Where is Sri Lanka located? Sri Lanka is an island country located in South Asia, situated in the Indian Ocean, to the southeast of the Indian subcontinent. It is one of the prominent islands in the Indian Ocean and lies just off the southern tip of India.
Sri Lanka is positioned to the south of the Indian peninsula. The Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar separate it from the Indian mainland to the northwest. It does not share land borders with any other country, being entirely surrounded by water. The Maldives is its nearest neighboring country, located to the southwest of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean.
Where is Sri Lanka located: Asia.
Location of Sri Lanka on the World Map
Sri Lanka World
Map of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka Profile – Where is Sri Lanka located
Here are 10 of the most important facts about Sri Lanka:
- Official Name: Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
- Capital City: Colombo (administrative), Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (legislative)
- Population: Approximately 22 million (as of 2021)
- Official Language: Sinhala and Tamil
- Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
- Major Religion: Buddhism (predominantly Theravada), but there are also significant numbers of Hindus, Muslims, and Christians.
- Government: Unitary semi-presidential democratic republic
- Area: Approximately 65,610 square kilometers
- GDP (Gross Domestic Product): $84 billion (as of 2021)
- Main Exports: Textiles and garments, tea, rubber, gemstones, coconut products, and spices.
Borders of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an island nation and does not share land borders with any countries.
Most Extreme Points of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has several extreme points in different directions:
- Northernmost Point: The town of Point Pedro in the Jaffna Peninsula.
- Southernmost Point: The town of Dondra, where the Dondra Head lighthouse is located.
- Easternmost Point: The village of Sangamankanda in the Eastern Province.
- Westernmost Point: The town of Kalpitiya in the North Western Province.
Highest Points of Sri Lanka
The highest point in Sri Lanka is Pidurutalagala, reaching an elevation of approximately 2,524 meters above sea level. It is part of the Central Highlands.
| No. | Mountain | Elevation (meters) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pidurutalagala | 2,524 |
| 2 | Kirigalpoththa | 2,388 |
| 3 | Thotupola Kanda | 2,357 |
| 4 | Kudahagala | 2,320 |
| 5 | Adam’s Peak | 2,243 |
How big is Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka covers an area of approximately 65,610 square kilometers, making it the 122nd largest country in the world.
Comparison with Neighboring Countries
Here is a comparison of Sri Lanka with its neighboring countries based on approximate size and population as of 2021:
| Country | Approximate Size (sq. km) | Approximate Population | Sri Lanka’s Size Compared to Neighboring Country | Sri Lanka’s Population Compared to Neighboring Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | 3,287,263 | 1.366 billion | 25.33 times bigger | 6.52 times bigger |
| Maldives | 298 | 521,000 million | 20,590 times bigger | 60.52 times bigger |
What to Visit in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka boasts a rich tapestry of ancient history, lively culture, and diverse landscapes. Here are the top 10 tourist attractions:
- Sigiriya: Often referred to as the “Lion Rock,” this ancient rock fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with stunning frescoes, ruins, and panoramic views at the top.
- Kandy: Home to the revered Temple of the Tooth, which houses a relic of the Buddha’s tooth. This vibrant city also hosts the annual Esala Perahera, a grand procession.
- Anuradhapura: An ancient capital renowned for its well-preserved ruins of Sinhalese civilization and a vital place for Buddhist pilgrimage.
- Galle: Known for its Dutch fort and colonial architecture, this coastal town blends history with stunning beaches and vibrant street life.
- Polonnaruwa: Another ancient capital, filled with historical monuments, stupas, and statues, showcasing the island’s rich history.
- Ella: Nestled in the highlands, this town is famous for its breathtaking vistas, tea plantations, and hikes, such as the Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak.
- Yala National Park: A wildlife haven where you can spot leopards, elephants, and a plethora of bird species amidst dense forests and lagoons.
- Nuwara Eliya: Often called “Little England,” this city in the hills is known for its cooler climate, picturesque tea gardens, and colonial-era bungalows.
- Dambulla: Home to the iconic Dambulla Cave Temple, a series of caves adorned with Buddhist murals and statues.
- Trincomalee: A port city with beautiful beaches like Nilaveli and Uppuveli, famous for the Koneswaram Temple perched atop a cliff.
These Sri Lankan destinations offer a vast array of experiences, from delving into ancient history and spiritual significance to enjoying the serene beauty of landscapes and beaches. As always, it’s essential to check any specific restrictions or entry requirements for certain sites before planning your visit to Sri Lanka.
