About Sri Lanka; the Wonder of Asia
The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka (formerly known as Ceylon) is a nation that radiates with hospitality and friendliness. Referred to as the pearl of the Indian Ocean, the country has a documented history spanning over 2500 years while the pre historic evidence found on the island dates back to 35,000. It is said that Veddhas (aboriginals) were country’s first occupants.
According to Sanskrit literature, Sri Lanka is referred to as the land of the Sinhalese who were considered the inhabitants from the point when Indian prince in exile called Vijaya along with his 700 followers settled and established the Sinhalese kingdom. However there is also a reference to the presence of Yaksha tribe in the island at the time of the arrival of Prince Vijaya as the Great Chronicle of Ceylon Mahavamsa suggests that Vijaya’s men were seized by the Princess Kuveni of the Yakka tribe. This wave of immigrants from India continued to expand the Sinhalese settlements. In the later years, the inhabitants from these settlements moved inlands to establish the first capital Anuradhapura. Parallel to this, the arrival of Buddhism to the country took place. In the years that followed, the island was ruled by various Sinhalese kings under transitional periods that saw various kingdoms such as Polonnaruwa, Dambadeniya, Gampola, Kotte being established.
From 16th Century onwards, Sri Lanka was under the colonial rule starting from Portuguese to Dutch and British prior to gaining independence on February 4 1948.
Despite having undergone a three decade long ethnic conflict in the post- independence era, Sri Lanka today is a peaceful country and a land of diversity in every sense of it (partly due to the influence of colonial rule) - a multi-cultural, multi-religious country blessed with plethora of natural wonders such as green paddy fields, sunny beaches, tropical jungles, bird sanctuaries, history, archeological, cultural and people’s heritage. Its’ all there - the wild; the festive; legend; romanticism; adventure; scenic, traditions, and the heritage, above all people with amazing stories to tell. With flat terrains and rising mountains the country experiences a tropical climate all year around and warm and sunny weather most part of the year.
With all this plus the freedom of movement, hospitable people, safe environment and luxury and comfort- rest assured that you could explore this beautiful island to your heart’s content.