The Best Cycling Routes in Galle – Pedal Your Way Through Scenic Landscapes

With idyllic tropical landscapes, golden beaches and charming villages, one of the best ways to experience the beauty of this Sri Lankan province is through cycling. Experience the wonders of the Southern coast, with a guide to cycling routes in Galle.

 

img via nevigativespace

Best Time to Visit

Dry season, which falls between December and April, is the ideal time for cycling or any outdoor activity in Galle. Mornings and late afternoons are best for cooler temperatures, as the sun can be harsh during the daytime.

Wijaya Beach Paddy Trail

This trail takes you through tranquil paddy fields, beginning with the stunning views of Wijaya Beach. It’s a relatively easy route, perfect for casual cyclists looking to experience the region’s rural charm, just a short distance from the most popular Galle tourist places. If you spot a small stall along the way, coloured with the bright orange of king coconut, stop for a short break and quench your thirst with some refreshing coconut water, straight from its source.

Koggala Lake Trail

Further past the paddy fields, cycle around the scenic Koggala Lake, famous for its serene waters and mangrove forests. The trail offers opportunities to visit small islands, spot exotic birds, and take in breathtaking views of the lake at sunset, with excursions offered by nearby hotels like KK Beach Galle Sri Lanka.

What to Wear

For a comfortable ride, dress in lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool. Wear sturdy sneakers and a helmet for safety. Also, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your ride.

Sensational serpents: Look and learn about these wondrous reptiles at Thelijjawila, Sri Lanka

Are you nuts about nature? If you are looking to spend some time delving into the daring side of nature, then the snake farm in Thelijjawila, Sri Lanka, seems the ideal destination for you.

Photo by Anil Sharma via pexels

Where and what it is

Looking to engage in something unusual to spice up your holiday? Out of all the attractions on offer near Galle, tourist places of unusual taste can be found hidden in a little-known town called Thelijjawila. Built close to Weligama, in the Southern region of Sri Lanka, it is an amazing place which can be termed as a snake sanctuary. A drive is the simplest way to reach the location.

Origin

Situated a short distance away from properties by the beach like KK Beach Galle, the site offers its visitors in-depth knowledge about the species. It is managed by three generations of snake charmers. It was established as a means of preserving the serpents by looking after them if they suffered from ailments and letting them loose back into the environment after treatment. Ayurvedic treatments for snake bites are also done here.

Knowledge hub 

Native non-venomous as well as venomous snakes inhabit the conservatory. However, all of these reptiles are temporary dwellers here as they are released into safer grounds after treatment. Out of the 72 diverse serpent species living in Sri Lanka, around 20 like the cobra, viper, python, vine snake, keelback, cat snake, racer etc are found on this site. Snake demonstrations are the highlight of the visit as you will be able to watch snake dances and even touch harmless serpents.

Multiple locations 

Dr Vipul Widyasena is the manager of the snake farm mentioned here. However, more sanctuaries are scattered in several locations around the area. It is better to call and alert the owners of your visit because at times they might not be available on site.  A fee of LKR 800 for adults and LKR 400 for kids should be paid before entering the premises.