Sri Lanka: Pearl of the Indian Ocean

Sri Lanka, an island nation off India's southern coast, is known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean" for its natural beauty, tea plantations, and ancient Buddhist heritage. Despite a 26-year civil war ending in 2009, Sri Lanka maintains rich culture and tourism appeal.

Sri Lanka produces some of the world's finest tea (Ceylon tea), with hillside plantations creating scenic landscapes. Ancient cities like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa contain remarkable Buddhist ruins. Sigiriya rock fortress showcases ancient engineering. Beaches, wildlife (including elephants and leopards), and coral reefs attract nature lovers.

Sri Lankan culture reflects Sinhalese Buddhist majority and Tamil Hindu minority, though civil war between these groups caused devastating casualties. Independence from Britain in 1948 as Ceylon, the name changed to Sri Lanka in 1972. Despite challenges including ethnic tensions and economic crises, Sri Lankans maintain hospitality, religious devotion, and cricket passion.