Sri Lanka Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Sri Lanka, South Asian State; 65,610 km², 21.7 million residents (2019).Sri Lanka consists of the main island (Ceylon) and a number of small islands in the Indian Ocean. The capital is Sri Jayawardenapura, part of Colombia’s urban area.

Country facts

Sri Lanka Prajathanthrika Samajavadi Janarajaya / Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
Country abbreviation: LK
Area: 65 610 km²
Population (2019): 21.7 million residents
Capital: Sri Jayawardenapura (Colombo)
Main languages: Sinhala, Tamil
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Gotabaya Rajapakse (President)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 4 102
GNI per capita (2018): 4,060
Currency unit: 1 rupee = 100 cents
Currency code: LKR
Country number (telephony): 94
Internet domain name: lk
Time difference compared to Sweden: +4.5
National Day: February 4 (Independence Day, 1948)

Nature

Land use: forest (32%), agricultural land (36%), other (32%)
Highest mountain: Pidurutalagala (2,524 m above sea level)
Longest river: Mahaveli (332 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 331 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.9%; birth rate 15 ‰, death rate 6 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (25%), 15-64 (67%), 65- (8%)
Average life expectancy (2019): 74 years; men 71 years, women 77 years
Infant mortality (2019): 9 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 20 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.770 (place 76 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 19%
Most populous cities (2012): Colombo 752,900 residents), Dehiwala – Mount Lavinia (246,000), Moratuwa (207,800)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (8%), industry (30%), service (62%)
Export (2017): USD 11 360 million
Main export products: textiles, tea, rubber products, precious stones
Main exporting countries: USA, UK, India
Imports (2017): US $ 20 980 million
Main import products: oil, raw materials for the textile industry, machinery and transport
Main importing countries: India, China, Singapore
Railway network (2016): 1 600 km

Geography of Sri Lanka

Location and Size

Sri Lanka is an island nation located in South Asia, situated in the Indian Ocean to the southeast of the Indian subcontinent. The country is separated from the Indian mainland by the Palk Strait, which is about 22 miles (35 kilometers) wide at its narrowest point. Sri Lanka has a total land area of approximately 65,610 square kilometers (25,330 square miles), making it a relatively small island nation. Its strategic position along important sea trade routes has historically made it a hub for maritime commerce and cultural exchanges between East and West.

Topography

Sri Lanka has a diverse topography, characterized by coastal plains, fertile lowlands, and a central mountainous region. The island’s central highlands rise sharply from the surrounding plains, with the highest peak being Pidurutalagala, which stands at 2,524 meters (8,281 feet) above sea level. These central mountains are home to several scenic valleys, waterfalls, and forests. The lowlands surrounding the central highlands are home to the majority of the population and are highly fertile, making them suitable for agriculture. The country also features several large rivers, including the Mahaweli, which is the longest river in Sri Lanka.

Rivers and Lakes

Sri Lanka’s rivers are essential for irrigation and agriculture, with the Mahaweli River being the largest and most important. Other significant rivers include the Kelani, the Kalu, and the Walawe. The country is also home to a number of natural lakes, such as the Parakrama Samudra and the Tissa Wewa, which have historical and agricultural importance. Many of Sri Lanka’s lakes and reservoirs have been created through ancient hydraulic engineering systems, reflecting the island’s sophisticated water management techniques developed over centuries.

Climate

Sri Lanka has a tropical climate that is influenced by its geographical location and the monsoon winds that blow from the southwest and northeast. The island generally experiences warm temperatures throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging between 26°C (79°F) and 30°C (86°F). The climate is divided into two primary zones: the dry zone in the northern and eastern parts of the island, and the wet zone in the southwestern regions. The wet zone receives heavy rainfall due to the southwest monsoon, while the dry zone experiences relatively lower rainfall. Sri Lanka is also affected by the northeast monsoon, which brings rain to the north and east.

Population of Sri Lanka

Demographics

Sri Lanka’s population is estimated to be around 22 million people as of 2024. The population is relatively evenly distributed, with significant concentrations in urban areas like Colombo, Kandy, and Galle. The country has a relatively high population density compared to other South Asian nations, particularly in the central and western parts of the island, where the majority of the population resides. Despite its small size, Sri Lanka is one of the most populous countries in the region.

