The enchanting allure of trekking through lush rainforests, exploring ancient temples and relaxing on untouched, pristine beaches is difficult to resist for any traveller. Sri Lanka has all of these wonderful opportunities in abundance, but the rich history and diverse cultural heritage of this vibrant country also offers an array of fun facts and interesting traditions.
Here, we explore four things you probably didn’t know about Sri Lanka.
Shaking your head in Sri Lanka means ‘yes’
Unlike Westerners, with our rigid two-choice head movements meaning a clear ‘yes’ or ‘no’, Sri Lankans shake their heads to mean an array of different things. The ‘head bobble’ is a gesture that can mean ‘yes’, ‘maybe’, or even be used to display empathy or concern. In this oriental wonderland, communication is a very visual language, and it’s something that visitors need to be aware of as it does take some getting used to.
It’s home to a tree that’s over 2,000 years old
Sri Lanka is home to the oldest living tree planted by man in the world. Known as Sri Maha Bodhi, the tree was brought over from India as a cutting from the Bodh Gaya, the tree where Buddha himself is said to have meditated underneath and ultimately found enlightenment. It is now over 2,000 years old, and can be found in the Sacred City of Anuradhapura, which is part of a UNESCO protected site.
Adam’s Peak has many interpretations
This iconic mountain in Ella is sacred to multiple religions, each of which offer a different explanation for the curious footprint-shape at its summit. Known as the Sri Pada, Buddhists believe that the imprint is from the foot of Lord Buddha, whilst Hindus say it belonged to Shiva. Christians and Muslims believe it is a result of Adam’s first step onto Earth as he was cast out of the Garden of Eden. Regardless of its origin, the nearly 800 ft mountain is well worth a visit on your trip to Sri Lanka, not least for the sublime panoramic views it offers over the countryside.
Volleyball is the national sport
Sri Lanka has a complex history and had changed hands multiple times before it gained independence in 1948. In 1916, when the British ruled over the country, the Director of Physical Education from the YMCA in Colombo introduced the game of volleyball. It soon became a beloved game throughout the nation and was announced as Sri Lanka’s national sport in 1991. Today, cricket comes out on top in the popularity stakes as the country’s favourite sport, but volleyball remains a significant part of its culture.
Oriental wonderland
A visit to Sri Lanka feels like stepping into an oriental, tropical wonderland, where historical mysteries and magical locations hide around every turn. From hidden waterfalls to national parks, there’s plenty to see and do. Whether you spend your time beachcombing or hiking, traversing the bustling markets or visiting ancient shrines and temples, Sri Lanka is the
perfect place to visit if you love learning about new cultures whilst enjoying your holiday.
Photos via Canva
