Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka Guide
Hikkaduwa, a vibrant coastal town in southwestern Sri Lanka, is renowned for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere. It's a popular destination for surfers, snorkelers, and those seeking a relaxing beach holiday. The town offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and a lively tourist scene. Beyond the beaches, Hikkaduwa boasts a rich marine ecosystem, making it a prime spot for diving and exploring underwater wonders. The town also features temples, local markets, and opportunities to learn about Sri Lankan culture. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Hikkaduwa offers something for everyone.
Food & Cuisine
Hikkaduwa's cuisine is a delightful blend of Sri Lankan flavors with a focus on fresh seafood. Rice and curry are staples, with various vegetable, meat, and fish curries served alongside. Seafood restaurants line the beach, offering grilled fish, prawns, lobster, and crab prepared with local spices. Don't miss trying Kottu Roti, a popular street food made with chopped roti bread, vegetables, and meat or seafood. For a more upscale dining experience, try the restaurants at the Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon hotel. Local markets offer fresh produce and spices, allowing you to experience the ingredients firsthand. For a casual meal, many small restaurants offer delicious and affordable Sri Lankan dishes.
Nightlife
Hikkaduwa's nightlife is centered around the beach and the main Galle Road. Beach bars and restaurants transform into lively venues in the evening, offering music, dancing, and cocktails. Many establishments host themed nights, such as reggae nights or beach parties. The area around Narigama Beach is particularly known for its vibrant nightlife scene. While not as wild as some other party destinations, Hikkaduwa offers a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for evening entertainment.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hikkaduwa is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During these months, the weather is sunny and the sea is calm, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The monsoon season occurs from May to September, bringing heavy rainfall and rough seas.
Transportation
Public transportation in Hikkaduwa primarily consists of buses and tuk-tuks (three-wheeled auto-rickshaws). Buses are a very affordable way to travel along the coastal road, connecting Hikkaduwa to other towns and cities like Galle and Colombo. Tuk-tuks are readily available for shorter distances within Hikkaduwa and are easily hailed from the roadside. Train travel is also an option, with the railway line running parallel to the coast, offering scenic views. However, there are no trams or subways/metros in Hikkaduwa.
Airport
The closest international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, which is approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) north of Hikkaduwa. Transportation from the airport to Hikkaduwa includes taxis, pre-booked airport transfers, and buses. A taxi or pre-booked transfer will take around 2.5 to 3 hours, while a bus journey will take longer, around 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic.
Attractions
Tsunami Honganji Vihara
Tsunami Honganji Vihara is a unique temple that was built to commemorate the victims of the 2004 tsunami. The temple features a large Buddha statue and offers a somber yet peaceful place for reflection and remembrance.
Hikkaduwa Beach
Hikkaduwa Beach is a popular destination known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and surfing in the area. The beach also offers a lively nightlife scene with beachfront bars and restaurants.
Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary
The Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary is a protected marine area where visitors can explore colorful coral reefs and diverse marine species. Snorkeling and diving tours are available for those looking to experience the underwater beauty of the sanctuary.
Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya
Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya is a historic Buddhist temple located on a small island off the coast of Hikkaduwa. The temple offers stunning ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to explore and learn about Sri Lankan culture and religion.
Thotagamuwa Temple
Thotagamuwa Temple is a historic Buddhist temple known for its ancient ruins and intricate stone carvings. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, learn about its rich history, and admire the architecture and religious artifacts on display.
Narigama Beach
Narigama Beach is a quieter alternative to the bustling Hikkaduwa Beach, offering a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachside dining at the various cafes and restaurants along the shore.
Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery
The Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery is a conservation center dedicated to protecting sea turtles and their eggs. Visitors can learn about the different species of turtles, witness hatchlings being released into the ocean, and even participate in turtle conservation efforts.
Hikkaduwa Lake
Hikkaduwa Lake is a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, bird watching, and picnicking by the lake. The area is a peaceful retreat from the bustling beach scene of Hikkaduwa.
Hikkaduwa Lake
Hikkaduwa Lake is a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, bird watching, and picnicking by the lake. The area is a peaceful retreat from the bustling beach scene of Hikkaduwa.
Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery
The Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery is a conservation center dedicated to protecting sea turtles and their eggs. Visitors can learn about the different species of turtles, witness hatchlings being released into the ocean, and even participate in turtle conservation efforts.
Hikkaduwa Lake
Hikkaduwa Lake is a serene freshwater lake surrounded by lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, bird watching, and picnicking by the lake. The area is a peaceful retreat from the bustling beach scene of Hikkaduwa.
Narigama Beach
Narigama Beach is a quieter alternative to the bustling Hikkaduwa Beach, offering a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachside dining at the various cafes and restaurants along the shore.
Thotagamuwa Temple
Thotagamuwa Temple is a historic Buddhist temple known for its ancient ruins and intricate stone carvings. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, learn about its rich history, and admire the architecture and religious artifacts on display.
Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya
Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya is a historic Buddhist temple located on a small island off the coast of Hikkaduwa. The temple offers stunning ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to explore and learn about Sri Lankan culture and religion.
Day Trips
Escape to the idyllic shores of Unawatuna Beach, known for its golden sands, turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere. This crescent-shaped bay offers excellent swimming and snorkeling opportunities. Relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many beachfront restaurants. Unawatuna is a great choice for a relaxing day trip focused on sun, sea, and sand.
Approximately 45 minutes - 1 hour by car or bus from Hikkaduwa Delve into the fascinating world of Sri Lankan masks at the Ambalangoda Mask Museum. Ambalangoda is a town famous for its traditional mask carving and dancing. The museum showcases a wide variety of masks used in traditional dances and rituals, each with its own unique story and significance. You can also witness mask carvers at work and purchase authentic masks as souvenirs. This is a culturally enriching day trip for those interested in Sri Lankan art and traditions.
Approximately 30-45 minutes by car or bus from Hikkaduwa Step back in time at Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic fort, built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch, is a captivating blend of European architecture and South Asian traditions. Wander through its narrow streets, lined with charming boutiques, cafes, and colonial-era buildings. Don't miss the iconic Galle Lighthouse and the stunning views of the Indian Ocean from the fort's ramparts. It's a perfect day trip for history buffs and those seeking a picturesque escape.
Approximately 1-1.5 hours by car or bus from Hikkaduwa Bentota is a coastal town renowned for its beautiful beach, calm lagoon, and water sports activities. Enjoy a relaxing day swimming in the sea, or try your hand at windsurfing, waterskiing, or jet skiing. Take a boat trip on the Bentota River, explore the mangroves, and spot local wildlife. Bentota offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, making it a great day trip option.
Approximately 1-1.5 hours by car or train from Hikkaduwa Visit the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project and learn about the efforts to protect these endangered creatures. This project rescues and rehabilitates injured turtles, and also releases baby turtles into the ocean. You can witness the baby turtles being released (seasonal) and learn about the different species of turtles found in Sri Lanka. It's an educational and heartwarming experience for animal lovers.
Approximately 30-45 minutes by car or bus from Hikkaduwa Unawatuna Beach
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Ambalangoda Mask Museum
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Galle Fort
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Bentota Beach
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Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project
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