As one of the most captivating tourist attractions in Sri Lanka, the Hikkaduwa National Park presents intrepid travellers with a host of natural wonders to come into contact with.
Introduction
The stretch of coral that is found hugging the shoreline of Hikkaduwa was the 1st coral reef to be unveiled as a marine national park in the island nation. This accolade was bestowed on this region on the 18th of May, 1979. Named the Hikkaduwa National Park, this attraction is one of the 3 aquatic parks that you will have the privilege of discovering when on holiday in the Emerald Isle.
Location
Given that it is located a short distance away from the city of Galle and the busy Galle Road, thrill seekers and leisure vacationers will not find it too arduous a task of arriving here. If journeying from Colombo, then expect to be on the road for a total of 98 miles but in the event, you have selected a Hikkaduwa resort the likes of Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon, then accessing the Park will be a thing of the past given that a mere 400 meters separate the former and latter.
Main inhabitants
A staggering 60 species of corals including Star Corals, Cabbage and Staghorn find refuge within the Park while over 170 species of reef fish are known to swim to and fro in these waters. If lucky, you may also spot the Blacktip Reef Shark along the outer slopes of the attraction. Added to this, the Green Turtle, Olive Ridley and Hawksbill Turtle frequent this region.
How to explore the corals?
Diving is the most commonly resorted water sport to discover the pageantry of the Hikkaduwa National Park. Also, since the corals are located in shallow seas, you will not see a need to dive beyond 16 feet.
