Joanna James
Fondly referred to as 'Hikka' by local and overseas holidaymakers, Hikkaduwa is a small coastal town located in the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Here is a list of top 7 things to do in Hikkaduwa.
'Hikka' is known for its strong surf and beach along with its exotic marine life. The palm-dotted beach has restaurants and bars to complement your day at the beach as you step into the shallow waters to witness the magic that the Indian Ocean has to offer.
Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in Hikka is to plunge into the water and experience the world under water. Hikkaduwa is home to one of the two marine national parks in Sri Lanka, inheriting a diverse underwater splendour that includes coral reef, exotic fish and turtles. November through April is known to be the best times to visit as you can submerge yourself only to have the best views of the underworld with serene waters above you.
Well, do you love the underwater world but not up to the thrills of exploring it in its natural setting? Fret not, you can easily hire a boat decked with a glass bottom and get to see an ample of butterfly fish and angelfish on your ride along with exotic and colourful sea creatures, plants and corals. If you're lucky you can get up close to sea turtles and spot a stingray. Many prominent Hikkaduwa Hotels are located by the beach and you can easily see some of these attractions right from your hotel.
Hikkaduwa is known for being a prominent water sports centre in the country, offering a variety of options for professional as well as amateurs. Swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling, surfing, cruising, and sailing are some of the options available in ample. There are also Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) courses available through certified diving shops. Divers can get a wholesome experience discovering shipwrecks and exciting night diving trips.
Hikka is known for its happening nightlife and throws in the most extraordinary beach parties. The nightlife is lively with good music, food and drinks on offer. Both local, as well as international artists and DJ's, perform at local parties.
Apart from getting some well-deserved fun in the water and partying the nights away, you can take a break to explore the inland where Hikka has quite a few places that might interest you. A few mentions would be;
• The Gangarama Maha Vihara is a Buddhist temple decorated with hand-painted murals depicting the life of Lord Buddha.
• The moonstone mines at Mitiyagoda which takes you through the process and has a jewellery store on site where you can buy a few extravagant gifts to take back.
• The tsunami memorials
• Sea turtle conservation projects
There are ample beachside restaurants, lounges, street food outlets, bars and guesthouses that serve both local as well as international cuisines. You can grab almost anything from a locally made coconut rotti off the street to a dining experience at one of the star hotels. The choice is all yours.
As the day ends and you're tired with the number of activities that Hikka offers, the best way to relax and refresh is to get some well-deserved spa therapy. Hikka has ample ayurvedic treatment centres that offer a wide variety of options to rejuvenate body and mind after long days of fun and sun. If you check in to a hotel such as Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon, you've got yourself a good deal as they can fulfil your needs under one roof.
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.
