Why is the world summit held in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is the foremost place for Buddhist meditation - especially in its purest form known as Theravada (lit. "the words of the elders"). The yogic traditions originating in India are closely linked to meditation, and there is a rich cultural and spiritual exchange between India and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is a beautiful "island in the sun." and a nation of smiling and hospitable people. Some people call Sri Lanka the "Isle of the smile". Programs amidst the gently swaying palms in the tropical breeze, and in the sun, sea and sand of Sri Lanka and her friendly people holds the promise of an exquisite experience.
The Geography & History of Sri Lanka, In Brief
Sri Lanka, situated just seven degrees North of the equator, is the last outpost of the Earth's Northern landmass. The island stands as a lonely sentinel looking over 10,000 km of empty Indian Ocean stretching from Dondra Head, its southernmost tip, to the frozen ramparts of the Antarctic. Barberyn Beach, where the main residential component will be held is at the southern coastal point and has a unique energy flowing through the property.
The history of Sri Lanka dates back over 2500 years. Its recorded history is traceable to 380 B.C. With the advent of Buddhism in the 3rd century B.C. a civilization rich in Indo-Aryan culture took root. After nearly 500 years of foreign rule (1505-1948) by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British respectively, Sri Lanka gained Independence in February 1948. Modern Sri Lanka is a multi-lingual, multi-ethnic, multi-religious community of people and enjoy a high quality of life (high literacy and life-expectancy at birth and low infant mortality rates) which are on par with countries in the developed West. This has been attributed to the influence of Buddhism, Ayurveda and the temple-based education over millennia.
