Balapitiya - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Balapitiya

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

General info for a trip to Balapitiya

Balapitiya is a coastal town located in southern Sri Lanka, approximately 90 kilometers south of Colombo. It is known for its beautiful white sandy beaches and stunning wildlife, including the famous Madu River estuary, a protected wetland area. Balapitiya is also a popular spot for water sports and fishing activities. The town has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several Buddhist temples, including the Kande Vihara temple, which features a large sitting Buddha statue.

What to visit in Balapitiya

Here are some of the tourist attractions in Balapitiya, along with some information about each: 1. Maduganga River Safari - This is a boat ride that takes visitors along the Maduganga River, which is surrounded by mangrove forests. Visitors can see a variety of wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, and water monitors, as well as local fishing villages.
2. Ambalangoda Mask Museum - This museum showcases the art of traditional Sri Lankan mask-making, which has been practiced for centuries. Visitors can see a variety of masks on display and learn about their history and usage in Sri Lankan culture.
3. Brief Garden - This beautiful garden was created by famous Sri Lankan artist Bevis Bawa and features a variety of unique plants and sculptures. Visitors can walk around the garden and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
4. Sea Turtle Hatchery - The hatchery is dedicated to protecting sea turtles and their eggs, which are vulnerable to poaching and habitat destruction. Visitors can learn about the work done by the hatchery and even participate in releasing turtles back into the ocean.
5. Balapitiya Beach - Balapitiya has a beautiful beach with golden sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxing. There are also many restaurants and cafes along the beach where visitors can enjoy delicious Sri Lankan cuisine.
6. Kothduwa Temple - This ancient temple is located on the nearby island of Kothduwa and is said to be over 700 years old. Visitors can see ancient statues and carvings, as well as participate in traditional Buddhist rituals.
7. River Island - This small island is located in the Maduganga River and has a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and lizards. Visitors can take a boat to the island and explore its trails and hidden corners.
I hope that helps! Let me know if you need any more information.
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 Balapitiya

The best time to visit Balapitiya in Sri Lanka is between December and March, which is the dry season in this area. During this time, you can expect sunny and warm days with little to no rain, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities such as exploring the beaches, visiting the turtle hatchery, or taking a boat ride on the Madu River. The temperature during this season ranges from 27-33°C (81-91°F). It is worth noting that the rainy season is from May to September, so it is best to avoid visiting Balapitiya during this time of year.

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

How to get to Balapitiya

Balapitiya is a coastal town located in Sri Lanka, and there are several ways to get there. 1. By Car - The most convenient way to travel to Balapitiya is by hiring a private car or taking a taxi. This will give you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and will usually take around 2-3 hours from Colombo.
2. By Bus - You can take a bus from Colombo to Balapitiya, and the journey can take anywhere from 3-4 hours depending on the traffic. You can catch a bus from the Colombo Central Bus Stand or the Colombo Fort Bus Station.
3. By Train - Another great way to travel to Balapitiya is by train, which offers stunning views of the Sri Lankan countryside. You can take a train from Colombo Fort Station to Balapitiya, which usually takes around 2 hours.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose to get to Balapitiya, it is important to check the schedules in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Balapitiya, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Balapitiya

