Sri Lanka's official name is the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. The history of Sri Lanka goes back to the pre-historic times with a recorded history of over 2000 years. Sri Lanka is a tropical island of unsurpassed beauty and diversity. It boasts lush forests; palm fringed sandy beaches and stunning landscapes along with a rich cultural heritage and a population of unequalled friendliness. The country is multi-religious and multi-ethnic, English is spoken by the vast majority of Sri Lankan people. Road and information signs are in English as well as the products in shops and supermarkets. The cost of living in Sri Lanka is much lower than most developed countries and you will find that you can have a much better standard of living on a lot less money.
Situated about 880 kilometers from the equator. More precisely it sits between 5 55' and 9 50' north and 79 42' and 81 52' east, off the southern tip of India. It covers approximately 40,766 square kilometers (25,332 square miles) where the maximum length is 435 kilometers (270 miles) from Point Pedro in the north and Dondra Head in the south. The maximum breadth is 225 kilometers (140 miles) from Colombo in the west and Sangamankande Point in the east. Even though it is comparatively a small island, one can see contrasting landscapes when traveling the island. From thickly vegetated rain forests in the south of the island to arid semi-desert landscapes in the north. From the majestic mountain ranges in the Central hill country to the flat plains of the north central area of the country, you will find many surprises and interesting features in this land.
The beauty of Sri Lanka is not something that can be described in a few paragraphs. In the present day Sri Lankan tourism is gaining in popularity among different people throughout the world, mainly because of the rich diversity it offers to the travelers, even though it is a small island nation.