I often used both in the countries of South Asia, the truth is most often at work, but in the most interesting places I come again, already for the sake of rest. In order to get impressions not on the run, but with akin to alignment. This time, I visited Sri Lanka or, as it is also called - Ceylon Island.
How to get to Ceylon Island
I bought tickets that are about 20,000 rubles from Moscow. A few hours of flight - and I am in place. The airport on the island is located in Bandaranaica. From here you need to get to Colombo, which is in thirty-five kilometers. Transport connection on Sri Lanka developed quite well, so you can safely choose a bus and suburban train, and taxis.
I decided not to risk with bus routes, so I went for a taxi, the cost of which is only 300 rupees. Also, being in Moscow, I booked a room in one of the hotels on the Negombo Beach.
The trip took no more than twenty minutes, but it is not surprising, the distance is small. I really liked the guest house, and also from his windows is perfectly visible the sea and even there is a private piece of the beach. It is very convenient. By the way, there are not many tourists here, so no one interfered with my peace. The price of the house was quite accessible - approximately 3000 rubles per day of residence.
A little about the history of Ceylon
The capital of the island is Sri-Jaiyavdanapura, although there is an unofficial is Colombo, recognized by the world community. For many years, the island has attacked different conquerors. There were Arabs, and Portuguese, and the Dutch and even the British.
Due to the fact that at Ceylon with enviable constancy, the leadership was replaced, then the architectural styles were interconnected by Meriano Nemero. On the this moment, there are many constructed modern highlights and houses.
Climate
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You can relax on the island all year round, thanks to the subequatorial climate. The average temperature of the air is held at 26 degrees. On Ceylon is always warm, but very wet. True, in the summer there are tsunami here, so it will be safer in winter. By the way, in the winter months there is no rain.
Transport
Transport connection here is well enough. It is equally comfortable to get to any point of the island and by bus, and by taxi, and even by rail.
True, the fastest is the movement on Tuk-Tuka. These are such funny things remotely resembling a three-wheeled motorcycle. Behind the driver is a passenger booth. Drivers of these machines are so professionally controlled by their transport that they are able to drive around almost any cork or a jam on the road.
National Sri Lanka Food
Local food is very different from all European dishes. The fact is that spices and seasonings are dominated here. The most beloved local is curry. By the way, meat on the island eating very little, preferring vegetables and fruits.
Local cooks are perfectly preparing sea delicacies, so better choose the fish and the gifts of the sea.
I can immediately give advice. In no case, do not attempt to eat in roadside cafes or lavecons. Very high likelihood of food poisoning. I didn't come in one cafe, I'dked around the top ten institutions. And made disappointing conclusions.
But, in addition to local restaurants, there are also European. So what is from what to choose.
Attractions Ceylona
There are a lot of religious objects on the island. One of the most important is the Kelia Raja Maha Vihara. 
True, it was completed not so long ago - in the first half of the twentieth century, but the first mentions of it were dated by another third century to our era. I was especially impressed by colorful frescoes on the walls. This temple is a true specimen of Singhala architecture.
Sri Ponnambala-Vaneswaram Temple is curious because the harvest is held annually on its territory. Its walls are made of light gray granite. It is amazing that there is no richness of paints, as usual is in local temples.
I also visited the Dutch Museum. There are many exhibits dedicated to the times of the board of the Dutch over Sri Lanka. There are coins, and weapons, and household items. Previously, the institute and mail were located in this building. The entrance costs 500 rupees. Honestly, not a particularly interesting place. Museum, like a museum. I saw the exhibition and much more interesting than this.
You can go to the mosque of Yami Alfar's mosque, which is attractive with its red and white color. 
I did not go inside, I just made some photos.
Sri Bala-Selva-Winaihar-Murthi - the church dedicated to the famous Hindu Ratia Shiva and Ganesh. By the way, God's most beloved in Hindus is Ganesh with an elephant head. It is believed that he is God of all the best in the world. And that all the wonders of the world accomplished himself.
Ceylon Island. Tea plantation
It is tea plantations that the Ceylon Island has been glorified for many years. Probably, many remember that tea in a yellow pack, with an elephant drawn on it. This tea is brought just from this island. The quality of tea is magnificent. In Ceylon, there are excellent excursions for tea plantations.
