Koggala Lake - Beautiful Scenic lake with islands
Description
Koggala Lake is a serene coastal lagoon in southern Sri Lanka, located near the town of Koggala. It is surrounded by mangrove forests, small islands, and abundant wildlife, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The lake is also home to traditional stilt fishermen, adding to its cultural charm.
Visitor Fee
- Boat Safari: ~$20–30 per person (varies by tour provider).
Transportation
- By Car/Taxi:
- From Colombo (~2.5 hours, 140 km)
- From Galle (~30 min, 15 km)
- By Train & Bus:
- Train to Koggala Station, then a short tuk-tuk ride to the lake.
Things to Do
- Boat Safari – Explore the lake’s islands and mangroves by boat.
- Madol Duwa Island – Visit the inspiration for Martin Wickramasinghe’s famous novel.
- Birdwatching – Spot kingfishers, herons, and cormorants.
- Cinnamon Island – Learn about traditional cinnamon harvesting.
- Stilt Fishing – Observe or try the iconic fishing technique used by locals.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here
- Peaceful and scenic environment, ideal for a relaxing getaway.
- Rich in wildlife, including birds, monkeys, and even crocodiles.
- Cultural and historical significance, with ancient island temples and folklore.
- Less crowded than other tourist spots, offering a more tranquil experience.
How Old is This Place?
- The lake itself is a natural formation that has existed for thousands of years.
- Madol Duwa became famous in the 20th century due to Martin Wickramasinghe’s novel.
List of Activities
- Boat safaris through mangroves
- Visiting Cinnamon Island
- Birdwatching
- Exploring small island temples
- Fishing with locals
Additional Nearby Attractions
- Koggala Beach – A quiet beach with stunning sunsets.
- Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum – Showcasing Sri Lankan rural life and literature.
- Handunugoda Tea Estate – A tea plantation famous for white tea production.
- Galle Fort – A UNESCO-listed colonial fort (~30 min away).