Tangalle - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Tangalle

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tangalle, 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 Tangalle 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 Tangalle, 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 Tangalle for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tangalle

Tangalle is a coastal town situated in the southern province of Sri Lanka. It is known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and scenic natural vistas. The town is also home to several ancient temples and historical sites that offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage. Tangalle is famous for its seafood, and visitors can enjoy fresh catches of fish and other seafood dishes in the town's local restaurants. The area is also a popular destination for water sports and outdoor activities such as surfing, swimming, and snorkeling. Overall, Tangalle is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a serene and picturesque vacation spot in Sri Lanka.

What to visit in Tangalle

Sure, below are some popular tourist attractions in Tangalle, Sri Lanka along with some brief information about each.
1. Mulkirigala Rock Temple - This ancient rock temple consists of seven cave temples and is situated on a rocky mountain over 200 meters high. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Goyambokka Beach - A beautiful sandy beach with crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming or sunbathing.
3. Turtle Watch Rekawa - This conservation project aims to protect and monitor endangered sea turtles that come ashore to lay their eggs on the beach at Rekawa.
4. Hummanaya Blowhole - Located in the nearby town of Kudawella, this natural wonder features a narrow opening in the rocks that shoots water up to 25 meters high.
5. Tangalle Lagoon - This serene lagoon is surrounded by mangrove forests and offers opportunities for bird watching and boat rides.
6. Dikwella Market - This bustling market offers a taste of local culture and is a great spot to browse and buy fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts.
7. Mulgirigala Raja Maha Vihara - Another ancient Buddhist temple located on top of a 200-meter high rock mountain, this site features impressive art, architecture, and murals.
8. Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary - A birdwatcher's paradise, Kalametiya is home to a diverse range of avian species, including marsh and migrant birds that frequent the area.
These are just a few of the many fascinating attractions Tangalle has to offer.
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.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Tangalle.

When to go on holiday to Tangalle

The best time to visit Tangalle in Sri Lanka is usually between December and March, as it is the dry season and the weather is sunny and warm. However, if you want to avoid crowds and snag lower prices, you may also consider visiting during the shoulder seasons - October to November or April to June - as they are also great times to visit. Just keep in mind that there may still be occasional rain showers during these months. It is not recommended to travel to Tangalle during the monsoon season, which runs from May to September and brings heavy rains and rough seas.

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

How to get to Tangalle

There are several ways to get to Tangalle in Sri Lanka: 1. By car: You can hire a car or take a taxi from Colombo (the capital city), which is approximately a 5-6 hour journey. 2. By bus: You can take a bus from Colombo to Tangalle, which takes approximately 6-7 hours.
3. By train: You can take a train from Colombo to Matara and then take a bus or taxi from Matara to Tangalle. The train journey takes around 3-4 hours and the bus/taxi journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
4. By air: Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, which is located in Hambantota (45 minutes away from Tangalle), is the nearest airport to Tangalle. You can take a domestic flight from Colombo to Mattala and then take a taxi or bus to Tangalle.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tangalle, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tangalle

Here are some typical foods of Tangalle, Sri Lanka with a short description: 1. Kottu Roti - A popular street food made with chopped up roti, mixed with vegetables, eggs, and/or meat, and spices.
2. Fish Curry - A staple of Sri Lankan cuisine, this dish typically consists of chunks of fish cooked in a spiced gravy made with coconut milk.
3. Pol Roti - A flatbread made with coconut, flour, and water, typically served for breakfast with curry.
4. Parippu (Dhal Curry) - A lentil dish flavored with spices, typically served with rice and other curries.
5. Wambatu Moju - A pickle made with eggplants, vinegar, sugar, and spices, usually served as a condiment or side dish.
6. Hoppers (Appa) - A type of pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, typically served for breakfast with coconut sambol or curry.
7. Ambulthiyal - A sour fish curry made with tuna, spices, vinegar, and goraka (a souring agent).
8. Gotu Kola Sambol - A salad made with gotu kola, a leafy green herb, mixed with shredded coconut, onions, and spices.
9. Kiri Bath - A type of rice dish cooked with coconut milk, usually served for special occasions such as weddings or festivals.
10. Pittu - A cylindrical-shaped steamed cake made of ground rice flour and grated coconut, often served with curry or coconut milk.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Tangalle an expensive destination for tourists?

