river safari hikkaduwa

Madu River Safari

₹ 25,194 onwards

Madu River Safari, Hikkaduwa Overview

The area surrounding the Madu river is covered by a mangrove forest that spans over 60 hectares and houses 14 species of mangroves. The over two-hour-long boat safari takes visitors through the woods. Passengers on these safaris can get to spot some of the over 300 species of life in the forest. The mangroves around the river are home to over 111 species of birds, 31 species of reptiles, and over 50 species of butterflies, and 19 of the over 300 species found here are endemic. A safari on the Madu river promises to be an unforgettable experience.

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10 Memorable Things To Do In Hikkaduwa

Are you planning a trip to Sri Lanka ? There are so many great places to visit it can be hard to choose your destinations, but a visit to one of the beautiful south coast beaches is an essential stop.

A great option not too far from Colombo is Hikkaduwa. With pretty beaches, turtles and great surf, you can easily spend more than a few days here.

Here we have a guest post from Jimmy and Tah from Divert Living, who left their careers in the military and finance to become full-time travelers . Jimmy and Tah share their top things to do in Hikkaduwa.

If you are on a self-guided vacation in Sri Lanka, be sure to check out their 3 week Sri Lanka Itinerary before you hop on the trains and explore the rest of this beautiful country.

10 Things to do in Hikkaduwa Sri Lanka

So where is Hikkaduwa in Sri Lanka? Hikkaduwa is a small coastal town adorned with tropical woodland and sandy shorelines just 116 km (72 miles) south of Colombo.

With beautiful beaches and a large range of hotels & restaurants, the town is considered one of the top tourist destinations in Sri Lanka not only for international visitors but for locals too.

Don’t worry – there is more to do than sitting on the beach in Hikkaduwa.

There are plenty of activities to keep you busy on a visit to Hikkaduwa.

Plan your trip: Our best of Sri Lanka travel blog

1. Snorkeling in Hikkaduwa

One of the top things to do in Hikkaduwa Beach is snorkeling. The reason is that one of just two marine parks in Sri Lanka is located off Hikkaduwa.

Simply rent some snorkeling gear and take a short boat ride over to the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef. Once you arrive, dive in and enjoy the views of the underwater world.

There are many local tour operators that can organize snorkelling trips and the average cost is around 2,000 rupees for one hour. 

The best time of year for snorkelling is between November and April.

Click here to read tour company reviews on Trip Advisor

2. Glass Bottom Boat Ride

If snorkeling is not your thing or your kids are too young, then a ride on a glass-bottom boat is the perfect (and a unique) way to explore the sea life from above.

The transparent bottom boats are available on the main beach to hire and explore independently.

Paddle along and take glimpses of the underwater world below.  The cost is around 4,000 rupees.

3. Swim at Hikkaduwa Beach

Obvious perhaps, but simply one of the best things to do in Hikkaduwa is to enjoy time on the beach.

Explore the different beaches nearby, take in the gorgeous sunsets and take a swim.

One of our best Hikkaduwa tips is to look out for giant turtles in the shallows later in the day at the southern end of the beach.

They are enormous animals and observing them in the their natural habitat is one of the best things to see in Hikkaduwa Beach Sri Lanka.

4. Go On A River Safari

If you are wondering what to do in Hikkaduwa apart from visiting the beach, there are a number of large lakes and rivers close to town to explore.

A river safari is a great way to explore the backwaters and is one of the best things to do around Hikkaduwa.

The Madhu River near Balapitiya is a popular place to explore, or rent a canoe and paddle up the Hikkatuwa lake system.

As you cruise through the mangroves, look out for wildlife, particularly birds, monkeys and possibly even a crocodile or two.

Click to read operator reviews on Trip Advisor

5. Surfing in Hikkaduwa

Water sports in Hikkaduwa are one of the most popular things to do and the area is famous for surfing among adventure enthusiasts.

The clean waves and consistent swell are what attract surfers to the area to enjoy this fun outdoor activity.

Surfboards are available for hire on the beach. It is a good place to learn to surf as the waves are often suited for beginners. Ask any one of the board rental guys to teach you in return for a fee.

They also have paddleboards for rent, which is a fun way for kids to explore the water when the waves are small.

