Things To Do
in Weligama
Weligama is a picturesque coastal town located in the southern province of Sri Lanka, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant surf culture. The town features a laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure alike. Weligama is famous for its unique stilt fishing and offers a variety of water sports, especially surfing.
With a rich history and diverse local culture, Weligama provides travelers with a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a surfing lesson at Weligama Beach, known for its gentle waves.
Visit the nearby stilt fishermen and learn about this traditional fishing method. Afterward, explore the local markets for some shopping.
Enjoy a beachfront dinner at a seafood restaurant, soaking in the sunset views.
Take a guided tour to visit the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore its colonial architecture.
Return to Weligama and participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare Sri Lankan dishes.
End your day with a visit to a local beach bar for drinks and live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $30 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.50 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $2 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches and beautiful landscapes
- Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
- Great for water sports and outdoor activities
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season
- Language barrier may exist for some travelers
- "ආයුබෝවන්" - Hello
- "ස්තුතියි" - Thank you
- "කෙසේද?" - How are you?
- "මට උදව් කරන්න" - I need help
- "කියන්න" - Please say
Places to Visit in Weligama
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning sunset views and surfers riding the waves at this iconic beach.
Photograph the unique sight of local fishermen perched on stilts, a traditional fishing method.
The colonial architecture and coastal views from the fort make for picturesque shots.
Food in Weligama
Weligama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish featuring a variety of curries served with rice, often accompanied by sambols and pickles.
Must-Try!
A popular street food made from chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and meat or spices.
A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour, often served with a variety of toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where locals sell fresh catches of the day, perfect for experiencing local life.
Scattered around the town, these stalls offer a quick taste of local favorites like samosas and fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites, removing shoes before entry.
A simple nod or 'Ayubowan' (hello) with a smile is a common greeting.
Use your right hand for eating and passing food; it's considered impolite to use the left hand.
Safety
Tipping in Weligama
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated, especially in restaurants and for service workers; around 10% is typical.
Cash is commonly used, but some establishments accept credit cards; it's advisable to carry cash for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny weather and ideal conditions for beach activities and water sports.
This season brings heavy rains and is less favorable for beach activities, but it’s great for lush green landscapes.
Enjoy local festivals and celebrations, particularly around Christmas and New Year, adding vibrancy to your visit.
A good time for fewer crowds and slightly cooler weather, making it pleasant for sightseeing.
Weligama at Night
Hiking in Weligama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short hike that offers breathtaking views of the coastline and is a popular spot for Instagram photos.
A bit further away, this UNESCO World Heritage site features lush biodiversity and well-marked trails for nature lovers.
Airports
How to reach Weligama by plane.
Located approximately 100 km from Weligama, this international airport serves as a gateway for travelers visiting the southern coast of Sri Lanka.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are involved in fishing, particularly stilt fishing, which is a traditional practice in the area.
Weligama attracts a diverse group of travelers, including surfers, beachgoers, and cultural enthusiasts seeking to explore the southern coast.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is immensely popular among locals, with many playing in public spaces and organized matches in the town.
With its favorable waves, surfing attracts both locals and tourists, making it a vibrant part of Weligama's culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Weligama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and local cuisine includes a variety of plant-based ingredients.
While gluten-free options may be limited, rice and vegetable dishes are widely available.