Sri Lanka’s history spans over 125,000 years, from prehistoric settlements to ancient kingdoms like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, shaped by Indian cultural influence, especially Buddhism, which arrived in the 3rd century BCE. After centuries of regional kingdoms, European colonization began in 1505 with the Portuguese, followed by the Dutch and then the British, who unified the island as Ceylon by 1815. Gaining independence in 1948, the nation became Sri Lanka in 1972, but ethnic tensions between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil minority led to a devastating civil war from 1983 to 2009.

Ancient & Medieval Kingdoms (c. 500 BCE – 1500s CE):

Early Inhabitants: Prehistoric humans lived on the island, with early settlements possibly dating back 125,000 years.

Prince Vijaya: Sinhalese history traditionally begins around 543 BCE with Prince Vijaya’s arrival from India, establishing the first kingdom.

Buddhism: Emperor Ashoka’s son introduced Buddhism in the 3rd century BCE, profoundly influencing culture and governance.

Major Kingdoms: The Anuradhapura (c. 377 BCE–1017) and Polonnaruwa (c. 1017–1200s) kingdoms developed advanced irrigation and impressive Buddhist architecture.

Now Sri Lanka tourism offers diverse experiences, from stunning beaches (Galle, Mirissa) and misty tea plantations (Nuwara Eliya) to ancient ruins (Sigiriya, Anuradhapura) and rich wildlife (Yala, Udawalawe), featuring elephants and leopards, with highlights like Colombo’s vibrancy, Kandy’s culture, and UNESCO sites, best visited December-March for the south/west and May-September for the east, requiring an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for most visitors.

Culture & History: Galle Fort, Temple of the Tooth (Kandy), Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Anuradhapura, Dambulla Cave Temples.

Nature & Wildlife: Yala & Udawalawe National Parks (elephants, leopards), Minneriya Tank (elephant gathering), Horton Plains, Sinharaja Rainforest.

Beaches: Mirissa, Bentota, Arugam Bay.

Scenic Beauty: Ella (Nine Arch Bridge), Nuwara Eliya (tea country).

Cities: Colombo (modern hub), Kandy (cultural heart).