6. Explore Sri Pushparama Temple

Apart from adventure and nature, if you want to do some sightseeing in Hikkaduwa then visit Sri Pushparama Temple or one of the other nearby temples.

Visiting this Buddhist temple is one of the best things to do near Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka. As you enter the temple, a monk of the shrine bids you a warm welcome and will show you the vicinity of the temple.

Here you’ll get to learn about the Buddhist philosophies as you walk around the complex. This is a great introduction and way to learn about the Buddhist religion. 

Entry is free, however it is an option to donate to the temple and monks.

7. Watch Baby Turtles Be Released

If snorkeling didn’t satisfy your evergreen curiosity for spotting turtles, watching them be released into the ocean is another great experience.

The local turtle hatchery on Hikkaduwa Beach releases the turtles into the ocean most evenings.

You can visit the hatchery for a fee, but it is free to watch them being released and in the early evenings is one of the best places to visit in Hikkaduwa Beach.

8. Eat Seafood

No Sri Lanka itinerary would be complete without enjoying the fresh local cuisine.

There is a huge range of Hikkaduwa restaurants and many specialise in seafood at affordable rates.

Find a beach front restaurant, order your meal and enjoy the delicious flavours of some of the best seafood in the world. 

9. Visit galle Fort

If you need a break from the beach, a visit to Galle Fort is one of the most popular day trips from Hikkaduwa. As it is just 20 km south of town it is one of the best things to do near Hikkaduwa.

Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the top tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.

If you love history and architecture, this is the perfect place to be. Entry to the fort is free. Allow plenty of time to explore the architecture, walk along the wall, get lost down the pretty streets, and visit the galleries and restaurants too!

Grab a tuk tuk, catch the train or organise a private shuttle for the day. Click here for more details on transfers to Galle.

10. Enjoy Fresh Juice

The coastal town of Hikkaduwa is dotted with numerous roadside juice bars.

From banana and mango to pineapple to passionfruit, the juice bars at Hikkaduwa serves a wide variety of delicious fresh juices.

All thanks to the local fruit market that work around the clock to deliver the freshest fruits to these vendors. 

Typical costs are around 200 rupees – cheap enough to become a daily habit during your stay.

Where to Stay in Hikkaduwa

One of the great things about Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka is the huge range of accommodation available.

From luxury 5-star hotels to simple family run guesthouses, there is a wide range of options to choose from.

Villa Red Lobster

Best For: Budget stays

If you are traveling on a very tight budget, the best thing to do is find accommodation on your arrival in town.

Like a lot of places in Asia , there are many guesthouses that don’t advertise online. A quick scout along the beachfront will usually provide a range of options.

However, if you are traveling during a busy time, with kids, or you are more comfortable booking your Hikkaduwa hotels in advance, the Villa Red Lobster is a great budget option.

Situated on a quiet street within walking distance of the beach, with an outdoor pool, onsite restaurant and bikes available for hire, it offers incredible value.

The air conditioned rooms are generously sized and family rooms are available. The villa is also close to Hikkaduwa shopping areas.

>> Click here to check rates and availability

Sapphire Seas Beachfront Hotel

Best For: Location

Beachfront with an outdoor pool and onsite restaurant, the Sapphire Seas offers mid-range budget air conditioned rooms just metres from the beach and away from the crowds in town.

It is located 3km south of Hikkaduwa town closer to Narigama Beach.

The proximity to the ocean, the peaceful location and attentive service make Sapphire Seas one of the top rated (and best value) hotels in the area.

The onsite restaurant offers meals throughout the day and the option of both the pool and beach means there really is no reason to leave, although town is just a quick tuk tuk ride away.

Villa Saffron Hikkaduwa

Best For: A Luxury Stay

There are a number of 5 star hotels in Hikkaduwa but if you are looking for luxury boutique villas in Hikkaduwa, the Villa Saffron is one of the highest rated villas in the area.

With just 5 boutique rooms, Villa Saffron is beachfront with a huge outdoor pool and onsite restaurant rated highly for its incredible food and service.

Villa Saffron is the place to go for attentive service, a little luxury and complete relaxation. You may find you simply don’t want to leave!

