traveler asks. There are no direct regular flights from Moscow to Colombo, but there are charters during the high season (in winter). This is about 8.5 hours of flight.

The main way to get from Moscow to Sri Lanka is the daily regular flights of Arab airlines, which carry out 1 transfer:

• Emirates - ;
• Qatar Airways-Doha;
• Etihad - .

The flight time, taking into account the connection, increases to 12-14 hours. Ticket price - from 28,000 rubles.

You can get from other Russian cities with the help of the FlyDubai low-cost airline, which operates flights to major Russian cities with a transfer in Dubai. For cities such as, this is the most advantageous flight in terms of time and cost.

Promotions and sales of tickets to Sri Lanka are carried out by airlines around March and October. During this period, the cost of the flight can be reduced by 25-35%. Easy to keep track of prices and discounts.

Tourist regions

The most famous resorts of Sri Lanka are located in the south ( best beach- from Tangalle to Weligama) and southwest () of the island. Eastern Sri Lanka is gaining popularity among tourists every year, attracting with its cleanliness, desert and coral reefs. Also of interest are two central regions of the country: mountainous Sri Lanka with developed trekking routes among the green hills and the so-called "cultural triangle" - a historical region between the three ancient capitals of Ceylon (Anuradhapura,).

Each resort has its own characteristics and offers vacationers a bright range of entertainment and interesting excursions.

southwest coast

Since the southwest of Sri Lanka is famous for its wide variety of beaches, I made my personal rating of the best of them:

• - the untwisted resort of Sri Lanka. Its beaches are preferred by newlyweds for a romantic trip or a wedding ceremony. You can navigate the prices for tours to Bentota. In addition, there is a special program to support the Bentota area as an Ayurvedic resort, so several specialized centers operate here, and each hotel has its own SPA programs. On one of its beaches is the most popular water entertainment center on the island, there is everything from fishing, surfing to water skiing, yachting
  The quiet lagoon of Bentota allows you to swim here all year round - this is its big plus. And the relative proximity to the airport (115 km) makes the resort one of the most accessible on the island.
• Beruwala- a resort with many attractions related to Islam. The main one is the ancient mosque of Kechimalai. Muslims from all over the world make pilgrimages here during religious holidays. Beruwala is also home to a number of large hotels with Ayurvedic SPA-salons, tennis courts, golf courses, traditional water activities on the beaches - surfing, diving, fishing. This area, as a continuation of Bentota, is also very clean, but it is cheaper. Among the minuses is the city of Beruwala itself. If you decide to get out into the areas where the locals live, then you will be met by dirt and restless beggars - both children and adults.
• Hikkaduwa- perfect place for surfing and diving, which, although not fashionable, is adored by young people and extreme lovers. Unlike most resorts in Sri Lanka, there are many fun bars and discos here. And the main attraction of Hikkaduwa is the coral reserve.
  Especially popular, including with me and my friends, are local seafood, which can be tasted in street restaurants.
• Mount Lavinia- a resort with a long history and several large modern hotels. Currently, it is a large city adjacent to the economic center of the country, Colombo. Of the main attractions, the Dehiwela Zoo with more than 300 species of animals, as well as the huge Bolgoda Lake, the largest reservoir of fresh water in Sri Lanka, can be noted. The resort is maximally focused on tourists: many hotels and even hostels do not basically populate the Sri Lankans themselves. The main advantage of Mount Lavinia is its proximity to the airport (49 km).
• Tangalle- one of the southern resorts of Sri Lanka, designed for lovers of solitude (!!!), endless sandy beaches. There are also excellent opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
  In this area you will find both luxury hotels and cheap guest houses. Local fishermen daily catch several types of fish and seafood, which are skillfully prepared in local restaurants.
• - the southernmost resort of Sri Lanka. Near its beaches is the city of Matara and Cape Dondra - the extreme point relative to the equator. The beaches of Mirissa are characterized by calmness and tranquility. A few resort hotels are more likely for those who travel around Sri Lanka on their own, there is no infrastructure for package tourists.
  
