5 things worth checking out in Kosgoda

Saturday, 20 December 2014 00:04 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

On route to Galle lies the often overlooked town of Kosgoda, a perfect setting not only for those looking for an adventurous getaway but also for those seeking out rest and relaxation.

Nestled between the towns of Balapitiya and Induruwa and known mainly for its sea turtle conservation projects which are an attraction for tourists and locals alike, Kosgoda is perfect if you’re not for one travelling too far down south to find a decent stretch of beach. Here are five things worth experiencing in this south western coastal town. Hotel Garden Beach Hotel Garden Beach, located on Talgahapitiya Road in Kosgoda, is ideal for honeymooners or even group outings. Personalised care is of essence at this hotel and this is made convenient by the fact that it has only eight deluxe rooms and three suites. Even if the entire place is booked, you won’t find it to be crowded and/or noisy. The hotel building stands overlooking a manicured lawn and beyond it lies the ocean. Although not ideal for sea-bathing, the beach stretch beyond the hotel is frequented by turtles at night. The little bank right by the entrance to the sea, with its lounge chairs, is perfect for late afternoon siestas, with the background of waves and ocean breeze.

The Mangroves AKA KOS The Mangroves, also known shortly as KOS, is a quiet bungalow/cottage beside a lagoon. The bungalow has three rooms – two doubles and one triple, two bathrooms, a TV room/lounge, verandah and a small kitchenette. The place comes with a cook/caretaker. Since it’s not on the beach, the main attraction for visitors of KOS is kayaking on the lagoon, which if done early morning or late evening while the sun is setting, can be a surreal experience. The intensity of the kayaking and the distance covered can vary according to visitors’ stamina and exercise vs relaxation requirements.

Little Tomorrowland Bringing a touch of the famed and largest electronic music festival in the world – Belgium Tomorrowland – the White House Hotel in Kosgoda comes alive every year with the Kosgoda International Electronic Music Festival. This year’s festival is scheduled for this weekend (20 December 6 p.m. to 21 December 6 p.m.). Introducing both local and international EDM artists, this might be an event worth checking out, if you don’t mind straying away from relaxation to some energised fun.

The Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project If you’re in Kosgoda, you cannot ‘not visit’ a sea turtle conservation project. The Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project is one such conservation. A venture which has been underway since 1988, the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project’s main aim is to monitor local sea turtle activity and conserve their local nesting sites. Operated by locals and international volunteers, this project is geared towards making the public more aware of just how endangered sea turtles are. If you visit them, you’ll be able to see sea turtle species such as green turtles, Hawksbills, Loggerheads, Olive Ridleys and Leatherbacks. The project’s work relies on fundraising and grants.

Saffron & Blue by Jetwing The name was inspired by the golden beaches and clear blue seas of Kosgoda, and this luxury villa consists of four rooms – The Champagne room, The Green Room, The Red Room and The Blue Room (Deluxe Room with Loft), with en suite bathrooms. As the names imply, whichever room you choose will come with a story behind its title. Wide open spaces well suited for total relaxation make up this property by Jetwing. Their 40 ft. long pool surrounded by a tropical garden is ideal for a refreshing dip while enjoying a view of the ocean beyond. (Trekurious together with DailyFT explores Sri Lanka for the curious traveller. Trekurious works with talented individuals and great brands to create amazing experiential tours, activities, and events in Sri Lanka. You can find out more at www.Trekurious.com.)