Traditional stilt fishing in Koggala

Koggala – A stunningly beautiful city in the southern province

Koggala – A stunningly beautiful city in the southern province

✈️ Why should you visit Sigiriya?

Koggala is a serene coastal town in Sri Lanka, renowned for its golden beaches, the picturesque Koggala Lake with its small islands, and the unique cultural heritage of stilt fishermen.
  • Unique Coastal Geography: Koggala is a small coastal town with one of the longest beaches in the country. It is uniquely situated between a large reef on one side and the vast Koggala Lake on the other.
  • Birthplace of a Literary Giant: It is the hometown of Martin Wickramasinghe, one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated writers. His former residence has been converted into the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Art Museum, which provides an insight into his life and showcases Sri Lankan folk art.
  • Eco-Tourism Hub: The Koggala Lake, dotted with several ecologically rich islets, is a hub for eco-tourism. Visitors can take boat safaris to explore the rich biodiversity, including birdlife and mangrove swamps.
  • Historical Temple with European Murals: The nearby Kathaluwa Purvarama Viharaya temple is unique for its murals. It features European figures, including Queen Victoria, among its Kandyan-style frescoes, an interesting piece of social history from the 19th century.
  • Stilt Fishermen: The area is famous for its iconic stilt fishermen. They are a distinctive sight as they perch on a single pole in the water, casting their lines to catch fish.

Entity

Government

Entrance

Free

Wheelchair Access

Yes

Water

Available

Restaurants

Available

Toilets

Available

District: Galle

Reach

Any vehicle

Road Quality

Good

Public Transport

Available

Guidelines

Swim Safely at Beaches : Only swim in designated areas. Be aware of strong currents, tides, and the presence of jellyfish or other hazards Follow Boat Safety Guidelines : If taking a boat ride in the lagoon or to nearby islands, always wear a life jacket and follow the instructions of the boat operator.