Madu River Boat Safari

The story

The Madu Ganga is a Ramsar-listed wetland estuary near Balapitiya, where narrow channels wind through mangrove islands, cinnamon estates, and traditional fishing hamlets. A covered boat safari glides past bird-filled mangroves, fish therapy pools, and tiny islets with historic temples. It's a peaceful counterpoint to the nearby surf beaches.

Highlights

• Ramsar wetland mangrove estuary
• Birdwatching and water monitors
• Fish therapy and cinnamon island visits
• Traditional river fishing villages

Things to do here

1. 1Covered boat safari through mangrove channels
2. 2Spot kingfishers, herons, and water monitors
3. 3Stop at a fish therapy pool on a bamboo platform
4. 4Visit a cinnamon peeling island and tasting
5. 5See the Kothduwa temple on its river islet
6. 6Combine with a nearby turtle hatchery visit