These are the best 5 places to visit in Hikkaduwa.
Hikkaduwa is a beautiful coastal town in Sri Lanka. It is popular for its sandy beaches, rich marine life, and attractive cultural experiences. If you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Hikkaduwa should be your top choice. This article shares the top 5 places to explore in Hikkaduwa for an unforgettable trip.
Hikkaduwa Beach
Hikkaduwa Beach is the crown jewel of the town. It is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous coastal attractions. Known for its golden sands, turquoise waters, and lively atmosphere, this beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
There are various activities that you can indulge in at Hikkaduwa Beach. Some of these include snorkeling and diving. You get to explore the vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside exotic marine creatures. These include turtles and colorful fish.
The Hikkaduwa Beach is a surfers’ hotspot. The waves at this beach are perfect even if you are a professional or a beginner. Swimming and water sports are often tiring. The hunger after swimming is just unbearable.
Thus, make sure to enjoy a variety of seafood dishes at beachside eateries while soaking in the stunning ocean views. There are a number of restaurants and cafes that serve delicious authentic Sri Lankan seafood. Don’t forget to enjoy the nightlife at Hikkaduwa Beach with beach parties, music, and a lively crowd.
Kosgoda Sea Turtle Hatchery
Situated a short drive from Hikkaduwa, the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Hatchery is a sanctuary dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles. You can learn about turtle conservation and even participate in releasing hatchlings into the ocean.
The hatchery looks after injured turtles and puts efforts to preserve nesting sites. You get to learn about different turtle species, including green turtles, leatherbacks, and hawksbills. For a hands-on experience, you get to witness baby turtles hatching and take part in their first journey to the sea.
The visiting hours of Kosgoda Sea Turtle Hatchery are 8.30 am to 6.30 pm each day. If you are willing to release the turtles into the sea, then visit the hatchery before sunset. It is best to abide by the rules mentioned by the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Hatchery. This way, you ensure the turtles are safe and you are not harming them at any cost.
There is no entry fee for the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Hatchery, but you might need to pay for feeding the turtles or releasing them back in the water. The tickets for the same are available on the spot.
Tsunami Honganji Vihara
The Tsunami Honganji Vihara is an impressive memorial that commemorates the lives lost in the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
The most attractive thing of the memorial is a towering 30-meter Buddha statue symbolizing peace and resilience. For an interactive experience, there is a museum that shares everything about the 2004 tsunami through photographs, stories, and artifacts. This Buddhist temple, or Vihara, is surrounded by a serene environment. Hence, it is a peaceful place.
Around the temple, you can talk to locals, including fishermen who have witnessed the effects of the 2004 tsunami. Such conversations offer a deeper understanding of the calamities and the power to come back stronger.
The Tsunami Honganji Vihara is open 24 hours a day. But 4 pm to 6 pm is the best time to visit as the crowd is less. You can also visit this temple between 6 am and 9 am. The morning hours are best for fresh air, calm environments, and meditation.
Narigama Beach
If you are looking for a peaceful alternative to Hikkaduwa Beach, Narigama Beach is the perfect escape. Famous for its untouched beauty and laid-back vibe, this beach is ideal if you are seeking solitude. The most popular activity here is surfing with the consistent waves.
Sunset and solitude together hit differently. If you want to experience sunsets away from the crowd, make sure to visit Narigama Beach. If you want to purchase souvenirs, handmade jewellery, and beachwear, then there are a lot of local shops in nearby streets.
The best thing to do here is to lounge under the shades of palm trees or enjoy the long shoreline walks. You can also consider this beach as a great picnic spot. If you are searching for a less crowded and silent place to get your pictures clicked, then Narigama Beach is definitely a place you should consider.
Turtle Beach – Hikkaduwa
A paradise for animal lovers, Turtle Beach is an area where you can observe sea turtles in their natural habitat. It is one of the few places in the world where you can interact with these gentle creatures very closely.
Visiting the turtle beach is going to be a different kind of experience for you. You can watch or yourself feed the turtles. You can also swim alongside the turtles and explore the coral reefs and other marine life.
Nature conservation is anyway the need of the hour. Be a part of the great initiative and learn about the efforts being made to protect these endangered species. If you are traveling with children, then Turtle Beach is the perfect spot. The calm waters and unique activities make Turtle Beach a great destination for families with children.
Please make sure to follow the guidelines at this beach. Our one mistake can harm the little creatures. Our goal is to save the lives of these endangered species. There are various organizations that are taking part in reviving marine life.
These are the 5 places to visit in Hikkaduwa. It offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural importance, and marine life, making it an amazing location in Sri Lanka. From the crowded Hikkaduwa Beach to the calm Narigama Beach and the educational Kosgoda Sea Turtle Hatchery, every spot in this coastal town offers a unique experience.
For all the adventure seekers, a history enthusiasts, or if you are simply looking to unwind by the sea, Hikkaduwa provides an unforgettable experience. Consider this article as your guide and plan your visit to this tropical paradise.
Editorial Staff at Ceylon Empire Travels are Specialist in Sri Lanka Travel.
