For this time trip, we choose Battalangunduwa Island for the Beach camping experience. But this time on the beach. That is a small but beautiful island belonging to Sri Lanka.
How to get to Battalangunduwa Island
This extremely beautiful island is located at the tip of the Kalpitiya peninsula. It can also be introduced as an island that attracts the attention of tourists. If you are leaving from Colombo in the morning, it will take you almost 4 hours to reach Kalpitiya, so leave early in the morning. Because the boat leaves the jetty at 8:30 am
You can take the Vavuniya bus number 87 which departs from Colombo Fort at 3:10 a.m. and get off at Palavia and take the bus to Kalpitiya. The vehicle we traveled from Colombo was parked at Kalpitiya port and we had to go to the island by boat. It is also the only way to get to the island. The area of โโthe island is about 145.53 hectares and it is located about 30.3 kilometers from the land.
About 350 rupees are charged from one passenger for boat transport. The transport service starts at 8.30 am to go to Battalangunduwa. Give your details at Kalpitiya jetty before boarding the boat. Because if you have an accident on the island, the details are valuable.
Our journey to Battalangunduwa Island for Beach Camping Nightโฆ
We were able to experience a lot of beauty during the boat trip passing the other islands located in Kalpitiya and seeing the beautiful scenery. During the trip, we were able to see dolphins in some cases.ย
We thought that it is no secret that the mind-blowing views will attract anyone to visit this region. After about 3 hours, we reached the island. We went to the western part of the island with the things we had brought to find a good place to camp. We found a place and got everything ready to try beach camping. We all prepared lunch together and enjoyed it and took a little rest.
There are no shops on the island so remember to buy all the food and other things you need before you get to the island
After the break, we went to the place where the people live, the eastern part of the island. No matter how beautiful this island is, the people living there live a very harsh life. A place to find the most challenging lifestyles in Sri Lanka to be precise. It is famous for its fishing industry which is their only source of income.
Very few people live on this island now. We heard that some people left the island. All these people believe in only one God. It is only Jesus. There is a school to study up to grade 5, but the facilities of that school are not in advanced condition.
Even so, the Navy helps to provide basic education. Also, these people do not have health facilities. In case of illness, they ask for necessary medicine from the naval base. These people also do not have a water pipe system. Even though they have water to do the necessary things, there is a big problem. What they do is cut a hole in the ground and get fresh water for their daily needs. Or collect that water during the rainy season.
Even if that water is for daily needs, it cannot be taken for drinking. Therefore, drinking water is brought from Kalpitiya by boat. However, no matter how many difficulties these people have, they have found a unique shape in their lifestyle.
With all that, this island has attracted a lot of local and foreign tourists. The rugged nature of the beach and the coolness felt when the wind blows added another flavor to our trip.
What to know when you visit for Beach Camping on the Battalangunduwa Island
- There are no shops or services on the island, make sure you bring snacks and water
- Dress in light clothing and bring sunscreen, it will be hot!
- Bring wind-resistant camping gear. There may be some winds. also remember to get swimming suits, if you are a swimming lover.
The beauty of this island is also connected with the culture. Thatโs why when you see this, you feel like a wonderful creation of nature. The beauty of the area is further enhanced by the hospitality of the local people. If you come here to get some beach camping experience, remember It is everyoneโs responsibility to protect this because it is a great resource for the tourism industry and a valuable paradise.
Coordinates: 08ยฐ10โฒ0โณNย 79ยฐ43โฒ0โณE