As Sri Lanka is an island, it’s surrounded by the sea, and provides anyone who comes here an opportunity to go kayaking. Whether you choose to go to the West or the East, the sea around the island ensures that you have the most exhilarating experience as you glide through its waters.
This activity does not only mean that you get to row through the ocean, it’s a great way to get around to places and really experience Sri Lanka through nature. If you wanted to, you could even kayak to some diving sites which are too difficult to get to by swimming, and dmire all the marine life that thrives beneath the blue waters. You could even take some bait and fishing rods along with you, and turn it in to a fishing trip. If you’re a bird watcher, bring some binoculars along with you, because you’ll most probably see some colourful exotic birds. On a boat, your opportunities could be endless.
Anything should know
The best time to visit the East coast would be from April to September, and for the Western and Southern coasts it would be from November to April. This is because of the Monsoons that usually affect both sides annually.
Kayaking is extremely beneficial healthwise, and really helps you strengthen your body. It’s also quite a popular mode of transport for some locals living in the rural areas as it is relatively inexpensive, and also environmentally friendly. Who needs to spend money on gas when you could use your own arm strength?
If you don’t know how to kayak, there are always guides available who will supervise you and make sure that your entire trip takes place safely. Life jackets will also be provided in an case, but knowing how to swim would be an added benefit. The kayaking boats are usually available to rent out along the coasts of the beaches, so don’t worry about not having one.
Where to go
For beginners, the Samanalawewa Reservoir in the Sabaragamuwa province is an ideal place for beginners because of its calm waters. Its name translates in to “Butterfly Tank”, and is derived from the fact that the reservoir is somewhat shaped like a butterfly, and also because there are many butterflies in the area.
Weligama in the district of Matara too would be a good place for beginners. The area is known for its beautiful stretch of beaches, and it also happens to be a place where you can see stilt fishermen at work.
Weligama also has conditions to satisfy people who have more experience with kayaking, as does the Kalu Ganga; which flows from the center of the country in to the Indian Ocean.
Kalpitiya too is a great place for kayaking, and offers you a range from lagoons, to mangroves, and to the mouths of rivers. More open bodies of water are available for the more experienced people.
Hikkaduwa, in the Southwestern part of the country too has a lagoon in which you can do this sport. Along the way you even have the option of dropping your feet over the edge for a completely natural foot massage done by the fish that swim by.
Besides these more mainstream places; kayaking is also available in Yala. This is a great opportunity for anyone who would like to truly feel at one with nature. You may even spot a few wild animals in the distance.
Overall, kayaking is quite an exciting activity, and what better way is there to experience it than in the waters of an exotic island itself?
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