Sri Lanka Selection

Often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” Sri Lanka packs an extraordinary diversity of landscapes and cultures into a relatively small island. From palm-fringed beaches and lush tea plantations to misty mountains, tropical rainforests and vast national parks, every region offers a different atmosphere and a wealth of natural beauty.

Home to a civilization that dates back more than two thousand years, Sri Lanka is deeply shaped by Buddhism. Ancient cities, impressive temples and monumental statues reflect a remarkable cultural heritage that blends seamlessly with the island’s rich natural environment. Asian elephants, leopards, crocodiles, tropical birds and an exceptional marine life all contribute to making Sri Lanka one of Asia’s biodiversity hotspots.

The photographs gathered in this category invite you to discover this remarkable island through its landscapes, its wildlife and the encounters that make every journey memorable. A destination where nature and culture coexist in remarkable harmony.

2015, Encounters, Sri Lanka Selection

Mihintale, Sri Lanka

Mihintale is located in the north of Sri Lanka, close to d’Anurâdhapura. This site is a place of pilgrimage because it was the meeting place between Devanampiya Tissa and the emissaries of Ashoka ( Mahinda and Sanghamita ) who imported Buddhism in the island.

2015, Encounters, Sri Lanka Selection

Ravana Falls – Sri Lanka

Ravana Falls – Sri Lanka

This waterfall measures approximately 25 m in height and it currently ranks as one of the widest falls in the country. The falls have been named after the legendary king Ravana, which is connected to the famous Indian epic, the Ramayana. In the Ramayana, Ravana (who was the king of Sri Lanka at the time) kidnaps Rama’s wife Sita to exact vengeance on Rama and his brother Lakshmana for having cut off the nose of his sister Shurpanakha. Ravana had hidden princess Sita in the caves behind this waterfall. At the time, the cave was surrounded with thick forests in the midst of wilderness. After a long and arduous search, Rama fights a colossal war against Ravana’s armies. In a war of powerful and magical beings, greatly destructive weaponry and battles, Rama slays Ravana in battle and liberates his wife.
It is also believed that Sita bathed in the pool at the waterfall feet. Nowadays this pool has a mystical status

?>