History of Srilanka

The civilisational history of Srilanka is more than 2500 years old. In earlier times it was known as Ceylon. Sri Lanka's first settlers were the nomadic Veddahs. They were conquered by the Sinhalese around the 5th or 6th century BC. A number of Sinhalese kingdoms, including Anuradhapura in the north, took root across the island during the 4th century BC. Buddhism was introduced by Mahinda, son of the Indian Mauryan emperor Ashoka, in the 3rd century BC, and it quickly became the established religion and the focus of a strong nationalism. Anuradhapura was established as capital of Sri Lanka in ancient times. Continuous struggle between South Indian kingdoms and Sinhalese kingdom went on for over 1000 years. In 11 century AD, the capital was shifted from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa.

The Portuguese arrived in Colombo in 1505 and gained a monopoly on the invaluable spice trade. By 1597, Potuguese had taken formal control of the island. But they failed to dislodge the powerful Sinhalese kingdom in Kandy. With the help of Dutch the Sinhalese kings were able to expel Portuguese from Sri Lanka in 1658. The Dutch were more interested in trade and profits than in ruling the country. They only half-heartedly resisted when the British arrived in 1796. In 1815 Britain defeated the Sinhalese kingdom of Kandy and became the first European power to rule the entire island. Coffee, tea, cinnamon and coconut plantations sprang up and English was introduced as the national language

About Sri Lanka

Nestled in the Indian Ocean, surrounded by bountiful waves and exotic beauty all around, Sri Lanka is known to many as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean and is a true paradise on earth. With beautiful golden beaches, splendid terrains and jungles, as well as cultural and historical sites, this picturesque island provides an abundant source of attractions and places to visit.

Sri Lanka, which is one of the world’s most loved tourist destinations, offers visitors many recreational activities along with rest and relaxation means such as Ayurveda and meditation centres. Rejuvenate your mind, body and soul as you unravel the mysteries of this resplendent isle.

With culture overflowing in every corner of this beautiful island, events & festivals occurring throughout the year, no matter the time of year, Sri Lanka will provide you with a galore of excitement and fun.

With a world of excitement and people who welcome you with warm friendly smiles, discover the rich historical and cultural attractions that promises a holiday that you will remember for the rest of your life.