Bordering Countries of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, an island nation located in South Asia, shares its maritime borders with India to the northwest and the Maldives to the southwest.
1. India
Location: Sri Lanka shares a maritime border with India to the northwest.
Religion: India is a diverse country with several major religions, including Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, and Sikhism.
Official Language: Hindi and English are the official languages of India, with numerous regional languages also spoken.
Currency: The official currency of India is the Indian Rupee (INR).
Country Overview:
India is the seventh-largest country in the world by land area and the second-most populous country. It is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and ancient landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s pink city, and the holy city of Varanasi. India is also a rapidly growing economy and a major player in global politics.
Political Stability and Public Security: India is a democratic republic with a stable political system. However, the country faces challenges such as regional conflicts, religious tensions, and occasional incidents of terrorism. Public security varies across different regions of India, with some areas experiencing higher crime rates or unrest.
Major Landmarks:
- Taj Mahal: Iconic white marble mausoleum in Agra, considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- Red Fort: Historic fort complex in Delhi, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
- Golden Temple: Holiest Sikh gurdwara located in Amritsar, Punjab, known for its golden dome and serene lake.
Transportation Links:
- Maritime: There are regular ferry services between Sri Lanka and India, connecting ports such as Colombo and Chennai or Tuticorin.
- Air Travel: Sri Lanka has several international airports, including Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, which offers flights to major Indian cities such as Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.
Visa Requirements: Travel between Sri Lanka and India typically requires a visa for citizens of both countries. However, certain categories of travelers may be eligible for visa-free or visa-on-arrival arrangements. Travelers should check visa requirements based on their nationality and the purpose of their visit.
2. Maldives
Location: Sri Lanka shares a maritime border with the Maldives to the southwest.
Religion: Islam is the official religion of the Maldives, with Sunni Islam being practiced by the majority of the population.
Official Language: Dhivehi is the official language of the Maldives, although English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Currency: The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR).
Country Overview:
The Maldives is an archipelago consisting of 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka. It is known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, and luxury resorts, making it a popular destination for honeymooners and scuba divers. The Maldives is also one of the lowest-lying countries in the world, with concerns about climate change and rising sea levels.
Political Stability and Public Security: The Maldives has experienced political instability in recent years, including periods of unrest and political upheaval. However, the situation has stabilized in recent years, and the Maldives remains a relatively safe destination for tourists. Public security is generally good, with low crime rates.
Major Landmarks:
- Male: The capital city of the Maldives, known for its colorful buildings, bustling markets, and historic mosques such as the Hukuru Miskiy (Old Friday Mosque).
- Underwater Restaurants: The Maldives is home to several underwater restaurants and bars, offering diners the chance to dine surrounded by marine life.
- Luxury Resorts: The Maldives is renowned for its luxury resorts and overwater bungalows, offering unparalleled levels of luxury and service.
Transportation Links:
- Maritime: There are regular ferry services and speedboat transfers between Sri Lanka and the Maldives, although the journey may take several hours or longer depending on the distance between islands.
- Air Travel: Sri Lanka has several international airports, including Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, which offers flights to Velana International Airport (MLE) in the Maldives.
Visa Requirements: Travel between Sri Lanka and the Maldives typically requires a visa for citizens of both countries. However, certain categories of travelers may be eligible for visa-free or visa-on-arrival arrangements. Travelers should check visa requirements based on their nationality and the purpose of their visit.