Sri Lanka is a land of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and history. Hence, this island nation has been attracting tourists from all over the world for years. With its pristine beaches, lush green hills, and ancient historical sites, Sri Lanka offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Among the most wonderful tourist hotspots on the island, one of the most popular destinations is the charming town of Weligama. It is located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
Weligama is a town that has a lot to offer. From its picturesque beaches to its historic temples, Weligama is a perfect destination for tourists who wish to relax and explore Sri Lanka’s rich culture and heritage. So, through this article, we are ready to share with you all about this wonderful town’s significance!
History of Weligama
The name Weligama means “sandy village” in Sinhala. You will feel that this name perfectly suits the town as you explore the sandy shores out there.
Weligama has a rich history that dates back centuries. As per historical records, the Veddas, an indigenous group of people who lived off the land, settled in this area initially. Later, various other ethnic groups inhabited this area, including the Sinhalese and the Moors.
During the colonial era, Weligama came under the rule of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Accordingly, this town played an important role in the cinnamon trade. Moreover, the colonial powers established several cinnamon plantations in the area. Besides, the influence of the colonial powers is still visible in the architecture and cultural practices of the town.
In more recent history, Weligama was a focal point in the Sri Lankan civil war. In fact, this town was located in a strategic location. Hence, both the government forces and the LTTE fought for control of the area. The war ended in 2009, and Weligama has since become a peaceful and thriving town.
Natural Beauty of Weligama
As you already know, Weligama is a town that is rich in natural beauty. From pristine beaches to lush greenery, the town is a haven for nature lovers. Besides, this town boasts a beautiful crescent-shaped bay that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. However, the highlight of Weligama is undoubtedly its beach.
The beaches here are relatively untouched by commercialization. Thus, you can relax in peace and quiet, soaking up the sun and enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Besides, there are many beaches that you can visit, in and around Weligama. The following sections will enlighten you about them!
1. Mirissa Beach
This idyllic destination is a must-visit for those looking to bask in the tropical sunshine, soak up the serene atmosphere, and indulge in some of the best seafood the island has to offer. Besides, one of the most charming features of Mirissa Beach is its laid-back vibe. In fact, the warm, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean lap gently against the shore, creating a calming melody that is sure to soothe the soul. So, whether you are in the mood for a peaceful stroll along the beach or prefer to simply relax with a good book and a refreshing cocktail, Mirissa has all that for you!
For the more adventurous types, Mirissa Beach offers a wide array of water sports to enjoy. Surfing, snorkeling, and diving are just a few of the activities on offer here. This beach is also a popular spot for whale watching. So, while in Mirissa, many tourists depart from the shore to see these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.
When it comes to food, Mirissa Beach boasts some of the freshest and most delicious seafood you will ever taste. The local fishermen bring in their catch each morning. Thus, the beachfront restaurants serve up mouthwatering dishes using the day’s freshest catch. From succulent grilled prawns to spicy crab curries, the seafood here is simply out of this world.
Nevertheless, Mirissa Beach is more than just a place to relax and enjoy some delicious food. It is simply a hub for cultural and historical sites, with the Galle Fort and many other attractions surrounding it. So, if you visit Weligama, make sure you visit Mirissa and explore the significant places around as well!
2. Weligama Beach
Weligama Beach is a long stretch of golden sand that is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. In fact, this beach is well-known for its calm waters, making it a great place for families with children to visit. The waves are gentle, but there’s still enough action for surfers to catch a wave or two. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery, giving visitors a sense of tranquility and calmness. So, all these things make Weligama Beach a wonderful place to visit.
Besides, there are plenty of things to do at Weligama Beach. One of the most popular activities is surfing, and there are several surf schools that offer lessons for beginners. So, if you are not into surfing, you can try your hand at snorkeling or diving to explore the colorful underwater world. You can also take a boat ride to see the whales and dolphins that frequent the waters off the coast of Sri Lanka. All these amusements will surely make your Weligama trip a memorable one!
3. Secret Beach
Nestled away in the southern part of Sri Lanka lies a hidden destination- Secret Beach. As the name suggests, this beach is a hidden paradise that is yet to be explored by many travelers. Located in close proximity to Mirissa, and Weligama, Secret Beach is a stunning escape from the hustle and bustle of the more popular tourist spots in Sri Lanka.
