The back story
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The back story
Tangalle, the back story
Long, wild beaches, quiet coves and some of the island’s finest hideaway hotels, at the far end of the south coast.
Town guide · the far south
Tangalle & Hiriketiya: Our Favourites
Long, wild beaches, the surf cove of Hiriketiya, the rock temple of Mulkirigala and some of the island’s finest hideaway hotels.
What's onThis week in Sri Lanka
What to see
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Cave temples
Mulkirigala rock temple
A cluster of cave temples on a rock north of Tangalle, reached by a long climb of steps.
Beaches
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The quieter south
Tangalle
Long, quiet beaches and coves on the deep south coast, home to some of the island’s finest resorts.
Where to stay
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30 suites on a crescent beach
Amanwella
Aman’s beach resort near Tangalle: 30 suites with plunge pools in a coconut grove above a crescent beach.
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A clifftop beach resort
Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle
A large resort on a rocky headland and beach east of Tangalle, with pool villas and a spa.
Matara-Hambantota Road, TangalleExplore View on map
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Horseshoe bay
Praia Bay Hiriketiya
A small hotel by Hiriketiya, a horseshoe-shaped surf bay near Dikwella.
Getting there
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Colombo to Galle in about 1.5 hours
Expressways
Toll expressways link the airport, Colombo, Galle and the south, and part of the way towards Kandy.
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Hill line partly closed in 2026
Trains & Sri Lanka Railways
The national railway: the coastal line to Galle and Matara, and the hill-country line, whose most scenic stretch runs from Nanu Oya (for Nuwara Eliya) to Ella and Badulla.
Share your Tangalle tips
Been there? Share your experience and tips with other visitors.
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