Hostels in Tangalle, Sri Lanka

Tangalle is a city in the south of Sri Lanka, an island in the Indian Ocean. It is a few kilometers away from the Yala National Park and the heavy forests. The town is one of the last true beach destinations along the coast before the jungle takes over. If you are looking for a cheap hostel in Tangalle, look near the east of town. As you go west, the prices increase. Near the hostels in the eastern parts of town are two major beaches – Medaketiya and Medilla. They are located on a small peninsula extending into the sea. There are also many lagoons in the area lined with mangrove trees. The cheap hostels and hotels in this part of the city, paired with the great beaches, make Tangalle a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. If you venture to the west side of town, you will find natural bays and coves, many of which are very secluded. Most of these bays are located between rocky spits of land and are shielded from the strong sea currents, making them ideal for bathing. Swimming in the beaches to the east is generally advised against unless you have experience with fighting currents. Among the many activities in Tangalle include a number of water sports. Jetskis and windsurf boards are available for rent in town. There is a reef about a half-mile off the coast where you can rent out diving equipment and go for a snorkeling or diving tour of the reef. The best time to visit the area is in the “winter” between November and April – the best beach experience is then. You can also catch a glimpse of the turtles being hatched from their shells and crawling down to the sea during this period. If you visit outside these months, expect rougher seas with less bathing but far fewer tourists too.