Where To Stay In Kandy With Family? A Practical Guide For Accommodation In Kandy

BY  Sibashree Mar 23, 2026

Hiriketiya Beach is a place that can disrupt your travel plans completely.  You may arrive with plans for a two-night stay and end up spending 3 weeks developing a routine of mornings spent surfing, drinking coconut coffee, and watching the sun set down on the jungle.  This tucked-away cove in Sri Lanka’s southern coast, nicknamed by its community of surfers and digital nomads as "Hiri", is a textbook example of tropical aesthetics.  The cove is well-formed, with water that is surrounded by palm trees, and has a jungle so dense behind it that you will hear monkeys scurrying through the tree tops of your surfboard as they find their way there.  Hiri feels like a secret to be shared, but is just being revealed to people in the surrounding towns of Weligama and Mirissa.  Hiriketiya has developed to become a more sophisticated version of Weligama and Mirissa. The "vibe" of Hiriketiya is not just another phrase used by hipsters. It is the currency used by locals. Here is more about this beautiful coastal gem in Sri Lanka.  The Evolution Of Hiriketiya Beach: Why You Need To Go Now Hiriketiya has experienced an incredible transformation over the last few years.  Only a few years ago, this sleepy little fishing village had only a few guesthouses and one small roti shop. It is quite similar to the beaches in Jaffna in that way.  Now, it's become a vibrant hub, and even though it has lost some of its "untouched" charm. Moreover, this infusion of new energy has produced world-class specialty coffee shops, beautiful state-of-the-art Yoga studios, and a co-working scene. But despite these rapid changes, the spirit of this village remains.  The Surf At Hirikeya Beach: A Wave For Every Soul The horseshoe shape and the unique geography of the Hirikeya Beach make it ideal for every type of surfer.  Here is a quick breakdown. Surf LocationDetails The Beach Break (Right Side)- Beginner-Friendly- Sandy Bottom- Gentle WavesThe Middle- Ideal for Longboarders- Offers a Mellow RideThe Point Break (Left Side)- Ideal for Professionals- Shallow Reef Board rentals are standardized at 1000 LKR per hour.  If the Hirikeya Beach is very busy, you can go 3.5 km east and find Kudawella Beach.  Where Is Hirikeya Beach? How To Reach It?  Hiriketiya is located off the main highway along the coast, about one mile away from the town of Dickwella.  Since Hiriketiya is not on a major transit route, you will have to use Dickwella as your transit point. 1. Traveling To Hiriketiya Beach From Colombo The best way to get there is by taking the train from Colombo Fort to Matara, which takes approximately four hours.  From Matara, you can take a local bus to Dickwella or take a tuk-tuk taxi. You can also take a highway express bus from Colombo to Matara and arrive in about three hours. 2. Traveling To Hiriketiya Beach From Ella You can catch the #31 bus at the intersection of the Ella-Passara Road as you travel through tea country.  It is approximately four hours to the coast on a winding road. Just tell the conductor you want to go to Dickwella. 3. Traveling To Hiriketiya Beach From Arugam Bay If you are traveling from the East Coast surf to the surf in the South, there is a direct bus leaving from Pottuvil every day around 6:30 AM, arriving at Dickwella approximately six hours later. What Are The Things To Do At Hirikeya Beach? (Beyond Surfing) Hiri has just as much gravitational force to attract chill seekers. So, here are the things to do beyond surfing.  1. Walk To Blue Beach Island If you're looking for a little adventure, try the 2.5km (1.5-mile) walk to Nilwella.  You'll be walking through peaceful local neighborhoods when you find a beautiful natural sandbar that links the mainland with a small island.  Moreover, walking over a sandbar with breaking waves on both sides of you is something you will remember long after leaving Hiri.  Also, it is the best place to watch the sunset. 2. Sip In Style At Smoke And Bitters Believe it or not, one of the 50 Best Bars in Asia is hidden deep in a coconut grove.  