Tangalle, Sri Lanka can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists. Accommodation prices can range from budget-friendly to luxurious, depending on the type of accommodation you prefer. Dining options also vary, with local street food being more affordable than dining in upscale restaurants. Transportation costs can also add up depending on the mode of travel you choose. However, overall, Tangalle is still an affordable destination compared to other popular tourist destinations.

Where to find accomodation in Tangalle

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Tangalle, Sri Lanka are: 1. Tangalle Beach - This area offers several beachfront hotels and resorts with stunning views and easy access to the beach.
2. Goyambokka Beach - This area is known for its clean and secluded beaches that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. It offers a few eco-friendly and boutique hotels with serene surroundings.
3. Medilla Beach - This area is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. It offers a small number of hotels and guesthouses with stunning ocean views.
4. Rekawa Beach - This area is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts as it is home to a turtle conservation project. Accommodation here is limited, but visitors can opt for homestays and small guesthouses.
Overall, the best area to stay in Tangalle depends on your preferences and travel plans. However, these four areas are some of the most popular and offer a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.
You can check hotel prices at Tangalle here:
Booking.com

Is Tangalle a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Tangalle is considered a safe place for tourists in Sri Lanka. However, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling to unfamiliar places. As with any destination, it is always a good idea to do your research beforehand, follow safety tips provided by your accommodation or tour operator, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
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 Tangalle.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tangalle the most?

Tangalle in Sri Lanka is a great destination for everyone, however, it is more suitable for couples and families looking for a quieter and more relaxed environment. The town has beautiful beaches, such as Hiriketiya Beach and Goyambokka Beach, which are perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. Families can also go on nature walks or explore nearby wildlife sanctuaries. For couples, Tangalle offers plenty of romantic activities, such as watching the sunset on the beach, enjoying a candlelit dinner, or taking a boat ride along the coast. While there are a few bars and nightlife options available, they are not as extensive as in other parts of Sri Lanka, so young people looking for a wild nightlife may not find Tangalle to be the best option. Overall, Tangalle is a beautiful and peaceful destination that can offer travelers a relaxing and enjoyable vacation experience.

How to get around Tangalle

There are several transportation options to move around Tangalle, Sri Lanka. The most common and convenient ones are local buses, tuk-tuks, rental motorbikes or scooters, and private cars or vans. Local buses are the cheapest option and can take you to the nearby areas, but they can be crowded and may not follow a strict schedule. Tuk-tuks are also affordable and readily available, making them a popular choice for short distances. Rental motorbikes or scooters can be a fun and flexible way to explore the area, but you will need an International Driving Permit and be cautious as the roads can be challenging. Private cars or vans can be more comfortable and provide a more personalized experience, but they are usually the most expensive option.

What to see around Tangalle

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Tangalle: 1. Yala National Park: This is the most popular day trip from Tangalle. Yala is the best place in the country to see wild elephants, leopards, and other animals.
2. Udawalawe National Park: Udawalawe National Park is another great wildlife safari destination which is within driving distance from Tangalle.
3. Mirissa: Mirissa is a coastal town just a short drive away from Tangalle, which is famous for its beautiful beach and the opportunity to spot whales and dolphins.
4. Galle: Galle is a historic city which is only an hour drive from Tangalle. It has a UNESCO World Heritage Site- the Dutch Fort and a rich history and colonial architecture.
5. Weligama: Weligama is another beautiful beach town where you can enjoy surfing, sunbathing, and seafood.
6. Bundala National Park: Located near the Hambantota district of Sri Lanka. Bundala National park is a beautiful national park which is best known as a fine bird watching paradise.
7. Kataragama: Kataragama is a culturally and religiously important place in Sri Lanka. The Kataragama Temple is known for its colorful ceremonies and pageantry.
Hope this helps!
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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