Madu Ganga, a coastal wetland ecosystem and estuary located at Balapitiya, is a virgin mangrove forest in Sri Lanka. The best way to experience the beauty of this is by boat. This safari takes one through cool and shady mangrove caves, secluded islands, cinnamon plantations, ancient temples and plenty more. This river safari is the one of the best things to do in Bentota while staying at the beautiful Saman Villas hotel.
The river has around 64 islands, and is also a birdwatcher’s paradise and home to exotic bird species. As cruising along the river, one passes through thick mangrove vegetation, monkeys chilling on treetops, and giant water monitors weaving through the waters. Further upstream, kraal-fishing constructions made of bamboo, used for prawn fishing is plentiful. A collection of islets is found in this region, from tiny specks housing deserted shrines, to larger ones home to over 250 families connected to the mainland by a footbridge. One can see these inhabitants engaged in traditional cottage industries like fishing and cinnamon production.
Cruising along, one can visit the cultural landmark the Kothdoowa Raja Viharya. This ancient temple is on a beautiful setting on the river, where one can feed the friendly mountain squirrels that reside on the island, receive blessing from the head priest, take a tour of the temple and discover the 130 year old Bo tree.
The boat ride stops over at a floating fish farm where one have a can an extremely unique pedicure, where, hundreds of red tilapia fish in a small square begin to nibble at the feet when dipped in to the water. This fish nibbling can be quite relaxing.
There is also an island where cinnamon products are made. A small demonstration doneby a local shows how the cinnamon bark is peeled and processed. One can buy fresh cinnamon and cinnamon oil here.
Thus a Maduganga river safari can be an exhilarating experience while visiting Bentota.
Nigel Walters is a travel writer, who writes under the pen name, Fritzjames Stephen. His content is based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.