Joanna James
Many tourists tend to limit their stay in the southern city of Galle to the vicinity of the Dutch Fort, but there are other noteworthy attractions in the area worth exploring. Here are 5 surrounding towns and beach hubs that are well worth exploring on a trip to the southern coastline.
Best known to locals as the birthplace of Sinhalese literary icon Martin Wickramasinghe, Koggala is a sleepy beach town that lies in the Galle District. Within easy driving distance of The Fortress Resort & Spa and the many other Sri Lanka luxury beach resorts in Galle, Koggala is the perfect day trip destination for beach lovers in search of peace and quiet. In addition to splashing around the ocean and enjoying water sports activities, some of the best things to do in Koggala include touring the museum dedicated to the legacy of Martin Wickramasinghe. The writer's childhood home has been converted into a museum full of his belongings and writing implements. A boat cruise on the Koggala River to Madol Doowa island is another rite of passage for literary buffs as this island served as the inspiration for the novel of the same name by the celebrated local author.
Hikkaduwa is Galle's most popular beach Mecca, and no trip to the south coast would be complete without a day spent in Hikkaduwa, or Hikka, as the locals call it. Renowned for its coral reefs and excellent water visibility, Hikkaduwa is a dream come true for avid snorkellers and scuba divers. Those who cannot swim can also opt to explore the sea bed off the coast of Hikkaduwa Beach on a glass-bottomed boat ride. Well-known for its Batik shops and roti vendors, Hikkaduwa is equally famed as a beach party hub for the young and restless. Surfers have also been flocking to Hikkaduwa for decades due to the big waves and great surfing spots along the shores of its main beach.
This tranquil little coastal town is perhaps best known for its mask-making heritage. As the home of the country's finest artisans and ceremonial mask makers, Ambalangoda is an area steeped in legend and myth. Some of the best things to do in Ambalangoda include touring its mask museums and mask retail shops where one can witness the craftsmanship required to create these unique wooden masks employed in exorcisms and other local rituals.
The crescent-shaped beach might be the main reason that most tourists head to Unawatuna but this Galle hamlet has more to offer than sun, surf and sand. As the home base of Rumassala Hill, Unawatuna is a prime hiking destination in Galle. Paying homage to the Japanese Peace Pagoda and visiting its turtle hatchery are some of the most rewarding things to do in this area.
As the smallest town on this list, Boossa is truly perfect for those in search of a secret beach getaway destination away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Galle. While this town may be lacking in resorts and water sports facilities, the sheer beauty of this untamed beach destination is enough to entice travellers with discerning tastes to spend a few nights in the area.
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