According to Sinhalese tradition, this language was introduced to Sri Lanka by a banished prince in the 6th century who conquered the local 'demons'. It has a relatively flexible grammar, so it won't take you long to conquer that language barrier. 
Main features:
* Comprehensive dictionary 
* Guide to pronunciation and grammar * Fail-safe small talk * Practicalities - how to catch a train or ask for 
  antibiotics Lonely Planet gets you to the heart of a 
  place.