Ritipanna is the Sinhalese term for stilt fishing, which is a traditional method for fishing practiced by most fishermen along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. This art is popularly seen in areas such as Ahangama, Koggala, Welipenna, Kathaluwa and Thalarambe. A narrow pole is tied to a stick that is anchored on the sea bed. Fisher folk climb onto this stick and settle on the pole for a few hours in an effort to catch some fish.

Fishermen found on stilts are those who do not have access to sophisticated equipment for fishing. These men can make a living simply with the help of two wooden poles to make a stilt. One pole is nailed onto the sea bed and the other is placed like a cross bar and acts as a plank for the fishermen to sit on. Each stilt can accommodate only one fisherman. For catching fish, they create a rod made of Kithul, and a small plastic bag is tied around their waist to hold the fish that they catch. With one hand they hold onto the stilt and with the other they hold the rod that catches fish. The tradition of stilt fishing will always be practiced by those who cannot afford to invest in modern fishing equipment.

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Top Koggala Lake Hotel Reviews

Coast 67 Boutique Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"We had a great 3-night stay at Coast 67. The most stunning setting, overlooking the sea and the fairly private beach (there are only a handful of hotels that have access to this beach, so there are no local sellers or other tourists). Being able to walk from the pool, to the sunbeds, to the sand and the sea in just a couple of minutes is bliss. The food was delicious, plus the dining staff were really friendly and warm. The breakfasts are healthy (albeit western focused, rather than sri Lankan), and the lunches tasty too. Reasonably well priced for a hotel. Also, would HIGHLY recommend walking to local cooperative Cafe Veda for dinner - 2000 rupees (£5) for an authentic dinner with friendly staff and calming atmosphere. We went twice in our 3 night stay. The hotel was always very clean, but there are a couple of teething issues: cleaning is every 2 days (which isn't a problem, but worth considering) and there were a couple of power outages (only a few minutes, so no problem either) and the showers stopped working one afternoon/evening. Plus, there are construction works on the road and at the next door beach club, so lots of noise during the day (November 2025). It wasn't a bother though, as the sounds of the ocean are beautiful - especially at night."

South Point Cottage - Whole Villa 3 Bedrooms (Sleeps 6)

10/10 Excellent

"We had originally booked South Point Cottage but didn’t end up staying there – the owner has a few properties and we were placed at South Point Abbey instead. The Abbey is a gorgeous old colonial villa right on the ocean, with four big bedrooms that could easily fit two families. The walls are built from coral stone, there’s a lovely pool, and you have direct access straight onto the beach. The staff were fantastic – they took care of everything and cooked the most amazing Sri Lankan breakfasts, plus some western dishes for the kids which they loved. The whole place felt calm, spacious and very serene. A special mention to the manager, Gamini – such a kind and gentle man who gave us great tips on what to see and do nearby. We’d definitely recommend this beautiful spot to anyone looking for a relaxing stay."

Hotels near other Koggala Lake attractions

Eagles' Catalina Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf in Koggala at Eagles' Catalina Golf Course.

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Kathaluwa Old Temple

You can learn about the history of Koggala when you stop by Kathaluwa Old Temple. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Koggala Lake?

If you're planning to come to the area to visit Koggala Lake, take some time to see the rest of the sights while you're in town. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, check out the 18 hotels and other accommodations you'll find within a mile.

What's the best place to stay close to Koggala Lake?

Tri Ahangama is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this hotel offers a full-service spa and private plunge pools. It's located just a short 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from Koggala Lake. Another good choice is Villa Mayurana By Edwards Collection, located just 0.9 mi (1.4 km) away.

How many hotels are there near Koggala Lake?

Expedia has 18 hotels and other accommodations within a mile from Koggala Lake.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Koggala Lake, will I receive a refund?

Yes! The majority of hotel reservations are fully refundable provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your arrival date. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might still have the option to cancel and be given a refund within 24 hours of booking. Put your dates in and click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to get the best deals near Koggala Lake.

Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near Koggala Lake?

For more details about rescheduling or cancelling your stay near Koggala Lake, click here.

What can I see and do near Koggala Lake?

You'll want to browse the exhibits at Martin Wickramsinghe Folk Museum and Handunugoda Tea Estate. Koggala Beach, Kabalana Beach, and Dalawella Beach are great spots if you want to spend some time by the water during your stay. At Mihiripenna Beach, Midigama Beach, and Midigama Left Surf Break, you can surround yourself with nature.

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Our top choices for Koggala Lake hotels

The Fortress Resort & Spa Galle

Tri Ahangama

Villa Mayurana By Edwards Collection

Villa Alba

Kahanda Kanda

South Lake Resort Koggala

The Beach Cabanas

Amara Villa

The Thotupola Habaraduwa

Ko Lake Villa Rooms lakeside Beach

Surf and Zen - Coworking and Coliving Habaraduwa

King Coconut Lodge

Wake N Flow

The Chalet - Whole Villa 2 Bedroom (Sleeps 4)

South Point Surf House - Whole Villa 5 Bedrooms (Sleeps 14)

The Long Beach Resort

Bungalow Sud

KK Beach

The Sandhya

Coast 67 Boutique Hotel

Top Koggala Lake Hotel Reviews

Coast 67 Boutique Hotel

South Point Cottage - Whole Villa 3 Bedrooms (Sleeps 6)

The Sandhya

The Fortress Resort & Spa Galle

Villa Mayurana By Edwards Collection

Hotels near other Koggala Lake attractions

Eagles' Catalina Golf Course

Kathaluwa Old Temple

Martin Wickramsinghe Folk Museum

Stilt Fisherman

Talpe Natural Pool

Frequently asked questions