Less than two hours drive south from Colombo, either along the coastal road or by train, will take you to Balapitiya, a small, picturesque village with golden soft beaches.
While Balapitiya still seems “untouched” by mass tourism it’s only a short drive beyond Bentota, one of Sri Lanka’s major beach resorts. To the south of Balapitiya are, Ambalangoda famous for its mask carving, the surfers’ paradise Hikkaduwa and the historical city of Galle, all of which are within easy reach.
Balapitiya is traditionally a fishing village and you can enjoy the scattered small fishing hamlets bordering the beach where simple village folks live.
Restaurants would offer you fresh fish cooked in traditional Balapitiya style enjoyed by all tourists. A walk along the beach will make you witness the delightful sight of groups fishermen pulling their long fishing nets called Maa-del laden with small fish, on to the shore.
Fishing trips and/or river safaris can easily be arranged. A journey down the many brackish water lagoons stretching in from the sea and the Maadu river lined with thick vegetation, takes you on an enjoyable boat trip to witness the amazing flora and fauna that make Balapitiya attractive for nature loving eco-tourists and bird watchers.
An important administrative site from the time of the British era, Balapitiya has many mansions and estates which are now converted into villas and hotels for visitors.