Joanna James
Koggala is a tiny coastal town located in the south of Sri Lanka, next to other popular seaside destinations like Unawatuna and Weligama. Koggala is known for having one of the longest beaches on the island, while also being a relatively more relaxing location that isn’t as frequented by tourists. Despite its small size, the town is abundant in natural beauty and culture, with several places of interest to visit. Here are some of the best-kept treasures in and around Koggala that you can explore to truly appreciate the charm of this hidden coastal gem in Sri Lanka.
The untouched natural beauty of this serene lake makes it one of the most popular places to visit in Koggala. Rich in biodiversity and ecosystems, the lake features eight tiny islands, each with its own unique features. Popular among these are Cinnamon Island which is home to one of the oldest cinnamon plantations in the country; the famous ‘Madol Duwa’ known for inspiring the renowned novel of the same name by local author Martin Wickramasinghe; and Temple Island which features an ancient temple dating back to the 19th century.
The picturesque Koggala Beach is one of the longest beaches in Sri Lanka and is perfect for a day of unwinding and relaxation under the sun. The waters bordering the beach are crystal clear, making it a perfect spot for diving and snorkelling by which you’ll discover several species of fish. The beach is a favoured spot for local stilt fishermen so visitors often gather here to watch them perched on vertical poles waiting patiently for their catch.
Located close to the Koggala Free Trade Zone, this unique museum was once the residence of the famous Sri Lankan poet and writer Martin Wickramasinghe. It now serves as a museum that chronicles the author’s life through various items and artefacts. The house features a ‘Hall of Life’ that includes a series of souvenirs, photographs, antique furniture and other memorabilia, each with clear descriptions explaining their importance.
While Sri Lanka features several turtle hatcheries along its southern coast, the Habaraduwa Turtle Hatchery is one of the few you can visit after you arrive in Koggala either by vehicle or an air taxi by Cinnamon Air. Like others in the area, this hatchery is a non-profit organisation dedicated to safeguarding endangered species of sea turtles like the Hawksbill Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle and the Green Turtle. The staff at the hatchery are actively involved in protecting and incubating turtle eggs, and then safely releasing the new hatchlings back into the ocean.
Koggala is in the vicinity of the unique Handunugoda Tea Estate, renowned for being one of the closest tea plantations in the world to the sea. Not only is the estate a testament to the island’s long-held tea heritage, but it also holds a longstanding reputation for producing virgin white tea. This is a rare and delicate variety of tea that is remarkably prepared without the tea leaves ever being physically touched by human hands. Visitors can explore the lush tea fields on the estate and witness the delicate art of tea-making while also tasting some of the country’s best teas.
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.
