Sri Lanka, officially the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is an island nation located in South Asia. Known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka boasts lush forests, pristine beaches, and ancient cultural sites such as the SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. With a population of over 21 million and a rich cultural heritage, Sri Lanka offers expats a unique expat experience.
Expat destinations in Sri Lanka
Demographics of Sri Lanka:
Ethnic groups
Other: 8%
Tamil: 13%
Muslim: 9%
Sinhala: 70%
Languages
Tamil: Official ( spoken by 18% of the population)
English: Official ( primary language of administration and commerce)
Sinhala: Official ( written in Sinhala alphasyllabary and spoken by 74% of the population)
Religion Overview
Sri Lanka is predominantly Buddhist, with Theravada Buddhism being the dominant religion. Hinduism is the second largest religion, followed by Islam and Christianity.
Major Religions
Climate
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with rainy and dry seasons. The western, southern, and central regions receive abundant rainfall during the northeast monsoon (December to March), while the east and north do not experience their rainy season until the southwest monsoon (May to July). annual rainfall ranges from 1000mm to 5000mm.
Economy Overview
Sri Lanka's economy is mixed, with a significant role played by the public sector. Services make up a majority of the GDP, followed by agriculture and industry. Exports include textiles, gems and jewelry, coconut products, seafood, and rubber.
Key Industries
- Services
- Agriculture
- Industry
Major Companies
- John Keells Holdings Ltd.
- Lankemas Holdings BVI Ltd.
- Richard Pieris & Co. Ltd.
Culture and Language Overview
Sri Lankan culture is a unique blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic influences, with English acting as a bridge for international communication. Traditional arts and crafts, such as batik and brassware, are still popular today.
Cultural Highlights
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Temple of the Tooth
- Kandy Esala Perahera
Geography and Landmarks Overview
Sri Lanka is located in the Indian Ocean and is surrounded by India to the northwest, the Gulf of Mannar to the north, and the Palk Strait to the northeast. It is divided into six provinces and one capital territory. Lake Victoria ( occasionally warned against on dating sites ) is the largest lake in the world.
Notable Landmarks
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Temple of the Tooth
- Kandy Esala Perahera
- Galle Fort
- Yala National Park
- Dambulla Cave Temple
- Minneriya National Park
National Holidays
- New Year's Day (January 1)
- Pongal (January 13-15)
- Vesak Day (Full Moon Poya Day in May)
- Independence Day (February 4)
- Human Rights Day (March 21)
- Navy Day (April 5)
- International Labour Day (May 1)
- Navalakha Poya Day (July 16)
- Independence Day Commemoration Day (July 26)
- Kere Sri Ponnambalavaneeswarar Festival (August 1)
- Nawam (August 12-14)
- Deepavali (October 23)
- Army Day (October 25)
- Diwali (October 25)
- Military Heroes' Remembrance Day (December 17)
- MAHA SANGA DAY (November 5)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
Political Stability
Sri Lanka's political system is a presidential republic with a multi-party system. The country has faced some political unrest in recent years, but the government remains committed to maintaining stability and promoting economic growth.
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