Getting to Secret Beach is an adventure in itself. Visitors have to hike through lush greenery and climb down rocky paths to reach this secluded beach. This journey may be a bit challenging, but the reward is well worth it. Even as you make your way to the beach, you will be greeted by the sound of waves crashing against the rocks, birds chirping, and the fresh sea breeze. All these things will take your sweat away, making you eager to arrive at the beach.
One of the main attractions of Secret Beach is its serene and pristine setting. In fact, this beach is surrounded by towering cliffs, making it a perfect spot for those who love to sunbathe or read a book in peace. The clear blue waters are perfect for swimming. Further, snorkeling allows visitors to explore the underwater world.
Apart from relaxing on the beach, visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, including surfing and paddleboarding. Besides, for those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Another highlight of Secret Beach is the fresh seafood. There are several small restaurants and cafes that serve delicious seafood dishes, prepared with locally caught fish and seafood. So, the visitors can enjoy these mouth-watering delicacies while taking in the breathtaking views of the beach.
Other Attractions at Weligama
Apart from the natural beauty, Weligama is home to many more tourist attractions. Here are some of them!
1. Snake Farm
If you are someone who loves adventure, exploring new things and loves reptiles, then this is the perfect place for you. The Snake Farm in Weligama is a place that is dedicated to the breeding and conservation of reptiles, particularly snakes. It is an educational and entertaining experience for visitors who want to learn more about these amazing creatures.
History and Background of the Snake Farm
The Snake Farm in Weligama has been operating for over 25 years, and it was established with the primary goal of conserving and breeding rare species of snakes. It is one of the few places in Sri Lanka where you can see a wide range of venomous and non-venomous snakes in one place.
The Snake Farm houses a variety of snakes, including the king cobra, python, Russell’s viper, and many more. You will also have the chance to witness the process of breeding and caring for baby snakes.
Activities and Exhibits
The Snake Farm offers a variety of activities and exhibits, including live demonstrations of snake handling, venom extraction, and even snake feeding. You can also explore the snake museum, where you can learn about the history and cultural significance of snakes in Sri Lanka.
Through the exhibits and activities at the Snake Farm, visitors learn about the importance of snake conservation and the vital role that snakes play in the ecosystem. It is essential to educate people about the benefits of snakes and their role in maintaining the balance of nature. So, this snake farm is a great place that helps with this cause.
A General Overview
Overall, visiting the Snake Farm in Weligama is a unique and exciting experience that should not be missed when traveling to Weligama. It offers visitors the opportunity to learn about and appreciate these fascinating creatures in a safe and educational environment. So, if you are a wildlife enthusiast or simply someone who wants to try something new, make sure to add the Snake Farm to your travel itinerary.
2. Kushta Raja Gala
When it comes to historical and cultural landmarks, Sri Lanka has a plethora of sites to offer. One of the lesser-known, but equally fascinating destinations is the Kushta Raja Gala, the ancient rock fortress located in the town of Weligama. This unique site is a must-visit for history buffs, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
History and Significance
The Kushta Raja Gala, which translates to “Rock of the Lepers’ King,” is an ancient fortress that dates back to the 3rd century BC. It is believed to have been built by King Kavantissa, the father of King Dutugemunu, who is known for his bravery in battles against South Indian invaders. However, this fortress was later used as a defense mechanism during the reign of King Parakramabahu the Great in the 12th century.
Architecture and Design
The Kushta Raja Gala is a well-preserved archaeological site that showcases the architectural genius of ancient Sri Lankan engineers. This fortress is built on a massive rock that rises 200 feet above sea level. Further, it is shaped like a saddle and is surrounded by natural defenses such as cliffs and thick forests. Besides, this fortress is made up of two main parts: the upper and lower fortresses. The lower fortress contains several water tanks, while the upper fortress has a temple, living quarters, and a granary.
Exploring the Kushta Raja Gala
Exploring the Kushta Raja Gala is an adventure in itself. Visitors can hike to the top of the rock, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, visitors can see the remnants of the ancient defense mechanisms, including ramparts, moats, and watchtowers. The summit of the rock has a small temple. The local residents still visit it for prayers and to make offerings.
