Explore the colourful Indian Ocean island of Sri Lanka
The tear drop shaped island of Sri Lanka lies in the Indian Ocean just off the southern tip of India. With its golden sandy beaches, azure blue waters and warm tropical climate, Sri Lanka is a year-round destination for holidaymakers seeking sun, sand and sea.
The island has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to over 2,000 years which is linked to the origins of Buddhism in the country with magnificently constructed stupas and the ruin remains of ancient kingdoms.
Controlled from the 16th century onwards by the Portuguese, Dutch and finally the British prior to gaining full independence in 1948, the influences of colonial powers remain visible in architecture and a number of forts across the country.