Sri Lanka's rich history is a tapestry woven with cultural, religious, and colonial influences. The island's ancient civilization dates back to the prehistoric era, with evidence of early settlements and advanced hydraulic systems. Buddhism arrived in the 3rd century BCE, becoming a cornerstone of Sri Lankan culture. Over the centuries, the island witnessed the rise and fall of various kingdoms, including the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa kingdoms, leaving behind impressive archaeological sites. The arrival of Arab traders, followed by European colonial powers such as the Portuguese, Dutch, and eventually the British, shaped the island's modern history. Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948, transitioning to a democratic republic.

The country has faced challenges, including a prolonged civil conflict that concluded in 2009. Today, Sri Lanka stands as a vibrant nation with a rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and a growing economy, welcoming visitors from around the world to explore its historical wonders.

5 Fun Facts about Sri Lanka

Tea Paradise

Sri Lanka is renowned for its Ceylon tea, and the island is one of the world's largest tea exporters. The picturesque tea plantations, particularly in regions like Nuwara Eliya and Ella, offer stunning landscapes and the opportunity to tour tea factories.

2. World's Oldest Human-Planted Tree

An ancient sacred fig tree, known as the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, located in Anuradhapura, is believed to be the oldest human-planted tree in the world. It has been tended to for over 2,300 years, dating back to 288 BCE.

3. Biodiversity Hotspot

Despite its relatively small size, Sri Lanka is a biodiversity hotspot, hosting a remarkable variety of flora and fauna. The island is home to diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, dry plains, and coastal areas, with a high concentration of endemic species.

4. Elephant Gathering

Sri Lanka hosts one of the largest gatherings of Asian elephants in the world. The Minneriya National Park's annual Elephant Gathering sees hundreds of elephants migrating to the park during the dry season, providing a spectacular wildlife spectacle.

5. Ancient Rock Fortress

Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient rock fortress rising dramatically from the central plains of Sri Lanka. Built in the 5th century, it features impressive frescoes, a mirror wall, and the remains of a palace at its summit, providing a glimpse into the island's ancient architectural marvels.

How To Make Kiribath

Ingredients:

2 cups short-grain rice (such as white or red rice)
4 cups coconut milk
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt

Kiribath, or milk rice, is a traditional dish made by cooking rice in thick coconut milk. It is often served during special occasions and celebrations, and it can be accompanied by sweet or savory accompaniments.

Instructions

Rinse the rice:

Wash the rice thoroughly under cold running water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.

Cooking the rice:

In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, coconut milk, water, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Simmering the rice:

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the rice to simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the mixture becomes thick and creamy.

Check the consistency:
- Check the consistency of the Kiribath. If it's too thick, you can add a bit more coconut milk or water to achieve the desired thickness.

Molding the Kiribath:
- Once the rice is fully cooked and has reached the desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Wet a bowl or dish with water and transfer the hot Kiribath into it, leveling the surface.
Cooling and cutting:

Allow the Kiribath to cool for a while, and then use a knife or spatula dipped in water to cut it into diamond or square-shaped pieces.

Serving:

Kiribath can be served warm or at room temperature. It's often accompanied by a variety of side dishes, such as lunu miris (spicy onion sambol), seeni sambol (sweet and spicy onion relish), or a curry of your choice.

Traditional Presentation:
- For special occasions, Kiribath is sometimes shaped into a large rectangle and cut into smaller pieces, resembling a cake. It is then garnished with cashews or raisins.

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5 Fun Facts about Sri Lanka

Tea Paradise

2. World's Oldest Human-Planted Tree

3. Biodiversity Hotspot

4. Elephant Gathering

5. Ancient Rock Fortress

How To Make Kiribath

Instructions

Rinse the rice:

Cooking the rice:

Simmering the rice:

Check the consistency:

Molding the Kiribath:

Cooling and cutting:

Serving:

Traditional Presentation: