Size: 65,610 square kilometres (40,768 miles)

Commercial capital: Colombo

Annual per capita GNP: US$ 876.00

Population: 19.6 million

Population Density: 311 people per square kilometre

Life expectancy at birth: Female 74, Male 69

Languages: Sinhala, Tamil, English

English is widely spoken throughout Sri Lanka, except in remote villages

Ethnic mix: Sinhalese 74%, Tamils 18%, Muslims 7%, Burghers (descendants of Portuguese and Dutch colonists) and others 1%

Religions: Buddhism 70%, Hinduism 16%, Christianity 7%, Islam 7%

Climate: Lowlands tropical average 27°C (81°F)

The Central hills are cooler with temperatures dropping to 14°C (57°F). The southwest monsoon brings rain to the southern, western and central parts of the country from May to July. The north-eastern monsoon occurs in the northeast in December and January. Sri Lanka has an excellent climate for holiday makers throughout the year.

Location: Island off the south-eastern coast of India, five degrees North of the equator

Major Exports: Textiles, garments, petroleum products, tea, rubber, rubber products, gems, jewellery and spices

Labour Force: Agriculture 37%, Industry and Commerce 44%, Service Industry 19%

Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee

Visas: Residents of 72 countries are issued visas on arrival. Consult your local Sri Lankan embassy, consulate, tourist office or travel agent

Working week: Sri Lankans work a five day week from Monday to Friday

Business hours:

Government offices: Monday to Friday - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Banks: Monday to Friday - 9:00 am to 1:00 pm or 3:00 pm

Post offices: Monday to Friday - 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday - 8:30 am to 1:00 pm