>> Click here for rates and availability

How to get From Colombo to Hikkaduwa

By private transfer.

The quickest and easiest way to get to from Colombo to Hikkaduwa is by private transfer.

Prices are surprisingly affordable, especially if you are traveling as a family or a group. The journey from Colombo is around 2 hours.

>> Click here to check availability and review prices.

If you are coming from Galle or Colombo, one of the most memorable ways to get to Hikkaduwa is by train .

The train hugs the coast and offers spectacular views along the way.

The official timetable says the journey takes about 2 hours, but the trains are often delayed and it may take longer. Nonetheless, this is a trip worth taking.

Train and bus tickets can be booked in advance online. Click here to check the price and availability.

Best time to Visit Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa weather is warm all year round.

The best time to visit is in the dry season from November to April. The seas are calm and best for swimming and snorkeling during this time.

As the weather in Hikkaduwa is drier and less humid at this time, peak season is December to February.

The area will be busiest and accommodation tends to be more expensive at this time.

Plan your Sri Lanka Trip

Fancy another beach stop? Mirissa is a popular beach town with a gorgeous beach. Click here to find the best hotels in Mirissa .

If you are planning to include Ella on your Sri Lanka itinerary see our list of the best places to stay in Ella here and top things to do in Ella here .

See all our Sri Lanka articles here .

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Hikkaduwa, the Beautiful Coastal Town in Sri Lanka!

Sri Lanka has a diversified landscape from place to place and the most fabulous part of it is indeed the seaside. Mountains, plains, and slopes do no less, but coastal areas get more attraction for the particular reason of the country being an island. It is a plus point when it comes to the tourism field as well since islands are one of the most preferred landmarks of travelers. However, among these spectacular coasts in Sri Lanka , extending around, starting from Pedro Point to Dondra Point, Hikkaduwa earns a special position. It is like, when the locals hear the name Hikkaduwa, they cannot resist visiting it. 

However, you may wonder now what is so special about a random coast on an island. 

Keep calm, and continue reading about this wonderful coastal town, ‘Hikka’ – as the locals call it, and the things that one can experience visiting there. 

Where is Hikkaduwa?

Hikkaduwa is a beautiful town located on the South Coast of Sri Lanka and belongs to the Galle district of the Southern Province. It is located about 17 km northwest of Galle , the capital of Southern Sri Lanka, and 98 km south of Colombo , the commercial capital of Sri Lanka.

What is Special about Hikkaduwa?

Simply, this town is a fabulous combination of tropical woodland and coastal shorelines. It is one of the most famous tourist attraction spots on the island with its wide range of beaches, hotels, and restaurants. Therefore, Hikkaduwa gets a huge crowd annually into its territories. 

You may wonder now, is it just because of the beaches that Hikkaduwa gets more attraction? That is not true. There are dozens of things that one can do other than sitting on the beach and enjoying the sea view. Let us now get to know about the most wonderful things that one can do in Hikkaduwa. 

• Snorkeling 
• Swimming 
• Surfing 
• Going on a River Safari
• Visiting the Turtle Hatcheries
• Touring around the City
• Visiting Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Sanctuary
• Enjoying Fresh Seafood

Excited to know more about the fascination of these activities? Continue reading! 

1. Snorkeling in Hikkaduwa

Having one of the two marine parks in Sri Lanka within its territory, Hikkaduwa can be considered one of the best places for snorkeling. Hence, it comes to the top of the list of the things that one can do in Hikkaduwa.

Snorkeling is always a good thing to do in a place where the ocean is. The best thing is, it does not need any preparation. You just have to rent snorkeling gear as the first step. And yes, you will be able to find snorkeling gear for a reasonable price if you walk around a bit in Hikka. Besides, you don’t have to fear even if you have no prior experience with snorkeling. The service providers around the city offer packages that include a few hours of training as well. 

However, the spectacular sights that you can observe if you snorkel in Hikkaduwa are just simply indescribable. The blue waters, colorful reefs, along with the variety of mighty fish species are surely going to delight your eyes. Accordingly, you are going to enjoy an experience like no other as you snorkel through the amazing settings underwater at Hikkaduwa. Hence, snorkeling in Hikkaduwa is simply something that you should not miss while you are here in Sri Lanka. 

