The seaside town of Weligama can be found on the south coast of Sri Lanka, not far from Mirissa. This sleepy town may be small, but there are several key points of interest in the area that are definitely worth visiting for. The historical and cultural sites around Weligama are delightfully diverse, with each telling its own story of Sri Lanka. Learn more about Sri Lanka’s wildlife at the snake farm, the ancient history of Weligama at the Kushtarajagala Statue and the production process of one of the country’s key exports at the Handunugoda Tea Estate. Weligama is also one of the best places in Sri Lanka to learn to surf. The conditions at Weligama beach are ideal for learning the basics and there are plenty of surf schools in town!
| Price | Good for | Airport | Kids | Culture | Beaches | Dining | Nightlife | Surf | Safari |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $$ | Beaches, surfing, culture | 91 miles | * ** * | * ** | * ** * | ** * | * * | **** | * * |
What’s Weligama known for?
Weligama is best-known for its beach, where surf conditions are just perfect for beginners. The gentle swell, sandy bottom, and shallow waters make the place ideal for learning the basics, and there are several surf schools in town. Aside from the swell, there are several sites of cultural, historical and educational interest nearby. Take a short taxi ride out of town and you’ll find tea plantations, snake farms and ancient statues, all of which are fantastic places to learn more about Sri Lanka!
Who should go to Weligama?
Weligama’s sandy beach and small waves make the spot a go-to for families and beginner surfers in Sri Lanka. Those interested in historical artifacts and the production of Sri Lanka’s famous tea shouldn’t miss out, either!
When should you go to Weligama?
For the best weather
As with the rest of Sri Lanka, the weather in Weligama is warm throughout the year. Temperatures average between 26 – 28 C (79 – 82 F) no matter what months it is; however, rainfall in the region varies significantly. Visit during the dry months of January, February, March, July, August, and September for your best chance of sunny skies!
To beat the crowds
The holiday months of July and August are Weligama’s busiest, with many people arriving on summer vacation. Get the best of this small town by visiting in February, March, April, June or September, when the crowds are considerably thinner.
For the best surf
To get the best of the surf in Weligama, head over between October and April for optimal conditions.
Things to see and do in Weligama
Kushtarajagala Statue
This ancient stone carving in Weligama in a must-see in town and has a fascinating history to boot. The exact origin of this intricate, larger-than-life stone sculpture is unknown, but it is thought to have been carved between the 7-9th century. The Kushtarajagala statue was built in honour of an ancient king, who arrived in the Weligama Bay suffering from a severe skin disease. He was successfully treated in the town and the image was subsequently carved to celibrate his recovery. This fascinating historical artifact is impressive to see and even more so to learn about, so make sure you check it out while in Weligama!
Learn to surf
Have you always wanted to learn to surf? The sandy bottom, gentle swell and small waves of Weligama Bay make it one of the best places in Sri Lanka to discover a passion for the ocean! The beach is dotted with surf schools, all offering beginner lessons and surf courses. This is the perfect place to learn the basics and catch your first wave, before graduating to the more powerful swell in nearby Mirissa.
Handunugoda Tea Estate
Take a day-trip out of town to nearby Ahangama, where you can spend a delightful afternoon at the Handunugoda Tea Estate. With a Tea Tour of the plantation and facilities, you can learn everything there is to know about the production of Sri Lanka’s no.1 export. The estate covers 200 acres of land and, although tea is grown on 75 of these, the land also houses rubber, cinnamon and coconut plantations. Their friendly and knowledgable staff have endless information to share about the estate, making this a highly educational outing!
The plantation itself is greenly beautiful with a tranquil vibe that you can lose yourself in entirely. Finish your trip with a slice of cake and a cup of tea, which you can choose from many different varieties. Browse their selection of tea after your tour and buy yourself a treat from their gift shop!
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Sri Lanka Snake Farm
Sri Lanka’s impressive array of wildlife is a key reason to visit. In fact, many people come with the intention of seeing as many fantastic beasts as possible! If this sounds like you, make sure you check out the Sri Lanka Snake Farm while you’re in Weligama. The farm is situated in nearby Matara and houses a wide variety of snakes. Their well-informed and enthusiastic staff will explain everything there is to know about the various species, some of which you can even hold (if you’re brave enough).
The farm is easily reachable by taxi from Weligama, making this the perfect place for a fun and educational trip out of town.
Enjoy the view of Tabropane Island from Weligama Beach
Weligama Beach is the town’s main strip of coastline and is the perfect place to sunbathe, read, walk and relax. From the sandy shore, you can see Taprobane Island, a tiny spit of land just wading distance away. Although entry to the island is prohibited (as it is home to a private mansion) the vibrant green of the palm fronds against the blue sky makes for a stunning view.
Where to eat in Weligama
Meewitha Cool Spot Family Restaurant
For the best rice and curry in Weligama, head over to Meewitha for dinner while you’re in town! This relaxed and cozy restaurant serves a variety of traditional Sri Lanka dishes, all expertly prepared with the freshest ingredients. Not only is the food sensational, Meewitha is also one of the most reasonably priced eateries in the area, making it regular spot for many people in town.
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NOMAD Cafe Boutique
If you’re a big fan of brunch, NOMAD Cafe Boutique is the place to be. Their menu is packed with delicious and healthy dishes including salads, avocado toast, smoothie bowls and much more besides. NOMAD have plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options on offer and their juices and smoothies are excellent, too!
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Fishpoint Weligama
Head to Fishpoint Weligama for the freshest and most delicious seafood in town, which you can eat in a beautiful setting. This basic beachside restaurant serves up your food right on the sand, so you can take in the spectacular view of the ocean as you dine. Head over during your stay for authentically prepared, locally sourced seafood!
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Where to stay in Weligama
To be by the Bay
For a magical stay in Weligama, consider renting a private villa in the Bay. These sensational properties can be found just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and all have stunning sea views – perfect to wake up to! Treat yourself to a little luxury with one of these elegantly furnished and superbly located villas, for a holiday you’ll never forget. This is also a great option for those travelling as a family as it affords you plenty of space and privacy, not to mention your own pool!