Ambalangoda to Koggala

Language

The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhala and Tamil. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Ambalangoda and Koggala.

Currency

The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). ATMs and currency exchange services are available in both Ambalangoda and Koggala.

Distance

The distance between Ambalangoda and Koggala is approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles).

How to Reach

• By Bus: Take a local bus from Ambalangoda bus stand to Koggala bus stand. The journey takes around 30 minutes and costs about LKR 100.
• By Train: There are no direct trains between Ambalangoda and Koggala. You can take a train from Ambalangoda to Galle and then connect to a bus or taxi to Koggala.
• By Tuk-Tuk: Tuk-tuks are readily available in Ambalangoda. A ride to Koggala costs around LKR 500-700.

Expenses

• Accommodation: Guesthouses and budget hotels in Koggala range from LKR 1,500-3,000 per night.
• Food: Local restaurants serve meals for around LKR 300-500. Western restaurants are more expensive.
• Transportation: A tuk-tuk ride within Koggala costs around LKR 200-300.

Best time to go

The best time to visit Koggala is during the dry season from December to April. However, the town is also pleasant to visit during the off-season (May-November), when there are fewer tourists and lower prices.

What to Eat

• Rice and Curry: The national dish of Sri Lanka, rice and curry is a must-try.
• Seafood: Koggala is known for its fresh seafood, including crab, lobster, and fish.
• Hoppers: Hoppers are bowl-shaped pancakes made from coconut milk and rice flour.

Where to Go

• Koggala Beach: A beautiful and laid-back beach with golden sands and palm trees.
• Koggala Lake: A large freshwater lake with opportunities for birdwatching and boat rides.
• Madol Duwa Temple: An ancient Buddhist temple located on a small island in Koggala Lake.

FAQs

1. How far in advance should I book accommodation? It's recommended to book accommodation at least a few days in advance, especially during peak season.
2. Is it safe to travel alone as a woman? Yes, Koggala is generally safe for solo female travelers.
3. Can I get a visa on arrival? Yes, citizens of most countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Colombo Airport.