Wadduwa

The town of Wadduwa is located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, 35 km south of Colombo. According to legend, Wadduwa was once famous for its many local doctors – veda doova, which is believed to have given the town its name.

Today, Wadduwa is known for its vast plantations of coconut palms, rubber, and cinnamon. It's a small but charming town that attracts tourists with its golden sandy beaches. The resort area offers hotels ranging from three to five stars and is an excellent place for boat rides, swimming in the ocean, and water sports.

Tourists are well taken care of with cozy hotels, rows of local shops, and plenty of restaurants and cafés. The town also has a diving center.

In Wadduwa, you can stay at one of nine hotels. More discerning travelers prefer 5-star hotels such as Blue Water and Serena Pavilions. Those interested in Ayurveda choose Siddhalepa Ayurveda Hotel (4*). Meanwhile, Villa Ocean View (4*) is considered one of the most affordable options.

Around 40 Buddhist temples offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in an atmosphere of peace and harmony. One of the most significant temples is Priyadarshanaramaya Temple. Nearby lies the resort town of Kalutara, which formed around the Gangatilaka Vihara Buddhist Temple. Kalutara is also home to an unusual mansion — Richmond Castle, a fascinating blend of British and Indian architecture.

Another nearby destination worth visiting is Hambantota, a fishing town that serves as a gateway to the Udawalawe, Yala, and Bundala National Parks.

Thousands of pilgrims from around the world gather in Kataragama, a site considered sacred by Buddhists, Muslims, and Hindus alike. On the northern side of the town, you’ll find the Kiri Vehera Buddhist Temple, the Masjid-ul-Khizr Muslim Shrine, and the Kataragama Hindu Temple.

But perhaps the main attraction of this resort is its warm and welcoming locals, whom tourists often call "the smiling people".