Joanna James
195 kilometres away from the hustle and bustle of Colombo, the city of Tangalle on the south coast makes for a mellow beachside getaway in the Indian Ocean island nation of Sri Lanka. Come, experience the best of what the spectacular seaside of Tangalle has in store for you.
Sitting atop a 205-metre-high natural rock, surrounded by another four rocks, in the midst of a dense forest, Mulkirigala Rock Temples makes for adventure, excitement and history, all rolled into one. The trek to the ancient Buddhist temple involves a good 533 steps — certainly a heart-pumping workout — but it would be definitely well worth the effort once you reach the top, where you are greeted by an ornate temple blessed with striking paintings and sculptures, and a jaw-dropping panoramic view.
It is Tangalle's golden sandy shores and azure blue waters that single-handedly put the beach town on the map for most if not all its visitors. Therefore, at least one whole day soaking up the allure of the gorgeous beachside is a must on your Tangalle itinerary. Make your way to the Tangalle beach — the town's main stretch of beach — and unwind under towering palms, sip on tropical cocktails, and bask in the soothing sun until the tranquil sunset bids you farewell for a blissful beach day.
Craving a bit of adventure in Tangalle? A short 15-kilometre drive away from Tangalle is the stunning stretch of beach of Hiriketiya, inviting you to engage in some thrilling surfing — a treat that's bound to tickle the fancy of every thrill seeker. Grab yourself a surfboard and hit the thrilling yet welcoming waters and try your luck at catching a wave or two. Surfing at Hiriketiya is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Tangalle and something many tourists to the beach town look forward to.
Set out on a 65-kilometre journey from Tangalle to Udawalawe National Park — one of the most visited out of the 22 national parks in the island nation — for some exciting wildlife spotting. Hop on a mighty safari jeep and venture into the dense wilderness, where elephants, leopards, crocodiles, bears, and many other wildlife roam freely.
As the sun goes down and the darkness descends upon you, make your way to Rekawa Beach to visit the Rekawa Turtle Watch. Treat yourself to an experience like no other, where you are afforded to watch turtles up close in their natural habitat. Get your fill of the brown-toned shelly creatures and retreat to a fine Sri Lanka luxury villa in Tangalle the likes of Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort.
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