Visiting the Kushta Raja Gala
The site is open from 8 am to 5 pm every day. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water as the hike to the top of the rock can be challenging.
3. Handunugoda Tea Estate
Located in the picturesque town of Weligama, the Handunugoda Tea Estate is a must-visit destination for tea lovers and those seeking a unique cultural experience. It is a family-owned tea plantation that has been in operation since the mid-1800s. This estate has been passed down through generations of the same family. And the specialty is that they cultivate tea using traditional methods, from their past. So, the visitors to the estate can learn about the history and heritage of tea production in Sri Lanka and see firsthand the meticulous process that goes into producing some of the world’s finest teas.
Tours and Tasting at the Estate
The tours of the Handunugoda Tea Estate take visitors on a journey through the lush green tea fields where they can witness the tea plucking process and learn about the different types of tea leaves. This tour also includes a visit to the tea factory. Hence, you have the opportunity to observe how they process, dry, and package the tea leaves. The tour concludes with a tasting of some of the finest teas produced on the estate, including the famous ‘Virgin White Tea.’
Handunugoda Tea Estate is the only place in the world where Virgin White Tea is produced. Hence, it is interesting to know how they produce this unique tea type.
As per the information that we received, the young tea leaves, and the hand-picked buds of the tea plants are the ingredients for virgin white tea. At first, they carefully process these leaves, and then, dry, and package them, resulting in a tea that is unlike any other. Virgin White Tea is well-known for its delicate, floral flavor and it is one of the rarest and most expensive teas in the world.
Tea and Gift Shop
The estate also has a tea and gift shop where visitors can purchase the estate’s tea varieties, including Virgin White Tea, along with other tea-related products such as tea cups, teapots, and tea strainers. Besides, this shop also offers a range of souvenirs that celebrate Sri Lanka’s rich tea culture, including tea-themed clothing, books, and art.
Surfing at Weligama
Surfing is a popular water sport in Weligama, attracting surfers from all around the world. If you are a beginner looking for an ideal place to learn how to surf, Weligama is the place for you.
Weligama has some of the best surf spots in the country, with waves suitable for beginners and experienced surfers. The town is famous for its long, slow, rolling waves that are perfect for beginners. The waves are gentle, making it easy to catch them and learn how to surf. So, surfing in Weligama is a fantastic experience that you should not miss.
If you are a beginner looking to learn how to surf, Weligama has a range of surf schools. Here you have experienced and professional instructors. Hence, they have the capabilities to guide you through the basics of surfing, from paddling to standing up on the board. They will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable surfing experience.
You do not need to bring your surf gear to Weligama, as there are plenty of surf shops that rent surfboards, wetsuits, and other equipment. You can rent everything you need for a day or a week, depending on how long you plan to stay in Weligama. The surf shops offer a variety of surfboards, from soft-top beginner boards to more advanced fiberglass boards.
The best time to surf in Weligama is from November to April when the waves are at their best. During this period, the water is warm, and the waves are consistent, making it the perfect time for surfing. However, if you’re a beginner, it is better to surf during the low season, from May to October, when the waves are smaller and more manageable.
Cuisine in Weligama
The culinary scene in Weligama is equally impressive and is a must-try for food enthusiasts. From fresh seafood to traditional Sri Lankan dishes, Weligama has it all.
However, seafood is the highlight of the cuisine in Weligama. With its prime location on the coast, it is no surprise that the town has an abundance of seafood restaurants. The chefs here prepare the dishes with the freshest catch of the day, ensuring that each bite is rich with flavor. Some of the must-try dishes here include crab curry, prawn masala, and grilled fish.
However, from rice and curry to hoppers to sweetmeats, Weligama has a lot to offer. So, a foodie would not regret visiting Weligama at all.
The Bottom Line
After all, if you are looking for a peaceful and serene beach getaway, Weligama Beach is one of the perfect destinations. With its calm waters, golden sands, and lush greenery, this hidden gem of Sri Lanka is sure to provide you with a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation. Whether you are looking to surf, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun, Weligama Beach has something for everyone. Even the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority has paid attention to developing this area. So, why not? Visit Weligama, and delight yourself. Happy and safe traveling!
