Wadduwa, about 30 km south of Colombo, has a long palm-lined beach and several Ayurveda resorts.
Top things to do in Wadduwa
Siddhalepa Ayurveda
Ayurveda programmes with herbal treatments, massages and yoga, linked to a well-known herbal medicine maker.
The beach
Fishermen bring in nets in the mornings; take care with currents.
Bolgoda Lake
A large lake system north of town for boating and birds.
Best time to go
The best weather on this coast is from about November to April. The south-west monsoon brings rain and rough seas from about May to September.
Nearby
Panadura, a few kilometres north, is remembered for the Panadura debate of 1873, which helped spark the Buddhist revival. Kalutara is about 20 minutes south.
Getting around
Tuk tuks are the easiest way to get around locally; agree the fare first or use a ride app where available. Buses and trains run along the coast road and railway between Colombo, Galle and Matara.
Safety
Sea conditions change with the monsoon. Red flags, strong currents and rip tides are common from about May to September and lifeguards are few, so swim only where locals or hotel staff say it is safe.
Ayurveda tips
Plan at least a week for a full treatment programme, which usually includes a consultation with a doctor, herbal treatments, a set diet and rest.
Plan your visit
Wadduwa makes an easy first or last stop near Colombo. For history, background and how to get there, see the Wadduwa travel guide, and for accommodation see hotels in Wadduwa.
