Set amidst glorious coastal sunshine, the azure waters of the Indian Ocean and cool sea breezes, the South Coast of Sri Lanka offers a truly idyllic coastal getaway. Blessed with pristine beaches, such areas as Hikkaduwa give one the chance to spend lazy days soaking up the sun or taking part in a wide range of water sports such as diving, snorkelling, surfing, boogie-boarding and wind surfing. Taking a glass bottom boat ride is also a popular activity since the area is home to colourful corals and diverse marine species.
At night the beaches in the area become happening clubbing destinations with a wide range of parties taking place along and near the shore. Apart from the sun, surf and sand however, the South coast is also home to a variety of historical, cultural and religious monuments and those staying in Hikkaduwa looking to visit one of these sites can head to Dodanduwa Polgasduwa Temple.
Located on Polgasduwa Island, the Dodanduwa Polgasduwa Temple is situated within easy reach of Hikkaduwa. The temple was established in 1911 by a German Buddhist monk, ‘Gnanatiloka’, who is considered to be the first Theravada Buddhist monk with German origins. This secluded hermitage is a popular draw amongst Buddhists the world over, looking to practice meditation and studying the teachings of Lord Buddha.
Since this is a sacred site where meditation is practiced, visitors are restricted to the temple. Those planning to visit here need to write and get permission in advance from the monastery in order to get a letter of invitation. As with the case of most Buddhist temples and sites in the country there is a dress code for visitors entering the premises and those invited to Dodanduwa Polgasduwa temple need to follow the given instructions pertaining to attire.
Those heading to the South coast will find many beach hotels in Sri Lanka catering to the diverse needs of travellers. A luxurious Hikkaduwa hotel from which to enjoy the very best of what this coastal paradise has to offer, Chaaya Tranz Hikkaduwa is ideally located only around 4 kms from Dodanduwa Polgasduwa Temple which can be reached in about 15 minutes by vehicle.
