"Tangalla, often lauded as 'one of the finest bays in Sri Lanka' by R. L. Brohier in 'Seeing Ceylon' (1965) and described as a 'Beautiful Bay' by Bella Wolf in 'How to See Ceylon' (1914), offers a tranquil retreat along the southern coastline. Nestled amidst stunning coastal scenery, Tangalla and its surrounding areas boast an array of natural and cultural delights awaiting discovery.
Venturing along the coast, travelers encounter a series of picturesque locales, including Goyambokka Bay Beach, Pallikaduwa Bay Beach, Tangalle Bay, Tangalla Harbour, Medakettiya Beach, and Medila Beach. Inland, the journey continues along scenic routes such as the Matara road, Tangalla Main road, and the Tangalla bridge over River Kirama, leading to notable attractions like the Hambantota road, Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, and Rekawa Sea Turtle Nesting Beach.
Tangalla, a serene coastal haven located 295km (122 miles) from Colombo and roughly midway along the south coast, offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life. While it may not boast the bustling watersports scene or vibrant nightlife of Bentota Bay Beach Resort, Tangalla's appeal lies in its expansive golden sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere. The town center, nestled along a freshwater lagoon where a small river meets the sea, exudes a sense of tranquility and charm.
Steeped in history, Tangalla town features reminders of its Dutch colonial past, including the historic Rest House, constructed in 1774. This well-preserved relic serves as a testament to Tangalla's rich heritage and offers a glimpse into its storied past.
The beaches of Tangalla, stretching from the picturesque villages of Goyambokka and Pallikaduwa to the north to the tranquil shores of Medaketiya and Medilla to the south, epitomize coastal paradise. With their pristine sands and azure waters, these beaches beckon travelers to unwind, relax, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.
In essence, Tangalla and its surrounding areas embody the essence of coastal bliss, offering a harmonious blend of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and laid-back charm, making it an idyllic destination for those seeking a peaceful beach getaway in Sri Lanka."
Tangalle
Highlights
Goyambokka & Pallikaduwa Twin Bay Beaches
Nestled along the western shores of Tangalle town, the twin bays of Goyambokka and Pallikaduwa present a captivating landscape characterized by a series of stunning rocky caves. These picturesque upmarket villages offer a stark contrast to the flatter coastline to the north, exuding an air of exclusivity and tranquility.
Goyambokka village, perched atop the region's most enchanting stretch of coastline, boasts a spectacular rocky promontory flanked by two pristine beaches. The beach to the west of the headland, affectionately known as Silent Beach, is a true masterpiece of nature, its serene shores and azure waters creating a scene of unparalleled beauty.
A selection of guesthouses, strategically positioned on the hillsides overlooking Goyambokka and Pallikaduwa, offer breathtaking sea views and exclusive access to private beaches of golden sand. From these elevated vantage points, guests can bask in the splendor of the coastline and indulge in the ultimate seaside retreat.
In essence, Goyambokka and Pallikaduwa epitomize coastal luxury, offering a blend of rugged charm, secluded beaches, and unparalleled serenity. Whether exploring the rocky caves or lounging on the sandy shores, visitors to these idyllic villages are sure to be enchanted by the natural beauty and tranquility of Sri Lanka's southern coastline.
Tangalla Bay
Located just on the town side of the Tangalla Bay Hotel, the bay offers a tranquil and sheltered spot along the coastline. Adjacent to the Tangalla Bay Hotel, right beside the Rest House, lies a quaint and secluded bay. Here, visitors will find a small roped-off swimming area, characterized by shallow and generally calm waters. This tranquil enclave provides the perfect setting for a leisurely swim or a peaceful afternoon by the sea, away from the hustle and bustle of the town.
Marakolliya
A collection of immaculate cabanas nestled within a serene landscape bordered by the tranquil lagoon.
Medaketiya
Medaketiya stands out as the safest haven for swimming, boasting a plethora of budget-friendly accommodations lining its beach road, adorned with charming guesthouses. Here, amidst the sheltering embrace of overhanging palms, lies an idyllic stretch of beach, inviting relaxation and offering a picturesque view of the bustling harbor, adorned with numerous fishing boats, against the backdrop of the shimmering sea.
From Medilla beach to Rekawa beach
This stretch of palm-fringed beach exudes an irresistible allure. With shelves of rocks and coral formations visible from the shore, the sea here forms secluded pockets ideal for safe swimming. Beyond the Nature Resort lies a natural swimming pool, a serene haven that remains safe for swimming most of the time.
Hoo-maniya blowhole at Kudawela
Located approximately 7 kilometers west of Tangalla lies the quaint fishing village of Kuduwela, home to the mesmerizing Hoo-maniya blowhole. Aptly named for the low, resonant "Hoo" sound that heralds its spectacle, this natural wonder is formed from a deep, narrow cleft in the cliff, measuring around 20 meters in depth and a meter in width. Here, the sheer force of water pressure orchestrates a remarkable display, propelling plumes of water high into the air in magnificent jets. The blowhole's awe-inspiring performance reaches its zenith during the monsoon season, from May to November, offering a captivating sight for visitors to behold.
Kalametiya Bird sanctuary
Situated 20 kilometers beyond Tangalle, the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary emerges as a haven of coastal lagoons and mangroves, teeming with vibrant marine and avian biodiversity akin to the renowned Bundala sanctuary. The optimal time to witness the flourishing wildlife spectacle is from November to March. Accessible from the village of Hungama, the sanctuary beckons nature enthusiasts to explore its untamed beauty and discover its diverse inhabitants. As of now, no structured programs have been implemented, allowing visitors to immerse themselves freely in the sanctuary's natural splendor.
Mawella
Nestled 6 kilometers west of Tangalla, Mawella Beach stands as a well-guarded secret along the coastline. Away from the bustling main road, this hidden gem unveils a pristine stretch of shoreline spanning 3 kilometers, characterized by its remarkable width and inviting expanse. Here, visitors can indulge in safe swimming, far from the crowds, amidst the tranquil waters of the Indian Ocean.
Mulgirigala ( Mulkirigala) rock monastery
Located 16 kilometers north of Tangalla, the awe-inspiring temple-monastery of Mulkirigala stands as a remarkable testament to Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage. This iconic site, often regarded as the sole monument in the southern region to rival the grandeur of the ancient Buddhist sites found in the Cultural Triangle, captivates visitors with its historical significance and architectural splendor.
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