Here you can see how tea grows, how to collect it. Here is the factory for sorting and packaging tea leaves. Also on the territory there is a restaurant where you can taste all the varieties of tea growing on the island. These species are so much that I could not try everything, I was afraid to burst))). And here you can buy fragrant tea as a souvenir for relatives. I scored ten packs, probably from greed.
Market of seafood
It is better to come here very early, preferably watches at 6 am. Just by this time, fishermen are returned with fresh catch. There is absolutely all that your dullness will be: crabs, lobsters, shrimps, lobsters and much more. Fish here is also prepared.
Overall smells comes from everywhere. By the way, women are prepared here and adequate conditions are created for cooking. I was not afraid. Shrimps and mussels were just amazing. And prices are significantly lower than in urban restaurants.
Beach rest
The cleanest and well-kept coast beaches are located along the Lewis Place Street. It is here that are expensive hotels that follow the cleanliness of the territory. There is also a larger number of restaurants and cafes for tourists. There is even a couple shopping centers. So, being on the island, be sure to strive for this street.
There is still a Negombo Beach on the island, but it's better to do not see here. He is some kind of non-heavy and uncomfortable. Although there are tourists who are resting to savages. Let the beach and not particularly clean, but the crystal-transparent water.
How to entertain himself on Ceylon
For tourists there are many entertainment, the truth is water-related. Diving is considered the most popular. Dive can be engaged in Hikkaduva Bay or Trincomal Bay. Equipment for hire for a symbolic fee.
Most I liked to swim with sea turtles. 
To do this, you need to go on the southern coast, as they are most used here. Probably, they are embarrassed by local. If the turtles are not nearby, then you can rent a boat and go away from the coast. Guides know almost all the places where their flocks can be.
On the hikkaduva beach, you can work out with a surfing. It is here that arise huge waves, whose height reaches four meters. On the beach itself there are thematic clubs for surfers. Personally, I do not like to stand on the board, rather, I can not. And constantly fall and pick up the board - I am very nervous.
Shopping on Ceylon
Many tourists, arriving at Ceylon Island, prefer to buy pearls and precious stones, such as rubies, sapphires and topazy. Here the mining of these jewels is well established. Even tourists allow you to participate in mining. True for a fee. True, you need to acquire pebbles only in large stores, so you can protect yourself from fake.
Conclusion
I was on the island of just 5 days, but I had enough time to enjoy local beauties and sights. I think that Ceylon Island I will visit again not very soon. He is beautiful and interesting, but personally, I like more places where the infrastructure is more developed.
Sri Lanka Island is rich in first-class beaches, modern hotels and a mass of ancient attractions. Entertainment - Quiet-peaceful: picnics, fishing and diving. Capital Colombo, Waterfalls and national parks - all about Sri Lanka: Tours, reviews, weather, prices.
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A recreation style on Sri Lanka can be briefly defined as follows: away from the noise and bustle, closer to the sea and nature. It is unlikely that in the world there is a more "leisure" country than Sri Lanka: no one is in a hurry anywhere, everyone enjoy life - including attendants in hotels (to the top establishments, however, does not apply - everything runs in soap, To prevent guests). Most of the attractions in Sri Lanka are natural, just like most entertainment. Noisy discos and smoke rocker until the morning here is not in Favor, but picnics in nature, fishing or barbecue on the beach - as much as you like. Well, diving, of course. Than Sri Lanka can not please, so this is close to our immense: the flight here is long.
In general, to identify a person who will like here is very simple. First, in his no longer the first passport there are few clean pages. Secondly, he is either fond of world culture and history (and the ancient Sri Lanka is very rich in interesting monuments), or - desperate Marine Sorvigolov, who wants to in addition to palm trees, sand and sea, and diving center, and Surfer headquarters. Thirdly, he will certainly mow on your aromatic cup of tea. After all, Ceylon, he is Sri Lanka, supplies a quarter of the world with this drink.