Ethnic Groups

Sri Lanka is ethnically diverse, with the majority of the population being Sinhalese, who make up about 75% of the population. The Sinhalese are primarily Buddhists, and their language, Sinhala, is one of the official languages of the country. The Tamil ethnic group, which makes up approximately 15% of the population, is concentrated in the northern and eastern parts of the island. Tamils are predominantly Hindus, although there is also a significant Tamil Christian minority. Other ethnic groups include the Moors, who are Muslims, and the Burghers, who are of mixed European descent. There is also a small population of indigenous people known as the Veddas.

Religion

Buddhism is the predominant religion in Sri Lanka, with around 70% of the population identifying as Buddhists. The majority of Sri Lankan Buddhists follow Theravada Buddhism, which is practiced in the Sinhalese-majority areas. Hinduism is the second largest religion, practiced mainly by the Tamil population. Christianity, primarily Roman Catholicism, is practiced by a small portion of the population, particularly among the Tamil and Burgher communities. Islam is practiced by the Muslim population, who primarily belong to the Moors ethnic group. The country has a history of religious coexistence, though tensions between different religious and ethnic communities have occurred, particularly during the Sri Lankan Civil War.

Language

Sri Lanka has two official languages: Sinhala and Tamil. Sinhala is the language spoken by the majority Sinhalese population, while Tamil is spoken by the Tamil ethnic group, particularly in the northern and eastern regions. Both languages are taught in schools and used in government and official communications. English, which was the language of colonial administration during British rule, remains widely used in business, government, and education, particularly in urban areas and in the legal system. The diversity of languages reflects the multicultural nature of Sri Lankan society.

Economy of Sri Lanka

Economic Overview

Sri Lanka’s economy is classified as a developing economy with a strong reliance on agriculture, industry, and services. The country has undergone significant economic transformation in recent decades, with a notable shift toward industrialization and the growth of the services sector. Sri Lanka is a member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and the World Trade Organization (WTO), and it has pursued regional and global trade partnerships.

Agriculture

Agriculture has historically been the backbone of Sri Lanka’s economy, with products like tea, rubber, and coconut being major exports. Sri Lanka is one of the world’s largest producers of tea, and the country’s tea plantations, particularly in the central highlands, are world-famous. Rice is the staple food crop, and the island’s fertile plains support the cultivation of other crops such as fruits, vegetables, and spices. Coconuts are another key agricultural product, used in the production of oil, milk, and other products. Despite its agricultural success, the sector faces challenges such as land degradation, climate change, and dependency on monsoon rainfall.

Industry and Manufacturing

Sri Lanka has a growing industrial sector, with textiles and garments being the leading industries. The country is one of the largest apparel exporters in the world, and its garment industry is a key contributor to employment and foreign exchange earnings. Sri Lanka also has a small but expanding manufacturing sector that produces chemicals, food products, and electronics. The country is trying to diversify its industrial base and move toward more value-added products and technology-driven industries.

Services and Tourism

The services sector plays an increasingly important role in Sri Lanka’s economy. Tourism is one of the major contributors to the country’s GDP, with visitors attracted to its beaches, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Popular tourist destinations include the ancient city of Anuradhapura, the rock fortress of Sigiriya, the sacred temple of the Tooth in Kandy, and the coastal areas like Galle and Mirissa. Sri Lanka’s strategic location also makes it an important center for shipping and logistics, with the Port of Colombo serving as a key hub in global maritime trade. The information technology and business process outsourcing (BPO) industries have also shown growth in recent years.

Economic Challenges

Sri Lanka’s economy faces several challenges, including high public debt, inflation, and a trade deficit. While the country’s economic growth rate has improved in recent years, poverty and income inequality remain significant concerns. The country has struggled with political instability, which has hindered long-term economic planning. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic also led to a decline in tourism and remittances, affecting the economy.

Government of Sri Lanka

Political Structure

Sri Lanka operates as a democratic republic with a presidential system of government. The President is both the head of state and head of government and is elected for a five-year term through a direct popular vote. The President holds considerable executive powers, including the authority to appoint the Prime Minister and the Cabinet of Ministers. The country’s legislative branch consists of a unicameral parliament, with 225 members elected through a mixed system of proportional representation and first-past-the-post voting.

