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Pearl Of The Ocean: Many countries in the world are famous for particular nicknames based on their beauty, historical background, and geographical significance. There is one such famous nickname in the Indian Ocean region to which many travellers, historians, and explorers have referred throughout the centuries. This nickname is linked to a location that is identified for its beauty, culture, and global trade routes.

Over time, this name gained popularity due to the availability of a lush landscape, unique resources, and stunning coastal views that influenced visitors from different cultures and civilisations. Today, this location attracts many visitors due to a conducive landscape, a variety of wildlife, and a rich heritage.

Let’s explore which country carries this beautiful title, where it is located, and what makes it so special.

Name of the Country: Known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean

which country is known as pearl of the indian ocean (1)Pearl of the Indian Ocean (Image: Gemini)

The country which is popularly known as “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” is Sri Lanka. For many centuries, this country has been identified as a “pearl” as a result of its natural beauty, its culture, and the precious resources found in the region. It also has the distinct advantage of having the “teardrop” shape, which makes it very conspicuous in the ocean.

Location of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an island country that is located in the Indian Ocean at the southeastern part of the Indian subcontinent.

Key location facts:

* Situated near major international sea routes.

* Separated from India by the Gulf of Mannar and Palk Strait.

*It is one of the biggest islands with quite a great length of coastline.

Due to this strategic position, throughout history, the island developed into an important centre of trade between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

 

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Why Sri Lanka Is Called the Pearl of the Indian Ocean

1. Stunning Natural Beauty

Sri Lanka is famous for its diverse landscapes, including mountains, rainforests, beaches, and plains within short distances. This variety of ecosystems and wildlife gives the island a jewel-like appearance.

2. Rich Resources and Precious Gems

The country has long been known for high-quality gemstones such as blue sapphires, rubies, and moonstones. These valuable resources strengthened its image as a “pearl.”

1. Stunning Natural Beauty

Moreover, Sri Lanka is well-known for the various geographical structures such as the mountain range, rainforests, beaches, or plains, which are accessible by covering a very short distance from the island.

2. Rich Resources and Precious Gems

The country also has a long tradition of possessing high-quality gems like sapphires, rubies, and moonstones. All these have helped pluck up the notion of being a “pearl.”

3. Historic Trade Importance

Its strategic position along the ancient sea routes made it an important centre for merchants of spices, cinnamon, and other commodities. This helped the city accumulate wealth and gain international recognition.

4. Deep Cultural And Spiritual Heritage

The presence of ancient cities, temples, and monuments manifests a high civilizational history and cultural diversity. Different religions contributed to the island’s history.

 

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Interesting Facts About Sri Lanka

* Sri Lanka was earlier known as Ceylon.

* It is also known as the "Teardrop of India" due to its unique shape and location just off the southern coast of the Indian subcontinent.

*In 1960, Sri Lanka made history by electing Sirimavo Bandaranaike as the world’s first-ever female Prime Minister.

*It is home to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree planted in 288 BC, making it the oldest human-planted tree in the world with a known record.

* The country is a major supplier of Cinnamon. global producer of tea.

* It is considered a biodiversity hotspot with rich wildlife, including elephants and leopards.

*The island features mountains, tea estates, coral coasts and national parks.

*Due to its mountainous terrain and over 100 waterfalls, a significant majority of the country's electricity is generated through clean hydropower.

 


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