Overview of Sri Lanka's Geography, History, and Culture

Southern India

Region significantly influencing Sri Lanka's culture and history

Tropical Climate

Warm climate with distinct wet and dry zones

Granite

Type of stone found in Sri Lanka

Laterite

Type of stone used for construction in Sri Lanka

Coconut Tree

Common tree in Sri Lanka used for various purposes

Teak

Type of hardwood found in Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura Period

Historical period in Sri Lanka from 4th BCE to 10th CE

Polonnaruwa Period

Historical period in Sri Lanka from 11th to 13th CE

Kandyan Period

Historical period in Sri Lanka from 15th to 19th CE

Pali Canon

First known Buddhist writings in Sri Lanka

Kingdom of Tambapanni

Early Sri Lankan kingdom from 543BC to 505BC

Theravada Buddhism

Major religion in Sri Lanka, introduced by Arahath Mahindra

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi

Oldest living human-planted tree in the world, sacred to Buddhism

Town Planning

Development of cities in Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa with monasteries and water systems

Dagoba

Stupa enshrining relics associated with Buddhism

Vahalkada

Decorated element in front of a stupa used for offerings

Thuparamaya Dagoba

Oldest dagoba in Sri Lanka, housing Buddha's relic

Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba

Dagoba built by King Dutugemunu, containing Buddha's relics

Sigiriya

Ancient rock fortress and palace in Sri Lanka

Parakrama Samudra

Largest reservoir in Sri Lanka, built during Parakramabahu's reign

Vatadage

Circular relic house in Polonnaruwa, housing Buddha's tooth relic

Rankoth Vehara

Fourth largest stupa in Sri Lanka, located in Polonnaruwa

Sri Daladá Màligàwa

Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Sandakada Pahana

Elaborately carved stone slab at the entrance of buildings in Sri Lanka

Mahawasala

Royal Palace complex in Kandy, Sri Lanka