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SRi Lanka
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What’s up with Sri Lanka?
A beautiful island country, amidst the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean … my, what a way to describe the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. This small nation boasts of glorious mountainous lands and river canyons. And of course, coconut farms align the coast, mmm! Yummy coconut! Sri Lanka is near many countries including India, Maldives, Bangladesh and Myanmar. Note: They are not bordering nations as Sri Lanka is it’s own separate island. A coastline expanding to approximately 1,340 kilometres, beautiful beaches and lagoons line the vast lands of Sri Lanka.
You may have just left school and said your goodbyes to history, but the history of Sri Lanka is one that cannot be easily disregarded, especially one that you should know of when travelling to Sri Lanka. There is the history of the origins of Sri Lanka and all that which you may find out about whilst on your trip as you visit various religious and cultural sites in Sri Lanka. However, the most important thing you must keep in mind is that Sri Lanka is slowly picking up its broken pieces and trying to piece them back together. After 30 years of a bloody, civil war the Sinhala and Tamil citizens are attempting to make amends to their strained relationships. Some individuals may still be amidst concussion of it all and hence when asking question, be sure to be careful. As you travel through Sri Lanka, especially in the north you will see the remainders of the aftermath of the war.
The Sri Lankan rupee is what you need when in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan economy is steady and growing. It’s main industries include the tourism industry (which you’re helping build), tea industry, agriculture, apparel and textile industry.
True or false: myth busting information the stereotyped views of Sri Lanka, Sri Lankans and the Sri Lankan culture
Foreigners often believe the ridiculous rumours that majority of the Sinhala Sri Lankans, who make up approximately 75% of the population descended from their ancestor, a lion. You may be on your gap year and not wanting to think about biology but the current proposed theory is that humans evolved from chimpanzees and not lions. Hence, people believe that some Sri Lankans will behave in a lion like manner and that they are carnivorous and sometimes eat in the same manner as a lion. I assure, this is not true.
Another stereotypical view about Sri Lankan you may have heard is that all Sri Lankans eat rice and curry, only. This is not true. Rice and curry is a staple diet in Sri Lanka but there are also many other delicious dishes in Sri Lanka that individuals eat.
How to make friends: opportunities to meet new people
Interacting and meeting people in Sri Lanka can occur quite easily. Along with big shopping malls, there are also a lot of local markets which can be found. These markets consist of stalls where you can purchase a variety of products including fresh vegetables, clothing, house hold products, books and even electronics. Prices tend to be considerably lower at these places. This would be very appealing to tourists especially as products are readily available and provides them with the opportunity to really get a feel of the culture as well as mix and mingle with the local people. Pettah market, The Good market and Beema Market are great examples of local markets which can all be found in the Colombo. Using public transport would be a great way to interact with the local people who are almost always willing to have a chat, and at the least at smile. You guys may also experience the true cultures of Sri Lanka by walking through the streets. You will get to taste the local delicacies at the local cafes, though you may be experiencing more of a social experience that culinary experience.
Festivals are also another great way to meet individuals and communicate with them. In Sri Lanka, one of the biggest festivals is the Sinhala festival of Esala Perahera. It is a festival that celebrates praises and requests to god for rainfall as well as the commemoration of the day when the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha was brought to Sri Lanka. Although this festival held in Kandy is quite a large one, making friends and experiencing the rich culture of Sri Lanka during this festival would be a rewarding experience. Extravagant costumes and colourful acts life the streets of Kandy as many thousands of people gather there to celebrate in the only manner in which they know to do so, as joyfully and lively as possible.
Cultcha Vultcha: What to expect
When in Sri Lanka the utmost important thing you must remember is to alwayss respect your elders, even if they insist you not to. In Sri Lanka there are three widely-spoken languages, Sinhala, Tamil and of course, English. Conversing in English is a task that many people in Colombo find easy but as you move up north, you will find that not many people can speak English.
It is often a sign of respect to put your hands together and say ‘vanakkam’ to individuals you meet. You should also stand up if someone elder than you walks into the room and it is normally not accepted to be calling people older than you by their name, though tourists often get away with it. (don’t worry, there isn’t really a punishment. Sri Lankans just get looks from fellow Sri Lankans of they don’t respect their elders.)
In Sri Lanka, women often give cues with their eyes. If you choose to eat at the local stalls and you see a women working there with a family member whether it be her child, spouse and parent, she will most probably talk to them with eye cues. These eye cues often direct individuals as to which way they should walk, put something down etc. This may be because of the traditions that are long gone now where women were not permitted to look men in the eye and speak, nor were they allowed to leave the house without the accompaniment of her husband, father or brother. Although this has now all changed, you will find in some areas of Sri Lanka, some women tend to follow these guidelines.
Sri Lankan cultural clothing is a topic that continues to interest me. Although heavily inspired by South Indian fashion, it would be fair to say Sri Lanka has some of its own cultural clothing features too. The sarees may be draped in two ways; the “osari” which is the manner in why Sinhala people drape whilst Tamilians drape there sarees is a “selai” manner. Women are often expected to wear these costumes to cultural events and religious events. Young girls may however get away with wearing Chudithars, Cholis and Half-sarees.
Men often wear veshti satta or trousers and shirts. To Hindu temples, men are traditionally meant to attend bare chested with just their veshti. Sri Lankans normally eat with their hands so it is always a good idea to wash your hands before you sit down for a meal. If dining with people older than you, it may be a good idea to wait for them to begin eating before you yourself touch the food (though the kind people of Sri Lanka will often insist that you eat with them)
There cultural norms mentioned above are quite important and if you can understand that, then you surely will be fine. Also, it may be a good idea to ask before taking photographs as many individuals often have rituals related to cameras. Also, ENSURE YOU GET A TETANUS SHOT before you enter Sri Lanka as there are many, many, many mosquitoes and you may contract malaria if things gets serious. Buy a mosquito net if you can as well! And be prepared to meet some of the friends we meet at the zoo here in Australia in the vicinity of your own bedroom! That’s right, in some part of Sri Lanka snakes decide to wander off … into bedrooms so be careful and DO NOT PANIC. Call for someone and they will come and help you. However, don’t expect the snake to be killed as many religions in Sri Lanka are against the killing of lives, though that is what happened for 30 years, which is aside from the point. Taking cockroach spray might be a good idea too!
You may be 18 by now but in Sri Lanka, alcohol will most probably not be served to you on full-moon days (poya). If you are lucky enough to be in a tourist hotel, you may be served discretely though it is best if you don’t as there are some pretty creepy stories behind alcohol on poya days.
You have to go to …
There are a total of 8 World Heritage listed sites in Sri Lanka. Of these 6 are cultural sites and 2 are natural sites.
Cultural:-
Ancient city of Polonnaruwa (1982) - The second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura.
Ancient city of Sigiriya (1982) – Also known as Lion’s Rock, consists of the ruins of the capital built by King Kassapa I (477-95).
Golden Temple of Damballa (1991) – A 22 century old cave monastery. Consists of 5 sanctuaries. Also contains 157 statues.
Old town of Galle and its Fortifications (1988) – Founded in 16th Century by the Portuguese, best fortified city built by Europeans in South-East Asia. Also shows the coherent of European architectural styles and the traditions of South Asia.
Sacred city of Anuradhapura (1982) – Established around the ‘tree of enlightenment’, the Buddha’s fig tree, which was brought there in the 3rd century B.C. by Sanghamitta.
Sacred city of Kandy (1988) – A sacred Buddhist site, this was the last capital of the Sinhala kings. This is also the site of the temple of the tooth relic, which is the sacred tooth of Buddha, a famous pilgrimage location.
Natural:-
Sinharaja Forest Reserve (1988) – Only viable area of primary tropical rainforest left in Srilanka. For over 50% of Srilanka’s endemic species of mammals and butterflies as well as many kinds of reptiles, rare amphibians and insects this is home.
Other places in Srilanka:
Museums – National Museum located in Colombo, National Museum of Natural History located in Colombo, The Dutch Period Museum located in Colombo, Bandaranaike Museum located in Colombo, The National Maritime Museum located in Galle and Gems Museum located in Ratnapura.
