Sri Lanka, originally known as Ceylon, is a country located off the south coast of India. An island nation, it is bounded by the Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait. Situated in the path of major sea routes, Sri Lanka is a naval link between South East Asia and West Asia. The natural beauty of Sri Lanka is well known, with tropical forests, white beaches rich biodiversity and ever changing landscapes. The country also has a colorful and long history of more than three thousand years, the longest documented history in the world.