SEASIDE HAMLET

Tranquillity in Talalla

Nimanthi Bandaranayake visits a village that offers diverse experiences

Located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka is the small village of Talalla. It is popular for its beautiful beach with pristine white sand, clear blue waters, lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere.

Talalla offers visitors a blissful experience through its many yoga and wellness retreats, which make it a popular destination for those who are looking to relax, and rejuvenate both the mind and body.

This village has a small population and is primarily a fishing community. In addition to fishing, villagers are also engaged in agriculture. Visitors to Talalla are surrounded by paddy fields and coconut plantations – so while holidaying in this hamlet, they can watch local fishermen bring their catch of the day.

The village of Talalla is home to several Buddhist temples including the Sri Vijayarama and Sri Upulvan Temples. These places of worship offer visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Despite its growing popularity as a tourist destination, Talalla remains a quiet and peaceful village with a laid-back atmosphere. And it is an ideal destination for travellers seeking a relaxing holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Despite its growing popularity as a tourist destination, Talalla remains a quiet and peaceful village with a laid-back atmosphere 

Fact File

FAMOUS TEMPLE  The Sri Mandalaramaya Temple is an ancient Buddhist shrine situated in the heart of the nearby city of Matara. It’s believed to have been built in the 16th century, and is famous for its unique architecture, intricate carvings and artwork. It also houses several important Buddhist relics including a tooth relic of Lord Buddha. The temple is a ‘must visit’ destination for those interested in Buddhism, as well as Sri Lankan history and culture. It offers a unique opportunity for visitors to observe traditional Buddhist practices and experience the rich cultural heritage of the island.

BUDDHIST SHRINE The Panthakaramaya – a historic Buddhist temple – dates back to the 18th century. The temple complex includes a large main building known as the Vihara, as well as several smaller buildings and statues. The Vihara houses a large collection of paintings depicting scenes from the life of Lord Buddha, as well as intricate wood carvings and sculp­tures. Panthakaramaya is an important spiritual centre for the local community, and visitors are welcome to explore the temple grounds to learn about Buddhist teachings and practices. It is a popular destination for both spiritual seekers and tourists looking to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

FRESH SEAFOOD Sri Lanka is known for its fresh seafood – and the Sun Bay Lanka Seafood Restaurant is a great eatery for visitors to enjoy some of the best fish and chips on the island. The restaurant is located at the centre of Talalla beach; it is a convenient spot for visitors who want to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a drink while soaking in the amazing scenery. Sun Bay Lanka is worth checking out if you’re in Talalla; it is a place where you can enjoy delicious seafood and drinks while taking in the stunning ocean views.

COOKING LESSONS Handun Villas is a luxurious resort located in the village of Talalla. It offers visitors the unique experience of preparing Sri Lankan cuisine. As part of the package, you’re taken on a tour of the local market where you can purchase fresh ingredients for the dishes. Thereafter, you will learn about preparing and cooking traditional Sri Lankan dishes like rice and curry, and roti and hoppers, as well as snacks such as samosas. The cooking lessons are designed to be interactive and fun, and allow guests to learn about Sri Lankan culture and cuisine. The chefs will brief participants about the unique spices and flavours used in Sri Lankan cuisine, as well as different cooking techniques and traditions.

SPA TREATMENTS Situated in a beautifully restored old colonial house, this spa offers a range of treatments including traditional Ayurveda therapy, massages, facials and body treatments. All treatments are pro­vided by experienced therapists who use natural and organic products to provide an authentic spa experience. In addition, Spa Old House Talalla offers a range of wellness activities such as yoga and meditation classes, as well as workshops on healthy living and nutrition. One of the highlights of this spa is its beautiful setting. It is surrounded by lavish tropical gardens located a short distance from the stunning Talalla beach, and its tranquil environment provides an ideal spot for guests to unwind and destress.