Things to do in Balapitiya

No. 16 of Best Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Bentota River Mangroves

Bentota River MangrovesLocated near the mouth of the Bentota River on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, it is a natural scenic area characterized by estuarine wetland ecology and boat sightseeing. Here, the confluence of fresh and salt water provides suitable conditions for mangrove growth, and dense trees extend along the riverbanks, forming a lush, multi-layered green view. Compared to the bustling beach resort areas, the interior of the mangroves is much quieter. Visitors can take a small boat with a canopy into the waterways to experience the unique charm of the wetland environment while moving slowly. As the boat moves slowly along the winding waterways, the prop roots of the mangroves on both banks intertwine, vines hang low, and branches and leaves connect overhead, creating a view that resembles a natural green tunnel. Sunlight filters through the leaves onto the water, and the river reflects the surrounding plants, swaying gently with the boat to present a tranquil and layered natural picture

Selected for Best Things to Do in Sri Lanka

Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa is one of the oldest beaches in Sri Lanka and one of the most popular tourist areas in Sri Lanka. One of the highlights here is the "Underwater Coral Park", where visitors can sit in glass boats and admire corals and swimming fish. Hekkaduwa attracts countless tourists with its unique beach culture, stunning ocean views and a stretch of coastal train from Colombo to Hekkaduwa. 1. History This beach was discovered by a group of hippies in the 1970s, so it is heavily influenced by the more casual culture of hippies. 2. Status Quo There are no resort hotels here, most of them are family hotels. The peak tourist season from November to April of the following year makes the whole town of Hikkaduwa extraordinarily lively, and diving and surfing enthusiasts from all over the world come here for vacation.

Ahungalla Sea Turtles Conservation Project

This is a sea turtle conservation and research center where visitors can tour the exhibits and watch sea turtle hatching and release ceremonies.

Madu River Safari by Buddhi

Madu River Safari by Buddhi is located in the scenic coastal town of Balapitiya. It guides countless domestic and international visitors deep into the pristine waters of this wetland, offering an unforgettable water journey that blends natural exploration, ecological education, and cultural experience. The dense, tangled roots of the mangroves weave together above the water to form deep, tranquil green tunnels. Traveling through them by boat feels like entering a magical, secluded realm. Led by the boatman, visitors can often spot water monitors swimming gracefully, colorful kingfishers perched quietly on branches waiting to hunt, as well as various water birds and monkeys playing in the trees along the way. When the boat enters the low mangrove tributaries, the boatman sometimes turns off the engine, allowing the boat to glide silently on its momentum. The surrounding rustle of leaves, birdsong, and the sound of gurgling water create a sense of tranquility and immersion that lets you instantly forget the hustle and bustle of the city.

Ruwa Madu River Safari

Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project

The Turtle Hatchery is located 11 kilometers south of Bantuta and is world-famous for its major turtle hatcheries and turtle conservation. In Sri Lanka, you can see 5 of the 7 species of sea turtles in the world (leather turtle, loggerhead turtle, hawksbill turtle, olive green turtle, green turtle, rich turtle and flatback turtle). At present, there are more than 20 sea turtle hatcheries in the area. You can visit sea turtle hatching, release baby sea turtles, and listen to the introduction of natural environmental protection knowledge. The original intention of conservation The conservation center buys turtle eggs sold by egg thieves from hawkers at a price slightly higher than the market price, and hatches at the conservation center. Sea turtles are very fragile when they are young, and with the intensification of human activities in recent years, it is very difficult for small sea turtles to survive. After hatching, the baby turtles will grow up in the water tank for a period of time to prevent parasitic infection. When they grow up a little, they will be put back into the sea under the cover of darkness. The visit to the protection center does not exceed 20 minutes, and there are volunteer programs.

Sri Lanka Sea Train

Sri Lanka Sea Train travels between the azure of the Indian Ocean and the lush green of Sri Lanka, weaving countless romantic legends and dreamy landscapes into a stunning tapestry. The railway is laid right along the Indian Ocean coast, with some sections just a few m from the sea. As the train travels, you can see the vast blue ocean and crashing waves outside the window. On the other side, you can see swaying coconut groves, green rice paddies, and vibrant coastal fishing villages, where coastal scenery intertwines with local daily life to create a unique travel experience. The interior of the train retains a strong vintage feel, with many carriages featuring old-fashioned designs that have been in service for years. Ceiling fans rotate slowly to provide basic air circulation in the carriages, and the wooden-framed windows can be pushed open, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery and feel the sea breeze. As the train slowly starts, the rhythmic sound of wheels against the tracks is like a melodious travel song, leading passengers into a wonderful journey.

Āriapāla Mask Museum

Kosgoda Turtle Conservation and Research Centre

Madu Queen Boat Safari