About Sri Lanka
The Paradise in the World
Sri Lanka has been called by many names by the earlier travelers to the Island and few to mention here are Sinhaladwipa , Lanka, Taprobane, Serendib and Ceylon.It was also referred as The Pearl of the Indian Ocean and the Tear drop of the Indian Ocean.
Sri Lanka has been as the peal of the Orient for its variety of attractions. It is not a mere tropical isle known for sun, sea and sanda, it has all this in plenty.It has over 1400 km sun kissed beach. one could do surfing, undersea diving, the fascination of coral reefs,and also for the more adventures in there.
Within four hours one could drive from the sunny coast to cool, cloud - kissed mountains, where the best tea in the world grows. For miles around one could see hills and valleys covered by unending carpet of tea, and enjoy the aroma of fresh tea leaves.
Sri Lanka is ranked among est the world's 25 biodiversity hot spots A few hours driving we can enter the wildlife of Sri Lanka, given sanctuary in many national parks, and nature reserves.We can see the elephant,leopard like wise many kinds of fauna.There are many kinds of birds,like peacock,parrot,stork.There also have migratory birds.
Geography
Sri Lanka is an island situated at the southern tip of Indian Ocean. From North to South - 432km. From East to West - 224 km Total area - 65,525 sq.km.
The majority of Sri Lankans are Singhalese and Buddhists, but the total population is a mixture of Tamil,Moor,Burger (people of european desent). Sinhala, Tamil and English are the national languages.English is spoken through the island.
Climate
The south - west monsoon brings rain to the western, southern and central regions from May to July, while the north - eastern monsoon occurs in the north and east in December and January.The weather is finest in the coastal regions and hill country of the south - west from October to March.The temperature in the lowlands averages 27 Celsius and hill country temperature on average 20 Celsius and in Nuwara Eliya it is often below 15 Celsius.
Time
Sri Lanka is +5.5 Greenwich Mean Time.
Clothing
Lightweight clothing is recommended.It is a good idea to be conservatively dressed on the streets and shorts are not permitted in places of worship. Footwear off in temples.A light sweater is recommended int the hill country.Bring rain proofs, avoid synthetics.
Telephones
Card operated telephone booths and cyber cafes can be found in most towns. Cards can be obtained at the nearest shop or kiosk. Mobile telephones rentals are also freely available.
Health
It is safer not to drink water from the tap though water in major towns are treated. Boiled water bottled water and ice at reputed hotels are safe. Government run hospitals and a number of private hospitals are available in the event of an emergency. Most hospitals are well equipped with medical specialists on call at any time of day. Reputed hotels have a Doctor on call.
Electricity
210-240 volts, 50Hz,Alternating Current / Plug socket take round pins.
Currency
The currency in Sri Lanka is the Rupee. The value fluctuates with world market rates. All commercial banks are authorized to exchange money and so are most tourist class hotels. American Express, Master Card and Visa Card are also widely accepted.
Visas
Nationals of most countries may obtain visas on arrival, at the airport. It is best to check with your nearest Sri Lankan diplomatic mission or consulate. The visa that is issued at the point of entry is only valid for 30 days. Extensions can be obtained, if required, from the Department of Immigration & Emigration in Colombo.
Shopping
Sri Lanka offers good bargains in ceramics, garments, leather goods,gems etc.
Communication
The general post office is situated in the city of Colombo. Other towns have post offices. Privately run agency post offices, cyber cafes, communication centers also function throughout most of the country.
Photography and Video
Photography and video filming often require permits at historical and scared sites. It is advise to check with the official at each place. Film rolls and videotape are freely available in all main cities.