The hallmark of the resort is a boat trip to the blue whales that winter nearby. Also among the advantages of Mirissa is the ability to get in 1.5 hours from Colombo by bus along the high-speed autobahn.
• Kalutara- a modern developing resort. It is known all over the world for its spices, as well as juicy tropical fruits that grow in the area. The Gangatilaka Vihara Temple is the city's most famous landmark. This is a huge hollow stupa (the only one in Sri Lanka) that you can enter. I highly recommend visiting this one-of-a-kind facility. The disadvantage of the resort is the relative proximity of the city of Kalutara, its noisy streets, bustle, Railway, urban drains that go past the beaches into the ocean. Also in Kalutara there is no shallow water as such, so I do not recommend holidays with children.

northeast coast

Since the Sri Lanka airport is located on the opposite side of the island, getting to the northeast is more difficult. Nevertheless, there are several resorts with their own unique features:

central highlands

An unforgettable contrast with the beach of Sri Lanka is guaranteed!

It is always very hot here during the day, and at night the temperature drops to 12 degrees, so you will need a jacket or a warm sweater to travel to these parts.

The two main points of visit to the mountainous part of Sri Lanka, each of which has its own unique look and history, are Nuwara Eliya and Ella.

By the way, between them you can make a fascinating three-hour journey by train among the pristine eucalyptus groves and emerald tea plantations.

"Cultural Triangle"

4 of the 8 UNESCO sites of Sri Lanka are located in a small area, which is formed by lines connecting the cities of Anuradhapura, Pollonaruwa and Kandy. At different times, each of them was the capital of Ceylon.

To visit the main cities of the "triangle", it is enough to allocate 1 day each. You can spend a little less time exploring Anuradhapura, but a little more - Kandy. Each city has the minimum necessary tourist infrastructure: hotels, guest houses, restaurants, shops. In Kandy, of course, it is more developed, as it is the second largest city in Sri Lanka.

In addition to the above cities, the number of attractions " cultural triangle"They also include, the inspection of which takes about 3 hours for each object. But you can set aside a separate day for them.

It is convenient to book hotels in Sri Lanka at Booking - before that, you can compare hotel prices. You can view offers from owners for apartments and apartments by.

Top cities

In order to know Sri Lanka from A to Z, I recommend visiting cities that will show the island from different angles:

Islands

Sri Lanka is an island in itself, but nevertheless, it has a small number of satellite islands, some of which will be interesting to include in the travel itinerary.

The names of some of the northwestern islands end in "tivu", which means "island" in Tamil: Punkudutivu, Mandaytivu. Some of the islands have retained the names of Dutch cities since the colonization of the country. For example, an island.

Most noteworthy:

Top attractions

The peculiarity of Sri Lanka lies in the unique opportunity to combine a relaxed vacation on the ocean with an educational excursion program. There are 8 UNESCO sites on the island, as well as various historical and natural attractions. You can see them both as part of an independent trip (cheaper and more interesting with preliminary preparation), or buy excursions in agencies and representatives of travel agencies (very expensive, but reliable and more comfortable).

• Sigiriya- a historical complex (UNESCO heritage site), located on a high cliff in the very center of the island. The caves of the monks, who came here, the king of Kasapa turned into a magnificent city with a palace, temples, outbuildings. The pearls of Sigiriya are a huge (140 by 40 meters) gallery of frescoes, as well as images of a snake and a giant lion carved into the rocks, of which only the lower part with paws has been preserved. Read all about Sigiriya.

• golden temple- a complex of cave temples shrouded in legends, in which there is a huge number of images of the Buddha - frescoes, drawings, statues. The drawings on the walls tell about the main moments of the life of the Buddha. Read more about the temple and surroundings.

• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Sacred place for Buddhists around the world! Perhaps this is one of the most luxurious temples in Sri Lanka. Earlier on this place was Royal Palace, so you can see a lot of interesting things: wood carving, gilding, paintings, religious objects and much more. I wrote in detail about the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Weather

Luck or not, it is summer in Sri Lanka all year round: daytime air temperature ranges from +28 °С to +33 °С (at night +24 °С ... +26 °С). The water temperature in Sri Lanka is +27 °С ... +29 °С.

The tropical climate and monsoon winds determine the seasons on the island. There are two of them: dry and cool, wet and hot season. Basically, the comfort of a beach holiday and swimming depends on this. Otherwise, you can go to Sri Lanka at any time of the year, as there is sure to be something interesting in every period.

The northeast and southwest coasts take turns sharing the palm among visitors to Sri Lanka. In addition, tourists travel all year round to the sightseeing objects of the island, and also climb the mountains located in the central part of the country.

Conventionally, the periods of the high tourist season on the coasts can be divided according to the principle - in summer it is better to go to the northeast, and in winter - to the southwest. More detailed information by month:

The off-season in Sri Lanka is characterized by unpredictable weather - it may not be ideal, but it is quite suitable for relaxation. For example, in April, the best time to visit the mountainous part of Sri Lanka with its emerald tea plantations, but you can quite comfortably spend a few days on the beaches of the south west coast: , Hikkaduwa, . May is a good time for sightseeing holiday, visits to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are located on the island. An excellent addition to this route will be rest on the northeast coast: Trincomalee, Nilaveli, Appuveli.

The rainy season in Sri Lanka brings with it partly cloudy, short-term, usually 2-5 minute (sometimes up to 15 minutes) heavy heavy rains. As a rule, precipitation occurs at night, but there are exceptions. A strong wind can frighten tourists in the off-season, as well as large waves in the ocean, which practically nullify swimming.

If you choose a hotel with a swimming pool, then the rest can be quite comfortable, in addition, housing prices drop significantly in the low season.

Swimming in the ocean during the rainy season is still possible if you choose the right beach with a lagoon or closed islands. This location calms the raging waves. There are similar stretches of beaches in the southwest and northeast of Sri Lanka.

Moving around the country

Sri Lanka is a former colony of Great Britain, which is probably why road traffic here on the left side.
Getting around the island by public transport (buses, trains) is very cheap. For example, a car transfer from the airport to Bentota is 68 dollars (10,000 rupees), the same distance on 2 buses is 2 dollars (300 rupees), by bus and then train - 0.85 dollars (120 rupees).

Connection

Roaming or local calls

Sri Lanka is actively developing cellular communications and the Internet.

The island, by analogy with Russia, has its own "big three" mobile operators - Mobitel, Dialog, Etisalat, each of which has its own travel offers for dialing minutes for international, domestic calls and Internet traffic.

Having bought a local SIM card, talking to Russia will be much cheaper than paying for roaming to domestic operators. For example, the cost of a minute for MTS is 250 rubles, and for Dialog - 9 rubles. Calls from a landline from a hotel are also not cheap.

Which tariff to choose

In my experience, the most stable connection is Dialog, Etisalat. But Dialog is cheaper, so I prefer it for relaxation. The minimum fare is 5.5 dollars (780 rupees). This is enough for calls to Russia and communication in social networks for a couple of weeks. You can play it safe and, in order to be always in touch, purchase a more expensive Dialog tariff - more minutes and Internet traffic.

If there is a need for frequent calls or remote work via the Internet, then the best option is Etisalat. A little more expensive, but the volume of minutes provided and Internet traffic is larger.

Where to buy a SIM card

A SIM card from one of the local operators can be purchased directly at the Colombo International Airport in the waiting room (right behind the exchangers). Representatives of the mobile operator will perform all the manipulations with your phone in order to activate the tariff, but you can simply buy a card and do all the operations yourself according to the instructions or with the help of English-speaking call center operators.

Similar SIM cards can also be purchased at mobile phone stores in cities. It is also widely available to replenish the account using phone cards, which can be bought in stores, shops, post offices and gas stations.

The territories of Colombo and the resorts of the southwestern part of the island are best covered by mobile communications. In the north and east, only large cities can boast of stable mobile communications and the Internet.

