Sri Lanka

Synopsis

Lonely Planet's Sri Lanka is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Laze on a gorgeous beach, surf at Arugam Bay, and watch for whales at Marissa; all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Sri Lanka and begin your journey now!

 

Inside Lonely Planet's Sri Lanka Travel Guide:

Up-to-date information - all businesses were rechecked before publication to ensure they are still open after 2020's COVID-19 outbreak

NEW pull-out, passport-size 'Just Landed' card with wi-fi, ATM and transport info - all you need for a smooth journey from airport to hotel

Planning tools for family travellers - where to go, how to save money, plus fun stuff just for kids

What's New feature taps into cultural trends and helps you find fresh ideas and cool new areas our writers have uncovered

NEW Accommodation feature gathers all the information you need to plan your accommodation

Colour maps and images throughout

Highlights and itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests

Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots

Essential info at your fingertips - hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, transit tips, prices

Honest reviews for all budgets - eating, sleeping, sightseeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss

Cultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, cuisine, politics

Over 55 maps 

Covers Colombo, the West, the South, Nala National Park, hill country, ancient cities, the East, Jaffna & the North and more

 

The Perfect Choice: Lonely Planet's Sri Lanka, our most comprehensive guide to Sri Lanka, is perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less travelled. 

About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveller since 1973. Over the past four decades, we've printed over 145 million guidebooks and phrasebooks for 120 languages, and grown a dedicated, passionate global community of travellers. You'll also find our content online, and in mobile apps, videos, 14 languages, armchair and lifestyle books, ebooks, and more, enabling you to explore every day.

 

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Summary

Chapter 1: A Tapestry of History and Culture

* Traces Sri Lanka's rich history, from its ancient kingdoms to colonial rule and independence.
* Illustrates the diverse cultural influences, including Sinhalese, Tamil, Muslim, and Portuguese.
* Example: The ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the grandeur and architectural prowess of the Sinhalese kings.

Chapter 2: Natural Wonders and Eco-Tourism

* Highlights Sri Lanka's stunning natural beauty, from its pristine beaches to lush rainforests.
* Emphasizes the importance of wildlife conservation and eco-tourism initiatives.
* Example: Yala National Park, renowned for its leopard population and other diverse wildlife species.

Chapter 3: Tea and Spices

* Explores Sri Lanka's renowned tea industry, detailing the cultivation, production, and global trade of Ceylon tea.
* Discusses the significance of spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, in Sri Lanka's economy and culture.
* Example: A visit to the Lipton's Seat tea plantation in the central highlands provides insights into the scale and beauty of Sri Lanka's tea industry.

Chapter 4: Buddhism and Other Religions

* Examines the central role of Buddhism in Sri Lankan society, including its history, practices, and influence on culture.
* Discusses other religions, such as Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity, and their impact on Sri Lanka's religious landscape.
* Example: The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, where the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha is housed, is a symbol of the country's deep Buddhist heritage.

Chapter 5: Post-Independence and Economic Development

* Analyzes Sri Lanka's post-independence journey, including its economic growth, political challenges, and social transformation.
* Discusses the country's efforts to achieve sustainable development and overcome poverty.
* Example: The Colombo Stock Exchange, the island's financial hub, represents Sri Lanka's economic progress.

Chapter 6: Art, Literature, and Music

* Explores Sri Lanka's vibrant artistic traditions, including painting, sculpture, and dance.
* Discusses the country's rich literary heritage and the contributions of contemporary writers.
* Example: The Sigiriya frescoes, a masterpiece of ancient Sinhalese art, are a testament to the creativity and technical skill of Sri Lankan artists.

Chapter 7: Cuisine and Culinary Delights

* Introduces Sri Lanka's unique cuisine, influenced by a blend of local flavors and international influences.
* Details the key culinary ingredients, traditional dishes, and popular street food.
* Example: Rice and curry, a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine, offers a delectable array of flavors and textures.

Chapter 8: Sports and Leisure

* Discusses Sri Lanka's passion for cricket and explores other popular sports.
* Examines the country's growing tourism industry and the opportunities it offers for relaxation and adventure.
* Example: Galle Cricket Stadium, an architectural marvel, hosts international cricket matches and showcases Sri Lanka's cricketing prowess.