Weligama, Sri Lanka: A covered gem for adventurers and nature lovers
Weligama is a small resort town in the southern part of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean Bay. It is located 144 km from the international airport of Colombo. The name of the village translates as “sand village” from the Sinhalese language.
Weligama on the map
Because of the great tsunami in 2004, Weligama was damaged and many buildings were destroyed, but now there is no reminder of the catastrophe.
Now the village is a mecca for surfers, both professionals and beginners. Here, few people just sunbathe on the beach, most surfing on the waves, thanks to a favorable location, they are stable and constant. On the coast there are many surf camps and schools, where you can both rent equipment and take a few lessons in the art of maneuvering on the board.
The infrastructure is not for fastidious tourists. There are very few stores and souvenir shops, but there are a few cafes and small hotels. Surfers also rent rooms in hostels, which is more economical.
A distinctive activity in the area is fishing with long sticks on which fishermen sit. This is literally a symbol of Sri Lanka. But be prepared to pay money to the locals if you decide to take pictures of this unusual feature.
Weligama Beach
The beach in Weligama is sandy, 3 km long. The shoreline is wide and there are very few people here. The infrastructure is designed mainly for surfers, and there are few people sunbathing on land, a real solitude under the tropical palm trees. But for swimming the sand is not very suitable, because it is slippery and clay. So travelers prefer to lie on the sand and enjoy the ocean in nearby Mirissa.
Weather in Veligham now
The best time to visit Weligama
The best time to visit Weligama is from December to March, when the weather is most favorable. The summer months can be quite hot, and the monsoon season usually brings heavy rains and occasional floods.
The best sights and attractions in Weligama
- Explore the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a hotbed of biodiversity and home to many endemic species of flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
- Visit Tea Plantations - Known for its Ceylon tea, Sri Lanka boasts some of the most stunning tea plantations in the world. Tour the plantations and learn about the tea making process while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
- Try the local cuisine - Sri Lankan cuisine is an explosion of flavors and spices, and Weligama is no exception. Try some of the local delicacies, from spicy curries to sweet desserts like coconut pancakes.
- Hike to Waterfalls - Weligama is surrounded by a huge number of waterfalls, including Kithulgala Falls and Duvili Ella Falls. Hiking to these cascading waterfalls is a popular activity among tourists.
- Visit historical sites - Sri Lanka has a rich cultural history and Weligama is no exception. Visit ancient temples and ruins, including the Kahalla Pallekele Temple and Ruvanvella Temple.
Where to stay in Weligama
From luxury resorts to inexpensive guesthouses, there are a variety of accommodations for every budget in Weligama. For a truly unique experience, stay with a traditional Sri Lankan family where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine.
In conclusion, Weligama is a hidden gem that offers many experiences for adventure-seeking travelers. From hiking to waterfalls to exploring ancient ruins, this charming village is a must-see for those seeking an authentic Sri Lankan experience.
