Despite its fame as the “Shining Island,” Sri Lanka remains an authentic treasure, and its true charm lies in its people — known for their radiant smiles and generous hearts.
With a culture enriched by over three thousand years of history, Buddhism, and colonial heritage, Sri Lankan society is a vibrant blend of religions and ethnic groups, diverse yet deeply united.
Sri Lankans have a passion for spicy food and tea, which comes as no surprise in a land that produces some of the finest spices in the world. Introduced in the 19th century by a British colonist, Ceylon tea is now celebrated as the best tea in the world. The island has also long been renowned for its precious gemstones, particularly its exquisite blue sapphires.
Known as “Rathnadeepa,” or The Land of Gems, Sri Lanka is a source of both sapphires and rubies. Alongside gems, ivory artworks crafted by local artisans were once exported to Europe, where they can still be admired in museums today.
And then there is cricket, the national passion that unites the island, transcending all boundaries of race, religion, and class.
Language: Official languages are Sinhala and Tamil. English is widely spoken throughout the island.
Religion: The majority of the population is Buddhist (73%), with a growing Muslim community. Christians represent around 5% of the population.
Time Zone: +4 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Italy, or +3 hours and 30 minutes when Italy observes daylight saving time.
Documents: A passport with at least six months of validity is required. Since January 1, 2012, visitors must obtain an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before arrival, valid for 30 days and available for a minimum fee of 30 USD. It can be requested online at www.eta.gov.lk, through travel agencies, or at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Rome. It is also possible to obtain the ETA upon arrival at Colombo Airport for a slightly higher fee (35 USD).
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
Curiosity
The Ceylon Cat is a naturally occurring breed that has preserved its original characteristics without human intervention. It has large, wide ears, expressive eyes ranging from yellow to green, and a short, soft, and glossy coat.
Originating from Sri Lanka, this breed was introduced to Italy in 1988 by Paolo Pelegatta. The Ceylon Cat is known for its sweet, affectionate temperament, particularly towards children, with whom it loves to play. Despite its tropical origins, it easily adapts to different climates.
Our advices
To Read: “A Disobedient Girl” by Ru Freeman (Piemme, 2010). An intense and emotional novel that intertwines the destinies of two women struggling for freedom in a society bound by tradition. Their journey, both physical and spiritual, is a moving tribute to courage and resilience.
To Listen: Sri Lankan music is shaped by two major influences — Buddhism and Portuguese colonization. Buddhism arrived in the island around 300 B.C., brought by early monks, while the Portuguese, in the 15th century, introduced Cantiga ballads, ukuleles, and guitars. They also brought African rhythms, enriching the island’s already diverse musical heritage.
To Watch: “The Forsaken Land” (Sulanga Enu Pinisa) by Vimukthi Jayasundara (2006). A co-production between France and Sri Lanka, the film won the Caméra d’Or at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival. Set during the civil war that scarred the nation until 2009, it tells the quiet, poetic story of peasant families caught between war and survival. The film’s slow rhythm reveals the haunting beauty of Sri Lanka’s landscapes and the complex emotions of its people.
To Eat: The most iconic Sri Lankan dish is Rice & Curry — not just a meal, but a true experience. A generous portion of rice is accompanied by an array of small dishes, each featuring unique combinations of vegetables, meat, or fish cooked in fragrant curries. No two curries are ever the same, as every cook uses their own blend of fresh spices and herbs. Rice, considered sacred and a symbol of life, is at the heart of Sri Lankan cuisine — flavorful, colorful, and infused with meaning.
