Sri Lanka, known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," is a small island nation located off the southern coast of India. With a rich history and vibrant culture, Sri Lanka has plenty of interesting facts that you might not know about. Here are 20 facts about Sri Lanka that will surprise you:
(1) Sri Lanka is home to one of the world's oldest living trees, the Sri Maha Bodhi, which is over 2,000 years old.
(2) The island of Sri Lanka was known as Ceylon until 1972 when it officially changed its name to Sri Lanka.
(3) Sri Lanka is the only country in the world where tea is still plucked by hand.
(4) The national animal of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan elephant, which is one of three recognized subspecies of the Asian elephant.
(5) The Sigiriya Rock Fortress, located in central Sri Lanka, is an ancient palace built on top of a rock that is nearly 200 meters tall.
(6) Sri Lanka is the world's largest exporter of cinnamon, which is grown in the southwest part of the country.
(7) Sri Lanka has a literacy rate of over 92%, making it one of the most literate countries in the world.
(8) The country's national flag features a lion holding a sword, which is said to represent the country's bravery.
(9) Sri Lanka is home to the largest concentration of leopards in the world, with Yala National Park being a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
(10) The Sri Lankan currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR), and one US dollar is equivalent to approximately 300 LKR.
(11) Sri Lanka is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, which is influenced by Indian, Portuguese, Dutch, and British culinary traditions.
(12) Sri Lanka has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
(13) The island is home to over 400 species of birds, including the Sri Lankan junglefowl, which is the national bird of the country.
(14) The tallest mountain in Sri Lanka is Pidurutalagala, which stands at 2,524 meters (8,281 feet) tall.
(15) The country is a popular destination for surfing, with the town of Arugam Bay being one of the world's top surfing spots.
(16) The Sri Lankan government has implemented policies to promote sustainable tourism, including the protection of natural habitats and the preservation of cultural sites.
(17) Sri Lanka is one of the few countries in the world where all species of big cats can be found, including leopards, lions, and tigers.
(18) The traditional Sri Lankan dress for women is the sari, while men often wear a long shirt known as a sarong.
(19) Sri Lanka is known for its gemstones, including sapphires, rubies, and topaz, which are mined in various parts of the country.
(20) Sri Lanka was the first country in the world to have a female prime minister, Sirimavo Bandaranaike, who served from 1960 to 1965 and again from 1970 to 1977.
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