Koggala - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Koggala

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Koggala, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Koggala and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Koggala, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Koggala for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Koggala

Koggala is a coastal town located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. It is situated approximately 12 kilometers south of the city of Galle and is known for its scenic Koggala Lake and beautiful beaches. The town is also famous for being the birthplace of renowned Sri Lankan writer Martin Wickramasinghe. Koggala has a rich history and was once an important trading post on the ancient Silk Route. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and variety of water sports.

What to visit in Koggala

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Koggala, Sri Lanka: 1. Koggala Lake: This is a large and peaceful lake surrounded by lush vegetation and dotted with tiny islands. Visitors can take a boat tour around the lake to admire the scenery and observe local birdlife.
2. Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Martin Wickramasinghe, a celebrated Sri Lankan author and folklorist. It showcases traditional Sri Lankan culture and is home to a library and art gallery as well.
3. Kataluwa Purwarama Temple: This ancient temple dates back to the 13th century and is known for its intricate stone carvings and elaborate wall paintings. Visitors can tour the temple and learn more about Buddhist culture and history in Sri Lanka.
4. Sea Turtle Hatchery: This conservation center aims to protect endangered sea turtles and their eggs. Visitors can see the turtles up close and even participate in releasing them into the sea.
5. Unawatuna Beach: While not technically in Koggala, this nearby beach is a popular destination for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. It's easily accessible and offers a range of restaurants and activities.
6. Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya Temple: This temple is another ancient Buddhist site, dating back to the 3rd century BC. It's famous for its rock-cut caves and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Overall, Koggala offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities, making it a great destination for visitors to Sri Lanka.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Koggala

The best time to go on holiday to Koggala in Sri Lanka is between December and March when the weather is dry and sunny. The average temperature during this time ranges from 28-32°C (82-89°F), making it an ideal time to explore the beaches, enjoy water sports and take part in other outdoor activities. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so it may be more crowded and expensive. If you prefer less crowds, the shoulder season from April to September can also be a good time to visit. During this time, the weather is still good, with occasional rain showers, and the prices may be more affordable. However, it is important to note that August and September can be a bit wetter, so if you plan to visit during this time, make sure to bring appropriate rain gear.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Koggala

Koggala is a small town located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. It is approximately 140 kilometers from the capital city Colombo and can be reached by various modes of transportation: 1. By Train: You can take a train from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Galle (the closest station to Koggala) and then take a tuk-tuk or taxi to Koggala. The train ride takes around 3-4 hours and is one of the most scenic routes in Sri Lanka.
2. By Bus: You can take a bus from Colombo to Galle or Matara and then take a tuk-tuk or taxi to Koggala. The bus ride takes around 4-5 hours and is a cheaper option than taking a train.
3. By Taxi: You can arrange a taxi from Colombo or Bandaranaike International Airport directly to Koggala. This is a convenient option if you are traveling with family or have a lot of luggage. The taxi ride takes around 2-3 hours.
4. By Private Car: You can also rent a car or hire a private driver to take you to Koggala. This will give you more flexibility and freedom to explore the surrounding areas.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Koggala. Have a great time!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Koggala, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Koggala

Koggala is a coastal town in Sri Lanka, known for its fresh seafood and traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.Here are some typical foods of Koggala: 1. Fish Ambul Thiyal: This is a signature dish of Sri Lanka and is made with tuna, cut into cubes, and cooked in a mixture of spices, including cinnamon, turmeric, and pandan leaves, which are then cooked in tamarind paste. This dish has a sour and spicy flavor and is usually served with rice.
2. Polos: This is a vegetarian dish made with jackfruit. The jackfruit is cooked with spices until it is soft and tender and is usually served with rice or bread.
3. Wambatu Moju: This dish is made with eggplant, which is cut into thin slices and fried until it is crispy. It is then mixed with a spicy onion mixture and preserved in vinegar, giving it a sweet and sour flavor.
4. Pol Sambol: This is a traditional Sri Lankan coconut relish, made with grated coconut, chili peppers, onions, and lime juice. It is usually served with bread or rice.
5. Kottu Roti: This is a popular street food in Sri Lanka and is made with shredded roti bread, mixed with vegetables, meat, and spices. The dish is prepared on a griddle and served hot.
6. Dhal Curry: This is a lentil-based curry made with spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. It is usually served with rice or bread.
7. Hoppers: These are a traditional Sri Lankan pancake made with rice flour, coconut milk, and yeast. It is usually served with a savory or sweet topping. 8. Parippu: This is a simple Sri Lankan dish made with split red lentils cooked with onion, garlic, and spices. It is a popular comfort food in Sri Lanka and is usually served with rice.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Koggala an expensive destination for tourists?

