Arugambay in the southeast corner of Sri Lanka is a special travel destination with a fantastic beach, amazing surfing scene and its rich cultural heritage. Here I take a look at why Arugambay is more than just a surfers heaven, and talk a little about what Sri Lanka has to offer to the so called visitor which is only the beginning of the story.
Overview of the Geography and Culture
Arugambay is in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, some 320 kilometers (200 miles) east of Colombo. It has become famous mainly because it is home to some of the best and most famous waves in the world. Moreover the area also has diverse ecosystems such as lagoons, coral reefs and tropical forests which make it unique in the landscape and give a variety of tourists activities.
Sinhalese, Tamil and Muslim communities blend to make up the local population which has given this region a cultural mosaic of its own. Diversity is what makes the local cuisine, festivals and daily life, much more, here in Arugambay.
Surfing in Arugambay
The surfing really is the heart of arugambay’s allure because of the surfable peak season between May and September when the monsoon winds are ideal. Arugambay Point is the most famous surf spot with long rides which go up to a kilometer and a half or 500 meters. This is a good surf for beginners and experienced surfers.
Other surfing spots are well known in the country, including Pottuvil Point, Whiskey Point and Elephant Rock, each with its own adventure. The season is known for its signature packed schedules of surfing competitions and festivals, pulling in a world wide community of surfers and spectators to further amplify the area’s lifestyle.
Ecotourism and Wildlife
But for everything outside of surfing, Arugambay is a fantastic ecotourism spot. But it’s the avian population near the nearby Kumana National Park, part of the much larger Yala National Park, which made this place famous with bird watchers keen to spot rare species such as the black-necked stork. Other wildlife that the park provides, including elephants, leopards and crocodiles, makes it possible for visitors to get a taste of Sri Lanka’s wild animals.
Urani and Pottuvil are lagoons around Arugambay which are prime locations for kayaking and stand up paddle boarding amongst nature. Also in these waters can be found rich mangrove ecosystems that can be explored by guided boat tours.
Cultural Attractions
Arugambay’s cultural heritage is as interesting as its natural beauty. Also near the site is the Muhudu Maha Viharaya which features its own ruins that dates back more than 2,000 years and which gives introductions to the history of the area within Sri Lankan history. Another important site is that in Pottuvil, where a royal wedding was held, famed in ancient chronicles, and is situated at the Magul Maha Viharaya.
The region’s crafts, textiles and art are showcased in the local markets of Arugambay and Pottuvil allowing visitors to meet local artisans and learn more about traditional crafts. Arugambay also offers some culinary experiences around its cultural diversity, mixed in is Sinhalese, Tamil and Muslim culinary styles. Obviously a highlight when it comes to seafood, and you’ll find it in abundance in local restaurants offering freshly caught fish, shrimp and other delights.
Sustainable Tourism
Sustainable tourism practices in Arugambay have become a very great topic in recent years. As local businesses and community leaders become more aware of the need to not only preserve but also accommodate tourists while preserving the natural and cultural assets of the region, the realization of this dream has become a higher global priority. Among other things, beach clean ups, coral reef protections and support for local business rather than multinational chains are involved.
Participation in these initiatives is encouraged for tourists, such that the tourist plays a role in the sustainable model which also benefits the community and the environment. By taking this approach, Arugambay is able to be protected for the enjoyment of future generations as also address the issue of economic relief for local population.
Best Places to Visit in Arugambay
Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province coastal gem Arugambay is a magnet for surfers and nature lovers. Famous not only for its world class waves, but also its incredible cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here is a guide to the best of Arugambay’s hidden treasures that provide a slice of the densely packed and the peacefully immaculate Arugambay.
Arugambay Beach
Arugambay Beach is at the heart of the region’s attractions, golden sands, and the famous Arugambay Point, where the renown surf break attracts enthusiasts from across the globe. It is the perfect place to either relax or have adventure. Surfers buzz the beach on any given day, then at night beachside bon fires and hanging out are in full swing.
Arugambay Point
Arugambay Point is the jewel in the crown for surfers. It’s somewhere that you can find you rhythm doing newbies and veterans alike with waves that can serve up rides up to several hundred meters long. Good surfing can be found at the point any day of the year, particularly between the swells’ months of May to September.
Kumana National Park
Just a short drive from Arugambay lies Kumana National Park, often far less crowded than its neighbor, Yala National Park. However, Kumana is a bird watcher’s paradise having numerous species of birds including the pelicans, herons and the very rare black necked stork. Also unique are the park’s mangrove swamps and wetlands, as are the sightings of elephant and leopard.
Pottuvil Lagoon
Pottuvil Lagoon is an ideal place to escape the roar of the ocean, and is perfect for kayaking, or for paddle boarding. Surrounding lush mangroves lead to the lagoon’s calm waters, which can be appreciated during guided tours that will offer you some very interesting insights on the local flora and fauna, and even exotic birds and monkeys.
Muhudu Maha Viharaya
The ancient ruins of Muhudu Maha Viharaya, which have its roots that goes over 2,000 year back, is situated near the Arugambay. Hear more of the area’s Buddhist heritage at this seaside temple, in which old stupas and statues are scattered across sandy grounds.
Whiskey Point
Further north of Arugambay at Whiskey Point there is another good surf break which is also popular as a peak season surf location. The younger travelers and backpackers also know it for its relaxed parties and its sunset barbecues.
Elephant Rock
Elephant Rock is one of Arugambay’s hidden treasures, a secluded spot for those needing to get away from more busy beaches. Beyond being a surf spot, it’s also a great vantage point to enjoy panoramic views on the coastline. With an elephant rock formation, it’s a place for unique photograph backdrops.
Magul Maha Viharaya
The ancient Magul Maha Viharaya, believed to have been site of a royal marriage, dates to the 12th century, and lies just outside Pottuvil. Though the temple ruins are visited less so, it is a sleepy, spiritual visit away from the more tourist trotted paths.
Local Markets and Cuisine
Visiting the local markets in Arugambay is a must do! The sample of traditional Sri Lankan street food (complete with ice cold beer), the handicrafts galore, and chatting away to friendly locals can all be had at these vibrant hubs. Seafood, curries and the famous kottu roti are a fantastic way to try what the markets have to offer.
Conclusion
We currently offer the destination Arugambay which promises to offer adventure, relaxation and total cultural immersion. Whether you are riding the perfect wave, excavating somehow old ruins, Arugambay has something for the every traveler to enjoy; the sunset over a lagoon, for example. Sri Lanka is bursting at the seams with natural beauty and it’s a friendly place to be but none of this would have happened if it wasn’t for the passion, beauty and welcoming atmosphere of this little country and every travel brisk should make a point to go here.
Kalpitiya Sri Lanka
