Ayubowan Journeys

About Sri Lanka

Welcome to Sri Lanka – The Jewel of the Indian Ocean

Sri Lanka General Information

Sri Lanka, officially known as the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is a tropical island nation in the Indian Ocean covering an area of 65,606 sq km (25,322 sq miles). Its official administrative capital is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, while Colombo serves as the commercial hub. The country has a population of about 21.4 million people and operates in the GMT +5:30 time zone. The dialing code is +94, and the local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Sri Lanka’s economy relies on tourism, tea exports, agriculture, and textiles, making it one of the most dynamic economies in South Asia.

Culturally rich and diverse, Sri Lanka recognizes Sinhala and Tamil as its official languages, while English is widely spoken in tourist and business areas. The country is multi-religious, with Buddhism (69%) being the majority faith, followed by Hinduism (16%), Islam (8%), and Christianity (7%). This diversity is reflected in its festivals, traditions, and heritage sites. Sri Lanka is also known for its warm hospitality and strong cultural identity shaped by more than 2,500 years of history.

The island is home to stunning natural landscapes and landmarks. The Pidurutalagala Mountain (2,524 m) is the country’s highest peak, while Bambarakanda Falls (241 m) holds the title of tallest waterfall. The Mahaweli River, stretching 335 km, is the longest river, providing irrigation and hydroelectric power. Rich in wildlife and biodiversity, Sri Lanka is famous for its national parks, elephants, leopards, and tropical rainforests.

International travelers usually arrive via Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, located 34 km north of Colombo. Transport within the island is diverse, from scenic train rides through the central highlands to buses, taxis, tuk-tuks, and rental cars. With year-round tropical weather, breathtaking beaches, ancient temples, and world-famous tea plantations, Sri Lanka truly lives up to its name as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean.”

Where Culture, Nature & Hospitality Unite

Sri Lanka isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a feeling you carry home. Blessed with golden beaches, emerald tea fields, ancient wonders, tropical rainforests, and the warmest smiles in the world, this island paradise invites you to discover experiences as diverse as its people.

A Cultural Tapestry Like No Other

Few places on earth celebrate diversity the way Sri Lanka does. Here, centuries of history and faith weave together into a vibrant cultural mosaic.

  • Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress to the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
  • Celebrate life with locals during dazzling festivals—Vesak lanterns lighting the night sky, Deepavali’s colors, or the rhythm of the Kandy Esala Perahera.
  • Discover a nation where every community—Sinhalese, Tamil, Moor, Burgher, Malay, and Vedda—contributes to a living heritage of art, music, dance, and cuisine.

Adventures & Escapes

Whatever your travel dream, Sri Lanka brings it to life.

  • Beach Bliss: From the world-famous surfing waves of Arugam Bay, to the laid-back charm of Down South beaches like Mirissa and Unawatuna, and the hidden crescent-shaped paradise of Hiriketiya Beach, Sri Lanka’s coastline is a haven for sun-seekers, surfers, and dreamers alike.
  • Wild Encounters: Spot leopards, elephants, and blue whales in world-renowned national parks and oceans.
  • Mountain Magic: Hike the misty trails of Ella, or breathe in the crisp air of Nuwara Eliya—the “Little England” of Sri Lanka—famous for tea plantations, colonial charm, and flower-filled gardens.
  • Waterfall Wonders: Wander into the hill country to witness magical waterfalls like Ramboda, Diyaluma, and Bambarakanda cascading from emerald cliffs—true hidden gems of the island.
  • Birdwatcher’s Paradise: At Kumana National Park, flocks of rare migratory birds create a living canvas of color and sound, making it a dream destination for bird lovers.
  • Thrill & Chill: Surf, dive, hike, or simply recharge body and soul with authentic Ayurveda and wellness retreats.

Tropical Nature at Its Purest

Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of biodiversity, offering some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.