2. Swimming in Hikkaduwa

As you relax by the shores, you can surely enhance the delight of your day if you choose to have a swim amidst the blue waves at Hikka. The clear waters over there, the cool breeze that flows across, and the wonderful atmosphere there, have the amazing powers of soothing any. However, it is important to note that there are certain areas that are dangerous for swimming. Of course, there are no issues if you are swimming in a pool in a hotel or resort. Still, if you are choosing to swim in the ocean of Hikkaduwa, be mindful to get advice from a travel guide or the locals in the surrounding area. Through their experiences, they will help you choose a good area for a swim in beautiful Hikka. 

3. Surfing in Hikkaduwa

Surfing is indeed one of the most popular water sports among the tourists who arrive in Sri Lanka. And guess what! Hikkaduwa is one of the best places for surfing on this splendid island. Sometimes, the waves at Hikka go exceeding 6 feet, offering the thrill and the excitement that many surfers love. Besides, the surf breaks at Hikkaduwa are second to none on the island making this area a favorite of many surf lovers. However, among the surfing points at Hikkaduwa, the following places remain the best. 

• Bennys: It’s a spot for experienced surfers, especially those who prefer left-hand breaks.
• Beach Break: Beginners and intermediate surfers alike will enjoy this break. It is regarded as one of the safest areas.
• Main Reef: Hikkaduwa’s Main Reef is ideal for both left and right breakers and is a safe spot for surfers of all abilities.
• North Jetty: For left-hand breakers, this is the place to go.

However, if you need any assistance with choosing a place for surfing at Hikkaduwa, you can simply reach the locals or your tour guide. 

4. Going on a River Safari 

A tour in Hikkaduwa is never complete without a river safari through the scenic settings in this charming coastal town. However, among the various rivers out there, the Madu River happens to be the most popular for a river safari.

The wonderful ecosystem out there comprises a variety of flora and fauna, which highlights the value of nature, and delights the soul of any who goes on a river safari. Further, there are some significant places that one can visit while going on a river safari at Madu River. They are Cinnamon Island, Kothduwa Temple, mangrove forest, Sathapaha Duwa (Smallest Island), and Nay Duwa. So, if one plans to visit all these places around it is better to allocate 3 – 4 hours for this journey to experience the best out of it. 

Besides, most of the service providers try their best to follow eco-friendly practices as they offer these catamaran rides on the Madu river. And yes, these rides create amazing photo opportunities as well. So, all these things would make your river safari at Hikkaduwa an unforgettable experience. 

5. Visiting the Turtle Hatcheries

Turtle Hatcheries are a common sight around the South Coast of Sri Lanka. And among them, the majority are located around the beautiful town of Hikkaduwa. 

These centers shelter a good variety of turtle species, and among them are injured turtles as well. They take good care of them and protect the endangered turtle species. Besides, these turtle hatcheries protect the turtle eggs, and when the turtle babies are out, they carefully release them into the waters. And if you are lucky enough, you can even join this wonderful course of releasing baby turtles into the waters. If there’s a team of yours who would love to volunteer with such an activity, you can contact a turtle hatchery, get to know a date that they are releasing turtles, and be a part of those activities as well. Apart from that, visiting a turtle hatchery would be a wonderful experience since it creates opportunities to observe the turtles, and to pose for a few photographs with these turtles as well. 

6. Touring around the City

Hikkaduwa, as well as the city of Galle , which is just a few miles away from Hikkaduwa, are significant tourist attractions on this little island. Therefore, if one visits either Hikka or Galle, touring around both these cities happens to be a must. 

By now, you surely know about several places that you can visit, and several activities that you can enjoy in and around Hikkaduwa. Hence, we thought of focusing this section a bit to highlight what to experience if you take part in a city tour around the majestic city of Galle. 

As you might already know, Galle is one of the most ancient cities in Sri Lanka and was a significant location during the colonization period . Therefore, the remains from the past are still visible in this town, enhancing its grandeur furthermore. 

