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Sri Lanka may be humble in size but its history and culture is rich and bountiful. It was first referred to in the Indian text, Ramayana, functioning as the island fortress of the evil king Ravana. Rama, an incarnation of Vishnu (the Hindu god), set his captive wife free as Hanuman the monkey destroyed Sri Lanka's capital in a fire.

Western influence began the in 16th century, falling under the colonization of the Netherlands and Portugal. The country eventually yielded to the British Empire and then served as a central based of the Allied forces during the Second World War.

National Pride

Although it only regained independence from the British in 1948, Sri Lanka stands out as a distinctly Asian nation. The country is actually the center of Buddhist culture and religion, dating back its roots to the middle of the 3rd century BC. The nation's two central cultures come from the Sinhalese and the Tamil. The Sinhalese came from northern India, settling into the land in the latter part of 6th century BC.

Unfortunately, a great divide between these two cultures caused a civil war from 1983 to 2009. Thankfully, the President had ended the rebellions in May 2009. Despite this resolution, travelers should still check for safety advices before making plans to visit.

Tiny Sunshine Paradise

Contrasting the nation's turbulent history are its clean coast sides and calming waters. These sand heavens have long recovered from the destruction of the 2004 tsunami. Beyond these scenic waters are lush forests and mountains. Towering above is the nation's highest mountain, the Pidurutalagala. The tallest peak stands right next to the breathtaking Nuwara Eliya, a natural formation no visitor should miss. The country's diverse religions converge in the Sri Pada Mountain, considered holy by the population's Christians, Muslims, Hindus, and Buddhists.