WiFi

As a rule, hotels in Sri Lanka have wi-fi. In large chain hotels, it is available everywhere, and in small hotels and hostels - at the reception and in common areas. Most of the time, this service is free.

In large cities and resorts, there are also Internet cafes that allow you to access the Global Network, but they look very suspicious and unsafe.

Helpful information

Telephone services: ambulance and fire - 112, police - 119

Language and communication

In total, there are about 22 million citizens in Sri Lanka, of which 10 million live in Colombo, the economic capital of the island.

The official languages ​​in Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil, but English is actively used in government agencies and tourism. At the household level, mostly residents of cities speak a foreign language, but even in the outback they will try to answer you something or find someone who speaks at least a little English.

In resort areas, the Russian language is becoming increasingly popular among residents involved in the tourism sector, knowledge of which allows the Sri Lankan to find a better-paid job in this industry.

10 phrases you need to know

• Hello (may your years last) - Ayubovan;
• Thank you - Situtiy;
• Please - Kurunakara;
• Yes - oh;
• No - Epa;
• How much does it cost - Kiyade gane;
• Expensive - Ganan;
• Cheap - Labai;
• The other is Anit;
• Drink - Bonava;
• Doctor - Dostara.

Features of the mentality

Among the population of the island, two nationalities can be distinguished:

• Sinhalese (75%), who mostly profess Buddhism;
• Tamils ​​(12%), who live mainly in the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka, their main religion is Hinduism.

Basically, religious communities live separately, forming entire districts of the city, region. From my own experience, I can note that the cleanliness and comfort of the area is very dependent on the religion practiced by the locals. Buddhism implies the formation of harmony around, so its adherents are constantly washing, sweeping, repairing something - they attach great importance to order. This contrast is striking when you drive through the country. In Muslim or Hindu areas, they don’t think so much about the existence of things, hence the garbage, there are many times more unkempt places.

In general, the Sri Lankans are very friendly and always ready to help. Of course, there are swindlers, but they obviously do not think about their karma, as the vast majority of the inhabitants of the island do. Even if they are poor now, it is very important for them to go into the next life with a "clear conscience".

I love the locals for their high moral principles, for the family way of life (good upbringing of children and respect for elders). Sometimes all this reminds us of our Soviet times, although European values ​​are slowly being introduced into the minds of young people, destroying traditional foundations.

They usually set a large table with a huge number of different dishes. But if a foreigner came to the family, then the first to feed him, and only then the owners themselves start the meal.

And the Sri Lankans are very fond of holidays, often visit temples, attach great importance to rites and rituals.

Food and drink

Feature of Sri Lankan cuisine

The spicy and spicy food of Sri Lanka can be a big challenge. The magic phrase comes to the aid of the traveler “but sleepy”, however, this does not guarantee that the food will be similar to European. This is a classic feature of the cuisines of all Asian countries.

The charm of Sri Lankan cuisine is in its simplicity. The basis of most dishes is vegetables, rice, fish, spices. This is still the same constructor, in the center of which is rice. Around it are various curry sauces - a mixture of ginger, turmeric, pepper, coriander, cinnamon, garlic. Lots of dishes local cuisine prepared using coconut juice, oil, shavings.

What do the locals eat

As true Buddhists, the Sri Lankans practically do not eat meat and very rarely consume poultry. Mostly pork, beef, chicken dishes are prepared for tourists in resort areas and large cities. The cow is a sacred animal, but in Sri Lanka they are more tolerant in terms of eating its meat than in neighboring India.

As for seafood, they are not always available to a simple Sri Lankan, because. prices are high by local standards. The entire catch is sold to cafes and restaurants. As a rule, the Sri Lankans eat small fish or umbalacada - fish powder, which is added to sauces. But to visit here and not try the lobsters, the freshest fish, is simply impossible. For those who cook on their own, you can buy cheaply at special fish markets. They work from 4 am to 7 am.

