Which Island Is Known as the Emerald Isle of the Indian Ocean?

Dec 2, 2025, 15:51 IST

Do you know which island is known as the Emerald Isle of the Indian Ocean? Discover why Sri Lanka is known as the Emerald Isle of the Indian Ocean, and explore its greenery, tea gardens, biodiversity, location and interesting facts.

Emerald Isle: Sri Lanka is known as the Emerald Isle of the Indian Ocean because of its lush green landscapes, tropical forests, rolling tea plantations, rich biodiversity and year-round greenery that make the island shine like a natural emerald surrounded by blue ocean waters. Its fertile valleys, misty mountains and vibrant rainforests give Sri Lanka one of the most unique and beautiful environments in the world.

Why Is Sri Lanka Called the Emerald Isle of the Indian Ocean?

Sri Lanka’s evergreen landscapes are filled with dense forests, fertile plains, mountain ranges and picturesque tea gardens that stay bright and vibrant all year. The country’s tropical climate, monsoon rains and diverse ecosystems make the island glow in multiple shades of green, giving it the iconic Emerald Isle title. Its combination of clear blue shores and lush green interiors creates a natural contrast that looks exactly like an emerald gemstone set in the Indian Ocean.

Where Is the Emerald Isle of the Indian Ocean Located?

Sri Lanka is located in South Asia, just below the southern tip of India, fully surrounded by the Indian Ocean. It stands at the crossroads of major sea routes, monsoon wind patterns and tropical climatic zones, making it a cultural, ecological and geographic landmark in the region.

emerald isle

Sri Lanka’s Tea Plantation

Sri Lanka’s highlands grow world-famous Ceylon Tea, which thrives in cool mountain air and fertile soil, making the plantations a major part of its emerald scenery. Regions like Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Haputale and Kandy are the greenest areas, known for lush hills, forests, plantations and mist-covered mountains.

Sri Lanka Rich in Biodiversity

The country is one of the world’s top biodiversity hotspots with endemic birds, animals, plants and rainforests found nowhere else on Earth. Due to tropical weather and seasonal monsoons, the island remains lush and green throughout the year, enhancing its emerald identity.

Interesting Facts About the Emerald Isle of the Indian Ocean

1. Oldest Rainforests on Earth

Sri Lanka’s Sinharaja Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is among the oldest rainforests in the world, filled with rare species, thick canopies and untouched green landscapes that strengthen the island’s emerald charm.

2. World Leader in Ceylon Tea Production

Sri Lanka is one of the largest producers of Ceylon Tea, and its endless tea gardens spread across the highlands create some of the most scenic green views seen anywhere in Asia.

3. Island of Waterfalls and Misty Mountains

The central highlands have over 100 waterfalls, surrounded by green cliffs, valleys and cloud forests. These landscapes further highlight the island’s deep green beauty.

4. One of the World’s Top Biodiversity Hotspots

Sri Lanka has exceptional biodiversity with elephants, leopards, endemic birds, rare reptiles, flowering plants and marine species that thrive in its fertile, green ecosystems.

5. Green Climate All 12 Months

With regular rainfall, humid tropical air and fertile soil, Sri Lanka remains green every month of the year, unlike many islands that have dry seasons. This consistent greenery is the main reason it is called the Emerald Isle.

Read more: Which Lake Is Known as the Blue Lake?

Sri Lanka is called the Emerald Isle of the Indian Ocean because of its lush landscapes, tropical forests, green mountains, tea estates and year-round natural beauty. Keep reading for more topics like this.

Jasreet Kaur
Jasreet Kaur

Content Writer

Jasreet Kaur is a journalist with over two years of experience and a bachelor's degree in journalism and mass communication. Driven and committed, she writes on current affairs and general knowledge, fueled by a desire to see positive growth in organizations, society, and the world.

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