Here are some typical foods of Balapitiya in Sri Lanka with a short description for each of them: 1. Kottu Roti - This popular street food is made by finely chopping up roti (flatbread) and mixing it with vegetables, egg, and spices. It's then stir-fried on a hot griddle with a pair of metal blades, producing a satisfying crunch sound while cooking.
2. Hoppers (Appa) - These circular, bowl-shaped pancakes are made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk. They come in three different varieties; plain, egg hoppers (with a cracked egg in the center), and sweet hoppers (with a sprinkle of sugar on top).
3. Fish Ambul Thiyal - A traditional Sri Lankan dish made with fish, spices, and goraka (a type of fruit that gives the dish its tangy sour flavor). It's cooked until it becomes dry and has a dark color and is usually served with rice and vegetables.
4. Pol Sambol - A condiment made with freshly grated coconut, red onion, chili, lime juice, and salt. It adds a spicy and sweet flavor to other dishes and is commonly found at breakfast.
5. Lamprais - A Dutch-influenced Sri Lankan dish that consists of rice that's been cooked in stock with spices and wrapped up in a banana leaf along with meat, vegetables, and sambol, which is then baked in an oven.
6. Watalappan - A popular Sri Lankan dessert that's similar to pudding, it's made with coconut milk, cashews, jaggery (palm sugar), and nutmeg. It has a rich, creamy texture and is usually served chilled.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Balapitiya an expensive destination for tourists?

Balapitiya is not considered as an expensive destination for tourists in Sri Lanka. The tourist attractions and accommodations in Balapitiya are reasonably priced compared to other popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. However, the prices can vary depending on the season, type of accommodation, and the activities you are planning to do. It is recommended to plan your trip and make your bookings early to get the best deals and save money during your visit.

Where to find accomodation in Balapitiya

In Balapitiya, the best areas to find accommodation would be along the Balapitiya beach or in the surrounding areas such as Ahungalla, Bentota, and Ambalangoda. These areas are known for their beautiful beaches and offer a wide variety of accommodation choices, from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts. Additionally, these areas are in close proximity to popular attractions in Balapitiya, such as the Madu River boat safari and sea turtle conservation projects.
You can check hotel prices at Balapitiya here:
Booking.com

Is Balapitiya a safe destination for tourists?

Balapitiya is generally a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination that receives visitors, it is important to take some precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips: 1. Don't leave your valuables unattended or visible in a parked car or on a beach.
2. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in isolated areas, especially at night.
3. Follow local regulations and customs, and respect the culture and traditions of the local people.
4. Use common sense and trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, avoid it.
5. Keep important documents such as passports and IDs in a safe and secure location. 6. It's also a good idea to keep emergency contact information handy in case of any unexpected situations.
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 Balapitiya.

What type of travelers will enjoy Balapitiya the most?

Balapitiya is a great destination for different types of travelers. It is an ideal destination for couples looking for a relaxing and romantic getaway, families looking for a beach vacation, and young people looking for adventure and fun.
For couples, they can enjoy the scenic beauty of the area and take romantic walks on the beach. They can also hire a private boat for a romantic ride on Madu River.
Families can spend quality time enjoying the beach and water activities like snorkeling, surfing, and swimming. You can also visit the turtle hatchery and Madu River safari tour.
Young people can take part in water sports activities, go on a thrilling journey through the mangroves, and explore the town's nightlife.
Balapitiya is a versatile destination that offers a range of activities for different types of travelers, so it is sure to appeal to anyone looking for a tropical and adventurous vacation.

How to get around Balapitiya

In Balapitiya, the most common mode of transportation is either a tuk-tuk or a rented motorbike. You can also hire a taxi or a car with a driver if you are not comfortable driving yourself. Bicycles are also available for rent but may not be suitable for longer distances. Finally, buses and trains are also an option for traveling to different parts of Sri Lanka from Balapitiya.

What to see around Balapitiya

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Balapitiya, Sri Lanka: 1. Galle Fort - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beautiful coastal city with Dutch colonial architecture and lovely beaches.
2. Hikkaduwa - known for its coral reefs, sea turtles, and surfing. 3. Unawatuna - a beautiful beach with crystal clear water, safe swimming areas and water sports.
4. Bentota - a beach resort town with a stretch of golden sandy beach and clear warm waters.
5. Mirissa - a beautiful and less crowded beach destination famous for whale watching. 6. Koggala - a relaxing beach town with a fine beach, tranquil lagoon, and small islands.
7. Weligama - popular for surfing, and surfing schools are available here.
I hope this list helps you plan your day trips!
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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