Joanna James
No visit to Sri Lanka is complete without having some beach fun on your itinerary, which should be no problem as the compact-sized island is surrounded by nothing but stunning stretches of sand kissed by turquoise blue waters. If blissful family beach time is what's on your mind, Tangalle on the South has got it.
The picture-perfect beaches of Tangalle aren't going anywhere. So head to Mulkirigala Rock Monastery for a day filled with history, culture and adventure before you get your dose of vitamin sea. Soaring to a height of 205 metres, Mulkirigala Rock Monastery is a Buddhist temple carved out of the face of a giant rock outcrop. The trek up to the temple involves a good 500 steps, which will make for a great family adventure. Climbing up the staggering flights of stairs will undoubtedly be one hell of a workout for the entire family, but it'll be totally worth it once you see the strikingly colourful cave paintings and sculptures awaiting you.
Tangalle isn't home only to gorgeous golden-hued beaches but also to the marvellous Hummanaya Blowhole, Sri Lanka's largest and the world's second-largest blowhole. It is a treat for both the eyes as well as the inner child in you, as the shooting jets of water reaching a height of 25-30 metres will have you sprayed with seawater. Needless to say, it would be a pity if you don't make plans to see this unique natural phenomenon on your trip to Tangalle.
The picturesque palm-fringed beaches studded along the island's south coast are what probably made Tangalle the popular tourist hotspot it is today. So hitting some of the town's stunning beaches is a must-have on any Tangalle travel itinerary, especially if you are staying at a beachfront Sri Lanka luxury villa, including the likes of Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort. Unwind on the pristine golden sand while sipping tropical cocktails and basking in the sun, or put your surfing skills to the test by riding the waves of the azure blue waters.
Set out on a family day trip from Tangalle to Yala National Park, the most visited national park in the country. Yala draws hordes of tourists from all over the world, thanks to its dense leopard population. Aside from these big black-spotted cats, the park is also home to many other species of animals such as elephants, crocodiles, monkeys and bears.
After a day of indulging yourself in the glories of Tangalle, take an evening drive to the Rekawa beach to visit the turtle nesting ground, Rekawa Turtle Watch. Observe as baby turtles open their little eyes to the world for the first time and mother turtles make their way to the protected stretch of beach to lay their eggs.
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.