Regions and resorts Sri Lanka
Money
The country's monetary unit is Lankan Rupee (LKR), in 1 rupees of 100 cents. Actual course: 1 LKR \u003d 0.34 RUB (1 USD \u003d 181.33 LKR, 1 EUR \u003d 20167 LKR).
Currency is better to exchange Colombo at the airport. The receipt received at the same time makes sense to keep until the end of the trip: in this case, when you arrive, you can convert back unspecified local money in the airport bank at the rate of purchase. In addition, the currency is changed in any hotel and a bank. The latter are open from 9:00 to 15:00 from Monday to Friday. We recommend taking a US dollars to exchange: they are accepted in all offices, and in the tourist areas they can pay directly in hotels and all sorts of outlets.
In large hotels and shops you can pay credit cards, ATMs are almost in all cities of the country. However, it is better to prevent the staff in advance of their bank about the coming visit to Sri Lanka: due to the critical level of financial fraud on the island, the credit card can be blocked at the first attempt to use.
- Island state in Indian Ocean near southern coast India, from which he is separated by the Manars Bay and the Polki Strait.
The name of the country comes from Sanskrit "Sri" - "Nice" and "Lanka" - "Earth".
Official name: Democratic Socialist Republic Sri Lanka (Ceylon)
Capital: Sri-Jayavarerepura-Cott (part of the metropolitan functions performs the city of Colombo)
The area of \u200b\u200bthe land: 65.6 thousand square meters. KM
General population: 20.3 million people
Administrative division: It is divided into 9 provinces, 25 districts.
Form of government: Republic.
Head of State: President elected for 6 years.
Population composition: 73% - Sigallants, 19% - Tamila.
Official language: sinkali, also equated to the state English and Tamil.
Religion: 69% - Buddhists, 15% - Hindus.
Internet domain: .lk.
Voltage in the power grid: ~ 230 V, 50 Hz
Country Code:
Country barcode: 479
Climate
Sri Lanka is located only a few degrees of the latitude of the north of the equator. Therefore, the average monthly air temperatures on lowlands are high and little differ during the year. In winter, they are slightly lower: for example, in Colombo average temperature The cool month, December, 25 ° C, and the hottest month, May, 28 ° C. Daily amplitudes of temperatures are small and rarely exceed 11 ° C. However, in the mountains, in one of the most highly located cities of Nuzara Elia (1881 m ), average air temperature in January 14 ° C, and in May 17 ° C.
The climate of Sri Lanka is formed not only under the influence of proximity to the equator, but also as a result of the neighborhood with the Indian subcontinent. As a result, there is a seasonal change of winds and contrast in atmospheric precipitation mode, which allows us to talk about the specific version of the Indian monsoon.
As in other mountainous islands in the monsoon areas, the geographical film in the intramenity during precipitation is clearly expressed in Sri Lanka. So, the South-West Musson, which blows from the end of May to the end of September - the beginning of October, is associated with shoes in the south-west of the country, especially on the highlighted slopes of the central array. It also defines dry weather on the northern and eastern lowlands, which turn out to be in the rain shadow of the mountains.
From about November to January, Sri Lanka is experiencing the influence of the northeast monsoon, which causes rain loss on the whole island. In the intermisson period, when atmospheric pressure is relatively stable, local convective air flows and daybrings from the sea bring sporadic precipitation from the sea.
This seasonal rhythm in combination with the influence of the orographic factor predetermines the presence of sharp district differences in the climate of Sri Lanka. Thus, the south-western lowlands concluded between the mountains and the sea are included in the wet zone, where the sediments are confined to both monsoon periods, and at an intermediate time the rains fall into fewer. Therefore, high humidity constantly holds, only February in most localities is relatively dry.
On the slopes of the western exposition of the central array within the humid temperature zone are decreased with a height, and the annual precipitation sums in some paragraphs exceeds 5100 m.
The lowlands of the dry zone located in the north and east of the island, including the Japhne ps, have an obvious, but inflexible maximum precipitation from October to January, when the influence of the northeast monsoon is manifested. From June to September, the dry season lasts. In the intermusssone time, rare precipitation is recorded. In general, in the dry zone of precipitation is less abundant than in a wet zone, and on average, their number does not exceed 1900 mm on the north-west coast and 1300 mm on the southeast. Nevertheless, the magnitude of this indicator in the dry zone does not give reason to attribute it to arid territories, and the dryness of the climate is felt only in the summer.