Furthermore, the menu at Smoke and Bitters is based on the smokehouse method of cooking, using local Sri Lankan ingredients with cooking methods from around the globe.  Moreover, you must try the smoked harissa pumpkin and the pork ribs as they are WOW!!  Every cocktail created at Smoke and Bitters is a work of art. The price of a drink here, compared to what you would expect to pay in Sri Lanka, may seem high. However, when you want to treat yourself, there is no better place to go. 3. Become A Culinary Master With Rosie Rosie's cooking class experience is the ultimate rite of passage in Hiri.  While she prepares the dishes during your cooking class, you will also hear many personal stories of her life and how she made some special Sri Lankan spice combinations. Moreover, it costs 6000 LKR, and the 4-hour feast is the ultimate attraction.  The Digital Nomad And Yoga Scene At Hirikeya Beach  Hiriketiya has become a cornerstone of the "work-from-anywhere" lifestyle.  Places like Dots Bay House and Salty Pelican provide the infrastructure (and the caffeine) needed to hit deadlines. Moreover, when it comes to physical and mental well-being, Arise is unparalleled.  So, they provide a variety of classes to choose from, including Muay Thai, ecstatic dance, and Reiki, as well as many types of Vinyasa yoga.  Additionally, their Salt House location offers stunning rooftop yoga classes where you can do yoga while listening to the waves below. Where to Stay In Hiriketiya? Hiriketiya offers a versatile range of accommodation. Here are some places you can try.  1. Salt House  This upscale beach hotel has a boutique feel.  Located 5 minutes away from the beach, the hotel has spacious, minimalistic rooms opening directly to its central pool and open-air cafe.  Moreover, on-site yoga classes every day attract those interested in wellness. Room rates begin at about 21000 LKD per night. 2. Dots Bay House  Located next to the surfing area, 'Dots', the centre of Hiri's social scene, offers accommodation options ranging from dormitories to high-end private rooms.  Moreover, facilities include an on-site co-working space, swimming pool, and popular bar which features the best live music acts in town. Prices start at approximately 7000 LKD per night. 3. Hiriketiya White House  A charming, family-owned guesthouse hidden away in the jungle, offering an excellent option for visitors who want authentic experiences at affordable prices.  Also, the double rooms come with beautiful contemporary bathrooms and balconies where guests can enjoy watching monkeys play overhead. Moreover, the prices start from about 5500 LKD per night.  When To Visit Hiriketiya Beach? Due to offshore winds and consistent swell during the "High Season", November to April is the best time for surfers to be out on the ocean.  Moreover, December to February is the busiest time of year, with hot and dry weather as well as a lot of activity happening around town.  However, there are two downsides. The first is that accommodation prices rise significantly, and the second is that line-ups at the ocean can be extremely crowded. Where To Eat In Hiriketiya? As an enthusiast of TheLowDownUnder Travel and genuine experiences, I felt compelled to sample the local cuisine at Hirikeya. So, here are a few recommendations for places to check out. 1. Lemon Grass Café Considered the benchmark for rice and curry in Sri Lanka, this family-run establishment is modest yet impactful.  Moreover, for 1000 LKR, you’ll enjoy a generous array of at least four different vegetable curries, rice, and dessert, with unlimited refills. 2. Kingsley’s Kitchen Another gem in the area, Kingsley is a well-known figure in the village who serves outstanding home-cooked meals.  Dinner operates on a pre-order basis, so be sure to stop by during the day to reserve your meal.  Moreover, it’s one of the most budget-friendly spots in the bay, with a vegetarian curry priced at 750 LKR. 3. Dahami Situated at the Dickwella intersection, this is where the locals dine. Furthermore, it’s a straightforward buffet offering a mountain of rice and curry for just 450 LKR. Moreover, for those seeking specialty cafés and a beach atmosphere, options like Duni’s Hoppers Café, MOND Café, and La Playa are worth considering.

