Sri Lanka is located in Southern Asia, and its capital is Colombo. It has a population of approximately 21,916,000 and covers an area of about 65,610 km². Its official currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR).
What stands out
People & place
334 /km² across 65,610 km²
Sri Lanka has a recorded population of 21,916,000 and a reported surface area of 65,610 km².
Economic snapshot
$98.96 billion nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $98.96 billion and GDP per capita at $4,516 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
Practical reference
Sri Lankan rupee (LKR)
Sri Lanka uses Sri Lankan rupee (LKR), calling code +94, internet domain .lk.
About Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, officially the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is an island country in South Asia, located in the Indian Ocean southwest of the Bay of Bengal. It is separated from the Indian subcontinent by the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait. The island's geography, rich history, vibrant culture, and strategic location have shaped its identity.
Sri Lanka has a diverse range of geographical features. The island's interior is dominated by mountains, with the highest point being Pidurutalagala, reaching 2,524 meters (8,281 feet). The coastal plains are extensive, and the island is surrounded by coral reefs and beaches. Rivers like the Mahaweli Ganga are vital for irrigation and power generation. The climate is tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons.
Sri Lankan culture is a blend of indigenous traditions and influences from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Europe. Buddhism is the dominant religion and plays a significant role in daily life and cultural practices. The country boasts a rich heritage of art, music, dance, and literature. Culinary traditions are varied, with rice and curry being a staple. There are also distinct regional variations in food and customs.
Sri Lanka has a recorded history spanning over 3,000 years. Ancient chronicles attest to the existence of sophisticated civilizations and powerful kingdoms. The island was colonized by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, each leaving their mark on its history and culture. Sri Lanka gained independence from British rule in 1948. The country has experienced periods of both prosperity and conflict, including a civil war that lasted for decades.
Key facts
Capital: Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte (administrative), Colombo (commercial)
Official Languages: Sinhala, Tamil
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
Sri Lanka has a recorded population of approximately 21,916,000 people.
How big is Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka covers an area of about 65,610 km².
What is the population density of Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka has a population density of roughly 334 /km² (people per square kilometre).
What is the GDP of Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka has a gross domestic product (GDP) of approximately $98.96 billion as of 2024.
What is the GDP per capita of Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka has a GDP per capita of approximately $4,516.
What currency is used in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka uses the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR), with the symbol Rs.
Where is Sri Lanka located?
Sri Lanka is located in Southern Asia, Asia.
What is the native name of Sri Lanka?
The native name of Sri Lanka is śrī laṃkāva.
What are people from Sri Lanka called?
People from Sri Lanka are referred to as Sri Lankan.
What is the phone calling code for Sri Lanka?
The international dialing code for Sri Lanka is +94.
What is the internet domain for Sri Lanka?
The country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Sri Lanka is .lk.
What time zone is Sri Lanka in?
Sri Lanka uses the Asia/Colombo time zone.
What is Sri Lanka known for?
Sri Lanka, officially the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is an island country in South Asia, located in the Indian Ocean southwest of the Bay of Bengal. It is separated from the Indian subcontinent by the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait. The island's geography, rich history, vibrant culture, and strategic location have shaped its identity.
Southern Asia