In the Eastern Mountains and the Intergurnaya Basin of the Uv, also attributed to the dry zone, the seasonal course of precipitation is about the same as on the lowlands, but is less pronounced. Moreover, shower there achieve such intensity, which rarely notes on the lowlands of this zone.
Geography
The island state in the Indian Ocean, located north of the Equator and not far from the southern coast of India, from which the island is separated by Manar and Polk Strait.
Most of the island occupies the lowland plain, "torn" the yields of the crystalline foundation in the form of rocks and dining area. The entire southern part of the island is occupied by the average step-old mountainous country of the central massif, with strong relief membership and aligned peaks of the mountains. The slopes abundantly sworn forests and dissected short, but stormy rivers.
The highest point of the island - Mountain ispured (2524 m.). The total area of \u200b\u200bthe country is 65.6 thousand square meters. km.
In fact, the capital is Colombo (here are the residence of the Government and the main institutions of the country), the official is considered the suburb of Colombo Sri Yaya Vardenapur (Jiawardenapura-Kotte), where are located legislatives Countries and a number of administrative organizations.
Flora and fauna
Vegetable world
The natural vegetation of the lowlands of the wet zone and adjacent mountains is largely reduced by the economic activity of man. These areas were once covered with dense wet rainforests, which are above the slopes replaced by mountain evergreen forests; However, such communities are preserved only on protected natural territories.
On lowlands, the dry zone of the forest suffered damage as a result of human activity, but in places they are still preserved in the form of mixed evergreen photophilic-type communities. Arid hills in the province of wu partially occupied by secondary cellars. In the north-west and south-east of lowlands, the dry zone of the surviving forests were degenerated into poor species threw prickly shrubs. Extensive areas in the southwest of the country are covered with dense jungle. The forests also occupy the slopes of the mountains.
Palms and mangrove trees grow in coastal areas. In a wet zone in large quantities, a red tree grows, as well as rubber and fruit trees. In more dry areas there are ebony and satin wood. Orchids, acacia, cypressions, eucalyptus are common across the country.
Animal world
The animal world of Sri Lanka is very diverse. Of the 451 species of birds 251 species - permanent inhabitants of the island, of which 24 are found only on Sri Lanka. Starting from mid-August, the first flocks of migratory birds fly to wintering from Siberia, Scandinavia and Western Europe. The reservoir of the arid zone attract a large number of ducks, and larger waterflowers, such as flamingos, pelicans, storks prefer reservoirs of national parks and reserves.
Bundal National Park is especially famous for Flamingo's colonies. The variety of forms and paintings of 242 types of butterflies can be observed in March-April, when seasonal migration begins. Among the 86 species of animals, the main place is occupied by elephants. At the beginning of the 19th century, when the British appeared, there were more than 30,000 elephants on the island. It remains only 6,000.
The destruction of the habitat has led to a decrease in the livestock, but all the same large flocks of elephants can still be found in such national Parks As Yala, Gall Oya, Breata. On the verge of extinction and wild cat Sri Lanka - Leopard, although the Park Wilpat is rightfully proud of the patrols of the inhabitants.
On Sri Lanka there are such animals like wild boars, jackals, wild buffaloes, several types of deer, bears, wilds, foxes and of course monkeys. 54 types of freshwater fish, of which 17 are brought by the British. From 38 amphibians 16 are unique.
The island is replete with reptiles, 75 species, among which two types of crocodiles, a water monitor and the largest brews. Star Turtle - the only land turtle of the island. 5 species sea turtles protected by law. Of the 83 stem species, only 5 poisonous.
sights
Sri Lanka is one of the most ancient countries of the world. Somewhere in these edges, according to legends, Adam with Eve, many ancient authors, even the location of the Garden of Eden, corrected with the Taproban or Ceylon (so until 1972 called Sri Lanka). On this amazing island There are many historical values \u200b\u200bprotected by UNESCO as well a large number of places associated with the name of the Buddha. Hundreds of kilometers of beaches and a unique underwater world put Sri Lanka in a number of the world's largest sea resorts.
