Things To Do
in Puttalam
Puttalam is a coastal town in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant fishing industry. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with various temples and mosques dotting the landscape.
Puttalam is also famous for its traditional art and craftwork, attracting tourists looking for authentic Indian experiences.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Puttalam Lagoon, where you can enjoy the serene views and watch the local fishermen at work. Consider having breakfast at a nearby café with fresh seafood options.
After lunch, take a trip to the nearby Wilpattu National Park for a safari experience. Look out for leopards, elephants, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the sunset over the ocean. Relax with a seafood dinner at one of the coastal restaurants.
Start with a visit to the local market where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and try some local snacks. Make sure to grab some ingredients for a delightful picnic.
Head to the nearby historic village to explore the traditional homes and learn about the local culture. Enjoy your picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery.
Visit a local temple to experience a prayer session, connecting with the spiritual side of Puttalam. End your day with a traditional Sri Lankan dinner at a local home-stay.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic beauty: Puttalam is known for its beautiful landscapes, including beaches and lagoons.
- Rich cultural heritage: The area has a diverse cultural history with various temples and traditions.
- Fishing and agriculture: The region supports fishing and agriculture, providing local employment opportunities.
- Limited infrastructure: Puttalam may have underdeveloped infrastructure, impacting transportation and services.
- Economic challenges: The region may face economic difficulties, leading to lower job opportunities.
- Environmental issues: There could be problems with pollution and resource management due to industrial activities.
Best Activities in Puttalam
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a fun game of beach volleyball at the beautiful beaches of Puttalam.
Puttalam is home to various bird species; take a guided tour for an opportunity to observe them in their natural habitats.
Experience traditional fishing methods or go on a deep-sea fishing trip in the rich waters off the coast.
Catch some waves and wind while learning or improving your kite surfing skills at the local beaches.
Explore the scenic landscapes and local villages on a cycling tour around Puttalam.
Explore nearby hills and trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding nature and wildlife.
Take a boat tour to see dolphins in their natural environment, a memorable experience for nature lovers.
Set up camp at designated spots for a night under the stars, enjoying the great outdoors.
Tours
Uncover the best of Puttalam with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Puttalam
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers picturesque views of the ocean, ideal for photography and sunsets
Provides opportunities to capture wildlife in their natural habitat and scenic landscapes
A serene location with beautiful water views, perfect for photography and bird watching
Food in Puttalam
Puttalam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice-based dish flavored with aromatic spices, often made with seafood or chicken. It is a must-try for visitors to Puttalam and can be found in local eateries and street food stalls.
Must-Try!
A breakfast dish made of steamed cylinders of ground rice layered with fresh coconut, often served with spicy curries. It can be savored at traditional homes or local restaurants.
Freshly caught crabs, cooked in a flavorful curry with a blend of local spices. This dish is a highlight of coastal cuisine and can be enjoyed at seafood restaurants along the coast.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Puttalam better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling fish market offers an authentic experience where visitors can witness the variety of fresh seafood and mingle with locals. Nearby food stalls offer freshly prepared seafood dishes.
Located in the heart of Puttalam, this vibrant bazaar features an array of street food stalls offering local favorites like Kottu Roti, Isso Wade (shrimp fritters), and Athirasa (sweet deep-fried dough).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Puttalam, it is customary to show great respect for elders. Address older individuals with appropriate titles and always address them politely. It’s common to greet them first in gatherings or social interactions.
Modest dressing is important in Puttalam, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Both men and women should aim to wear clothing that covers arms and legs to show respect for local customs.
Hospitality is highly valued, and it’s common for locals to greet visitors warmly. A friendly handshake is acceptable, but always be mindful of personal space and cultural differences in greetings, especially between genders.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Puttalam with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Puttalam
Ensure a smooth experience
In Puttalam, India, tipping is generally not obligatory but is appreciated, especially in the hospitality sector such as hotels, restaurants, and among taxi drivers. The amount varies based on the level of service received, typically ranging from 10 to 15% of the bill. However, locals may round up to the nearest whole number or leave spare change. In some cases, tipping may be influenced by cultural norms and individual preferences.
Payment practices in Puttalam include a mix of cash and digital transactions. Cash is still widely used, especially for smaller purchases, markets, and street vendors. However, with the increase in mobile banking and digital payment options, many establishments are beginning to accept UPI (Unified Payments Interface) and other forms of electronic payment. Traditional methods, such as credit or debit cards, are accepted in larger hotels and more upscale restaurants, but it's advisable for visitors to carry cash for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Puttalam.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Puttalam is during the winter season when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. Expect comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall during this time.
Puttalam experiences hot and dry weather during the summer season. Visitors can expect high temperatures and arid conditions, so it may not be the most comfortable time to visit.
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Puttalam, often leading to flooding and difficult travel conditions. It is advisable to avoid visiting during this time.
Puttalam at Night
Hiking in Puttalam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful wetland area that offers various trails and opportunities for birdwatching alongside hiking.
One of the largest national parks in Sri Lanka, offering scenic hiking trails through diverse wildlife and landscapes.
A tranquil area with nature trails that allow for leisurely hiking and exploration of marshland biodiversity.
A coastal hike that provides stunning views of the ocean and opportunities for photography.
An eco-tourism area with hiking paths through lush landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Puttalam through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Puttalam by plane.
The main international airport serving Colombo, Sri Lanka, located approximately 150 kilometers from Puttalam.
An international airport located near Hambantota, Sri Lanka, about 200 kilometers from Puttalam.
An international airport located in Tiruchirappalli, India, approximately 320 kilometers from Puttalam.
The main international airport serving Chennai, India, located about 390 kilometers from Puttalam.
An international airport in Kochi, India, situated roughly 440 kilometers from Puttalam.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Sinhalese are the largest ethnic group in Sri Lanka, predominantly found in Puttalam, with a rich cultural heritage and a majority Hindu population.
The Tamil community in Puttalam reflects a significant presence, with its members primarily practicing Hinduism and maintaining their language and traditions.
The Muslim population in Puttalam consists of both Moors and Malays, contributing to the multicultural landscape of the region.
The Burgher community is a small group of mixed European descent, primarily known for their unique cultural influences in Puttalam.
The Soul of Puttalam
Discover the essence of Puttalam through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Puttalam, with many locals participating in friendly matches and tournaments.
Football has a strong following in Puttalam, with numerous local clubs and passion for both playing and watching the sport.
Volleyball is widely played across schools and communities, offering a fun and competitive experience for players.
Kabaddi is a traditional sport that is enjoyed by many in Puttalam, often played in rural areas and during festivals.
Athletics, including running and field events, is practiced by many youths, particularly in schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puttalam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood holds a significant presence in Puttalam's cuisine, many eateries offer delicious vegetarian dishes such as Jackfruit Curry, Dhal Curry, and Vegetable Kottu, ensuring satisfying options for vegetarians.
Local restaurants and cafes accommodate vegan preferences with dishes like Coconut Sambol, Pol Roti (coconut flatbread), and an array of fresh fruit juices and smoothies.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can relish naturally gluten-free options like String Hoppers, Hoppers, and fresh seafood dishes that are often served with rice, a staple in many Puttalam meals.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Puttalam with these cultural adventures.
