Looking for some peace and nature? Just step out of the hostel and you’re instantly surrounded by lush green rice fields — like something straight out of a postcard. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed scooter ride along quiet backroads or a peaceful walk through the countryside. You’ll pass waving palm trees, the occasional cow, and maybe even a friendly farmer. Pro suggestion: Head out in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and everything looks extra magical.
Animal lover? Just a short ride from the hostel, you’ll find SOS Animal Sri Lanka — a rescue center that gives street dogs a second chance at life. You can visit the shelter for a heartwarming tour, meet the pups, and see the incredible work the team is doing. Bonus: our very own hostel dog, Xena, was rescued from there! She’s now living her best life — and you can see where her journey started. Worth checking out if you want to support a good cause and get some puppy cuddles along the way.
Head a 35 minute scooter ride down south and explore the historic Galle Fort — a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like stepping into another century. Wander through its charming colonial streets lined with Dutch-era buildings, cute cafés, and art galleries. Tip: Time your visit for late afternoon so you can walk along the old ramparts and watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean — cold drink in hand, of course.
Almost next to our hostel you can experience the best cooking class of the South Coast. It’s called Green Bamboo Shade.
Just walk by and ask for all the options. You will love it!Â
You’ll find the Virgin White Tea Plantation just inland from Ahangama, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. Take a guided tour to learn how this rare tea is carefully hand-picked without ever being touched by human hands. Sip a fresh brew right where it’s grown, overlooking the plantation — or bring some home as the ultimate Sri Lankan souvenir.
Across the street from Cactus and Ceylon Sliders, you’ll find the sunday market where the locals buy their fruits & veggies. Really nice to see and stack up on some Sri Lankan bananas (or dried pieces of tuna of course).
Don’t feel like surfing today? Gather around some fellow-backpackers and make a scooter ride around the beautiful Koggola lake. Tip: Go on a boattrip to watch the sunset (around 5000 rupees per boat), take some beers, and visit the islands of the lake by boat.
You’ll see them at different spots on the coastline: the traditional Stilt Fisherman. Go to Le Café French to see them ‘in the wild’ on your right, or drive along the coast to Galle. You can even go for the full experience and sit on one of the stilts yourself