Sri Lanka - Must visit places along southwest coast

Nestled in the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is tropical paradise with captivating blend of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. From pristine beaches fringed with swaying palm trees to mist-shrouded mountains adorned with tea plantations, Sri Lanka offers a kaleidoscope of natural wonders. This itinerary covers some popular as well as offbeat locations along Lanka’s southwest coastline. It is a perfect blend of architecture, beach relaxation and adventure

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Places to Visit - Beaches, National Parks & Towns

The coastline of Sri Lanka is incredibly beautiful with stunning sunsets, historic oceanside towns, and also a national park by the beach! I would suggest staying at 2 base locations and hiring a tuk tuk or a 2-wheeler to cover the nearby locations.

Dikwella

@urvashirana

One of the underrated beaches but one of the most beautiful & quiet places , this is hands down my favorite beach in SriLanka. Dickwella beach features soft sands that are perfect for leisurely walks and sunbathing

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Mirissa Beach

@urvashirana

One of the popular beaches in Srilanka including famous Coconut Tree Hill also situated here. It is also known for it's vibrant nightlife, beachside bars and restaurants. It is touristy undoubtedly; I went for a day trip rather than staying here

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Ahangama

@urvashirana

Ahangama Beach in Sri Lanka is renowned for its surfing. The beach offers consistent waves, making it a popular destination for surfers of all levels. Add to it the beautiful sunsets, a laid-back vibe with various activities like yoga, meditation, and Ayurveda treatments.

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Polhena Beach

@urvashirana

Polhena Beach, also known as Turtle Beach is beautiful white sand beach, located near Matara town, is a great spot for snorkeling. The beach’s shallow waters create a natural reef, providing a safe habitat for turtles. During our visit, we had the amazing opportunity to witness 3-4 turtles up close, which was a truly wonderful experience.

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Hiriketiya Beach

@urvashirana

Next to Dikwella is the Hiriketiya Beach, known for its crescent-shaped bay and golden sands. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and learning to surf. I also loved the cute cafes and restaurants in the vicinity

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Yala National Park

@urvashirana

Yala National Park offers a vast expanse of untamed wilderness, with the majestic ocean on one side and the jungle on the other. It is one of the more popular national parks with highest sightings of leopard. So, be prepared for crowds and overflow of vehicles

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Galle

@urvashirana

Galle is a fortified city with a rich history, which turned out into an UNESCO Heritage in 1988. Explore the well-preserved Galle Fort, known for its colonial-era buildings, cobblestone streets, and picturesque vibe. Discover boutiques, art galleries, and cafes within the fort walls.

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Where to Stay ?

Voulez-Vous (Managed by Dickwella Beach Hotel)

@urvashirana

Nice, Simple, spacious stay right at the beach. Friendly owners & good breakfast

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The Bartizan Galle Fort

@urvashirana

Boutique stay, part of fort converted into a hotel situated right in front of the ocean.

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Parasol Doré

@urvashirana

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Urvashi Rana

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Hi There! Nice to meet you :) I am Urvashi, a traveler by heart & itinerary planner by passion. My expertise lies in curating itineraries which is a mix of offbeat & popular spots with a special focus on cafes, restaurants, boutique stays & local experiences to make your travel enriching and truly authentic. Although I love slow travel, my regular job sometimes do not give me the luxury of being on vacation for months. So, I understand the importance of spending time only on experiences that are worth it while maintaining the balance between adventure & relaxation. ✅ Great fit for Mid range travelers - couples, solo travelers, and families who enjoy soaking in authentic experiences, great food, offbeat gems, classic sites, and sustainable travel. Subscribe to my Thatch profile for exclusive travel guides, itineraries, and consultation services. You can also connect with me on : 📷 IG : @urvashi.rana 🌐 https://dustysuitcasechronicles.com/

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