Experiences
Your new favourite destination for sun, sand and sea
Your next escape from the daily grind and hustle and bustle of Colombo city is nestled on a scenic stretch of pristine beach, with clear blue waters as far as the eye can see. This fishing village is famed for its abundance of culture, tradition and adventure, all wrapped up into one stunning package of pure coastal bliss. Flex your history muscles with visits to Ambalangoda’s numerous museums, explore religious sites, head to Galle Fort or Mirissa for some whale watching and killer waves, take a river safari or even visit a couple of ‘Kasbewas’ or sea turtles at the Sea Turtle Farm and Hatchery on Habaraduwa Beach.
Arts and Culture
The town is renowned for its vibrant and colourful ancient devil masks which can be further explored at the Ariyapala Mask Museum, which also happens to be only a 2 minute walk from the hotel! While you’re at it, head to the Museum of Folk Art and Culture and the Maritime Museum or experience first-hand mask carving and lace making!
ExploreAhungalla Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Centre
The hatchery and conservation centre assists in the rehabilitation of injured, abandoned or endangered turtles, and the recovery and incubation of turtle eggs. Guests can get up-close-and-personal with these stunning sea creatures, including 5 species of Sri Lanka’s turtles, while volunteers are often allowed to assist in cleaning and feeding activities, patrolling of beaches and incubation of eggs. This once in a lifetime experience can be enjoyed only 10 minutes away from the hotel.
ExploreMadu Ganga Lagoon Boat Safari
Situated only 10 minutes away from Hotel J, spend your day cruising this waterway, which is rich in biodiversity, home to 14 species of mangroves and over 300 species of flora and fauna.
Cinnamon Peeling Centres – Get an up close and personal look at an important part of the local cinnamon practice
ExploreReligious Excursions
Dip in to your spiritual side and pay a visit to the historic Sri Pushparama Maha Viharaya temple in Balapitiya, an architectural marvel due to its British colonial structure and design, conveniently located only 10 minutes away from the hotel, or head to the Kothduwa Temple, located on the island of Kothduwa Island in the Madu Ganga Lagoon.
Galagoda Shailathalaramaya Vihara – This must-see Buddhist temple of religious and historical significance is home to the largest reclining Buddha statue in South Asia, said to be constructed in the 13th century, approximately 10 minutes away from Hotel J.
ExploreTown Visits
Explore the Galle Fort in all its glory or take a detour to Mirissa, where you can get an up close and personal look at Sri Lanka’s pride and joy – our Blue Whales, and even catch a wave on Mirissa beach. If adventure is your thing, Bentota is where you’ll find water sports and boat rides out to sea.
Architecture
The Bawa Trail – Geoffrey Bawa is considered one of the most influential and celebrated Asian architects of the century. Here, you can experience his private residence, a former rubber estate, inclusive of sprawling gardens, water features, courtyards, romantic walkways and impressive views. You can also visit the Brief Gardens, created by Geoffrey’s brother, Bevis Bawa with untamed and verdant landscapes.0
The Dutch Reformed Church – Situated within the Galle Fort, this remnant of the Dutch occupation was built in 1755 and is one of the oldest Protestant churches still in use in the country.