BY  Sibashree May 27, 2026

From the beaches of Jaffna to Weligama, Sri Lanka has so many places that can teach you the art of slow traveling and the TravelDownUnder philosophy.  The southern coast of Sri Lanka, especially, has a distinct magic. Furthermore, the Hiriketiya Beach and Mirissa Beach often steal the social media limelight.  However, Weligama is an exception even in this age of Instagram craze. The region has a legendary surf culture and a salty heart.  So, surfing is the most popular answer when you ask what to do in Weligama.  It has a massive, shallow crescent bay that transforms everyday ocean swells into beautifully consistent, beginner-friendly rollers. However, surfing is not the only activity you will love in Weligama. Even if you never plan on waxing a surfboard, the laid-back beach town pulls you in with an infectious, slow-paced lifestyle.  Moreover, here you will spend the mornings in flat whites, hide from the tropical Sun in shaded pools in the afternoon, and enjoy the distinct nightlife.  So, as I was on a backpacking trip to Sri Lanka, I enjoyed every bit of this remote coastal area.  I have penned my experience, the best things to do in Weligama, what to eat, and more in this article.  What To Do In Weligama? Indulging In The Quintessential Coastal Experience In Sri Lanka According to a recent report of the World Economic Forum regarding the Jobs and the Future of Work, 25% of the workforce in the world will be fully digital.  With this shift in the workforce, there will also be a paradigm shift in the way young people and professionals travel.  The digital nomads especially look for budget-friendly and beautiful locations that offer them the ease and amenities of working.  In this regard, Weligama in Sri Lanka remains a prominent choice, and even according to a survey of the Hotel With Tub website, Weligama has secured the 43rd place among the 100 best destinations for digital nomads in the world.  It is affordable, and you must try the following attractions here.  1. Enjoying The Quintessential Weligama Surf Experience  Surfing is the very fabric of Weligama. Decades ago, some eager travelers chased the rumor of finding the perfect breaks in this sleepy fishing hub.  Today, it is one of the premier learning grounds for surfers in Asia.  The gentle sandy floor of the slope reaches across hundreds of meters in the water. Thus, the incoming waves lose their chaotic bite and turn into rolling whitewash,  With the waves getting predictable, even if you are stepping onto a board for the first time, you can walk down the main beach strip to find dozens of local wooden shacks offering board rentals and affordable one-on-one coaching. However, that does not mean that Weligama will disappoint the advanced surfers. For example, Kima Surf Camp is a high-end hub for premier surfers.  Housed within a meticulously restored colonial mansion, it pairs intensive, expert-led coaching with a vibrant communal lifestyle, yoga classes, and poolside recovery sessions.  2. Attending A Rooftop Yoga Session At Hangtime Hostel  The neighboring Ahangama is a more popular place for the niche Yoga subculture. However, the Yoga studios in Weligama stand out because of their amazing views.  The Hangtime Hostel is the place I visited, and the open-air rooftop platform grounded me as soon as I stepped in.  Also, it offers a quick relief from the street noise, and on one side, it offers the most amazing view of the expansive Indian Ocean.  On the other hand, the dense, emerald canopy of the Sri Lankan jungle sways in the breeze.  Like every day, the classes began at 9 AM, and I was a little early to reach as I wanted to secure a good spot.  Furthermore, the session was on Power Vinyasa, and it cost around LKR 2500.  3. Chasing Horizons In The Golden Hour  Along the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Sunset is more than a natural occurrence that takes place daily.  It is like a social ritual and a magic of nature that brings people together. It is an amazing experience to see the Sun dipping into the water.  However, only the locals know the right time to start a short scooter ride to reach The Cliff and see the most vibrant sunset.  It is over rugged coastal rocks, and this open-air tiered place ensures that every single table is positioned for panoramic ocean views.  Overall, it is a complete fusion of the upscale "sunset lounge" aesthetic and the unpretentious warmth that defines Sri Lanka.  Furthermore, to attend this perfect fusion, The Cliff has leaned on tropical flavors without the use of artificial sugar.  Also, I had the most amazing grilled octopus here with pillowy flatbread.  