Where to eat

In Sri Lanka, you can eat on almost every corner. These are mainly street eateries, cafes, restaurants.

Don't be afraid to eat in street places. The chance to taste stale and tasteless food is higher in cafes and restaurants. On the street, dishes are cooked in front of your eyes, and if a lot of customers sit in this eatery, then the products are definitely fresh, the reputation of the institution has not been spoiled in any way.

In expensive restaurants, various surprises and inconsistencies in expectations can lie in wait for you. Although it must be admitted, in Colombo there are the most upscale restaurants in Sri Lanka with amazing luxury national and European cuisine.

All fast food restaurants (KFC, MCDonalds, Burger King) are also concentrated in large cities. It should be noted that even in such establishments, local food habits are taken into account - there are many vegetarian dishes. A full meal at a local MCDonalds will cost $4 (600 rupees).

Prices for local food in Sri Lanka are very low.

In street eateries you can eat for 1-1.4 dollars (150-200 rupees). Lunch at good restaurant in the resort area will cost 10-20 dollars (1500-2500 rupees) for 1 person.

About drinks

• In such a hot country like Sri Lanka, you must definitely drink a lot. Tap water can only be consumed after boiling, but it is better to always buy bottled water, which is sold everywhere and is very cheap. The bottle must be SLS label(Sri Lanka Standards Institute).
• Milk is expensive here. It spoils quickly, so preservatives are often added to it. Everywhere they sell milkshakes in bags with the addition of cocoa, vanilla, etc. Pay attention to the expiration date. I advise you to buy milk in the areas of Nuwara Eliya, where many farms and large dairy factories are located.

• A popular drink in Sri Lanka is coconut milk. But do not forget that this is a strong diuretic.
• Ceylon tea is a classic drink, fragrant and strong, so locals often dilute it with milk. The environment of the island makes the usual ritual of tea drinking more elite and unforgettable.
• Fruit juices (from mangoes, bananas, papaya) and lassi (yogurt, fruit, sugar, ice). Fresh will be prepared for you right in the street stalls. The magic words to the seller are “but ice, but sludge” (ice is made from no one knows what kind of water, and fruits are already quite sweet).

• Ginger beer is a soft drink similar to soft cola, but with a ginger flavor and aroma.
• Arak (Arrack) - coconut vodka. Often used with Zhinzha to remove the fortress. Price: around $3.5 (500 rupees) per bottle. The best variety of Arak is Old Reserve, which costs about 7 dollars (1000 rupees).
• The most popular types of beer in Sri Lanka: Anchor, Lion (Stout and Lager), Three Coins (similar to Belgian).

You will not find alcohol in supermarkets. It is sold in specialized Wine Stores.

Prices in them are usually high, because. Sri Lanka has high import duties on liquor. In addition, the sellers themselves make a decent margin. Alcohol and beer in hotels and restaurants are sold without restrictions.

5 dishes worth trying

shopping

The shopping you can do in Sri Lanka has a special national flavor. This is felt regardless of the place, be it a market or a shopping center.

Everywhere you can find all kinds of goods: from spices to clothes and precious stones.

What you need to know about shopping in this country

The key rule of shopping in Sri Lanka is “Bargaining is appropriate!”, because in the process you can drop the price up to 50% of the original one. On the other hand, the cost of souvenirs and spices can be so meager in terms of rubles that it’s easier to do without bargaining, but when buying precious stones, leather goods and clothes, be sure to bargain.

Fixed prices in duty-free stores, supermarkets, shopping centers.

The best cities for shopping

Shopping, similar to classic European, is perhaps only available in Colombo. There are a number of large shopping centers, including those with well-known international brands. In resort areas, shopping, as a rule, comes down to buying souvenirs.

What to bring from this country

• Ceylon tea (the best is from the highlands of Ella and Nuwara Eliya. I advise you not to buy Pekoe and Orange Pekoe; as well as Lipton and Dilmah);
• souvenirs: masks, ceramics, batik, leather goods (for a lover of the exotic);
• spices (the cheapest cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, etc. in supermarkets).