National Parks and Wildlife – Yala National Park (biggest National Park in Srilanka) located 309km south of Colombo, Gal Oya National Park located 314km away from Colombo in Inginiyagala district, Uda Walawe National Park located 170km southeast of Colombo within Ratnapura and Monaragala districts, Wasgamuwa National Park located 200km away from Colombo within Polonnaruwa and Matale districts and finally Horton Plains National Park which is situated 200km away from Colombo within Nuwara Eliya districts.
Positive Impacts of tourism in Sri Lanka
Booming tourist industry is having a Positive impact in the countries development process, post the civil war conflicts. This positive growth will result in improved performances at macroeconomic levels.
Negative Impacts of tourism in Sri Lanka
Currently, tourists visiting Sri Lanka can be held account of financially and politically supporting alleged perpetrators of war crimes and human rights abuse.
Up For The Challenge: What will be the hardest part(s) about your travel experience.
For us young people who have been brought up in a country like Australia, travelling to Sri Lanka may be found more difficult to some than others.
Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with beautiful people and magnificent sceneries. However, the nation does have a dark history behind it and although you may not see remainders in the dark histories of the Sinhala people, as they have been cleaned up, many parts of northern Sri Lanka, where the Tamils reside are still torn and you will see burnt buildings and pictures of whole families lost. This may be a little tough on you guys as it is not something we are accustomed to, thank god in Australia. Being a Sri Lankan myself, when I went to Sri Lanka to research for this post, I myself often found myself in tears. However, the individuals up there are attempting to build up their economy again and there are many little aspects of life that they wish to bring out there. Although it may be difficult for you to visit Jaffna, not only because of what’s been going on there but because the cultural challenges you will face when there, it would be a rewarding experience, as majority of the things you see there are natural, baby steps being taken by nature to rebuild herself.
Aside from Jaffna, there are numerous food safaris you may choose to go on and experiment and challenge yourself, for no Sri Lanka restaurant in Australia will give you the same feeling of flavour as the ones in Sri Lanka.
SAFE JOURNEY GUYS! STAY SAFE AND BE WILDDDD ! :)
A beautiful island country, amidst the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean … my, what a way to describe the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. This small nation boasts of glorious mountainous lands and river canyons. And of course, coconut farms align the coast, mmm! Yummy coconut! Sri Lanka is near many countries including India, Maldives, Bangladesh and Myanmar. Note: They are not bordering nations as Sri Lanka is it’s own separate island. A coastline expanding to approximately 1,340 kilometres, beautiful beaches and lagoons line the vast lands of Sri Lanka.
You may have just left school and said your goodbyes to history, but the history of Sri Lanka is one that cannot be easily disregarded, especially one that you should know of when travelling to Sri Lanka. There is the history of the origins of Sri Lanka and all that which you may find out about whilst on your trip as you visit various religious and cultural sites in Sri Lanka. However, the most important thing you must keep in mind is that Sri Lanka is slowly picking up its broken pieces and trying to piece them back together. After 30 years of a bloody, civil war the Sinhala and Tamil citizens are attempting to make amends to their strained relationships. Some individuals may still be amidst concussion of it all and hence when asking question, be sure to be careful. As you travel through Sri Lanka, especially in the north you will see the remainders of the aftermath of the war.
The Sri Lankan rupee is what you need when in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan economy is steady and growing. It’s main industries include the tourism industry (which you’re helping build), tea industry, agriculture, apparel and textile industry.
True or false: myth busting information the stereotyped views of Sri Lanka, Sri Lankans and the Sri Lankan culture
Foreigners often believe the ridiculous rumours that majority of the Sinhala Sri Lankans, who make up approximately 75% of the population descended from their ancestor, a lion. You may be on your gap year and not wanting to think about biology but the current proposed theory is that humans evolved from chimpanzees and not lions. Hence, people believe that some Sri Lankans will behave in a lion like manner and that they are carnivorous and sometimes eat in the same manner as a lion. I assure, this is not true.
Another stereotypical view about Sri Lankan you may have heard is that all Sri Lankans eat rice and curry, only. This is not true. Rice and curry is a staple diet in Sri Lanka but there are also many other delicious dishes in Sri Lanka that individuals eat.