4. Exceptional Brunching Experience At Nomad Cafe Weligama has a booming cafe culture, and Nomad Cafe is surely the crown jewel. It began its journey as a modest, five-table passion project, and now it is an experience in its own right.  Foodies frequently travel from nearby towns to experience the great food and ambiance here. You must not miss the Flat White here.  Moreover, the menu of Nomad Vafe deftly bridges European brunch staples with vibrant, fresh flavor profiles. The undeniable star of the show is the rösti eggs Benedict. I loved its texture play with perfectly poached eggs and rich, velvety hollandaise balanced precariously on a shatteringly crispy potato hash brown. Moreover, if you are looking for something with a kick, don’t miss their smoky and perfectly spiced shakshuka.  5. Coworking At Plan B For Community And Connection  As I have already mentioned, Weligama is a prime location for digital nomads. Plan B is one of the prime destinations for digital nomads here.  Furthermore, if you need to answer emails, crunch numbers, or take a Zoom call without sacrificing your tropical state of mind, Plan B is the place to be.  It is an excellent fusion of a cozy garden cafe, coworking hub, and coliving space. Furthermore, there is a shaded courtyard at the epicenter of the cafe.  The space hums with gentle productivity; you will find professionals from across the globe typing away over iced lattes while jazz music filters through the trees.  Moreover, the beauty of Plan B is inclusivity. You will not need a formal workspace pass to enjoy the grounds.  Their smoothie bowls are amazing, and so are the traditional Sri Lankan hoppers and decadent eggs Florentine. You will also find many delightful vegan options here. 6. Enjoying Seafood By The Shore: A Culinary Feast At Maru Weligama is not just about cafes and local rice-and-curry spots when it comes to food. Maru, for example, is a place that elevates the beachfront dining experience.  It is right against the ocean’s edge, and the restaurant celebrates the bounty brought in daily by Weligama’s fishing fleets.  Furthermore, the menu here focuses heavily on bright, clean, and coastal flavors.  For example, the shrimp ceviche is a masterclass with fresh flavors and the right acidic balance. It is perfect for a hot midday meal.  Moreover, if you are looking for something hearty and healthy, try their assorted teriyaki and fresh fish poke bowls with crisp veggies, seasoned sushi rice, and premium cuts of fish.  In addition, Maru offers the most delightful perk in the form of the on-site swimming pool. I took a dip there before and after the meal.  So, it is an amazing base camp to escape the intense midday Sun, work, enjoy the ocean breeze, and indulge in a leisurely lunch.  7. Unwinding At Zephyr Zephyr becomes the go-to place after the surfboard rental shacks close their doors. It offers meticulously crafted cocktail, and the nightlife here is not pretentious.  Instead, you will find a highly sophisticated, relaxed beachside aesthetic here.  Moreover, the bar staff here is well aware of the finer details of classic cocktails.  Their espresso martini is properly frothy and bitter, while their classic mojito relies on freshly plucked mint and perfectly balanced lime juice.  While primarily celebrated for its drinks, Zephyr surprises many with its highly curated food menu.  Instead of heavy entrees, they specialize in elevated small plates designed to complement the spirits.  The seared tuna plate, crusted in local spices and perfectly rare at the center, is an absolute must-try. Like Maru, Zephyr features a pool that adds to its luxury-resort feel.  Essential Day Trips Beyond Weligama Bay You can extend the list of what to do in Weligama thanks to its unique geographic location.  It is a delightful epicenter for exploring the culture, wildlife, and history of southern Sri Lanka. 1. Galle Fort You can take a tuk-tuk ride for 45 minutes to reach Galle Fort.  It is a A gorgeous UNESCO Heritage site filled with 16th-century Portuguese and Dutch colonial architecture, high-end boutiques, jewelry galleries, and a striking seaside lighthouse. 2. Handunugoda Tea Estate The tea estate is a 45-minute scooter ride from Weligama.  It is a lush lowland plantation producing legendary "Virgin White Tea," completely untouched by human skin during harvesting. Here, you will enjoy fascinating machinery tours and extensive tea tastings. 3. Yala National Park  You can take a car ride of 3 hours to reach the Yala National Park.  The Yala National Park is an intense, bucket-list wildlife safari. Leave in the pre-dawn hours to spot wild Asian elephants, crocodiles, leopards, and diverse birdlife in their natural habitats.

