Joanna James
Located approximately 22 kilometres from its main town, Matara in Southern Sri Lanka, Dikwella is known for its vast beaches that are protected by headlands, reefs, and sandbars making it one of the safest beaches for swimming and light water sports. It is also prominent for its religious focus and a large marketplace. Here are the top 5 things to look forward to in and around the area.
Dikwella inherits some of the most serene and protective beaches in the country, making it an ideal holiday spot for everyone. Apart from Dikwella beach, there are several neighbouring beaches that are safe for snorkeling, diving, and surfing. You can also catch local inshore fishermen use small colourful canoes to fish which are easy to handle during the seasonal shifts of sandbars.
With all its tranquillity, Dikwella will no doubt make an ideal getaway for those who seek a holiday away from their busy lifestyles and the hustle and bustle of city life. The environment is an inviting place to lay back and rejuvenate. The area is home to a number of luxury boutique hotels in Sri Lanka bound to make your stay a comfortable and relaxing one. Many of these hotels are set amidst its natural ambience and, comes with a range of in-house facilities to make your stay a blissful one. The Soul Resorts is one such perfect retreat to unwind and refreshen every element of you.
The Wevurukannala temple attracts many local pilgrims as it's a significant temple in the area. The first part of the temple has a hall of horrors depicting life-sized models of demons and sinners. The next level encompasses a large seated statue of Lord Buddha, which is about 160 feet high, making it the largest in Sri Lanka as well. Additionally, there is a tall building attached to the statue which has stairs all the way to the top giving you a spectacular view of the area around. There are colourful pictures of Lord Buddha's life throughout the building walls.
'Devinuwara' also referred to as 'Dondra', is Sri Lanka's extreme southern tip. It is a historically significant port and home to a number of diverse religious influences. The port connected the sea routes between Asia, Africa, and Europe. The city and port have come under several religious and political control. One of the most important places of worship, the 'Tanaveram' temple is richly made depicting classical Dravidian architecture. The temple was destroyed by the Portuguese and the ruins were either rediscovered or rebuilt. Devinuwara is a town with much religious activity, attracting pilgrims from all over the country. The 'Dondra Fair' and the 'Perahera' attracts large crowds and is held between the months of July-August.
'Hummanaya' is a natural blowhole that is created by a geological activity and shoots up reaching a good 25-30 metres high. The blowhole is caused when seawater rushes through an underwater cave and is pushed upwards and comes out of a hole due to its pressure. This is the only blowhole in the country and is considered the second largest in the world. It is located in a small fishing village in Kudawella, which is a 3-minute drive from Dikwella. There is an information center on marine life and a viewing platform as well.
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