The most highlighted attraction in Galle is undoubtedly the Galle Fort. It was constructed by the Dutch, and it still stands in good condition by the shores, adding beauty to the city limits. And yes, the Galle Lighthouse, which stands in the same area, makes a good addition to those wonderful sceneries. Besides, there are several amazing structures within the Galle Fort that showcase the shades of colonial architecture. Most of them have turned into restaurants and shops at the moment, and thus, visiting them would also magnify the delight of your city tour. Apart from that, you can also visit the Dutch Reformed Church, National Museum of Galle, Peace Pagoda Temple, Maritime Museum, as well as the Meeran Jumma Mosque as you explore the charming city of Galle. 

7. Visiting Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Sanctuary

Hikkaduwa Coral Reef Sanctuary is a place that you should not miss while you are touring the city of Hikka. The area of this sanctuary has the most diversified and accessible reefs. In fact, there are approximately 60 kinds of hard coral fish and over 170 species of reef fish out there. Hence, we can certainly mention that Hikka offers you the most spectacular scenery of the Sri Lankan underwater world.   

Of course, you can either choose to snorkel through the water amidst the shoals of vibrant fish species or observe the corals through the glass-bottomed boats. However it is, the dazzling scenes of the underwater world would never fail to stun your eyes. 

8. Enjoying Fresh Seafood

The Indian Ocean waves that surround Sri Lanka are a great fishing area with a variety of catches. The majority of them are caught fresh and prepared in a variety of ways, leaving anyone salivating. Hikkaduwa is a major coastal city that is rich with a good collection of fresh seafood dishes that are capable of amusing any. Hence, tasting seafood from Hikkaduwa happens to be a must as you visit this city of charms. 

Some of the most popular seafood dishes from Hikkaduwa are as follows. 

• Fried Seafood
• Fish Ambul Thiyal
• Hot Butter Cuttlefish
• Sri Lankan Seafood Platter with Lobsters
• Devilled Seafood dishes
• Claypot Prawn Curry
• Shrimp Salad
• Sri Lankan Oyster Dish 
• Dry Fish Curry

Some of the above seafood dishes have influences from other countries’ cuisines. Nonetheless, with a few traditional culinary flourishes, they arrive at dishes with real Sri Lankan flavors. Furthermore, it’s not just their flavors that pique the interest. Their rich appearance and the taste of Sri Lankan seafood make them even more unique. So, never miss a seafood dish while you are in Hikka! 

How to Reach Hikkaduwa?

You can reach Hikkaduwa by public transportation which includes bus and train services, as well as by private transportation. However, the most interesting and easiest way to reach Hikkaduwa is certainly by train.

The Sri Lankan Railways run trains every four hours from Colombo Fort Station to Hikkaduwa on the Colombo-Matara route. This train ride usually takes around two hours. The cost for a trip may range between SLR 200 – SLR 500 and differs according to the ticket class that you choose. 

Further, if you prefer traveling by bus, you can get a bus to Ambalangoda from the Colombo Fort Bus terminal, and then take a taxi to travel to Hikkaduwa from Ambalangoda. The cost for the bus ride may range between SLR 100 – SLR 200. Also, it will take nearly 3 hours to reach Ambalangoda. 

If you are planning to use private transportation, of course, you can choose to drive on your own, or take a taxi. However, the ride from Colombo to Hikkaduwa will only take around 1 and half hours. Moreover, if you are using a taxi service it will cost you around SLR 5000 – SLR 8000. 

Accommodation at Hikkaduwa

Since Hikkaduwa is a major tourist attraction it offers accommodation facilities covering a wide range. From homestays to bungalows to luxury hotels, it has a wonderful variety of options for you to choose from. Their prices vary according to the facilities offered, and the star levels. However, getting accommodation to suit your budget is never a problem in this wonderful palm-fringed coastal town. 

The Bottom Line

After all, the coastal town of Hikkaduwa, well-known for its astonishing beauty, powerful tides, water sports, and nightlife is a must-visit on this little island. It offers you the perfect location for a wonderful holiday with plenty of amusements and a coastal outlook. Indeed, Hikkaduwa’s beaches are magnificent and vast, with a stretch of places to dine, drink, stay, or shop. So, what else can you ask for? Visit Hikkaduwa, and witness this delight yourself. Happy and safe traveling! 