  • Sinharaja Rainforest: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, alive with exotic birds, rare animals, and ancient trees.
  • Horton Plains National Park: Explore cloud forests, rolling grasslands, and the iconic World’s End cliff.
  • Knuckles Mountain Range: Rugged peaks, hidden waterfalls, and traditional villages create an unforgettable adventure.

An Island of Many Weathers

One island, countless climates. Within just a few hours of travel, you can go from tropical sunshine to cool mountain breezes.

  • Warm, golden beaches ideal for year-round coastal escapes.
  • Misty highlands in Nuwara Eliya with refreshing “Little England” weather.
  • Dry-zone jungles and lush rainforests, each nurturing their own unique flora and fauna.

This variety makes Sri Lanka a destination where every season feels like the right season.

Sri Lanka’s Big Five

Where else in the world can you encounter all these magnificent creatures in one country?

  • Blue Whale – the largest animal on Earth, seen off the southern coast.
  • Asian Elephant – from majestic herds in Minneriya to gentle giants in Udawalawe.
  • Leopard – elusive and powerful, thriving in Yala National Park.
  • Sloth Bear – shaggy and rare, wandering freely in the island’s dry-zone jungles.
  • Flamingo – flocks of pink elegance gracing coastal lagoons in the north.

This incredible diversity makes Sri Lanka the only country where the land’s giants meet the ocean’s giants.

Taste of the Tropics

No visit is complete without sipping a King Coconut, Sri Lanka’s iconic golden-hued drink. Naturally sweet, refreshing, and unique to the island, it’s the perfect companion under the tropical sun.

The Magic of Elephant Pass

There’s a place on the island where time itself feels enchanted—Elephant Pass. Here, you can witness a sunrise that paints the skies in gold and, in the very same place, a sunset that sets the horizon ablaze. Nowhere else offers this rare, breathtaking dual view in one single day.

Ancient Voices About Sri Lanka

  • Pliny the Elder (Rome, 1st century CE): Described Taprobane as a land of riches, famed for its elephants, pearls, and thriving cities.
  • Faxian (China, 5th century CE): The Buddhist monk admired Sri Lanka as a sacred island, home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic and great centers of learning.
  • Marco Polo (Venice, 13th century CE): Called Sri Lanka “the finest island of its size in the world.”
  • Ibn Battuta (Morocco, 14th century CE): Spoke of its sacred mountains, bustling trade ports, and the generosity of its rulers.

From Rome to China, from Arabia to Europe, Sri Lanka has always been seen as a treasured island of beauty, culture, and wonder.

Hospitality That Feels Like Home

In Sri Lanka, every guest is family. From the warmth of a village homestay to the elegance of luxury resorts, you’ll find the same heartfelt welcome everywhere you go. And the food? A feast of flavor! Taste the island through spicy curries, crispy hoppers, sizzling kottu roti, sweet tropical fruits, and of course—the island’s signature King Coconut.

Sri Lanka isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that stays with you forever.

Experience Sri Lanka at a Glance

🏞 Adventures

🕍 Heritage

🐦 Birdlife

🥥 Flavors & Moments

Ella hikes, tea trails in Nuwara Eliya

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Kumana National Park

King Coconut

Mountain escapes & train journeys

Temple of the Tooth, Kandy

Rare migratory birds

Spicy curries & hoppers

Thrill & Chill: surf, Ayurveda & wellness

Ancient kingdoms & sacred cities

Nature’s symphony

🌅 Sunrise & Sunset at Elephant Pass

🏝 Beaches

🌿 Nature

🐘🐆🐋 Big 5 Wildlife

💦 Waterfalls

Arugam Bay surf & sunsets

Sinharaja Rainforest

Blue Whale

Ramboda Falls

Down South vibes (Mirissa, Unawatuna)

Horton Plains & World’s End

Asian Elephant

Diyaluma Falls

Hiriketiya hidden crescent beach

Knuckles Range

Leopard, Sloth Bear, Flamingo

Bambarakanda (tallest in SL)

Our Tour Packages

Sri Lanka isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that stays with you forever