How to make friends: opportunities to meet new people
Interacting and meeting people in Sri Lanka can occur quite easily. Along with big shopping malls, there are also a lot of local markets which can be found. These markets consist of stalls where you can purchase a variety of products including fresh vegetables, clothing, house hold products, books and even electronics. Prices tend to be considerably lower at these places. This would be very appealing to tourists especially as products are readily available and provides them with the opportunity to really get a feel of the culture as well as mix and mingle with the local people. Pettah market, The Good market and Beema Market are great examples of local markets which can all be found in the Colombo. Using public transport would be a great way to interact with the local people who are almost always willing to have a chat, and at the least at smile. You guys may also experience the true cultures of Sri Lanka by walking through the streets. You will get to taste the local delicacies at the local cafes, though you may be experiencing more of a social experience that culinary experience.
Festivals are also another great way to meet individuals and communicate with them. In Sri Lanka, one of the biggest festivals is the Sinhala festival of Esala Perahera. It is a festival that celebrates praises and requests to god for rainfall as well as the commemoration of the day when the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha was brought to Sri Lanka. Although this festival held in Kandy is quite a large one, making friends and experiencing the rich culture of Sri Lanka during this festival would be a rewarding experience. Extravagant costumes and colourful acts life the streets of Kandy as many thousands of people gather there to celebrate in the only manner in which they know to do so, as joyfully and lively as possible.
Cultcha Vultcha: What to expect
When in Sri Lanka the utmost important thing you must remember is to alwayss respect your elders, even if they insist you not to. In Sri Lanka there are three widely-spoken languages, Sinhala, Tamil and of course, English. Conversing in English is a task that many people in Colombo find easy but as you move up north, you will find that not many people can speak English.
It is often a sign of respect to put your hands together and say ‘vanakkam’ to individuals you meet. You should also stand up if someone elder than you walks into the room and it is normally not accepted to be calling people older than you by their name, though tourists often get away with it. (don’t worry, there isn’t really a punishment. Sri Lankans just get looks from fellow Sri Lankans of they don’t respect their elders.)
In Sri Lanka, women often give cues with their eyes. If you choose to eat at the local stalls and you see a women working there with a family member whether it be her child, spouse and parent, she will most probably talk to them with eye cues. These eye cues often direct individuals as to which way they should walk, put something down etc. This may be because of the traditions that are long gone now where women were not permitted to look men in the eye and speak, nor were they allowed to leave the house without the accompaniment of her husband, father or brother. Although this has now all changed, you will find in some areas of Sri Lanka, some women tend to follow these guidelines.
Sri Lankan cultural clothing is a topic that continues to interest me. Although heavily inspired by South Indian fashion, it would be fair to say Sri Lanka has some of its own cultural clothing features too. The sarees may be draped in two ways; the “osari” which is the manner in why Sinhala people drape whilst Tamilians drape there sarees is a “selai” manner. Women are often expected to wear these costumes to cultural events and religious events. Young girls may however get away with wearing Chudithars, Cholis and Half-sarees.
Men often wear veshti satta or trousers and shirts. To Hindu temples, men are traditionally meant to attend bare chested with just their veshti. Sri Lankans normally eat with their hands so it is always a good idea to wash your hands before you sit down for a meal. If dining with people older than you, it may be a good idea to wait for them to begin eating before you yourself touch the food (though the kind people of Sri Lanka will often insist that you eat with them)
There cultural norms mentioned above are quite important and if you can understand that, then you surely will be fine. Also, it may be a good idea to ask before taking photographs as many individuals often have rituals related to cameras. Also, ENSURE YOU GET A TETANUS SHOT before you enter Sri Lanka as there are many, many, many mosquitoes and you may contract malaria if things gets serious. Buy a mosquito net if you can as well! And be prepared to meet some of the friends we meet at the zoo here in Australia in the vicinity of your own bedroom! That’s right, in some part of Sri Lanka snakes decide to wander off … into bedrooms so be careful and DO NOT PANIC. Call for someone and they will come and help you. However, don’t expect the snake to be killed as many religions in Sri Lanka are against the killing of lives, though that is what happened for 30 years, which is aside from the point. Taking cockroach spray might be a good idea too!
