Ritipanna is the Sinhalese term for stilt fishing, which is a traditional method for fishing practiced by most fishermen along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. This art is popularly seen in areas such as Ahangama, Koggala, Welipenna, Kathaluwa and Thalarambe. A narrow pole is tied to a stick that is anchored on the sea bed. Fisher folk climb onto this stick and settle on the pole for a few hours in an effort to catch some fish.

Fishermen found on stilts are those who do not have access to sophisticated equipment for fishing. These men can make a living simply with the help of two wooden poles to make a stilt. One pole is nailed onto the sea bed and the other is placed like a cross bar and acts as a plank for the fishermen to sit on. Each stilt can accommodate only one fisherman. For catching fish, they create a rod made of Kithul, and a small plastic bag is tied around their waist to hold the fish that they catch. With one hand they hold onto the stilt and with the other they hold the rod that catches fish. The tradition of stilt fishing will always be practiced by those who cannot afford to invest in modern fishing equipment.

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Hostels in Koggala

Superior Double Room, Balcony, Garden View | In-room dining

SAR 94 total

includes taxes & fees

22 Jun - 23 Jun

"We booked and paid via hotel.com BUT when we arrived the manager explained Expedia instructed him to charge us for the room. We spent 2 hours chatting with hotels.com whereby they promised to refund us, so we also paid cash (so double) while waiting for hotels.com to refund us. BUT we now received a email explaining they could NOT get in contact with hotel and will NOT REFUND us! "

"I rented an Airbnb in unawatuna which ended up turning in an awful experience. I had to find a new place last minute and I was really happy when I arrived to snooze. It’s clean, the boss is a respectful and kind person who is available to help guests when in need, the room was spacious with ac and hot water. Ended up paying half of what I paid for the Airbnb nightmare. I extended another night at snooze. I definitely recommend it specifically if you’re a woman traveling alone as I am. "

SAR 207 total

includes taxes & fees

5 Jul - 6 Jul

"The pictures are not a true reflection of this property. It has the potential to be a very lovely hotel but it is run down and falling apart. The rooms were dirty especially the bathroom. There wasn't a mosquito net for the bed. Service for breakfast was very slow. The pool looks like it needs a good clean. I couldn't even get into it. "

SAR 227 total

includes taxes & fees

23 Jun - 24 Jun

SAR 116 total

includes taxes & fees

22 Jun - 23 Jun

SAR 113 total

includes taxes & fees

18 Jul - 19 Jul

"Prachtige setting, mooie tuin die doorloopt naar het rustige strand. Super lekker eten. Heel vriendelijk personeel. "

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Recent reviews of Koggala hotels

5/5 Excellent

"To call this a 3-star hotel is an absolute understatement. This boutique hotel is full of charm and character, offering an experience that far exceeds its rating. We stayed in the Deluxe Ocean Front room, which was stunning. The room was spacious, the bathroom was modern and spotless, and the private balcony was the icing on the cake. The staff went above and beyond to ensure our stay was comfortable. They accommodated our early travel schedule by packing us a breakfast to-go on the first day and served breakfast on our balcony the next. Whether it's the front desk or the 24/7 security guard, you're always greeted with a warm smile. The shared oceanfront terrace offers a spectacular view of the sunset — a perfect place to unwind. Highly recommended."

A verified traveler stayed at The Bartizan

Posted 5 days ago

5/5 Excellent

"By far the best experience! It was the staff that make the experience more enjoyable. On our first day we met Wasanthi, she showed us the beauty of what Raddison has to offer, made me a lovely coconut water by the beach. We then met with Ashan Randika at the bar who served beer and the best pizza! Throughout our stay they made sure we had the best time. Thank you team, highly recommend 5 star service! Thank you again Wasanthi, Ashan and the restaurant, concierge staff. First trip to Galle and will come again xx"

A verified traveler stayed at Radisson Blu Resort Galle

Posted 6 days ago

5/5 Excellent

"The staff are super nice and we book the villa is big . overall is excellent and they really try to provide excellent service . I gave high mark because they provide service from their heart and sense. They restaurant should have airconditon but not so I did gave full mark . Anyway I recommend this hotel to my friends . "

A verified traveler stayed at Villa White Queen

Posted 3 weeks ago

5/5 Excellent

Fantastic stay at a gorgeous hotel

"We had an amazing time at Riff, nothing bad to say about the place. It was extremely comfortable with great service. A fab pool and direct access to the beach. The food was delicious in both the downstairs restaurant and the rooftop restaurant - especially the grilled seafood (lobster and prawns!) and the a la carte breakfast was fantastic. We loved having drinks on the rooftop at sunset every evening, with great views and live music. Felt very spoilt! "

A verified traveler stayed at Riff Hikkaduwa

Posted 2 months ago

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Frequently asked questions

Should I stay in a hostel in Koggala?

By staying at a hostel you can spend less on lodging and use more of your trip funds for sightseeing during your vacation. If you're hoping to enjoy the natural surroundings, you can check out the beaches while you're here.

What is a hostel?

No two hostels look identical, but these dorm-style accommodations all have shared rooms (though many hostels also have private rooms), budget-friendly prices, and a social environment.

What are the best hostels in Koggala?

Need some guidance on where to stay in Koggala? This hostel is popular: Gaia Ocean Surf Yoga - Guests can enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Rooms come with towels, bed sheets, and free WiFi.

When is the best time of year to stay in a hostel in Koggala?

The weather is important when you're discovering new places, so here are some stats about the seasons: The hottest months are usually March and April with an average temp of 82°F, while the coldest months are January and February with an average of 80°F. The rainiest months in Koggala are May, November, September, and October, with each month seeing an average of 12 inches of rainfall.

What is there to see and do in Koggala?

Depending on what you're interested in, you might enjoy some places near Koggala. Get out into nature with places like Koggala Lake, Koggala Beach, and Kabalana Beach. Cultural attractions include Martin Wickramsinghe Folk Museum, Stilt Fisherman, and Handunugoda Tea Estate. Additional attractions include Kathaluwa Old Temple, Eagles' Catalina Golf Course, and Midigama Beach.

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Hostels in Koggala

Cocosurf House

Lazy Koala Hostel - Adults Only

Snooze Station by Sydney Galle

Closenberg Hotel

Old Parkland Hostel Galle

Old Parkland Hostel near the city center

Dreamsea surf camp Sri Lanka

Lo hostel

Nature Rex - Hostel

Costels Weligama

Costels mirissa

The best view in Mirissa.

Hostel First Mirissa

Dreamers Lodge - Hostel

Chaya Mega Hostel

Recent reviews of Koggala hotels

The Bartizan

Radisson Blu Resort Galle

Villa White Queen

Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa

Agnus Unawatuna

Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon

Cocobay Unawatuna

Riff Hikkaduwa

Randiya Sea View Hotel

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