Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

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Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

Region: Southern Province

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Geographic Coordinates: 6.147200, 80.110300

Climate: Tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.

Population: 101342

Language: Sinhala

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Hikkaduwa is a charming coastal town situated in the southern region of Sri Lanka, About 17 km northwest of Galle. The town’s major attraction is its stunning beaches and coral reefs, Which draw in thousands of visitors annually. Hikkaduwa beach boasts a long expanse of golden sand where you can indulge in swimming or surfing to your heart’s content. It also has a lively ambiance with numerous bars, Restaurants, And shops. The coral reef located just off the shore is one of Hikkaduwa’s primary attractions.

It houses an incredible assortment of marine life such as colorful fish, Sea turtles, And even sharks that visitors can explore through snorkeling or diving with local operators who offer guided tours. Surfing is another popular activity in Hikkaduwa as the waves are ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers seeking a challenge. There are several surf schools available where tourists can take lessons or rent equipment. Apart from its natural beauty, Hikkaduwa has a rich cultural heritage dating back to ancient times.

One prominent attraction worth visiting is the Seenigama temple located on an island just off the coast that dates back over 1000 years and attracts many pilgrims seeking blessings from its resident deity. For adventure enthusiasts looking for some excitement along the beachfront area, Jet skiing, Kite surfing or banana boat rides are available at various locations. If you’re interested in learning more about Sri Lankan culture and traditions; there are several museums and art galleries showcasing traditional handicrafts such as batik fabrics and wood carvings.

In conclusion, Hikkaduwa offers something for everyone- whether it be relaxing on beautiful beaches or exploring vibrant marine ecosystems- making it one of Sri Lanka’s top tourist destinations that should not be missed!

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1. Hikkaduwa Beach
2. Coral Reef Sanctuary
3. Tsunami Photo Museum
4. Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya Temple
5. Turtle Hatchery Hikkaduwa
6. Hikkaduwa Lake
7. Gangarama Maha Vihara Buddhist Temple
8. Akurala Beach
9. Moonstone Mines and Factory
10. Thotagamuwa Rajamaha Viharaya Buddhist Temple

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1. Tourism: Hikkaduwa is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs. The town has a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, bars, and shops catering to tourists.
2. Fishing: Hikkaduwa has a long history of fishing. The town’s fishermen use traditional methods such as handlines and nets to catch fish.
3. Agriculture: The surrounding area of Hikkaduwa is known for its agricultural products such as rice paddies, coconut plantations, cinnamon plantations, tea estates etc.

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1. The ancient city of Hikkaduwa played a vital role in trade during the 2nd century BC.
2. During colonial times, Hikkaduwa was a prominent center for cinnamon and spice production.
3. Leonard Woolf, a famous British writer, visited Hikkaduwa in 1940 and wrote about his experiences in his book The Village in the Jungle.
4. In 2004, Hikkaduwa suffered significant damage from the Indian Ocean tsunami that claimed over 30,000 lives in Sri Lanka alone.
5. George Keyt, a renowned Sri Lankan artist, drew inspiration from Hikkaduwa’s natural beauty for many of his paintings throughout his life.
6. Nanda Malini, a popular singer, has performed at numerous cultural events held in Hikkaduwa over the years.
7. While located in nearby Colombo, Gangaramaya Vihara Buddhist temple is frequented by residents of Hikkaduwa who pay their respects to Buddha there regularly.
8. Many tourists visit Hikkaduwa to enjoy water sports such as surfing and snorkeling on its beautiful beaches which are considered some of Sri Lanka’s best spots for these activities.
9. In recent years conservationists have taken an interest in protecting marine life around Hikkaduwa including sea turtles that nest on its beaches annually.
10. Historically significant Buddhist temples like Koggala Raja Maha Vihara are located near Hikkaduwa beach.

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1. Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary
2. Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya Temple
3. Tsunami Photo Museum
4. Moonstone Mine
5. Thotagamuwa Rajamaha Viharaya Temple
6. Kanneliya Rainforest Reserve
7. Galle Fort
8. Madu River Safari
9. Handunugoda Tea Estate
10. Unawatuna Beach

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1. Hikkaduwa Beach Festival is an annual event that takes place in August and offers visitors live music, dance performances, and beach sports.
2. Vesak Festival is a Buddhist festival celebrated in May, which honors the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha with vibrant lanterns and processions.
3. Kataragama Esala Perahera occurs in July or August each year as a Hindu festival featuring a grand procession of elephants adorned with colorful costumes and lights.
4. Galle Literary Festival is an international literary event held every January in nearby Galle that attracts famous authors from all over the world.
5. Sinhala & Tamil New Year takes place in April as a traditional New Year’s celebration including cultural performances, food fairs, and other festivities.
6. Hikkaduwa Art Fair showcases local artists’ works ranging from paintings to sculptures to jewelry annually held every December or January.
7. International Surfing Championships are hosted throughout the year due to Hikkaduwa’s excellent surfing conditions making it popular among surfers worldwide.

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1. The Green Room – a beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and Sri Lankan cuisine.
2. Mama’s Kitchen – a family-run restaurant offering authentic Sri Lankan dishes.
3. Top Secret Restaurant – known for its fusion of local and international flavors.
4. Funky De Bar – a lively bar with live music and delicious cocktails.
5. The Beach Hut – a casual spot on the beach serving grilled seafood and other Western-style dishes.
6. Seetha’s Cafe – a vegetarian cafe with healthy options like smoothie bowls and salads.
7. Spaghetti & Co – an Italian restaurant with wood-fired pizzas, pasta, and gelato.
8. Curry Bowl Restaurant – specializing in traditional Sri Lankan curries served in clay pots.
9. Drunken Monkeyz Beach Cafe & Bar – offers great views of the ocean while enjoying some refreshing drinks or meals.
10. Lucky Tuna Seafood Restaurant – serves fresh seafood caught by local fishermen.

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Places to Visit in Hikkaduwa

• Hikkaduwa Beach
• Coral Sanctuary
• Seenigama Muhudu Viharaya Temple
• Turtle Hatchery Hikkaduwa
• Gangarama Temple
• Tsunami Photo Museum
• Moonstone Mines and Factory
• Hikkaduwa Lake Safari
• Kowilawatta Buddhist Temple
• Maduganga River Safari

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