The island of Sri Lanka is full of wonders and interesting things. The multicultural country is diverse and it houses enticing appeals that bring excitement for those who venture into it. Here are a few interesting facts that will give you a glimpse of the amazing things and tidbits of useful information that might come in handy during your time here.
- Highest Literacy rate in South Asia
With a literacy rate of 92 percent, Sri Lanka has a sound education system that has made education for children compulsory till the age of 14 and the government offers education entirely free of charge.
- First Female Primeminister in the world
The island nation was the first country in the world to elect and appoint the world’s first female prime minister.
- Home to the worlds oldest documented tree
A sapling from a fig tree that was considered sacred was brought into the country from India by princess Sangamitta during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa and it was subsequently planted in 288BC. What’s staggering here is, the tree is still alive which makes it more than 2300 years old.
Being a nation that was has a vibrant historical heritage, the island has been known the world over in many different names. Some of them are Serendip, Tambrobana, Thambapanni, Lanka, and Ceylon.
- The worlds largest exporter of cinnamon
It is said that more than 70 percent of the world’s cinnamon supply comes from Sri Lanka and it is regarded as one of the largest suppliers in the world. The spice that comes from the island is considered special due to its unique aroma and quality.
- The nation is powered by clean energy
Most of the country’s electricity comes from its dams. Due to its tropical location and abundance of water resources through monsoonal rainfall, The nation is almost entirely powered by hydroelectric power stations.
- The country earns big money through tea exports
Apart from the export of spices the country’s economy mainly relies on tea, since the crop was brought into the island by the British and its exponential success in providing high yields, the international market has a keen eye on Sri Lankan Tea also known as the Ceylon tea. Tea in Sri Lanka is cultivated at a high elevation; well nourished by the mineral-rich soil and occasional rain the tea leaves develop a unique texture and character and once it is dried and blended it gives out an exquisite flavour. Ultimately giving you the best cup of tea that you ever had.
The Sri Lankan flag is considered one of the oldest in the world and one of the few to symbolise its cultural diversity and the nations unique characteristics.
- A Diverse range of flora and fauna
Despite its comparatively small landmass, the island nation is of vibrant biodiversity. The nation’s varied landscapes offer the habitat for a diverse range of mammals, avifauna, Insects, and amphibians. The country’s equatorial location supports a unique range of plants that cannot be seen anywhere else on the planet.
A tooth relic of Lord Buddha has been kept in an ancient palace In Kandy. It is said that it was brought in to the island during the 4th century CE. Every year the relic during August it will be taken on a procession around the city.
- Sri Lanka has so much of public holidays
The country is the second in the world for having the most number of public holidays in a year.
