Buddhism
The most precious diamond that this beautiful island country holds in her heart is Buddhism. Sri Lanka is a Theravada Buddhist country. Theravada Buddhism is the purest form of Buddhism in the world. Buddhism lets one view the world as it is. Its followers simply follow the middle path. Thus a Buddhist would not cling to the two extremes of pleasure and pain. The ultimate aim of any Buddhist is attainment of Nirvana. A state that is not describable in worldly terms.
Many people still believe Buddhism as religion that needs renouncing every thing and retreating. But Buddhism being a practical religion can be practiced by every one and every where. It only asks one to be mindful in every thing one does and to follow the middle path. Happiness will follow.
Meditation is one of the strong points of Buddhism. Again there are misconceptions about it. Buddhist meditation system is quite different from other forms of meditation. Specially from Hindu meditation methods. Although one can practice the more simpler techniques like "Anapanasathi" or breathing Meditation alone for serious study of meditation one should consult a teacher. There are many meditation centers in Sri Lanka that caters to the locals as well as foreigners. Below are some links that you may find useful if you are interested in Buddhism.
http://www.accesstoinsight.org/ http://www.buddhanet.net/budnetp.htm http://www.lanka.net/bcc/ http://dhammagaveshi.tripod.com