Joanna James
Koggala Lake located in the south of Sri Lanka services the sleepy fisher village of Koggala in Galle. The lake is a gem to explore, offering one a load of experiences to cherish and savour.
Boat rides on this serene stretch of water is a treat to the senses. Enjoy the quiet ambience, punctuated only by the sound of a bird call or splash of a water-monitor gliding slyly into the water. The only sights of civilization you experience are the rare fisher boats that will pass yours. Take along a pair of binoculars, for checking out the wildlife on the verdant banks and cameras for shots of the rustic surroundings. Koggala being a popular seaside town in the Galle district is often chosen for day excursions by guests staying at nearby hotels, such as, Pebbles Beach Villa; hence, it is quite likely the place you stay at will help organise boat tours across the lake.
If you think the name sounds odd, the experience is even more quirky. 'Fish feeling' is an experience you can try at the impromptu platform set up along the lake. In the middle of the open platform are two nets containing hundreds of little fish; the idea is to dangle your feet in this melee and enjoy the feeling of the little critters swimming between and under your feet. Mind you, this is in no way therapeutic, but is merely a quirky experience to add your list of zany encounters. Of course, if you want the real spa deal, remember the south is home to some of the best luxury villas Sri Lanka has to offer.
The Koggala Lake is dotted with little islands, and on many of these are little cinnamon plantations that have existed over the years. Most of these are little family businesses, ready to welcome visitors and show them around the place. Learn how the fragrant bark is extracted from the tree and about the process involved in making the sweet smelling cinnamon oil. Freshly dried and packed cinnamon sticks, as well as little vials of the oil, can be purchased from the farm.
Drop fishing is practised in the south, most Koggala boat tour operators include a spot of drop fishing in their tours. Do take on the challenge and enjoy balancing on the poles with their tiny little perch. Lines are cast into the frothing waves in the hopes of catching whatever tiny little fish gets swirled in with the tide.
Koggala Lake is dotted with a myriad of little islets and stone mounds, the best of these are verdant little sanctuaries home to colourful birds and other little exotic creatures. If you love the outdoors, pack up a picnic basket and visit one of these islands for a lazy day and afternoon siesta under a canopy of trees.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
