The fascinating Madu River is an attraction that every nature loving traveller ought to explore when in Sri Lanka. Located in the Galle District, this amazing river is located in the town of Balapitiya and is home to some incredible biological diversity. The river passes through the island’s wet zone and opens up into the Madu Lagoon where it connects with the Indian Ocean. If you are staying at Heritance Ahungalla, a top notch beach resort in Sri Lanka, during your exploration of the island’s fascinating southern coast, make sure to arrange a safari excursion of Madu River to enjoy its incredible beauty and natural value.
The area around the Madu River is covered in mangrove forests that span across more than 61 hectares. There are around 14 species of mangroves in this area and this vast forest proved its value in preventing erosion during the 2004 tsunami in which the forest protected the area by acting as a natural barrier. The area features a lot of fertile soil and provides nutrients and the ideal growth conditions for many other plants. In addition to plants, the area that surrounds the Madu River is also home to some interesting animals such as wild boar, squirrels and monkeys. There are also plenty of birds such as beautiful kingfishers and cormorants among 111 species. Snakes, crocodiles and lizards are also commonly seen among the 31 species of reptiles that live in the forest.
The truly fascinating thing about the Madu River and surrounding areas is the fact that nature is left untouched and undisturbed to flourish and thrive. The region was declared a Ramsar Wetland Site in 2003 and travellers will find plenty to explore on their river safaris. A typical river safari lasts around 2 – 3 hours and takes passengers along mangrove passages and into hidden-away mangrove caves. Some safaris may provide a lunch at one of the islands in the river as well as close encounters with some of the various animals that live in the area.
Intrigued by history, art and food, Lavinia Woolf is a writer who is passionate about the extraordinary and writes of the exhilarating and enchanting. Google+