Vacation with children

For a comfortable stay with children, Sri Lanka is a very suitable place. The beaches are calm, the people are friendly, and the crime rate in the whole country is quite low. The Sri Lankans themselves are very fond of children and respect women with children. The main thing is to try to follow the following rules:

Security

If you follow the minimum precautions, then a trip to Sri Lanka will be unforgettable for you with a plus sign. Things to consider:

• Taste a cup of real Ceylon tea from the highlands of Nuwara Eliya.
• Take part in the bright procession of the Esala Perahera festival in.
• Climb the rock of Sigiriya. This is a creation of nature framed by human hands.
• Stroll along the golden beaches of Bentota.
• Admire coral fish in coastal waters.

Money

The monetary unit of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). A trifle is somewhat similar to ours - 1 rupee 100 cents. Course for spring 2016:

• 1 dollar is equal to 146 Sri Lankan rupees;
• 1 euro - 170 rupees;
• 1 ruble - 2.02 rupees.

For convenience, you can divide all prices by 2 - as a result, you will get the cost of goods and services in rubles.

Yes, currency on the island can be exchanged at any hotel, bank, large shopping center, but I have never met a better rate than at Colombo airport for all trips to Sri Lanka.

You can find exchangers by going to the waiting area for those who meet you, after receiving your luggage. It is impossible to miss them - the doors open, and in front of you are at least 6 "counters" where young people change currency at exactly the same rate for everyone. The check, which is issued at the exchange of currency, allows you to convert rupees back into your currency, at the rate of its purchase.

By the way, please note that the export of the national currency from the country is prohibited, so do not forget to exchange the rest of the money back for dollars or euros.

Sri Lankan money is interesting to look at. The notes in circulation on the island are 10/20/50/100/500/1000/5000 rupees. On them you can see quite interesting, and most importantly, vivid images - local traditions, sights, animals, peacocks.

But no matter what, these are the most worn and dirty bills that I have ever seen. Either the state infrequently updates the money supply, or the citizens themselves are not particularly careful about banknotes.

The basis of the banking system is the 3 largest banks in Sri Lanka: Bank of Ceylon, People's Bank, Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC. Thanks to them, there will definitely be no problems with ATMs in big cities, they are here at every turn. In smaller cities and on In beach resorts, these devices are concentrated, as a rule, in shopping centers or at large railway stations.In addition, in chain hotels and shopping centers, credit cards of international payment systems are accepted for payment.

Nuwara Eliya is a city in the highlands of the central province of Sri Lanka. Its name means "city on the plain" or "city of light". The city is the administrative capital of the Nuwara Eliya district, with a picturesque landscape and a temperate climate. It is located at an altitude of 1886 meters and is considered the most important area in tea production. The city is located at the foot of the mountain Pidurutalagala (Pidurutalagala) - the most high mountains Sri Lanka. Nuwara Eliya is known for its cool temperate climate - it is the coldest area

The city of Batticaloa got its modern name during the period of English colonial rule. The original name of the city was Madakalapuwa (the first "M" changed to "B" at the time the island was held by the Dutch), which means "muddy lagoon" in Sinhala. This name, in turn, is derived from the Tamil Madurankernikulum. Batticaloa is located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, on a flat, flat spit that separates the lagoon from the ocean. The city rises above sea level by an average of only 5 meters. Near

Ella (Ella) - small beautiful town in the southern highlands of Sri Lanka. It is located in the middle of picturesque countryside, with small vegetable gardens in the valleys, tea plantations on the hillsides and forests covering the mountain slopes. The climate is typical of the Sri Lankan highlands for most of the year, with hot afternoon sun but moderate air temperatures. There may be showers in the afternoon, but they usually go within an hour. At night you may need a jumper or

Trincomalee or simply Trinco is the main port city and the administrative capital of the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, located on the east coast of the island, about 180 kilometers south of Jaffna. The population of the city is 99135 people. The city is built on a peninsula that separates the inner and outer ports. Trincomalee is one of the main centers of Tamil language culture on the island. The famous ancient temple Koneswaram was built in the city, which is mentioned in the Tamil chronicle Thirukonamalai,

Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka. It is located in the Western Province, in the Colombo district. Population - 672.7 thousand inhabitants (2007), the population of Greater Colombo (which also includes the large cities of Moratuwa, Dehiwala Mount Lavinia and Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte - the capital of the country) - 5,648,000 people. History The city's name comes from the Sinhala "Kola-amba-thota", meaning "mango harbour". Arab, Chinese, Roman merchants visited the harbor of Colombo over 2000 years ago. In the 8th century A.D. e. the Arabs settled here for a long time, controlling almost the entire sea

Ratnapura is a city in the southwest of Sri Lanka, at the foot of Mount Adam's Peak, the administrative center of the province of Sabaragamuwa. The population is about 48 thousand people. (2002). Trade and transport center in the area of ​​plantations of rubber and tea plantations. Connected by rail to Colombo and Badulla. Ratnapura is famous for its precious stones. Here, since the Middle Ages, stones such as "cat's eye", aquamarines, amethysts, sapphires have been mined. The largest sapphire weighing more than 400 carats "The Blue Beauty of Asia" was found near Ratnapura. Also near the city

Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte is the official capital of Sri Lanka (since 1982). Located in the southern suburbs of Colombo. Population - about 115 thousand people. (2002). The name Jayewardenepura means "City of Coming Victory" in Sinhala. This name was given to the city by its founder Alagakkonara. The name "Kotte" comes from the Tamil "kottey" - a fortress: fortified structures arose on this site in the 13th century. Historically, the part of the city, bounded by the moat, was called Etul Kotte (inner fort), and outside it - Pittacotte (outer fort).

Badulla is a city in the southwest of Sri Lanka, is the capital of Uva province and is considered one of the most ancient settlements Sri Lanka. It is located at an altitude of 680 meters above sea level. The city is surrounded on almost all sides by the Badulla River and mountains. As a result, a special microclimate is created in the city and its environs, characterized by high humidity and frequent dense fogs, as well as relatively low temperatures for this region average temperatures. The population is about 43 thousand people (2004).

Negombo - popular resort town, known for its historical heritage and scenic beauty. Negombo is a beautiful resort town located along the beautiful west coast of Sri Lanka. The city's close proximity to the Sri Lanka International Airport has made it a popular destination for travelers who usually start or end their trip to Sri Lanka here. Exuding Old World charm, Negombo has a rich historical heritage and is widely known for its magnificent and picturesque coastlines. Here in Negombo, there are many attractions that make

According to the economic situation, the city of Kandy, with a population of about 100 thousand people, ranks second in the republic after Colombo. Located in a mountain range at an altitude of 488 meters above sea level, the city is very picturesque. Its peculiar necklace is the river Mahaweli Ganga with shady banks. The city was founded in the XIV century. At the end of the 16th century, when the Portuguese captured the southwestern and northern coasts of the island, the Sinhalese rulers went into the mountains and founded a state with a capital in

Kandy is another historical capital of Sri Lanka that we managed to visit. This is the last city of Sri Lanka, which remained a stronghold of independence from the British until 1815. Unlike the dead one, Kandy, although it has lost its official status, still holds the title of the spiritual center of Sri Lanka. And all because here is the main shrine of the Buddhists of the island - the tooth of the Buddha.

In the morning we drove off to the elephant orphanage in Pinnawala and returned to Kandy only in the evening. There are two main attractions in Kandy: the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Temple of the Tooth Relic. But we only made it to one of them. I am absolutely indifferent to gardens and parks, but I love temples of all religions, so the choice was obvious. After checking into the hotel, we went along the banks of Kandy Lake in the center of Kandy to the Temple of the Tooth.

An island rises in the center of a hand-dug lake. Allegedly, it housed the harem of the king of Sri Lanka. The lake was dug by the last king of Kandy. It seems to have happened at the beginning of the 19th century, it is known that the subjects did not approve of this wasteful and useless project. But for us tourists the lake is quite OK.

