Top Things to Do in the Kirinda | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Plan Your Travel To Kirinda

Places To Visit In Kirinda

Great Basses Reef

Located on the south-east coastline of Sri Lanka, near Kirinda, Great Basses Reef has been the cause of many a shipwreck. Visit the namesake lighthouse overlooking the Indian Ocean, or dive into the waters for an experience unlike any other. The Great Basses Reef consists of sandstone and limestone rock formations teeming with coral and marine life, including black corals, fan corals, angelfish, porpoises and snappers. Another highlight is the ruins of a treasure ship of the Mughal ruler Aurangzeb; the shipwreck and scores of silver rupee coins were discovered in 1961. The Great Basses Reef lighthouse is notable for its sturdy structure, which suffered moderate damage during the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004. Read More

Kirinda Beach is at Kirinda, a small but charming town on the south-east coast of Sri Lanka. The turbulent waters, rock boulders, and stunning views of the landscape are all part of the package when you pay a visit to this relatively quiet beach. Enjoy a stroll along the seashore and soak in the pleasant atmosphere, or take a dip, away from the rocks and when the waters aren’t rough. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a boat for an exciting ride across the ocean to reach the nearer Great Little Basses Reef or, the farther Little Basses Reef. The Great and Little Basses Reefs house desolate offshore lighthouses, but the panoramas beneath them are merely magnificent. Shipwrecks and coral communities are aplenty at these reefs Read More

Tissa Wewa, Kirinda

Tissa Wewa is an artificial lake in Tissamaharama, around 20 minutes away from the coastal town of Kirinda. Picturesque views, birdlife sightings and pleasant walks are the staples of a visit to this stunning lake. Not to forget the customary boat ride, an immensely smooth experience. Tissa Wewa spans a surface area of around 652 acres. The origins of the lake are a tad blurry; the legend goes that the lake was made in the 3rd century BC as a part of the irrigation facilities of Tissamaharama, which was then a prosperous area.The lake is flanked by a dedicated walkway at the southern end, along the Tissa-Kataragama road. Tissa Wewa is a hidden gem for birdwatching. There are a plethora of species at the lake—bitterns and egrets, to name a few. One might also catch glimpses of numerous fruit bats hanging about the trees on the banks. A boat ride across Tissa Wewa is undoubtedly a must to truly relish the beauty of this lake. The views during the sunset are perhaps the best part of a visit to Tissa Wewa. Read More