Sitting in the south of Sri Lanka on its southern coast Tangalle is a sanctuary of tranquility off the main tourist paths. Tangalle is famous for its untouched beaches, greenery and having a rich cultural heritage that travellers from all over the world would like to explore and its serenity. This guide is a comprehensive guide to what makes Tangalle a place you’ve got to see, from its natural surroundings to its lugar cuisine, and beyond.
Allure of the Beaches in Tangalle
There are a handful of beaches around Tangalle’s shoreline, each with a different experience. The most popular of Medaketiya Beach is perhaps the long stretch of golden sand and crystal rains water not fit for but popularly for swimming and sunbathing. Rekawa Beach has a peaceful vibe and is a good place to find a secluded spot, featuring the well known turtle watching activities at this beach, mostly during the nesting season.
Wildlife and Natural Reserves
In addition to its beaches, Tangalle borders biodiversity rich environments which are key habitats for many wildlife. Just a few kilometers from the town, the Rekawa Turtle Sanctuary seriously contributes to sea turtles conservation. There are also night time guided tours that will allow visitors to see these majestic creatures lay their eggs—a magical sight.
Not far from it is the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, a birdwatchers’ paradise. It is a home to a fine variety of bird species, including endemic and migratory. In addition, the lagoon and its surrounds constitute a great kayak/canoeing and birdwatching site (the wetlands) where you can have up close views of the avian inhabitants of the Coast.
Historical and Cultural
Sri Lanka’s historical tapestry plays a special role with Tangalle, home to o the ancient Mulkirigala Rock Temple. Less crowded than the more famous Sigiriya, however, is its smaller cousin: this temple sits atop a massive rock. With lush forest paths to climb through, ancient Buddhist murals and sculpture to discover and magnificent views of the countryside, visitors can also bag the mountain.
Reflecting the many influences that have fashioned Sri Lanka, the town itself is a little bit colonial architecture and a little bit local architecture. The old Dutch Fort, now turned into a prison, and Tangalle Lighthouse are also attractions walking through the streets of Tangalle.
Culinary Delights
Tangalle is proud of it’s unique Sri Lankan cuisine, full of rich spices and wonderful flavor. The staple is seafood and so you will find many restaurants serving fresh fish, prawns and crabs, all cooked in coconut and local spices. Visitors to a truly local experience should try ambul thiyal (sour fish curry) and pol sambol (coconut relish) served on a side of red rice.
Eco-friendly Tourism
Recently, eco friendly tourism has been booming in Tangalle. These days, many of the lay accommodations in the area work to be more sustainable, using renewable energy sources, organic locally sourced food and more. In addition to improving the visitor experience, these efforts lead to conservation of natural resources in that region.
Adventures and Activities
Tangalle is full of adventurous activity. Hummanaya Beach is a good place for surfing which is best for novices and skilful surfers, alike. For diving enthusiasts there are lots of sites around Tangalle full of coral reefs and marine life. Moreover, it can be a fine base from which to make excursions to watch whales as they migrate.
Top Places to Visit
A serene coastal town in the southern part of Sri Lanka, Tangalle has several picturesque spots, and some unique attractions. Tangalle is famous for its scenic beaches, thick wildlife and a number of historical sites which are interesting to visit. Below is the guide to Tangalle’s best places to visit you should have in mind in order to make a worthy travel experience.
1. Medaketiya Beach
Medaketiya Beach is One of Tangalle’s most beautiful beaches On the expansive golden sands and crystal clear waters, which makes the perfect place to swim and sunbathe. When compared to other tourist spots in Sri Lanka, the beach is less crowded and is a peaceful get away for its visitors.
2. The Rekawa Beach and Turtle Sanctuary
However, not only is Rekawa Beach gorgeous, it’s also known for the Turtle Watch program that protects endangered sea turtles! Visitors can come at night to see turtles crawling on the beach while laying eggs in a beautiful and natural phenomenon of which conservation experts have mastered the guide for visitors.
3. Mulkirigala Rock Temple
Over 2.000 years old, this ancient Japanese Buddhist temple is situated on the top of a rock that is 205 meters high. Visitors climb its several steps to several cave temples with beautiful murals and Buddha statues. It has breathtaking views of the countryside and of the Indian Ocean.
4. Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary
Bird fans flock to Kalametiya which offers a host of habitats and numbers of endemic and migratory birds. Boat rides are available in the sanctuary’s boat rides to explore the lush mangroves and wetlands and for excellent bird-watching.
5. Hummanaya Blowhole
Hummanaya is Sri Lanka’s only known blowhole and the second largest in the world, to be found a short drive from Tangalle. During the monsoon season there are spectacular sighting of the sea water jets out through a natural hole in the rocks creating a dramatic display and visitors can watch it from atop.
6. Goyambokka Beach
Tangalle another gem is the Goyambokka Beach with soft white sand and turquoise water. It’s a separate beach and it’s hidden a little bit and it’s good for people who don’t want to be among crowds and want some relaxation.
7. Tangalle Lighthouse
The Tangalle Lighthouse is located on the southernmost tip of Sri Lanka perched up on a rocky outcrop of which gives a panoramic view of the expanse of ocean. Moreover, it is also a good place for enjoying picnic and sunset views.
8. Wewurukannala Vihara
One of the largest seating Buddha statues in Sri Lanka is included in this temple. A museum with models of scenes from Buddha’s life, which functions to explain Buddhist culture and history, is part of the temple complex.
9. Tangalle Market
The Tangalle Market is a must visit for a little taste of life local. A bustling marketplace with a host of fresh produce, spices and sea food. There’s a good atmosphere for interacting with locals and trying some of the tastes of the traditional Sri Lankan street food.
10. Along the water there is also the Parewella Natural Swimming Area.
This is a natural tidal pool which sits near the center of Tangalle and is safe, and actually quite a unique place to swim. Large boulders shelter the pool from the ocean’s waves making it a perfect place for families with children.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s Tangalle is somewhere for everyone. Whether its its stunning sandy white beaches or its jungle filled wildlife, its tales from its rich history or the flavour of its unusual cuisine, Tangalle is one of Sri Lanka’s most glorious destinations. Sure to be an unforgettable trip into the heart of nature, culture and serenity, it’s the perfect place to seek out the hidden corners of the island.
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