We Make your travel easier and more comfortable with our shore excursion, you are Traveling by private vehicle, and visit top sights such as Meetiyagoda Moonstone mine, Ambalangoda Mask museum, Madu River, Bentota beach, and back to the passenger terminal.
just 7 km inland from the coast, is the heart of Sri Lanka’s moonstone mining industry, where you can see this age-old process up close. The moonstone mines there have been in operation for centuries, with the practice dating back to the 18th century.
The mining process is unique, as it takes place in small, hand-dug tunnels, often just a few meters long. Miners work in muddy, humid conditions, digging into the earth to unearth the precious stones. These mines are not the elaborate, large-scale operations you might imagine; they are more like little rabbit holes in the ground, where miners sift through dirt and gravel by hand. The process can be grueling, but it’s an age-old tradition that hasn’t changed much over time.
Once the moonstones are extracted, the stones are carefully washed and filtered to separate the moonstones from other materials. These stones, which have a captivating iridescent glow, are then polished to reveal their beautiful sheen before being sold in local markets or exported worldwide.
Leatherback turtles are unique because, unlike most other sea turtles, they can withstand cooler waters due to their ability to regulate their body temperature. As you mentioned, they are found in a wide range of oceanic environments. These turtles make impressive migrations, traveling vast distances between nesting sites and feeding grounds, often crossing oceans.
In Sri Lanka, efforts to protect these nesting sites, such as the work done at turtle sanctuaries, are vital in helping conserve the species and ensuring that they continue to use these crucial habitats for reproduction.
Hikkaduwa is indeed a popular beach destination in Sri Lanka, well-known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse attractions. Its long sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sun, while the surf spots cater to surfers of all levels. The nearby coral reefs are a haven for snorkelers and divers, offering an incredible view of the marine life.
Beyond the beach, Hikkaduwa has cultural and historical sites like the island temple, which adds a spiritual touch to the experience. The tsunami museum is an important reminder of the 2004 tsunami that impacted the area, providing insight into the local resilience and recovery. The turtle sanctuary offers a chance to learn about and even interact with conservation efforts, especially in protecting endangered sea turtles.
The town is also famous for its lively restaurants, bars, and beachside accommodations, making it a fantastic blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture. Whether you're into watersports, exploring, or just soaking in the coastal vibes, Hikkaduwa has something to offer.
The art of Sri Lankan Masks was existing from time immemorial. Mask carving is a local tradition in the southern coastal region in Sri Lanka. Ambalangoda is well known for traditional masks carvings and masks dancing.
incredible experience! Madu Ganga in Balapitiya is such a peaceful and scenic spot in Sri Lanka, with its lush mangroves and diverse wildlife. The boat ride must feel so immersive as you explore the 64 islands. The traditional cinnamon manufacturing process sounds fascinating too – such a unique part of the local culture.
It must be amazing to see the fishermen in their catamarans, gliding across the water, while the natural beauty surrounds you.
The Sri Lankan southwest coastline is blessed with an abundance of coconut trees. It is also famous for coconut toddy which is a mildly alcoholic drink made from the sap of the coconut flower. This is a refreshing drink that is popular among the people of Sri Lanka. Each morning the ‘toddy tappers’ climb up the tall coconut trees and collect the sap from the flower of each tree. These climbers have developed a very unique way of getting from tree to tree where they have tied ropes to link each tree and therefore eliminated the need to keep climbing up each tree. Instead, they perform a form of areal acrobatic maneuver much like walking an areal tightrope as they walk from one tree to another with the aid of the areal rope network. The sap itself has a very unique taste and is traditionally served in a coconut shell either at the foot of the tree or at a local toddy tavern. The drink is best enjoyed with freshly boiled and prepared tapioca yams as an accompaniment. You will have the opportunity to meet a toddy tapper learn more about the art and enjoy some fresh toddy thereafter.
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