Joanna James
Tangalle is located on the popular southern coast of Sri Lanka. The area is home to some of the prettiest and wildest beaches on the island. It is also a hub for exploring the culture and history of the nation. Here is a list of the top things to do in Tangalle.
Head over to Rekawa Beach for an epic adventure with the sea turtles that abound in the area. Several types of sea turtles visit the shores of Sri Lanka and they can all be spotted at one time or the other at Rekawa Beach. The most popular types include the Hawksbill, Olive Ridley and Loggerhead turtles. Visit the Rekawa Marine Watch, which is a turtle conservation group dedicated to protecting the ancient creatures and their breeding grounds on the beach and ensuring the newly hatched babies make it to the ocean safely. It's an immersive and rewarding experience to enjoy.
Among the top beaches in Tangalle is Goyambokka. The place is loved for its safe swimming opportunities due to being surrounded by a reef while the curve of the bay and its soft sands offer a private haven for chilling and working on your tan. It's a great sport to take along a picnic and relax on your own or with friends and family.
Hiriketiya Beach is ideal for surfing and also easy to reach from hotels in Tangalle as it's about 20 minutes from the town centre. The ideal conditions there make the beach a favourite amongst surfers. Plus, plenty of make-shift surf schools exist on the beach for anyone to learn the art of riding the waves. Some resorts like Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort are located on a Peninsula offering easy access to other rugged beaches in the area, which is what makes beach-hopping a loved attraction in Tangalle.
Most of the towns along the southern coast are located within a half hour of each other, which makes exploring the attractions along this coast an easy and pleasurable experience. Buses and tuk-tuks are the more common mode of transport for most tourists, but you must make sure to bargain and pay a fair price for your tuk ride instead of getting scammed. Another popular option is to hire a scooter and ride around the area on your own. This option is fast gaining popularity and is an easy plus cost-effective choice to hire a car.
Visit the Mulkirigala Rajamaha Viharaya, which is located on a rock that is 205 metres in height. The temple, one of the oldest on the island, is comprised of seven caves that contain various shrines. Inside the shrines, which are known as viharas, are different types of Buddha statues; you will see several poses such as the reclining Buddha, seated Buddha and standing Buddha; each symbolises a certain stage of the Buddha's life.
The Tangalle Lagoon is loved for its diving and snorkelling allures as the waters are home to a variety of aquatic life such as lobster, scorpion fish, angel fish, octopus and more. Scuba diving is rewarding since the waters are home to underwater coral tunnels, caves and even shipwrecks.
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.
