05 Must do Thing in and Around the Koggala Lake – Gem of the Deep South

Koggala Lake is 30kms in length it is hidden away amongst lush vegetation in the deep south. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life for a few hours; a cruise down this lake will do the trick. For most parts of the tour you cruise along the lake in utter bliss, the only sound you hear are the occasional bird calls while a passing fisher boat are the only signs of civilization. It is believed that Koggala Lake is home to about 10 crocs; so watch out and keep your eyes peeled for sightings of the lazy creatures floating along the surface of the lake.

Quite a quirky exercise; nevertheless it is part of the Koggala Lake experience. Fish Feeling as odd as it sounds is a place where a wooden platform has been built close to the shore. There you will find two nets full of fish and for about Rs 200 per person you get to dangle your feet in the fishy melee and feel the sensation of hundreds of fish darting under your feet. It is not the Doctor Fish experience for these fish do not attempt to nibble at your feet, instead they simply mind their business and swim amongst your dangly feet. If this makes you think of a foot massage and lolling back in comfy surroundings consider accommodation at one of the fine Koggala hotels. Many offer easy access to the beach, delicious seafood and a range of water sports such as diving, snorkelling and even scenic boat tours on the Koggala Lake such as sunset cruises from South Lake Resort.

The Koggala Lake is home to many Cinnamon groves; your tour will definitely stop at one of the little islets where a thick forest of cinnamon grows. There you can observe how the bark is extracted from the tree and even how the sweet smelling cinnamon oil is extracted. You can buy freshly dried cinnamon sticks from this farm.

If you book a lake cruise from a Koggala resort the chances of taking on a drop fishing tour is on the cards. The boat operator will take you to the perfect spot for dropping your line and hoping for a bite.

Pack up that picnic basket and set off on an island hopping tour. The Koggala Lake is inundated with tiny little islets; some are stony mounds while others are home to verdant little forests punctuated with the trill of birds and monkeys swinging from the trees. A relaxing picnic on one of these isolated islets is a great experience.