Banks and currency
Lankan rupee (LKR), equal to 100 cents. In the circulation there are bills worth 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 rupees, as well as coins in 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents and 1, 2, 5 rupees.
Banks are open from Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 13: 00-15: 00. On Saturday and Sunday, as well as during most holidays, banks are usually closed.
The exchange of money is recommended only in official institutions and exchange offices, usually located in banks, airport and major international hotels. When exchanged currency in official institutions, a special check is issued, according to which when departing from Colombo, the airport can be made inverse exchange of rupees at the official purchase rate.
You can exchange money and in the markets or in private stores - the currency will be taken almost everywhere, but at the same time the risk to face fraud, since prices in terms of dollars are sufficiently low and the surrender may simply not pass or make conversion at a disadvantage.
Large hotels and shops take to pay international credit cards leading payment systems. IN major cities ATMs are also common. Large banks and hotels accept international tourist checks for payment (often exchange rate is even more profitable than cash currency). Outside the resort areas, it is almost impossible to pay non-cash funds of calculation.
Useful information for tourists
Collecting on Sri Lanka, take with you light cotton clothes, headdress. Understand the sunscreen and sunburn lotion. There are no strict clothing requirements in the country, but you should not attend temples in shorts, in clothing with open back and shoulders, also when entering the temple you need to remove shoes.
Sri Lanka is known all over the world with its precious stones: sapphires, rubies, topazy, etc. Acquire jewelry we advise in specialized stores, requiring an appropriate check or certificate. Known also all over the world ceylon tea, spices, folk craft products: masks, batik, leather products. In cities you can buy inexpensive textile products. In the markets, in private stores, shops we advise bargaining about the price. You can reduce the cost of goods by 30% relative to the initial one.
Give tips not necessarily. However, the receptionist in the hotel or the waiter in the restaurant will be glad to several additional cents.
It will not know that the metropolitan taxi drivers never give out.
Sri Lanka (Sanskr. श्री लङ्का, "Blessed Earth") - Island in the Indian Ocean. The largest island of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka - unique, paradise Island, one of the richest history of places on Earth, attracts travelers from around the world to relax, and forever remains in mind you visited him!
Sri Lanka is a country with an incredible story, one of the oldest civilizations in the world, offers amazing historical treasures.
Sri Lanka - Country of Exotics, Country for those who dream of romantic holiday And the adventures, the country of all shades of the greenery of tropical plants, a country of great natural beauty - this is the way you can call a small island located in the Indian Ocean.
Each city of Ceylon Islands is unique: some are famous for their richest history, others fascinate with their natural beauty. In each city of Sri Lanka, the tourism infrastructure is well developed and each city of Sri Lanka meets tourists with open arms.
Sri Lanka is the most ancient Buddhist country in the world.
bar more than one thousand kilometers of palm trees and snow-white sandy shores surround the island. Sri Lanka resorts are scattered throughout the country and offer ample living opportunities in Sri Lanka: scuba diving, surfing, sailing and skiing, windsurfing, deep-sea fishing, excursions to the cave. You can swim in calm waters, watch how the sun goes down the horizon as a ball lightning, immersed in the extensive ocean
Sri Lanka (Ceylon): Photo
Polonnaruva - old City Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Island: where is
Sri Lanka State is located on the island in the Indian Ocean, located south Peninsula Industan between 5'54 'and 9'52' northern latitude, 800 km. from the equator. The northern and central parts of the island are in the subequatorial, and the southern part in the equatorial belts. Total area 65610 sq. Cm, length from north to south 445 km, and from west to east 225 km.
Ceylon Island on world map
Sri Lanka Island: how to get there
There are no direct flights between Moscow and Colombo, however, in winter, charters fly here with landing in Male. In addition, flights are possible with a fairly comfortable docking by Emirates airlines (via Dubai), Etihad Airways (via Abu Dhabi) and Qatar Airways (through Doha). Time on the way is about 14 hours, taking into account docking.
Direct flights to Sri Lanka from Minsk, Kiev and Alma-Ata also do not exist: only through other European cities.