The baths of the Queen of Kandy were located in this pavilion.

Closer to the Temple of the Tooth, there is a small market where you can buy lotus flowers, which are usually offered to the Tooth.

The fence that runs along the entire shore of the lake to the temple symbolizes a heavenly cloud. During the holidays, lamps are inserted into the holes so that the entire lake is in the lights around the perimeter.

In the center of Kandy there are several pretty streets built in the colonial style during the British rule. Let's face it, after the British, nothing decent was built in the city. Most interesting building- This is the former residence of the governor, and now the Qeens Hotel, one of the oldest hotels on the island. Here is the conditional center of the city, the farther from it, the more trash and devastation.

This boy's family Madduma Bandara Ehelapola) was sentenced to death for resisting the British. His elder ten-year-old brother was afraid of the execution and hid with his mother. Then the younger brother, who was only eight years old, said: "I will show you an example of how to meet death." And he boldly went to the execution, however, asking the executioner to cut off his head the first time.

Well, enough walking, it's time to visit the main attraction of all of Sri Lanka.

Another monument on the way to the Tooth. The monk tearing down the British flag is Wariyapola Sri Sumangala. During the uprising against the British in the early 19th century, he stole the Tooth of Buddha from the temple and dragged it to the rebels, which greatly encouraged them. Then he was caught... and after a couple of years in prison, he was forgiven by the local governor.

The area around the Temple of the Tooth is quite pretty and well maintained. AT museum complex includes not only the temple itself, but also many other historical buildings. For example, in the photo is the former royal palace of Kandy.

The most spectacular building is the octagonal tower in the wall of the complex (according to the reports, many tourists mistake it for the temple itself).

The Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy was built in the 17th century. It is believed that the upper left fang of the Buddha is located there. This precious relic attracts white-robed pilgrims carrying lotus and jasmine flowers every day. According to legend, the tooth was taken from the Buddha while he was lying on a funeral pyre. It was smuggled to Sri Lanka in the fourth century AD in the hair of Princess Hemamali, who was fleeing a Hindu army besieging her father's kingdom in India. The tooth immediately became an object of worship and reverence, it began to be considered one of the most precious relics. It was taken out only for special occasions and carried on the backs of elephants, which are sacred animals. Countless attempts have been made to capture and destroy the tooth.

When the capital was moved to Kandy, the tooth was brought there; he was placed in a temple built in his honor. The temple was built by the rulers of Kandy at the end of the 17th century, but then suffered heavily during the colonial wars against the Portuguese and Dutch in the 18th century. After the war, the original wooden buildings were restored in stone. In January 1998, Tamil separatists blew up the temple, damaging its façade and roof. Recovery began immediately after that.

Temple buildings do not look magnificent or ornate. White with red roofs, they cluster around Kandy Lake. In stark contrast to the simple exterior is the interior of the temple, richly decorated with carvings and inlays of wood, ivory, and lacquer.

Around the whole complex is a low white stone wall, with holes delicately carved into it. During celebrations, candles are inserted there, illuminating the entire temple. The tooth is in a two-story sacred vault. The relic lies on a golden lotus flower, enclosed in a precious box, lying on the throne.

Lotus flowers are brought to the tooth.

Even on a normal day, there are quite a lot of pilgrims and tourists here; on holidays, according to reviews, it’s not crowded at all.

For me, the most interesting hall was the temple room, where the history of the Tooth of Buddha was clearly depicted. Very interesting and informative.

I honestly walked around all the pictures (there are several dozen of them here) and read all the signatures. I will not torment readers with a complete set of pictures, I will post only a couple for example. Let's say this one shows how godless Hindus tried to break a tooth with hammers. And, of course, they were disgraced. The tooth soared into the sky and shone like a bright star. Oh! Well, everything, I'm silent, I'm silent.

Before it got dark at all, we wandered around the territory of the complex a little more.