Induruwa

For a chance to experience genuine local life in a truly scenic village, not to mention the chance to take advantage of pristine and uncrowded beaches, Induruwa is a prime destination.

Found on the west coast of Sri Lanka, it is a popular tourist hotspot despite being a small and charming fishing village. The many resorts offer a great place to recharge body, mind and soul, in a surrounding where golden sands meet flourishing greenery.

When to go

Temperatures in Induruwa vary only slightly throughout the year, where highs of 29°C to 31°C can be expected regardless of the months in which you travel. The very hottest time of the year is March to May, but if you want the best conditions with regards to temperature and pleasant humidity, January – early March is generally considered the time to aim for.

Top Attractions

Induruwa is an isolated beach town located a few kilometres south of Bentota, so it is far more laid back and quiet than some of its busier neighbouring beach retreats. The stunning flora and fauna of the Maadu Rver make it a favourite of nature lovers and bird watchers.

But, the adventurer in you may find the short trip to Bentota worthwhile, where you can get yourself onto a River Boat Safari. Or how about a private day trip safari at Udawalawe National Park?

Beaches

The low-key environment and peaceful beach are the big draws with this village. The long sandy coastline of the Induruwa beach is perfect for long strolls, sunbathing and swimming. If you’re lucky (and early) you may even catch a lobster fisherman hard at work on the boulders along the coast.

There’s even turtle hatcheries – yes, that means baby turtles! – that are open to tourists.

Dining

The majority of the dining options available can be found inside the various hotels and resorts. The seafood on offer is generally the best of the best and the beachside Osteria Romana comes highly recommended.

To escape the trappings of the hotel restaurants, the nearby town of Aluthgama has multiple busy and cheap options. Or, you could try your luck in the daytime with a trip to Induruwa’s small local market.

Culture

The sweet water lagoons and Maadu River are of unique appeal, where the local wildlife proves to be fascinating. Catching a glimpse of the local fishing trade and market places is also a joy.

For a touch of whole-body healing using true ancient methodology, many hotels offer Ayurvedic practices for rejuvenation of mind and body that was developed more than 3,000 years ago and is one of the oldest holistic healing systems anywhere in the world.

Adventure and Sports

If you have any adventurers in your travel party, the short trip to Bentota is a must. Safari day trips, boat safaris, Bentota by Beetle (that’s the VW variety, rather than the insect) and a smorgasbord of water sport options are at your fingertips after taking this mere 15-minute drive up the road.

Getting around

There are buses that connect Induruwa with Aluthgama and Bentota (via the main Galle Road) for those times when you want to cast your net a little wider. But, within Induruwa itself, the many three-wheelers hurtling around the streets offer the easiest way of getting about (when you’re not strolling up and down that wonderful shoreline, that is).