Sri Lanka's human settlement dates back to 75,000-125,000 years ago. First Indian settlers arrived around 5th century BCE from northern India. Buddhism was introduced by Mahendra, Ashoka's son, in 2nd century BCE. Sinhalese and Tamil ethnic groups developed distinct identities
Railways introduced in Sri Lanka in 1864 for coffee transportation. Service includes intercity, express, and night mail trains to major cities. Maximum 5 seats can be reserved at once. Service is free of charge for warrant reservations
Sri Lanka has a population of about 22 million people. Population density is highest in southwest, especially Colombo. Net population growth is about 0.7% annually. Population grew 37.1% since 1981 census
Main international airport in Sri Lanka located 32.5 km north of Colombo. Named after former Prime Minister S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike. Serves as hub for SriLankan Airlines, Fitsair, and Cinnamon Air
Sri Lanka is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, 65,610 km² total area. Main island covers 64,058 km² with 1,340 km coastline. Highest point is Pidurutalagala at 2,524 m. Contains 16 principal rivers, including Mahaweli Ganga (335 km)
Caste is a fixed social group determined at birth within a system of stratification. Term derives from Spanish "casta" meaning race or lineage. Portuguese first applied it to Indian social groups in 1498