Judiciary

Sri Lanka’s judiciary operates independently from the executive and legislature. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the country, followed by the Court of Appeal and the High Courts. The judicial system is based on a combination of Roman-Dutch law, English common law, and customary law. The legal system upholds fundamental rights and freedoms, though there have been concerns about the independence of the judiciary and its ability to address corruption and human rights abuses.

Administrative Divisions

Sri Lanka is divided into nine provinces, which are further subdivided into districts and electoral divisions. The provinces are governed by provincial councils, which have limited powers in areas such as education, health, and local government. However, the central government maintains significant control over issues such as law and order, national security, and the economy.

Culture of Sri Lanka

Art and Architecture

Sri Lanka has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its ancient Buddhist civilization as well as its interactions with India, China, and Southeast Asia. Traditional Sri Lankan art includes intricate stone carvings, woodwork, and mural paintings. The architecture of Sri Lanka is also notable, with ancient stupas, temples, and palaces showcasing the country’s Buddhist traditions. Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress, and the Dambulla Cave Temple are prime examples of Sri Lankan architecture. Colonial-era buildings in cities like Colombo and Galle reflect the island’s history of European influence.

Music and Dance

Sri Lankan music and dance are deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions, with classical dance forms like Kandyan dance being popular in the central highlands. Folk music and dance are also prominent in rural areas, often performed during religious festivals and cultural events. Traditional Sri Lankan instruments include the drum, flute, and string instruments. The island also has a rich tradition of classical music, influenced by both South Indian and Western musical styles.

Cuisine

Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of spices. Rice and curry form the staple diet, with a wide variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, and seafood. Sri Lanka is famous for its use of coconut, which is incorporated into many dishes, such as coconut milk-based curries and sambols (spicy condiments). Sri Lankan cuisine also includes a range of sweets, such as kavum (oil cakes) and kokis (crispy cookies). Street food, including hoppers (a type of pancake) and string hoppers, is also popular.

Festivals and Traditions

Sri Lanka celebrates a variety of religious and cultural festivals throughout the year. The most important Buddhist festival is Vesak, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha. The Kandy Esala Perahera, a grand procession in honor of the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, is one of the country’s most famous cultural events. Tamil Hindus celebrate Thaipusam and Deepavali, while Christians observe Christmas and Easter. Sri Lanka’s diverse religious communities contribute to the island’s vibrant cultural fabric.

History of Sri Lanka

Ancient Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s history dates back to ancient times, with the earliest human settlements believed to have existed over 125,000 years ago. The island has a rich history of civilization, particularly during the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods. The Anuradhapura Kingdom (377 BCE–1017 CE) was known for its impressive architecture, including stupas and temples. The Polonnaruwa period (1017–1232 CE) marked the height of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization, with advancements in irrigation, art, and architecture.

Colonial Rule

In the 16th century, Sri Lanka came under the control of European powers, starting with the Portuguese, followed by the Dutch and eventually the British. The British formally annexed Sri Lanka in 1815, making it a colony. During British rule, Sri Lanka became a significant exporter of tea, rubber, and coffee, and its economy was shaped by colonial policies. However, British rule also led to social and economic challenges, including the introduction of a plantation economy that relied on Indian laborers and the suppression of local cultures.

Independence and Modern History

Sri Lanka gained independence from British colonial rule on February 4, 1948. The post-independence period was marked by political instability and ethnic tensions, particularly between the Sinhalese majority and the Tamil minority. The Sri Lankan Civil War, which lasted from 1983 to 2009, was a brutal conflict between the government and the Tamil Tigers (LTTE), a separatist group seeking an independent Tamil Eelam. The war ended in 2009 with the defeat of the LTTE, but it left deep scars in Sri Lankan society and led to ongoing issues of reconciliation and human rights.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Sri Lanka has focused on rebuilding its economy and addressing the political challenges of ethnic reconciliation. However, the country continues to face political and economic instability, with concerns over corruption, human rights, and governance. Despite these challenges, Sri Lanka remains a country with a rich cultural heritage and a strategic position in the Indian Ocean, playing an important role in regional and global affairs.