Arugambay

Eastern Province

Arugam Bay is a vibrant town, famed around the world for its exhilarating surfing opportunities, poised on the south-east coast of Sri Lanka. It is listed as one of the top ten surf spots in the world!
If surfing is not for you, there are many other things to explore in Arugam Bay. Stroll along the spectacular beaches, or relax with a local yoga class. You will be able to see elephants grazing on the shores of the tank in Lahugalla National Park, and if you head further afield to Kumana, you may be lucky enough to see leopards sleeping on a granite outcrop or a sloth bear feasting on the fallen red berries of a weera tree. There are a handful of stunning secluded beaches to hunt out – from the bay at Okanda, where you can also visit the colorful Hindu kovil (currently the resting place for pilgrims on their way to Kataragama), to Peanut Farm and the beach at Whisky Point. Make sure to head to Mudu Maha Vihara too, one of the many fascinating temples around the area.

Things to do in Arugambay

A Visit to Magul Maha Viharaya

The ancient Magul Maha Viharaya, believed to be the venue of the wedding between King Kavantissa of the Magam Ruhunu Kingdom (205-161 BC) and Princess Viharamaha Devi, is situated in Lahugala. Witness the unique moonstone of the temple, which is adorned with intricate details including the tender leaves of the ironwood tree, lotus petals, flower motifs and animals. A dagoba is built upon an elevated platform about six feet tall, and its stairways are guarded by stone lions. To the west of the dagoba is the Bodhigara or Bo tree shrine, known amongst people as the Magul Poruwa (marriage podium) of the royal marriage. The image house situated towards the North End of the temple complex houses a limestone-standing Buddha statue. Many stone pillars and other remnants of varying sizes are scattered across the entire area.

Note:

Light, cool clothing. You will need to cover your knees and shoulders and access the temple barefoot or with socks.

A Visit to Muhudu Maha Viharaya

As legend has it, the brave daughter of Kelanitissa, Princess Devi landed here after being cast into the sea to spare the island from the wrath of the gods. Here the princess met her future spouse- King Kavantissa of the Ruhunu Kingdom.

As you walk into the temple premises, a range of stone pillars silently stand the test of time, believed to be at least 2,300 years old. Beyond the pillars is an image house, which houses three intricate stone statues. The two figurines with telltale signs of royalty are said to be of Princess Devi and King Kavantissa. They are standing side by side looking towards a statue of a monk. Towards the coast, ruins of a stupa visible from the sand can be seen. However, most remnants have been washed away with time.

Note:

Light, cool clothing. You will need to cover your knees and shoulders and access the temple barefoot or with socks.

Climb Kudumbugala Rock Cave Monastry

According to the archives of history, this monastic complex is the first of its kind built for Buddhist monks in Sri Lanka. The remnants of this ancient site expand over a massive area of 600 acres within the confines of the Ruhuna Wildlife Park.

The long and winding path to the top of the rock is serenely beautiful with each step inviting you to take the next and explore the tranquility of its environs. There are over 200 caves within this vast monastic complex. It was believed to have been built by King Kavan Tissa (205-161BC), the father of King Dutugamunu.
After a trek of approximately 45 minutes, you take the final step and ascend the plateau. Once you climb to the summit the view of the surrounding environment is breathtaking.

Experiences & Activities

Riding the waves of Arugam Bay

Conquer the terrific waves in Arugam Bay, the hottest surfing destination in the island. The surfing capital has become famous among surfers due to the diversity it provides in terms of its numerous points. Make sure to choose a point based on your experience level. Arugam Bay point is at the tip of the bay, which is considered an advanced point. Peanut Farm and Crocodile Rock are for beginners as the waves are milder and rise to lesser heights. Whisky Point and Pottuvil Point are adjacent to each other. Pottuvil Point too is considered to be more rough surf and is appropriate for advanced surfers. The waves break quickly at Okanda Point, where the surf is a short ride with great power and less drive. Therefore, Okanda is also ideal for pro surfers.

Note:

The season for surfing in Arugam Bay begins in April and continues till October.
Surfing gear can be hired at an additional cost.

Jeep Safari to Kumana

Get in to the jeeps at the entrance gate of Kumana National Park by either 6AM or 3PM. The tracker and driver will take you on a 2.5 to 3-hour game drive into the national park. The abundant wildlife at Kumana National Park and its extensive flora are supplied water by the Kumbukkan Oya, which borders the park’s western region and 200 hectares of mangrove swamp called “Kumana Villu”. The Villu provide the ideal feeding and resting habitat to the migratory birds. While on safari, watch out for the elephants, spotted, and sambhur deer who are quite active around watering holes like the Kumana Villu swamp, and also in pockets of lush foliage. In addition to this, Kumana is also home to leopard, sloth bear, water buffalo, iguanas, wild boars, monkeys and crocodiles.