Geography of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, an island nation situated in the Indian Ocean, lies southeast of the Indian subcontinent and occupies a strategic location near significant sea lanes. Formerly known as Ceylon, Sri Lanka boasts a diverse and rich geographical landscape. The country covers a total area of approximately 65,610 square kilometers (25,330 square miles), consisting of 64,630 square kilometers (24,950 square miles) of land and 980 square kilometers (380 square miles) of water. The coastline of Sri Lanka extends 1,340 kilometers (830 miles).
Main Island and Offshore Islands
The main island of Sri Lanka spans an area of 64,058 km², making it the twenty-fifth largest island globally by area. It is accompanied by dozens of offshore islands, which contribute an additional 1,552 km². These islands and the mainland together form a unique ecosystem that supports a rich variety of flora and fauna, making the country a biodiversity hotspot.
Topography and Natural Features
The topography of Sri Lanka is distinguished by its central mountainous region, which includes the Central Highlands and peaks such as Pidurutalagala, the highest point at 2,524 meters (8,281 feet) above sea level. The Hill Country is surrounded by a gently rolling coastal plain that spans the entire island.
The country's landscape is further characterized by numerous rivers, including the longest river, the Mahaweli River, which flows over 335 kilometers (208 miles). Sri Lanka's natural beauty is accentuated by its numerous waterfalls and lush green forests.
Climate
Sri Lanka experiences a tropical climate, with distinct dry and wet seasons influenced by the monsoons. The southwest monsoon brings rain from May to September, while the northeast monsoon occurs from December to February. The central highlands enjoy cooler temperatures, while the coastal areas maintain warmer, humid conditions year-round.
Provincial Divisions
Administratively, Sri Lanka is divided into nine provinces: Central, Eastern, North Central, Northern, North Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Uva, and Western. Each province is subdivided into districts, which serve as primary administrative units.
Ecosystems and Biodiversity
The diverse ecosystems of Sri Lanka range from tropical rainforests to arid plains and mangrove swamps, supporting a rich variety of plant and animal species. The island is home to numerous national parks and wildlife reserves, such as Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park, which are sanctuaries for species like the Sri Lankan elephant and leopard.