Hikkaduwa - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Hikkaduwa

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

General info for a trip to Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is a coastal town located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. It is known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, and surfing. The town is also home to several temples, historical sites, and markets, offering visitors plenty of things to see and do. Additionally, Hikkaduwa enjoys a warm climate throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C.

What to visit in Hikkaduwa

Sure, I'd be happy to help with that! Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka, along with some information about each: 1. Hikkaduwa Beach - This is one of the most popular beaches in Sri Lanka with its soft sand and clear waters, making it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is also known for its vibrant coral reefs which are home to colorful marine life, making it a top spot for snorkeling and diving.
2. Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary - Located just offshore from Hikkaduwa Beach, this is a protected marine area that contains an array of corals, fish, and other sea creatures. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling or diving here, and may see everything from sea turtles to rays and reef sharks.
3. Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya - This ancient Buddhist temple is located near Hikkaduwa and sits atop a rocky promontory overlooking the sea. The temple is said to date back to the 2nd century BC and has a number of interesting architectural features.
4. Hikkaduwa Turtle Hatchery - This hatchery serves as a sanctuary for endangered sea turtles, and visitors can learn about their conservation efforts and even help release baby turtles into the ocean.
5. Tsunami Honganji Vihara - This temple is a poignant reminder of the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami that caused so much loss and destruction in the area. The temple serves as a memorial to the hundreds of people who lost their lives in the tragedy.
6. Moonstone Mines - Hikkaduwa is home to some of the world's most famous moonstone mines, producing high-quality stones that are prized for their unique, iridescent blue sheen. Visitors can tour the mines and see how the stones are extracted and processed.
Overall, Hikkaduwa is a fascinating destination with a rich history and plenty of natural beauty to explore. Whether you're interested in marine life, ancient temples, or just lounging on the beach, you're sure to find something to enjoy here.
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 Hikkaduwa.

When to go on holiday to Hikkaduwa

The best time to visit Hikkaduwa in Sri Lanka is from December to April, which is the dry season. During this time, you can expect plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, making it ideal to enjoy the beaches and water activities. The monsoon season begins in May and runs through November, bringing heavy rains and rough seas, which may not be ideal for outdoor activities. However, it's worth noting that Hikkaduwa is a popular tourist destination year-round due to its great weather and attractions, and some travelers prefer the off-season because of less crowds and lower prices.

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

How to get to Hikkaduwa

There are a few ways to get to Hikkaduwa from other parts of Sri Lanka: 1. By car or taxi: This is the most convenient way to get to Hikkaduwa, especially if you are traveling with a lot of luggage or with a group. You can book a private car or taxi in advance or hire one at the airport.
2. By train: The train ride from Colombo to Hikkaduwa takes about 2-3 hours and costs around 200-500 LKR depending on the class of the ticket. The train runs along the scenic coastline and is a beautiful journey.
3. By bus: There are frequent buses from Colombo to Hikkaduwa that leave from the Colombo bus station. The journey takes around 3 hours and costs around 150-300 LKR depending on the type of bus.
No matter what mode of transportation you choose, make sure to keep your valuables safe and stay alert for any potential scams or thefts.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Hikkaduwa, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Hikkaduwa

Hikkaduwa is a coastal town in Sri Lanka known for its vibrant beach culture and delicious seafood cuisine. Here are some of the typical foods you should definitely try when you visit: 1. Rice and curry - This is a staple dish in Sri Lanka, consisting of steamed rice served with a variety of curries, such as fish, chicken, or vegetable, and accompanied by pickles and chutneys.
2. Seafood platter - Hikkaduwa is famous for its fresh fish and seafood, which are often grilled or fried and served as a platter with a mix of different types of seafood, including prawns, crabs, and squid.
3. Kottu roti - This is a popular Sri Lankan street food made with stir-fried shredded roti bread, vegetables, spices, and either chicken or beef. It is a delicious and filling dish that is perfect for a quick snack.
4. Hoppers - These are crispy, bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk. They are typically served with a variety of chutneys and curries.
5. String hoppers - Similar to hoppers, these are thin, noodle-like rice flour cakes that are steamed and served as a breakfast dish with coconut sambal and curry.
6. Pol sambol - This is a flavorful condiment made from freshly grated coconut, chili peppers, red onions, and lime juice. It is often served alongside rice and curry or with bread.
7. Watalappan - This is a traditional Sri Lankan dessert made with coconut milk, jaggery, and spices such as cardamom and nutmeg. It has a creamy, custard-like texture and is usually served cold.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Hikkaduwa an expensive destination for tourists?

Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka can be considered a mid-range destination for tourists. The prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, food, and activities you choose. Accommodation ranges from budget to luxury options, with prices starting from around $15 per night for a basic guesthouse to $200+ per night for a luxury resort. Food in Hikkaduwa is generally affordable, with plenty of options for those on a budget, such as local street food and small restaurants. Activities such as snorkeling and surfing can be relatively affordable, but may depend on the season. Overall, Hikkaduwa is not an extremely expensive destination but may surpass other destinations in Sri Lanka when it comes to costs.

Where to find accomodation in Hikkaduwa

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Hikkaduwa would be: 1. Hikkaduwa Beach - This is the main beach area and the most popular tourist spot with plenty of hotels, guest houses, and beach resorts.
2. Narigama Beach - The quieter beach area with beautiful coastline and fewer crowds.
3. Thiranagama - This is a residential area located towards Hikkaduwa's north side with several homestays and guesthouses.
4. Dodanduwa - This is a small fishing village located south of Hikkaduwa with a few beach resorts and guest houses. Overall, Hikkaduwa Beach and Narigama Beach would be the best areas to find accommodation for a convenient and enjoyable stay.
You can check hotel prices at Hikkaduwa here:
Booking.com

Is Hikkaduwa a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Hikkaduwa is generally considered as a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is always important to take precautions to ensure your safety and security. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night, keep your valuables safe, and be aware of your surroundings. It is also a good idea to research the area and follow any safety guidelines provided by your accommodations or local authorities. Overall, Hikkaduwa is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world who enjoy its beautiful beaches, delicious food, and vibrant culture.
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 Hikkaduwa.

What type of travelers will enjoy Hikkaduwa the most?

Hikkaduwa is a popular beach town located in the southern coast of Sri Lanka that caters to a variety of travelers. The town offers a range of activities from snorkeling and diving to whale watching, surfing and exploring cultural landmarks. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the town, beautiful beach walks and the stunning sunsets. Young people looking for fun can enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene, beach parties and water activities. Families will enjoy the family-friendly beaches of Hikkaduwa, calm waters, low tides and the opportunity to explore the amazing sea life while snorkeling or diving. Overall, Hikkaduwa has something for everyone and is a great destination for couples, young people and families alike.

How to get around Hikkaduwa

The most common form of transportation in Hikkaduwa is tuk-tuks, which are small three-wheeled vehicles that can take you to various places around the city. You can easily find them throughout the town and negotiate with the drivers for a fair price. Alternatively, you can also rent a scooter or a bicycle to explore Hikkaduwa at your own pace. Public buses are also available, but they can be quite crowded and not very comfortable.

What to see around Hikkaduwa

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Hikkaduwa: 1. Galle Fort: a historic Dutch fort that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is located just 25 minutes away from Hikkaduwa.
2. Kanneliya Forest Reserve: a beautiful rainforest reserve with stunning waterfalls and wildlife. It is located approximately an hour away from Hikkaduwa.
3. Madu River: a beautiful mangrove-lined river with many small islands, and wide range of wildlife. It is located approximately 30 minutes away from Hikkaduwa.
4. Hiyare forest Reserve: a stunning rainforest reserve with an abundance of flora, fauna, and wildlife. It is located approximately 40 minutes away from Hikkaduwa.
5. Turtle Hatchery: a conservation project dedicated to preserving Sri Lanka's endangered sea turtle population. It is located approximately an hour away from Hikkaduwa.
Hope this helps, let me know if there's anything you need!
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