SRI LANKA
- – A WONDER LAND
Sri Lanka is an Island country located in the South Asia amidst the Indian Ocean. It lies on the major tectonic plate of India. A land bridge existed between the Indian mainland and Sri Lanka according to Hindu mythology, which now is only a chain of limestone shoals remaining above sea level. Until 1480 AD, it was actually possible to pass by foot. The Island country gained importance from ancient times because location. The saying “Great things come in Small Packages”, is proved by Sri Lanka. The Island country though is small, there is no place enriched with so much UNESCO World Heritage Sites as this one. It proudly boasts off as many as eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Added to this is its unique beauty decorated by wide scenic beaches, elephant safaris, fun trains, famous aromatic tea and amazing food. It will also intrigue you with its antique and rich culture which can be seen in the ancient sites and legendary temples. That elephant safari through the national parks rich in wild life will take you to a different world. You will get to get close with exotic animals like leopards and water buffaloes, and colorful birds flying everywhere. When you are done with that you can head up the rich green hill covered by tea plantation. You could go for a pleasant trekking or you could just enjoy the mesmerizing beauty on your train-ride. It offers you an opportunity to witness the world’s oldest living tree, known as Jaya Shri Maha Bodhi. Or just surf away your stress in its amazing waters. Owing to all these charms of Sri Lanka, it has made it on the itineraries of travelers across the world.
History
Sri Lanka is believed to have been inhabited by the group of tribes called Sinhalese by a man named Vijaya. Those people migrated there from India. Again a man named Mahinda introduced Buddhism into Sri Lanka in 260 BC, which became an important part of the Sinhalese culture. A man named Dutthagamani united Sri Lanka into a single kingdom was divided into different states. He was a great ruler who ruled from 161-137 BC. During his rule many palaces and temples were built. Sri Lanka became rich during 2nd, 3rd and 4th centuries. India, China, Persia and Ethiopia were the countries that Sri Lanka trade with. But from the 5th century India started invading Sri Lanka. The Chola kingdom came to power in the Southern India in the 10th century and in 993 the Cholas captured northern Sri Lanka and the south in 1017. When the Sinhalese continuously resented the Cholas, it forced them to withdraw in 1030 but in 1070 again Sri Lanka was captured by the Sinhalese ruler Vijayabahu. After He died, the rulers who succeeded him were relatively weak. As a result Sri Lanka broke up into independent states. In 1153, Sri Lanka was reunited by Parakrama Bahu the Great. However after a long struggle Sri Lanka became independent on 4 February 1948. Dr Stephen Senanayake was the first prime minister of Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan government adopted a market economy from 1977and today it produces tea, rubber and coconuts and its textile industry is growing. Sri Lanka is rapidly growing prosperous with Tourism playing a major role.
Culture & Tradition
The culture of Sri Lanka is a unique mix of modern technology and ancient tradition. The heritage of Theravada Buddhism, which was passed on from India has a very deep influence on the culture of Sri Lanka. It is rich with a vast cultural diversity. It has a rich artistic tradition which is distinct from each other like in music, dance, and the visual arts. The Island country is also famous for cricket. It has a national cricket team which is nicknamed as “The Lions’. They have created quite an impression in the field of cricket. They won the Cricket World Cup in 1996, the ICC Champions Trophy in 2002 , and have won the ICC World Twenty20 championship in 2014, and there is more to it. It also has a unique cuisine. The central feature of Sri Lankan cuisine is boiled or steamed rice, served with a curry. Special dishes are prepared during the festivals which has got taste that will be a treat for your taste buds. Sri Lanka has a variety of dance styles like classical, folk and dance drama. Sri Lanka’s traditional music includes the Kandyan drums. Drumming plays an important part in their music in both Buddhist and Hindu temples. But western dancing and music is also followed in the western parts of Sri Lanka.
Places to Visit
The Dambulla Cave Temple :
This is the largest temple in Sri Lanka and is the most popular one. It has statues and paintings dating back to 12th Century AD. It comprises of five rooms of different sizes, each of which has calm and peaceful looking Buddha in a different position.
Yala National Park :
This is a treat wildlife lover. It homes a wide range animals and birds. Elephants bathing in steams are only a common sight here. You will encounter much more breath taking moments as you venture into the forests.
Sigiriya :
This ruins of Sigiriya are the most unique site in Sri Lanka It is situated in a rock plateau and overlooks prolific jungle and a vast plain is Sigiriya. There is an awesome 1500-year old painted frescoes located beneath an overhang about 90m up the rock but you have to be brave enough to climb the rickety-looking spiral staircase.
Arugam Bay :
This is a place perfectly suited for the water sports like, wind surfing and speed boating. Its turquoise waters and slanting coconut trees make it a dream holiday destination.
Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa :
Sigiriya also called the mount of remembrance is a World Heritage Site. It will not fail to give you that aw moment. The huge rock towering majestically out of nowhere is truly one of the masterpieces of the Gods.
