Trivia in Sri Lanka

National symbols

Flag: Deep red field bordered by golden Bo leaves with a lion facing right holding a sword. Green and orange vertical bands on the left side.

Emblem: National emblem featuring a lion shield on lotus pedestal, surrounded by rice sheaves, gear wheel, Bodhi leaves, moon and sun.

National certified certificate required when taking gemstones out of Sri Lanka.
One of first countries to introduce tea origin labeling.
Traffic rules are left-hand drive; many Japanese used cars on roads.
Elephants are national cultural symbol; temple-affiliated elephants receive civil servant treatment.
World's largest blue sapphire 'Blue Belle of Kashmir' is from Sri Lanka.
Average household stocks over 10 types of spices.
The 'beach train' running on tracks laid during civil war is now popular as scenic railway.
Lion depicted on flag originates from Prince Vijaya's banner, ancestor of Sinhalese people.
Poya days occur on every full moon, with nationwide alcohol ban and fishing prohibition.
National sport is volleyball, but cricket dominates in spectator attendance.