Joanna James
Spanning a striking portion of Sri Lanka's south coast, Tangalle invites you to experience one of the most spectacular seasides of the Indian Ocean island nation. Head to the stunning south and let the charming beach town play host for a couple of days to your family getaway on the teardrop island.
Nestled high away on a 205-metre-high natural rock, in the sanctuary of another four surrounding rocks and a dense green forest, Mulkirigala Rock Temple—or Mulgirigala Raja Maha Viharaya, as it is known locally—is an ancient Buddhist temple in the beachside town of Tangalle. The trek to the temple involves a good, heart-pumping 533 steps, at the top end of which lies an archaeological wonder and a host of striking sculptures, murals and paintings soaked in tranquillity, awaiting to treat your eyes.
Tangalle's string of picture-postcard beaches is what puts the city on the map for most tourists, making a blissful beach day an unmissable experience on your family getaway in the charming coastal city. A short 20-kilometre drive away from the city centre is the stunning Hiriketiya Beach—arguably the best stretch of beach in and around Tangalle. Frolic on the sandy palm-fringed cove, grab a bite to eat from the low-key beach shacks and let yourself wallow in idyllic beach basking.
Set out on a 1-hour, 65-kilometre journey far off the outskirts of Tangalle to Udawalawe National Park—one of the most visited out of the 22 national parks in the Indian Ocean island nation. The park is renowned for its incredible Sri Lankan elephant population, and a slew of other species of animals, such as sambar, chital, wild boar, and a whole host of birdlife, also call the sprawling nature reserve home. Keep your eyes peeled and venture into the dense wilderness on a mighty safari jeep to spot your favourite wildlife.
After a day of wallowing in the glories of Tangalle, make your way to Rekawa Beach in the late evening to visit the Rekawa Turtle Watch—a turtle conservation project aimed at protecting nesting sites and the safe hatching of eggs and return of baby turtles back to their habitat in the sea. Watch as the mother turtles sneak up on the protected stretch of beach to lay their eggs, and if you're lucky, witness the hatching of a baby turtle as well.
Fancy a moment of peace and quiet in complete tranquillity? Make your way to the serene Tangalle Lagoon and treat yourself to a relaxing kayaking experience while treating your eyes to the breathtaking beauty and nature that's all around you. To further complement your indulgence, retreat to an elegant Sri Lanka luxury villa in the city, including the likes of Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort.
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.
