Koggala is a popular romantic day trip destination for its Lagoon Boat Tour from Galle, just 21 km east of the bustling city. Koggala is well-known for its more secluded beaches, stilt fisherman culture, folk museum and lagoon. Famous as one of the longest stretches of beach along the southern coast, Koggala is a less crowded beach, renowned as a serene beach escape.
This is a popular couples’ day trip away from Galle and Unawatuna. Koggala, the charm lies in enjoying a secluded intimate setting which is also close to Galle with a host of romantic beaches and activities to explore.
You have probably seen postcards or paintings of Sri Lanka featuring stilt fishermen, a fading fishing art, today these fisherfolk are most famously observed along the beaches of Koggala.
Koggala has beaches that are perfect for surfing and swimming with long beach stretches to lay out lounging or enjoy long walks. The local beach shops have freshly plucked, thirst-quenching local King Coconuts and Kurumba (mature coconut) for hydration and replenishment from the sun. With fresh seafood available year-round, the local restaurants offer plenty of food options and beach facilities.
The lagoon is a biodiversity hotspot with inhabited local islands to explore on a boat tour.
The nearby Koggala turtle hatchery is a local conservation project that helps protect the turtle eggs of five of the seven species found in the ocean. An ancient temple, Kataluva Purvarama Raja Maha Viharaya is a historic temple constructed around the 13th century and featuring stunning art and architecture.
The allure of Koggala is its more laid-back atmosphere whilst being a fun town to explore away from the more crowded city of Galle. With secluded beaches, stilt fishermen, ancient temples and lagoons, the area boasts an array of activities to captivate and enchant.
The Koggala Lagoon is a short stroll from the beach. Take a boat tour exploring the enchanting lagoon and its local birdlife and small islands, amidst a captivating scene of natural beauty and ecological diversity.
Koggala Lake has around eight islands spread out across the lagoon. Witness a harmonious co-existence of species within the embrace of the Lagoon waters. Within the lush mangrove swamps, a unique and diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna flourish.
The usual boat tour will cover four of the islands each unique with its own story and allure. Cinnamon Island has a family living on this island with a genealogy spanning back 100 years, engaged in traditional organic Ceylon Cinnamon cultivation. Madol Duwa – The most famous island on this lake, is the island that sparked the imagination for a classic Sri Lankan literary piece. Bird Island – A bird-watching paradise, this island features a host of species such as herons, hawks and eagles who frequently nest here. Temple Island – A popular local pilgrimage site, Temple Island features a small historic temple frequented by locals.
The Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum is the former home of a famous world-acclaimed author, Martin Wickramasinghe (1890-1976). This house nestled close to the lake is a museum journey that spans two centuries. Enjoy learning about his life, travels, personal memorabilia and cultural artifacts of the era which are available to view during your tour. There are echoes of Dutch architectural influence and even a small art gallery. The museum houses a collection of costumes, musical instruments, masks, puppets and metalwork from the era as well as culinary implements showcasing a glimpse into life of the early 1900’s.
A rare experience, Handunugoda Tea Estate is a treasure in the south and features a plantation renowned for its artisanal craftsmanship in producing exquisite whole-leaf teas. The rare and exclusive Virgin White Tea is grown here, originally planted and brewed by Imperial Courts in China, the tea and flavour profile is truly unique to this estate.
Telephone: +94 77 206 5555 or +94 77 771 3999
Website: https://hermanteas.com
Email: info@hermanteas.com
Hours: Daily 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
Ticket Prices: $2 (current as of June 2024)
Location: Matara-Galle Main Road, Koggala
Opening hours: Daily from 9.00 a.m to 5.00 p.m
Tickets: LKR 200 (prices current as of June 2024)