What to do in Koggala

Activities, attractions and tours

Ritipanna is the Sinhalese term for stilt fishing, which is a traditional method for fishing practiced by most fishermen along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. This art is popularly seen in areas such as Ahangama, Koggala, Welipenna,  Kathaluwa and Thalarambe. A narrow pole is tied to a stick that is anchored on the sea bed. Fisher folk climb onto this stick and settle on the pole for a few hours in an effort to catch some fish.

Fishermen found on stilts are those who do not have access to sophisticated equipment for fishing. These men can make a living simply with the help of two wooden poles to make a stilt. One pole is nailed onto the sea bed and the other is placed like a cross bar and acts as a plank for the fishermen to sit on. Each stilt can accommodate only one fisherman. For catching fish, they create a rod made of Kithul, and a small plastic bag is tied around their waist to hold the fish that they catch. With one hand they hold onto the stilt and with the other they hold the rod that catches fish. The tradition of stilt fishing will always be practiced by those who cannot afford to invest in modern fishing equipment.
Ritipanna is the Sinhalese term for stilt fishing, which is a traditional method for fishing practiced by most fishermen along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. This art is popularly seen in areas such as Ahangama, Koggala, Welipenna,  Kathaluwa and Thalarambe. A narrow pole is tied to a stick that is anchored on the sea bed. Fisher folk climb onto this stick and settle on the pole for a few hours in an effort to catch some fish.

Fishermen found on stilts are those who do not have access to sophisticated equipment for fishing. These men can make a living simply with the help of two wooden poles to make a stilt. One pole is nailed onto the sea bed and the other is placed like a cross bar and acts as a plank for the fishermen to sit on. Each stilt can accommodate only one fisherman. For catching fish, they create a rod made of Kithul, and a small plastic bag is tied around their waist to hold the fish that they catch. With one hand they hold onto the stilt and with the other they hold the rod that catches fish. The tradition of stilt fishing will always be practiced by those who cannot afford to invest in modern fishing equipment.
Thunderstorm rolling in from the Indian Ocean at sunset.

If you don't mind getting wet then sit on the wall of the Fort an take in the breathtaking sight.
Loved our stay in Koggala Beach Hotel, Sri Lanka. The beach was dreamy. #beach
Stilt Fishermen of Sri Lanka

Koggala Attractions

Let Expedia help you experience the best that Koggala has to offer! If you’re looking for fun itinerary ideas, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Activities and Tours

Koggala is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay, and make it a breeze to explore the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Koggala to make sure that you enjoy your experience to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights.

Koggala Attractions

Expedia has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. In addition to scheduling local tours, booking reservations and scoring advance event tickets, Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, all on one consolidated travel itinerary, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Koggala.

Looking for things to do can be time consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Koggala attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season.


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What to do in Koggala


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Beach hopping

Habaraduwa

If you're spending some time in Habaraduwa, Koggala Lake and Eagles' Catalina Golf Course are top sights worth seeing.

Habaraduwa

 

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Frequently asked questions

Is Koggala worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Koggala is visit Jungle Beach. Tick this major attraction off your list, then discover more of the area's coastal beaches and nature.
How do I spend a day in Koggala?
Jungle Beach and Midigama Left Surf Break are two excellent places to start your adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Koggala while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Koggala?
The top tourist attraction in Koggala is Jungle Beach, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Koggala?
Three days will give you time to check out many city highlights, like Midigama Left Surf Break, Koggala Lake and Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya. The average stay in Koggala is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, South Sri Lanka Coast isn't far away.
Is Koggala a walkable city?
It all comes down to what you want to do and see in Koggala. Several top attractions, such as Koggala Lake, are reachable on foot. If you feel like a stroll through one of Koggala's neighbourhoods, Bandaranayake is 5 kilometres away from downtown.
What are some activities to do in Koggala with kids?
Planning what to do in Koggala with kids has never been easier. Whether you're getting away with teenagers or little ones, there are plenty of family-friendly sights to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Koggala for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Koggala, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Martin Wickramsinghe Folk Museum.
Are there free things to do in Koggala?
From enjoying parks to strolling around hip neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Koggala. If you're looking for inspiration, ask for tips from a local tour guide. Midigama Left Surf Break is a top spot for anyone wanting to save on their sightseeing adventures.