You may be excited for a tranquil beach vacation along a gorgeous stretch of golden sand. If not, you might be thrilled to experience the exhilaration and thrill of the incredible wildlife among the breathtaking scenery. Going further, you can even be anticipating learning about the splendor of the historical tales entwined with the island's customs. Similarly, your dream could be anywhere in these boundaries or outside of them. Nevertheless, we cherish your dream and pledge to turn it into a reality. Indeed, the Customized Tour Packages we provide serve as evidence that we honor our commitments.

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Privacy Overview

Hikkaduwa Beach in Sri Lanka is so famous , Why?

• August 7, 2021
• 7 minute read

Hikkaduwa beach is one of the famous beaches in Sri Lanka. It was discovered in the year 1960, and since then it has been attracting travelers from all around the world.

The vibrant nightlife, engaging water sports and the hippy attitude of this beach are what makes it the favorite spot for tourists.

The beach is known for its food delicacies, cultural significance, and entertainment. Hikkaduwa is one of the hot spots for backpackers and tourists. The magnificence of the place attracts people who come in search of adventure and recreation.

How To Reach Hikkaduwa beach

The city of Hikkaduwa is situated 100 km from the south of Colombo. You can take a train from Colombo to Matara which goes via Hikkaduwa. If you choose to travel in bus, you can board a bus from Colombo to Matara. It takes almost 3 hours of travelling.

They pass through Hikkaduwa. You can get down at Hikkaduwa bus stop or else you can get off at Narigama beach . From Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, you can either hire a taxi, or you can find mini busses. The road trip may be expensive, but it makes travelling more enjoyable.

Things to Do

Let us take you through the most enticing things you can do once you are in the Hikkaduwa Beach.

1. Enjoy Water Sports

Like any other beaches in Sri Lanka , Hikkaduwa is also a famous spot for water sports. You can find different activities like surfing, snorkelling, scuba diving, cruising, and sailing. Also, Hikkaduwa is a perfect spot for scuba diving.

You get to explore exciting night-diving trips and shipwrecks which takes your vacation to a whole another level. The availability of PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) courses is a blessing for beginner divers.

You can access these courses which are genuine and useful to enjoy the waters all within your first visit here.

2. Explore Coral Reefs

A beach vacation is incomplete without underwater exploration. Spend the best of your time in Hikkaduwa by taking a dip into the deep blue waters. You will be astonished by the things you discover.

The best time to visit the waters is from November to April since during those times the water seems to clear and calm. The magnificent coral reefs are going to mind boggle you. The reefs here are comprised of a gracious five meters of the marine national park .

Out of the two marine national parks, this one lies to the north of the shoreline and one of Sri Lanka’s pride. You can also rent snorkelling gadgets from nearby shops.

Also Read:  Kalpitiya Beach in SriLanka

3. Watching The Turtles

This is one of the unique attractions of Hikkaduwa. Hikkaduwa turtle hatchery never fails to impress you. Only a couple of minutes away from the town lies the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery which is a hot spot for the tourists.

A sad storyline behind the incubator is that it belongs to a man who lost his family in the tragic Tsunami incident. Spending some of your precious time will mean a lot.

4. Go Surfing

Hikkaduwa is an ideal place for surfers. The beach welcomes such people who have a passion for the waters. The crowd at the bay is found to be cheering these surfers often.

The environment and the ambiance of the beach will give you the adrenaline rush, which makes you enjoy the sport with all the fun.

5. Go For a Glass Bottom Boat Ride

This is so far one of the most thrilling experiences you will ever have in Hikkaduwa. A glass boat ride through the crystal clear waters of this place is fabulous.

The boats are specially built in a way that the deck and the bottom are of transparent glass. The rides give tourists the excitement of exploring the sea differently.

The sea of Hikkaduwa is rich with the twelve different types of butterflyfish and five types of angelfish. Meet them on your way without getting wet.

6. Visit the Tsunami Education Centre and Museum

The deadly Tsunami strike in 2004 is not an unknown fact. Sri Lanka was brutally attacked by the seas resulting in massive destruction and many people losing their lives.

In remembrance of the incident and to educate people more about the natural disaster, Hikkaduwa hosts the tsunami education center and museum.

