Sri Lanka—often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” or the “tear of India”—is a country of striking contrasts. From the lush tea plantations of the central highlands to the sparkling beaches of its coastline, Sri Lanka holds a wealth of history, culture, and natural wonders. While many travelers flock to this island nation for its stunning scenery and rich heritage, there are plenty of lesser-known facts that make Sri Lanka even more fascinating. Here are ten things you might not know about this enchanting island.
1. Ceylon: A Name Steeped in History
Sri Lanka wasn’t always known by its current name. For centuries, the island was called Ceylon, a name that emerged after the Portuguese colonized the region in the 16th century. The British later took control in the 19th century, and the name Ceylon became the official title of the island under British rule. It wasn’t until 1972, when Sri Lanka became a republic, that the island adopted its modern name. The name “Sri Lanka” is derived from Sanskrit, meaning “honorable island” or “shining land,” which beautifully captures the island’s radiant beauty. Due to its teardrop shape and location in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is often called the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean.”
2. No Trains Without Tea
If you’ve ever hopped aboard a Sri Lankan train, chances are you’ve sipped a cup of tea along the way. But did you know that Sri Lanka’s railways owe much of their existence to the British introduction of tea in 1824? The British saw the potential of Sri Lanka’s climate for tea cultivation, and over time, the industry flourished. Today, Sri Lanka is one of the world’s leading tea exporters, alongside China, India, and Kenya. And of course, the famous Ceylon Tea is the country’s pride. So, next time you board a train, remember that there’s no rail system in Sri Lanka without a cup of tea to accompany the journey!
For a cozy place to stay while exploring the island, consider booking hotels in mannar, where you can experience Sri Lanka’s beautiful landscapes and rich history.
3. A Multilingual Society
Sri Lanka is a melting pot of cultures, and language plays a central role in this diversity. The island is home to two main ethnic groups—the Sinhalese, who speak Sinhala, and the Tamils, who speak Tamil. English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and for business, making communication between the groups easier. Public signage across the country is often in three languages: Sinhala, Tamil, and English. This multilingual society is a reflection of the island’s rich heritage and its ability to embrace various influences throughout history.
4. Respect for Buddha: The Island’s Sacred Symbol
Buddhism holds great significance in Sri Lanka, and as a result, there are cultural practices and rules in place to preserve the reverence for Buddha. Buddha statues are sacred and should never be climbed, touched, or disrespected in any way. In fact, even having a Buddha tattoo is seen as disrespectful by many Sri Lankans. Visitors are also advised to avoid wearing clothing with Buddha prints or images, as this can be considered offensive. There have been reports of penalties or even refusal of entry for those violating this cultural norm. It’s a reminder of how deeply embedded Buddhism is in the fabric of Sri Lankan society.
5. Elephant Dung Paper
While you might associate elephants with their majestic presence, in Sri Lanka, they are also known for their contributions to a rather unique industry: paper-making. Elephant dung is used to produce eco-friendly paper, a practice that benefits both the environment and local communities. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage in Sri Lanka is home to a factory where visitors can see how the paper is made from elephant droppings. This initiative provides jobs for locals, reduces the need for tree-based paper, and raises awareness about sustainability. It’s a quirky yet incredibly eco-conscious part of Sri Lankan culture.
6. The Oldest Tree in the World
In Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, you’ll find the “Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi,” a sacred fig tree that is believed to be over 2,000 years old. According to tradition, this tree is a branch of the original Sri Maha Bodhi tree in Buddha Gaya, India, under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. The tree in Sri Lanka is regarded as the oldest living tree in the world with a known planting date. The Sri Lankan people hold this tree in great reverence, believing that as long as it remains healthy, Buddhism will continue to thrive on the island.
7. Cinnamon: The Island’s Royal Spice
Cinnamon has long been a prized commodity in Sri Lanka. Historically, it was reserved for kings and gods, and even today, Sri Lanka remains the largest producer of cinnamon in the world, contributing over 80% of the global supply. The island boasts eight different species of cinnamon trees, each with its distinct aroma and flavor. Whether you’re adding it to your tea or using it in a delicious curry, Sri Lankan cinnamon is one of the country’s most celebrated exports.
8. World’s End: A Cliff with a View
Sri Lanka is home to some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes, and “World’s End” is one of the most breathtaking viewpoints you can visit. Located in Horton Plains National Park, World’s End is a sheer cliff that drops nearly 4,000 meters (2.5 miles) to the valley below. The view stretches all the way to the Indian Ocean, and it’s easy to see why early explorers thought this might be the end of the world. To catch the best views, it’s recommended to visit early in the morning before the fog rolls in and obscures the cliffs.
9. Endemic Animals: A Treasure Trove of Wildlife
Sri Lanka is a sanctuary for a variety of endemic species. The island is home to 21 species of mammals that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Among the most famous are the Sri Lankan Elephant, the Sloth Bear, and the elusive Sri Lankan Leopard. Another impressive resident is the Blue Whale, often spotted off the coast. Collectively, these animals make up the “Big Four” of Sri Lankan wildlife, a must-see for nature enthusiasts visiting the island.
10. The Mystery of Sri Lankan Dogs
One of the most unique aspects of Sri Lankan animal life is the island’s native dog breed. Though these dogs come in various sizes and colors, they all share a common ancestry. Due to Sri Lanka’s isolated island environment, no new dog breeds have entered the gene pool, making the local dogs genetically uniform. These dogs are well-suited to the island’s climate and have become an integral part of Sri Lanka’s cultural landscape.
