All Inclusive Madu River Boat Safari at Balapitiya

Kalutara , Sri Lanka

All Inclusive Madu River Boat Safari at Balapitiya

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Get up-close to the nature and culture of Sri Lanka’s coastal River Madu on this shared boat safari. Travel independently to the departure point, board a skippered motorboat, and absorb the idyllic surroundings on an approximate 1-hour 30-minute cruise around mangroves and islands. Stop at a Buddhist monastery set on an islet, visit a fish pedicure spa, learn how cinnamon is used in local cooking, and more—all in one effortless trip. You'll be treated to an enthralling boat expedition through the enchanting Madu Ganga. Nestled in Balapitiya, Madu Ganga is renowned for its exceptional mangrove-fringed landscapes and mystical caves. This untouched lagoon spans 915 hectares, forming a complex coastal wetland ecosystem that seamlessly merges with the vast Indian Ocean.

Available options

Meet at the Boat Start Point

Pickup included

Pick up and Drop Off Hotel

Pick up Available Area: Galle
Hikkaduwa
Ahungalla
Bentota
Kalutara
<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Fish Spa / Fish Therophy

Cinnamon Island

Private Boat

Kothduwa Temple

Entrance fees during sightseeing

Instructor

Detailed itinerary

Located about 100 km south of Colombo, Madu Ganga (or Madu River) is Sri Lanka’s second-largest wetland. It's a Ramsar-protected mangrove ecosystem covering roughly 900 ha, with over 64 islands dotting its winding channels. The area supports about 300 plant species and nearly 250 vertebrate species, making it a rich hotspot for biodiversity

Cinnamon Island
A family-run plantation cultivating cinnamon for generations. Learn how the spice is harvested and processed

Kothduwa Temple
Set on its own islet, this Buddhist temple dates to the 1860s. It features a Bodhi tree from Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi lineage and is tied to the journey of the Buddha’s tooth relic

Fish Spa
Pause at floating fish tanks teeming with gourami fish—a playful “fish pedicure” experience. Usually optional and not included in standard packages

What's not included

Food & Drink

Other Citys Transportaion Cost Option Available (ex : Galle / Ahungalla / Bentota / Kalutara)

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

"All customers must meet at Bord ' eau Restaurant. Please note that this is the designated meeting point. If you require transportation from another city, kindly send us a message after booking."

About Kalutara

Kalutara is a picturesque coastal city in Sri Lanka known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and lush greenery. It offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Top Attractions

Richmond Castle

A historic mansion built in the early 20th century, showcasing colonial architecture and lush gardens.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Kalutara Bodhiya

A sacred Bo tree believed to be a sapling from the original Bodhi tree in India where Buddha attained enlightenment.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Kalutara Beach

A beautiful beach with golden sand, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half-day to full day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked on a hot griddle.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or with meat

Hoppers

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with eggs, sambal, or curry.

Breakfast Vegetarian

String Hoppers

Noodle-like strings made from rice flour, served with curries and sambal.

Lunch Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Surfing Snorkeling Beach lounging Spa treatments Visiting temples Exploring historic sites Swimming Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

January to April

This period offers the best weather with minimal rainfall and warm temperatures, ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kalutara is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi services.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help.
• Keep valuables secure.

Getting there

By air

Bandaranayake International Airport • 60 km

By train

Kalutara Railway Station

By bus

Kalutara Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Kalutara. They connect major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kalutara Town Beach Road

Day trips

Aluthgama

15 km • Half day

A nearby town known for its historic sites and beautiful landscapes.

Beruwala

20 km • Full day

A coastal town with beautiful beaches and water sports activities.

Festivals

Kalutara Bodhiya Festival • February

Pro tips

Visit Richmond Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
Use local buses for an affordable and scenic way to get around.
Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Learn a few basic phrases in Sinhala or Tamil to enhance your interaction with locals.