Pay a visit to this center to know how horrific was the after effect of the Tsunami along with the photographs of the catastrophe.

Also Read:  Bentota Beach in Sri Lanka

7. Madhu River Safari

When you are in Hikkaduwa, never miss the fantastic Madhu river safari. Get to know the elegance of the Madu Ganga, which flows through the coastal village of Balapitiya.

The ride gives you the unique experience of watching variety of aquatic birds and fish. The safari along the mangrove forest is a chilling experience.

8. Enjoy the Nightlife

Hikkaduwa nightlife is quite active and fabulous. The place attracts a lot of travelers, and they do agree with the fact that Hikkaduwa is more attractive during the night time.

The beach has the best restaurants known for their service and hospitality. The beach hosts brilliant night parties and offers the best of seafood delicacies.

9. Try the SPA Treatments

Hikkaduwa is no strange to spa facilities. Here you can find top class spa centers offering ayurvedic treatments and massages.

When a long day of exploring starts to kick the tiredness in you, give yourself the luxury of a relaxing massage that rejuvenates you for the next day’s big adventures.

The spas here have experts in this field, and the service they provide will make you comfortable and satisfied.

10. Rent a Bicycle

A bicycle ride is the most spectacular way to get to know a place. The feels and experience you get from these rides are exceptional.

You can rent a bike from the streets where they offer old bicycles for a cheap rate, or you may get to know more details from your stay in Hikkaduwa.

The city has many exciting places that need to be explored. You can find yourself communicating with the locals, trying street foods, and enjoying the real beauty of this place.

Roam around and get to know how exciting Hikkaduwa is.

Places to Visit in Hikkaduwa  

1. gangaramaya temple.

Gangarama Maha Vihara Temple is among the most famous places for religious doings and activities. The temple is going to take away your breath by its elegance and beauty. The monks of this temple are always welcoming and happy to show you around.

You will find exciting and splendid traditional educational paintings which will blow your mind with the fact that the whole art is the work of a single man.

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2. Seenigama Vihara

Seenigama Vihara is that one place in Hikkaduwa you should never miss out. The temple is located on an island that is 100 meters offshore.

There you can find boat services to the island. The island is of absolute natural beauty and fascinating. The temple is of high significance among the locals here.

The belief is that when a robbery is done, and the victim comes to the temple for grieving, the one responsible for the theft will be punished with immense hardship. The view from the island is mesmerizing.

3. Moonstone Mines

One of Srilanka’s honor is the minerals, and precious stone found here. Srilanka is highly prosperous with the abundance of these treasures. Among the stone, Moonstone is the most famous one.

It is mined from the sultry forests. The town is filled with mines. The mine of the place is opened for visitors now. The entire tour is engaging, and you will get to know more about the mining process.

You can also shop semi-precious stone or jewellery from this place as a souvenir.

4. Nirgama Beach

Narigama Beach is another famous beach in Hikkaduwa. Tourists visiting Hikkaduwa will also enjoy Narigama beach. The beach stretches over 4 kilometres and is an ideal surfing spot.

The best time to visit the place is from April to October. The sea is calmer during the winter season. Watching the sunset from the Narigama is a blissful experience.

The ambience of this beach is pretty intriguing.

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5. Hikkaduwa Coral Gardens and Laguna

The coral gardens are one of the main attractions of Hikkaduwa.

Explore the Laguna and get captivated by the underwater miracle. Laguna is the pool of shallow water with coral reefs on both sides. The waves are diminished by the reefs hence making the spot safe for kids.

It is that part of the sea which is ideal for kids. You get a chance to find exotic species of fish and many other marine lives, which makes the whole experience thrilling.

You can even book a catamaran that helps you to ferry around the waters.

6. Hikkaduwa Lake

Hikkaduwa Lake flows through the veins of the town with all the grace. You will find yourself hypnotized by the captivating charm of the lake.

Situated almost 2km from the Baddegama Road, you have to get a turn to the north to reach the lake. There are boat voyages conducted for those who want to know the lake more. It gets you to the heart of the lake where you find many fascinating things along the way.

And that was all about the beach. Hope you find a safe, cozy place to reside in whenever you visit this jaw-dropping beach. Liked the article? share with your fellow travellers and leave a comment.

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