Koggala in Sri Lanka is considered a mid-range destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation is somewhat higher than other parts of Sri Lanka but still affordable for most travelers. You can find various options for accommodation in Koggala, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious resorts. Local street food is quite cheap, but restaurant dining can be expensive. The cost of transportation depends on the mode of transport and your negotiating skills. Overall, while it may be more expensive than some other destinations in Sri Lanka, Koggala is still a relatively affordable place to visit.

Where to find accomodation in Koggala

Koggala is a small coastal town located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. There are several areas near Koggala where you can find accommodations depending on your preferences.
1. Koggala Beach: This is a popular area for tourists as it offers beautiful beaches with many seaside resorts, villas, and hotels.
2. Habaraduwa: This area is located about 5km north of Koggala and offers some lovely beach resorts, villas, and hotels.
3. Unawatuna: Unawatuna is located about 10km south of Koggala and is known for its great beaches, lively nightlife, and many hotels and resorts.
4. Galle Fort: The historic Galle Fort is located about 15km south of Koggala and is a popular destination for visitors to Sri Lanka. Here, visitors can stay in historic guesthouses, hotels, and villas within a fort-filled with history and culture.
Overall, the choice of accommodation depends on your budget, preferences and activities you plan to do in this region.
You can check hotel prices at Koggala here:
Booking.com

Is Koggala a safe destination for tourists?

Koggala is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Sri Lanka. The local police and tourist authorities take measures to ensure the safety and security of visitors. However, like any other tourist destination, it is always advisable to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety, such as being aware of your surroundings, avoiding secluded places, not carrying large sums of money, and not leaving your valuables unattended. In case of an emergency, reach out to the local authorities or your embassy for assistance.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Koggala.

What type of travelers will enjoy Koggala the most?

Koggala in Sri Lanka is an ideal destination for travelers looking to relax on a quiet beach while enjoying the stunning views of the Indian Ocean. It is recommended for couples and families who are looking for a peaceful and calm atmosphere. It is perfect for those who want to engage in activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving. However, it may not be suited for young people looking for nightlife and parties, as Koggala is a more tranquil destination.

How to get around Koggala

The most common ways to move around Koggala, Sri Lanka are by tuk-tuk, taxi, or renting a scooter or bicycle. Tuk-tuks are a popular and inexpensive mode of transportation, while taxis are more comfortable but more expensive. Renting a scooter or bicycle is a good option for exploring the area at your own pace, but keep in mind that traffic in Sri Lanka can be challenging, and make sure to wear a helmet and follow safety guidelines.

What to see around Koggala

Certainly. Here are some nice places to visit for a day trip from Koggala: 1. Galle Fort: A charming coastal town with a Dutch colonial influence, it has a UNESCO-listed fort and well-preserved architecture.
2. Unawatuna: A popular beach town known for its clear waters and vibrant nightlife.
3. Mirissa: Another popular coastal town famous for its whale watching tours and beautiful beach.
4. Weligama: A fishing town famous for its stilt fishermen and surf schools.
5. Udawalawe National Park: A popular safari destination famous for its elephant population.
6. Sinharaja Forest Reserve: A rainforest and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve well-known for birdwatching, hiking, and trekking.
7. Hikkaduwa: A famous beach town known for its coral reefs and sea turtles.
I hope these suggestions help you plan your trip!
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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