Why visit
Sri Lanka packs safari, tea country, ancient cities, surf coasts, and curry traditions into an island you can circumnavigate in two weeks.
Country · Asia
Sri Lanka
beachnaturehistoryculturefood
At a glance
Location
7.0°, 81.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
65,610 km²
25,332 mi²
Country population
21.9 million
334/km²
Subregion
Southern Asia
Currency
Sri Lankan rupee (Rs රු)
LKR
Dial
+94
Languages
Sinhala, Tamil
Demonym
Sri Lankan
Internet
.lk
UN
Member state
ISO code
LK / LKA
Where in the world
7.0° · 81.0°
Sri Lanka
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Did you know
- Sri Lanka is the first country in the world to have had a female prime minister (Sirimavo Bandaranaike, 1960).
- The country produces the bulk of the world's "Ceylon" tea: the name still used internationally.
- Adam's Peak is sacred to four religions: Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and Christians all revere the same summit.
Bordering Sri Lanka
Traveler notes
- Kandy → Ella train ride is among the world's most scenic
- Sigiriya rock fortress + Yala safari + southern beaches = ideal frame
- ETA visa applied online
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Verify swim safety, ocean conditions, and water-quality reports by month.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Sri Lanka
What is the capital of Sri Lanka?
Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the capital of Sri Lanka.
What currency does Sri Lanka use?
Sri Lanka uses the Sri Lankan rupee (Rs රු), ISO code LKR.
What languages are spoken in Sri Lanka?
The primary languages are Sinhala and Tamil.
Is Sri Lanka landlocked?
No, Sri Lanka has a coastline.
What countries border Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka borders India.
What is the international calling code for Sri Lanka?
The calling code is +94.
When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
Dec–Mar (south/west), Apr–Sep (east). Check current weather and local events before booking.
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