BY  Sibashree Mar 16, 2026

The National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka, or Dehiwala Zoo, is one of the first zoos in Asia.  So, if you have enjoyed the Kaudulla National Park safari, you will also love a visit to the Dehiwala Zoo.  This zoo has an area of 26 acres, and it is home to more than 2000 animals. Furthermore, you will find fountains, orchids, and peaceful lakes here. Moreover, it offers a unique Night Safari experience. On this night safari, you can spot the mysterious nocturnal animals.  In addition, you can join the educational workshops here to learn about wildlife conservation.  So, come and have a thrilling wildlife experience at Dehiwala Zoo. However, before I talk about its location, how to travel, things to do, and the best time to travel, here is a quick look at the essential details.  Dehiwala Zoo In Colombo: Quick Info  Address120 Galvihara Road, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Sri LankaTimings8:30 AM to 6 PMTicket- LKR 100 for Local Adults- LKR 2,500 for ForeignersFacilities- Souvenir Shops- Restaurants- Boat Rides- Icecream Stalls- Zoo Aquarium- Butterfly Garden Pony Rides- Elephant Rides- Flowers- Fountains How To Reach Dehiwala Zoo?  Dehiwala Zoo is well accessible by air, train, bus, taxi, and ride-hailing apps. While the easiest option is to take a taxi or private car, traveling by bus is the cheapest way.  1. By Air Dehiwala Zoo is just 40 km away from the Bandaranaike International Airport.  Furthermore, you will easily get a ride-hailing service or a taxi to reach the Dehiwala Zoo within 45 minutes.  2. By Train The Dehiwala Railway Station is the closest to the zoo. So, if you are traveling from the north, you have to take a train from Colombo Fort Station to Dehiwala Railway Station.  Also, if you are traveling from the south, you can stop at Mount Lavinia Railway Station. The beautiful Mount Lavinia Beach is just 1.4 km away from the railway station.  Tuk-tuks are available from both these railway stations, and the train ticket price will be between 40 and 100 LKR.  3. By Taxis Or Ride-Hailing Apps The easiest way to reach Dehiwala Zoo is to take a ride-hailing service or a taxi. Uber and PickMe are the main ride-hailing services here.  You can book vans, tuk-tuks, or cabs using these apps.  Furthermore, the travel cost in this way is between 1700 and 2400 LKR.  4. By Bus  You will get buses to Dehiwala Zoo throughout the day. You can take bus 176, 100, and 101.  Furthermore, the ticket prices are between 30 and 50 LKR.  What Are The Best Things To Do At Dehiwala Zoo?  From watching the elephant performance to taking a ride in the zoo train, the activities in the zoo are diverse and ideal for tourists of all age groups.  However, for me, the most delightful part was watching the elephants in action. Here is more about the things to do at Dehiwala Zoo.  1. Watching The Animal Shows  Located on the Anagarika Dharmapala Mawatha, Dehiwala Zoo has monkeys, animals, fish, birds, reptiles, and other animals.  The zoo further hosts animal shows.  So, you will love seeing an elephant dancing or a seal playing with a ball.  2. A Walk Through The Zoo The zoological garden has a reptile house, aviary, aquarium, and butterfly garden. So, you can take a walk through the garden.  The zoological garden area also has a dedicated botanical garden.  However, if you don’t want to walk much, you can take a ride on the zoo train.  3. Learn About The Flora And Fauna Present Here  If you want to know about the animals and plants here, you have to take a guided tour. Furthermore, you can learn about the flora and fauna and the rich history of the zoo from the Educational Center.  Moreover, the zoological garden has an animal hospital. You will find veterinary doctors and caregivers at work there.  4. Take A Part In The Night Safari  The zoo has a dedicated Leopard Trail for night safaris. You can watch the nocturnal animals in action during the safari.  Furthermore, you can arrange a picnic or explore the local Dehiwala Market. Furthermore, if you want a spiritual experience, visit the Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya.  If you want to explore more Buddhist places of importance in Sri Lanka, you can visit the Ritigala Forest Monastery and Sigiriya Rock.  What is the Best Time to Visit Dehiwala Zoo In Sri Lanka? December to April is the best time to visit Dehiwala Zoo. This is the dry season and hence is ideal for outdoor exploration and wildlife spotting.  However, it is also the peak season. So, plan a visit early in the day and avoid weekends.  Furthermore, May to November is the wet season in the garden, and the zoo looks lush and green. However, the animals can be less active in these months.  Things To Keep In Mind For Visiting The Dehiwala Zoo In Sri Lanka Irrespective of the season of your visit, you have to keep the following things in mind.  You have to wear comfortable footwear with a good grip as you have to walk a lot through the zoo.  Furthermore, you have to be respectful to the animals and follow the rules of the zoo. Is A Trip To Dehiwala Zoo Worth The Experience?  Yes, Dehiwala Zoo is a place worth visiting because you don’t just spot animals here, but learn about their livelihood and nature.  Furthermore, this is one of the oldest zoos in Asia and was built in 1936.  However, the zoo authority must be more focused on the preservation of the zoo, as the last time I visited, certain things drew my attention.  Seeing the animals here, the night safari, and the performances by animals have become more like a curriculum, and they show a lack of infrastructure.  So, you may feel sometimes disappointed if you are planning to visit the zoo to see a performance of the animals.  Still, many people visit this zoo because of its heritage.