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Hikkaduwa Sri Lanka

Hikkaduwa is one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and best-known west-coast beach and watersports resorts, mainly thanks to the abundant coral reefs found just offshore. But while sea, sand and surf are the fun face of Hikkaduwa’s friendly and engaging personae, there is a somber story of tragedy and heartbreak just below the surface.

In December 2004, the full force of the Indian Ocean tsunami struck the town just as the Queen of the Sea train from Colombo passed along the track, which runs just yards from the beach. At least 1,700 passengers died in what became the world’s worst rail disaster, and even today the people of Hikkaduwa will stop and point out the various landmarks that commemorate the tragedy. The most notable of these is the Tsunami Memorial, a 60ft (18m) standing Buddha on an island surrounded by a lake that was was unveiled exactly two years later. A more human landmark are the many tailors and dressmakers in the town, courtesy of the hundreds of sewing machines that were provided by aid donors to the many families left destitute in the tsunami’s aftermath.

On a much happier note, a resurgent Hikkaduwa is now thriving thanks to the increasing number of sun-seeking tourists taking the ‘gold coast’ road south from the capital Colombo. Many visitors come for the chance to view the coral reef’s teeming marine life from glass-bottomed boats or up close through a diving mask as wind-surfers skim the surface just meters above their heads. Others are happy to just relax and unwind at the many beach-side hotels and bar-restaurants, while still others prefer to explore the many other attractions that Hikkaduwa has to offer. But later, as the setting sun casts its lingering shadows, all will raise a glass or three to health, hope and happiness and give fond thanks for another memorable day in paradise.

Activities in Hikkaduwa


Surfing

Beaches are not just for sunbathing on, as any surfer will tell you. Especially in Sri Lanka, one of the most reliable surf destinations in the Indian Ocean. Since the early 60’s Sri Lanka attracts surfers from all over the world. The best surf points in Sri Lanka are located on the South

Diving

Often referred to as the ‘pearl in the Indian Ocean', Sri Lanka offers world-class Scuba-Diving and Snorkelling tours. A multitude of tropical fish, magnificently colourful coral reefs and fascinating ship wrecks can be explored at several locations off the south coast of Sri Lanka .

Snorkeling

Often referred to as the 'pearl in the Indian Ocean', Sri Lanka offers world-class Scuba-Diving and Snorkelling tours. A multitude of tropical fish, magnificently colourful coral reefs and fascinating ship wrecks can be explored at several locations off the south coast of Sri Lanka.

Fishing

With its extensive coast-line and numerous reservoirs and lakes, Sri Lanka is an excellent place to cast your line and participate in the exciting sport of inland and deep sea fishing. Inland fishing can be arranged at any time of year due to the constant smoothness of the water on inland

Turtle Watching

Five out of the seven species of sea Turtles come ashore to nest in Sri Lanka , making it an ideal country to go Turtle Watching. Turtles are very nervous when they are looking for a place to nest and can therefore be easily scared.

Photography and Filming

Sri Lanka a breathtakingly beautiful island set in Indian ocean, where the sun shines 12 hours a day.Sri Lanka offers a wide variety of locations.We offer exotic and extraordinary locations that are normally inaccessible such as naturally beautiful settings, majestic hills, mist clad mount

Night Life

From chic relaxing cocktail lounges, and modern international restaurants – to lively pubs, tapas bars and sports bars boasting snooker tables and large-screen TV’s, there’s something for everyone.

Walking

Sri Lanka’s hill country is a land of tea-laden hillsides, gurgling waterfalls, stirring mountains and clear hill-country air. Here, in temperatures akin to a beautiful English summer’s day, is wonderful walking country.

Swimming

Sri Lanka and its many lakes, rivers, and leisure centers are good for practicing all types of swimming activities. The numerous lakes and swimming pools offer a good chance for young and old alike to get fun and cool off.

City Tour

Explore our exotic city. We will let you have a feel and look around the city area in 4 hours on our half day city tour.

Attractions in Hikkaduwa


Madu Ganga Biodiversity Area

The Madu Ganga Biodiversity area at Balapitiya is Sri Lanka's second largest wetland and one of the last remaining tracts of pristine mangrove forests in the country.

Madu River

A boat trip on the Madu Ganga river at Balapitiya is a not-to-be-missed opportunity to see the huge number of animal and plant species that thrive on Sri Lanka’s premier wetland area.

Moonstone Mines

Moonstone, the talismanic pearly white gem that is a favourite of lovers, travellers and apothecaries, was much prized by the Romans, who thought it was magically formed from moonlight.

Tsunami Honganji Vihara

Tragedy and despair lie behind Honganji Vihara temple at Hikkaduwa, reflected in the somber countenance of the 60ft Buddha statue as it stands gazing out to sea.

Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya

Got a problem with someone? Been on the sharp end of someone’s bad karma? Then go to this island temple just off Hikkaduwa beach and toast a few chillies. That’ll do the trick.

Turtle Hatchery

The turtle hatchery at Hikkaduwa is a must-visit for all those who want to see these amazing animals survive and thrive after years of predation throughout the Indian Ocean.

Hikkaduwa Beach

There’s more to a perfect beach than sand, sea and sun. There’s also what happens beneath the surface—which in Hikkaduwa’s case is the teaming sealife on its famed coral reef.

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