Top Things to do in Arugam Bay
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The 5 Best Things to Do in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka
Arugam Bay (Tamil: அறுகம் குடா), known locally as "Arugam Kudah", is a bay situated on the Indian Ocean in the dry zone of Sri Lanka's southeast coast, and a historic settlement of the ancient Batticaloa Territory (Mattakallappu Desam). The bay is located 117 kilometres (73 mi) south of Batticaloa, 320 kilometres (200 mi) due east of Colombo, and approximately 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) south of the market town of Pottuvil. The main settlement in the area, known locally as Ullae, is predominantly Muslim, however there is a significant Sri Lankan Tamil and Sinhala population to the south of the village, as well as a number of international migrants, largely from Europe and Australia. While traditionally fishing has dominated the local economy, tourism has grown rapidly in the area in recent years. Arugam Kudah's literal Tamil translation is "Bay of Cynodon dactylon". Tourism in Arugam Bay is dominated by surf tourism, thanks to several quality breaks in the area, however tourists are also attracted by the local beaches, lagoons, historic temples and the nearby Kumana National Park.
Restaurants in Arugam Bay
1. Kudumbigala Monastery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 75 reviews
Reviewed By Charith B - Colombo, Sri Lanka
The monastery is located or hidden at a corner of the island surrounded by a national sanctuary. An ideal place for abstract meditation. Amazing feeling when you climbed the rock. Most peaceful eco system in the south east corner of the island
2. Arugam Bay
Overall Ratings
4 based on 280 reviews
Reviewed By Akhma60 - Kandy, Sri Lanka
We visited the beach in December 2017, which is off season, so it was not crowded. The beach is actually fishing area as well, so you will see a lot of fishing activity in the beach. Many of the hotels with direct access to the beach are fairly small (10-20 rooms).
3. Pottuvil Lagoon
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 43 reviews
Reviewed By Coen S
What an amazing trip, we saw so many birds (eagle, kingfisher), elephant, water buffalo, monkey. No crocodile cause it was a cloudy day.
Price wise: we booked directly at the office. You have to negotiate about the price. They started at 3000 roepies per person, in the end we went for 2000 roepies per person (with 2 people on one boat).
We gave a great tip to the fisherman directly, who paddled us all around, pointed out everything and couldn't stop smiling.
4. Muhudu Maha Viharaya
Overall Ratings
4 based on 64 reviews
Reviewed By Charith B - Colombo, Sri Lanka
This is a very ancient temple which has a chetiya on the beach. That view is unique and only chethiya like that in the island. Please donate this temple as it can be turned into a very peaceful destination. The area has plenty of diversity. Very close to the sea and the chief monk is very friendly.
5. Sangaman Kanda Lighthouse
Overall Ratings
4 based on 4 reviews
Reviewed By Sudesh I - Matara
Beautiful place, but you should avoid mid day burning sun. In the early morning or late evening is more suitable. Historical as well as beautiful places. But less infrastructure. You can Surfing here in this beautiful beach. Still you can get old taste comparing other locations.
Need develop surroundings and road. But you can find hotels there.
