Their properties are distinguished by stone cladding, leaded lights and, in some cases, Greek columns.

ECONOMIST: Poor whites

They range from grandfathers with traditional flowing sarongs hanging over their bare feet to teenagers clad in polo shirts and trainers, all climbing the 5, 000-odd stone steps that are illuminated by electric lights throughout the night, a glowing white line spiralling up the mountain and marking the way to the top.

BBC: Getting to the heart and soul of hilly Sri Lanka