Introduced to this hidden gem by a friend seeking an escape from the bustling crowds of Bali while craving good surf, warm weather, a laid-back atmosphere, untouched nature, accessible travel, fewer tourists, and excellent food options—Sri Lanka effortlessly ticked all the boxes. The added advantage of a 3.5-hour time difference allowed us to remain connected to the European time zone while immersing myself in the beauty of this island.
My initial visit to Ahangama in 2016 was a heaven of almost empty line-ups, providing the perfect backdrop for the ultimate surf and chill-out holiday. With great waves every day, we explored the scenic landscapes of Sri Lanka, from Yala National Park to Kandy and Ella. Snorkeling with turtles at Wijaya Beach and mingling with fellow adventurous tourists. Many have described Sri Lanka as what Bali was a decade ago.
Over the past six years, Ahangama has evolved in many ways:
Coffee Lovers – In 2016, finding a hipster cappuccino was a challenge; now, there are vibrant cafes serving excellent barista coffee.
Diverse Food Options – The restaurant scene has expanded, offering everything from delicious local curries for $3 to trendy tuna burgers for $10, along with international breakfast options.
Individual Boutique Hotel – As tourism, even beyond surfing, increased, several boutique hotels have opened their doors to cater to the diverse needs of travelers.
Undoubtedly, Sri Lanka has been going through some severe crises over the last decades and local people are suffering from the recent economic crisis with high inflation, no foreign currency, fewer tourists etc. But despite all that the island and the people have never lost their spark and the situation was never as bad as portrayed in the media.
To those questioning whether it’s safe to travel to Sri Lanka now—absolutely! From a tourist perspective, there is no reason to hesitate. The country is welcoming, secure, and overflowing with hospitality. The locals, despite facing challenges such as high inflation, a lack of foreign currency, and a decrease in tourism, continue to greet visitors with open arms and happiness.
A last inspiring story from my visit to Ahangama this July, the peak of the economic crisis: Despite the fuel shortages, locals who had been waiting in line for days graciously insisted that I skip ahead. Their gratitude for the few tourists still choosing to visit their country during tough times was great. It left me reflecting on how more developed countries like my Home-country Germany might handle such situations?
