Hikkaduwa is a seaside resort town in southwestern Sri Lanka. It’s known for its strong surf and beaches, including palm-dotted Hikkaduwa Beach, lined with restaurants and bars. The shallow waters opposite Hikkaduwa Beach shelter the Hikkaduwa National Park, which is a coral sanctuary and home to marine turtles and exotic fish. Inland, Gangarama Maha Vihara is a Buddhist temple decorated with hand-painted murals.
Ambalangoda is world famous for Moonstone mine where naturally made moonstone with the effect of Moon, It‘s Sri Lanka‘s largest moonstone mine and Sri Lankan moonstones are renowned for their blue shine that makes a difference to Indian moonstones. People of the area believe this area is highly blessed by Moon and this moonstone usually use for jewelry. Moonstone is gem with less price called “semi-precious stone” but when it added to jewelry it has a good price. In moonstone mine you have a good opportunity to observe the traditions and way of mining the moonstone can grab more experience about it.
Hikkaduwa, most ideal location for diving. The advanced open four-hour diving activity starting at 8 AM – 12 PM, you will get a chance to go for one shallow and one deep dive that hundreds of marine species of both corals and fishes to come say hello. If you are a macro photographer you can search for nudibranchs, crabs, shrimps, electric rays, pipefish, sea moths and other critters on the rocky reefs. The diving season of Hikkaduwa runs from October to April.
Hikkaduwa is well known for its beautiful marine ecosystem having exotic snorkeling spots. It is believed to be one of the most famous places for snorkeling in the country. If you are in Hikkaduwa then snorkeling in is a must experience. With impressive coral reefs and marine animals, you are sure to have one of the best snorkeling trips of your life! The best time to visit for snorkeling is between November to April.
Hikkaduwa is better known amongst the sun worshipers. Today the town remains a hub, bustling with visitors out to enjoy the lures of sun, sand and surfing. On one side of the road the beach hotels, restaurants, and resorts are lined up along its shoulder while the other side houses food stalls, clothing stores and markets. Hikkaduwa shopping is a huge attraction and things to buy include Beautiful Woodcrafts, Intricate jewellery, Colorful canvas paintings, Cane goods and the best Ceylon Tea and spices.