Arugam Bay, located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, is a city where nature offers a visual feast. We believe you won’t regret visiting this city where you can witness incredible sunsets. Here are the 6 Places to See in Arugam Bay!
6 Places to See in Arugam Bay
In this article, we covered places to visit, food and drink, and accommodation in Arugam Bay.
Places to Visit in Arugam Bay
Muhudu Maha Viharaya
Muhudu Maha Viharaya is a Buddhist temple, which is Located on Pottuvil beach. Many religious rituals are held at this temple, and there is no entry fee. The temple complex contains various archaeological remains such as ancient stupas, stone carvings, and Buddha statues.
Stupas are Buddhist structures built for meditation and to house sacred relics. The dome-shaped structure of stupas symbolizes the center of the universe and the enlightened mind of the Buddha. Typically, the base on which the dome sits is used as a meditation and worship area in Buddhism. This area allows worshipers to meditate by walking around the stupa. In Sri Lankan culture, stupas are usually simple and painted white.
Google Maps: Muhudu Maha Viharaya
Kudumbigala Monastery Complex
The Kudumbigala Monastery Complex is a monastery complex near Arugam Bay. It was built as a retreat and meditation place for Buddhist monks. The complex includes stupas, caves carved by hand into the rocks, ancient frescoes, and inscriptions. Entry to this complex is free.
The rock-carved houses greatly impressed us. Additionally, after passing through these caves, it is possible to climb to the top of the rocks. The views from the top are incredible, with an endless forest on one side and the ocean on the other; it’s impossible not to be amazed by this view. We definitely recommend climbing to the top.
We recommend hiking shoes for climbing the rocks. At some points, you climb steps carved into the rock at a very steep angle.
Also, remember that as this is a monastery complex, your knees and shoulders must be covered.
Google Maps: Kudumbigala Monastery Complex
Okanda Devalaya Temple
Okanda Devalaya Temple is a Hindu temple that contains statues and altars of Hindu Gods. We were told that regular religious rituals are held here. However, when we visited in March, there were very few people and the place was littered with trash. We found it very strange that a religious place was left so dirty. We learned that because the weather was very hot, no one wanted to cleanup until the weather calmed down a bit. It seemed very odd to us. Our hotel recommended this place, but we don’t think you’ll miss much if you skip it. ☺️
Google Maps: Okanda Devalaya Temple
Elephant Rock
Elephant Rock offers stunning panoramic views of the endless forest, beach, lagoon, and ocean in Arugam Bay. Climbing this rock at Peanut Farm Beach takes about 15 minutes. Although it is not a very difficult climb, we still recommend wearing hiking shoes as the surface of the rock can be slippery.
The sunset at Elephant Rock is simply incredible! If you plan to visit Arugam Bay, definitely add watching the sunset here to your list.
Since there are elephants in this area, it’s advisable to climb the rock with a local guide. We were told that elephants come to the rock after sunset. Additionally, we heard that there are many crocodiles on the lagoon side. So, it’s best not to take any risks. Also, note that climbing this rock is free.
Google Maps: Elephant Rock
Peanut Farm Beach
Peanut Farm Beach is a magnificent beach with golden sands and ideal waves for surfing. Located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, the best time for surfing is between May and October. It’s possible to surf here with waves suitable for both beginners and intermediate levels.
Since there are no buildings or hotels in this area, if you plan to visit this beach, we recommend bringing your own food and drink. The beach is named as Peanut Farm Beach because it is right in front of peanut farms.
Google Maps: Peanut Farm Beach
Arugam Bay Beach
Arugam Bay Beach has long stretches of golden sand. The beach is filled with cafes, surfboard rentals, and surfing instructors. You can rent sunbeds for a fee or simply lay your towel on the sand and enjoy your time without paying anything.
Google Maps: Arugam Bay Beach
Food & Drink in Arugam Bay
Serendib Arugambay
Serendib Arugambay is a restaurant where you can find delicious Sri Lankan food. The restaurant is located on the main street of Arugam Bay, just a 10-minute walk to the beach. You can usually find Tuna fish in the coastal towns of Sri Lanka. We tried Tuna fish here and liked it, so we recommend it. You have the opportunity to try fresh fish caught from the Indian Ocean.
Google Maps: Serendib Arugambay
Choco Lush
Choco Lush is a cafe in Arugam Bay where you can have a rich and affordable breakfast. The breakfast menu includes eggs, jam, butter, peanut butter, fruit, fruit juice, bread, and pancakes for 5.5 Euros per person. We especially loved their homemade peanut butter.
Google Maps: Choco Lush
Tom & Jerry
Tom & Jerry is a cafe on the beach in Arugam Bay where you can find both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. They have both sunbeds and gazebos. It’s ideal for cooling off with cold drinks when you get tired of the beach.
Google Maps: Tom & Jerry
Sail & Catch
Sail & Catch is a charming restaurant where you can find fresh fish. We really liked the Tuna fish and enjoyed chatting with the restaurant owner. We learned that the owner’s father goes fishing every day, and they serve these freshly caught fish.
Google Maps: Sail & Catch
Accommodation in Arugam Bay
Paddyway Resort
Paddyway Resort is a hotel with a pool and air conditioning, located about a 10-minute walk from the Arugam Bay beach. Considering its cleanliness and helpful staff, we can recommend it with peace of mind. We were very comfortable, and spending time at the pool was incredibly refreshing.
Google Maps: Paddyway Resort
This concludes our article on the best places to visit in Arugam Bay.
We wish you a pleasant trip! ☺️
Read also: The Ultimate Guide to See Sri Lanka: 3-Weeks Itinerary, The Best Places to Visit in Colombo, Sigiriya Lion Rock: Things You Need to Know, The Best Place to Visit in Sigiriya: Pidurangala Rock
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