You may be 18 by now but in Sri Lanka, alcohol will most probably not be served to you on full-moon days (poya). If you are lucky enough to be in a tourist hotel, you may be served discretely though it is best if you don’t as there are some pretty creepy stories behind alcohol on poya days.
You have to go to …
There are a total of 8 World Heritage listed sites in Sri Lanka. Of these 6 are cultural sites and 2 are natural sites.
Cultural:-
Ancient city of Polonnaruwa (1982) - The second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura.
Ancient city of Sigiriya (1982) – Also known as Lion’s Rock, consists of the ruins of the capital built by King Kassapa I (477-95).
Golden Temple of Damballa (1991) – A 22 century old cave monastery. Consists of 5 sanctuaries. Also contains 157 statues.
Old town of Galle and its Fortifications (1988) – Founded in 16th Century by the Portuguese, best fortified city built by Europeans in South-East Asia. Also shows the coherent of European architectural styles and the traditions of South Asia.
Sacred city of Anuradhapura (1982) – Established around the ‘tree of enlightenment’, the Buddha’s fig tree, which was brought there in the 3rd century B.C. by Sanghamitta.
Sacred city of Kandy (1988) – A sacred Buddhist site, this was the last capital of the Sinhala kings. This is also the site of the temple of the tooth relic, which is the sacred tooth of Buddha, a famous pilgrimage location.
Natural:-
Sinharaja Forest Reserve (1988) – Only viable area of primary tropical rainforest left in Srilanka. For over 50% of Srilanka’s endemic species of mammals and butterflies as well as many kinds of reptiles, rare amphibians and insects this is home.
Other places in Srilanka:
Museums – National Museum located in Colombo, National Museum of Natural History located in Colombo, The Dutch Period Museum located in Colombo, Bandaranaike Museum located in Colombo, The National Maritime Museum located in Galle and Gems Museum located in Ratnapura.
National Parks and Wildlife – Yala National Park (biggest National Park in Srilanka) located 309km south of Colombo, Gal Oya National Park located 314km away from Colombo in Inginiyagala district, Uda Walawe National Park located 170km southeast of Colombo within Ratnapura and Monaragala districts, Wasgamuwa National Park located 200km away from Colombo within Polonnaruwa and Matale districts and finally Horton Plains National Park which is situated 200km away from Colombo within Nuwara Eliya districts.
Positive Impacts of tourism in Sri Lanka
Booming tourist industry is having a Positive impact in the countries development process, post the civil war conflicts. This positive growth will result in improved performances at macroeconomic levels.
Negative Impacts of tourism in Sri Lanka
Currently, tourists visiting Sri Lanka can be held account of financially and politically supporting alleged perpetrators of war crimes and human rights abuse.
Up For The Challenge: What will be the hardest part(s) about your travel experience.
For us young people who have been brought up in a country like Australia, travelling to Sri Lanka may be found more difficult to some than others.
Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with beautiful people and magnificent sceneries. However, the nation does have a dark history behind it and although you may not see remainders in the dark histories of the Sinhala people, as they have been cleaned up, many parts of northern Sri Lanka, where the Tamils reside are still torn and you will see burnt buildings and pictures of whole families lost. This may be a little tough on you guys as it is not something we are accustomed to, thank god in Australia. Being a Sri Lankan myself, when I went to Sri Lanka to research for this post, I myself often found myself in tears. However, the individuals up there are attempting to build up their economy again and there are many little aspects of life that they wish to bring out there. Although it may be difficult for you to visit Jaffna, not only because of what’s been going on there but because the cultural challenges you will face when there, it would be a rewarding experience, as majority of the things you see there are natural, baby steps being taken by nature to rebuild herself.
Aside from Jaffna, there are numerous food safaris you may choose to go on and experiment and challenge yourself, for no Sri Lanka restaurant in Australia will give you the same feeling of flavour as the ones in Sri Lanka.
SAFE JOURNEY GUYS! STAY SAFE AND BE WILDDDD ! :)