Things to Do

Jungle beach

Discover Jungle Beach & the Wonders of Rumassala

Just a few kilometres from AGNUS Unawatuna, tucked beneath the legendary Rumassala Mountain, lies one of Sri Lanka’s hidden coastal gems—Jungle Beach. Located around 7.5 km from Galle Fort, this serene beach is famed for its golden sand, calm waters, and lush jungle surroundings.

Why Visit Jungle Beach?

• 🌿 Scenic jungle trails filled with rare birds, butterflies, and native plants

• 🏖️ Peaceful beach atmosphere with sunbeds and a small beach café at the entrance

• 🌊 Ideal for swimming – gentle, wave-free waters make it perfect for all ages

• 🪸 Coral reefs & marine life – excellent for snorkelling and observing underwater biodiversity

• 🪵 Historical roots – believed to have been used by ancient seafarers to collect fresh water before voyages

As you walk deeper along the jungle path, you’ll discover quieter sections of the beach—secluded, untouched, and perfect for peaceful relaxation or meditation. The pathway itself is part of the experience, offering an immersive "mini jungle trek" through tropical greenery teeming with uncommon birds and wildlife.

A Place of Legends

Jungle Beach and the Rumassala Rock are tied to the Ramayana, the ancient Hindu epic. According to the story, the monkey god Hanuman was sent to the Himalayas to retrieve medicinal herbs to heal Lakshman. Unable to identify them, he brought back an entire chunk of mountain—Rumassala is believed to be part of that fallen piece, making it rich in medicinal herbs and rare plant life.

Whether you're a nature lover, swimmer, or cultural explorer, a trip to Jungle Beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, mythology, and serenity—all just minutes from AGNUS Unawatuna.

unawatuna beach

Unawatuna Beach – A Tropical Paradise Just Minutes from Galle

Famous for its palm-fringed shoreline, turquoise waters, and laid-back vibe, Unawatuna Beach is one of the most popular destinations on Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Just 6 km from Galle Fort, it’s the perfect spot for sunseekers, swimmers, and those who simply want to relax by the sea.

With a great selection of beachfront cafés, bars, and restaurants, Unawatuna offers something for every traveler—from fresh seafood and tropical cocktails to Sri Lankan street food and wellness retreats.

To the west of the bay, a wooded headland stretches out into the ocean, hiding tiny coves and quieter beaches that are ideal for exploring or snorkelling. Whether you’re watching the sunset with a drink in hand or taking a morning dip in the calm, clear waters, Unawatuna Beach is the perfect escape.

Highlights:

• 🏖️ Calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkelling

• 🍹 Plenty of beach bars, cafés, and local dining spots

• 🌴 Relaxed vibe with sunbeds, palm trees, and soft golden sand

• 🛶 Water sports, yoga classes, and boat trips available nearby

• 📍 Only 6 km from Galle Fort, making it easy to explore both in one day

Galle dutch fort

Galle Fort (Sinhalese: ගාලු කොටුව Galu Kotuwa) , in the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, was built first in 1588 by the Portuguese, then extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century from 1649 onwards. It is a historical, archaeological and architectural heritage monument, which even after more than 423 years maintains a polished appearance, due to extensive reconstruction work done by Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka.

The fort has a colourful history, and today has a multi-ethnic and multi-religious population.The Sri Lankan government and many Dutch people who still own some of the properties inside the fort are looking at making this one of the modern wonders of the world.[4][5] The heritage value of the fort has been recognized by the UNESCO and the site has been inscribed as a cultural heritage UNESCO World Heritage Site under criteria iv, for its unique exposition of "an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

The Galle Fort, also known as the Dutch Fort or the "Ramparts of Galle", withstood the Boxing Day tsunami which damaged part of coastal area Galle town. It has been since restored.

japanese peace pagoda

Galle Fort – A Living UNESCO World Heritage Site on Sri Lanka’s Southern Coast

Located in the heart of Galle, just 6 km from AGNUS Unawatuna, Galle Fort (Sinhala: ගාලු කොටුව Galu Kotuwa) is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic historical sites. Originally built in 1588 by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch beginning in 1649, it is a remarkable example of European architecture blended with South Asian traditions.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Fort stands as a testament to over four centuries of colonial history and cultural exchange. Its cobblestone streets, colonial-era buildings, churches, mosques, museums, and boutique shops make it one of the most vibrant and unique urban heritage sites in Asia.

Key Highlights:

• 🏰 Built by the Portuguese, expanded by the Dutch – over 400 years of history

• 🌍 Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its architectural and cultural significance

• 🕌 A living fort with a multi-ethnic and multi-religious community

• 🌊 Withstood the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami with minimal damage and has since been restored

• 🛍️ Home to cafés, museums, boutiques, art galleries, and heritage hotels

Today, the fort is not just a monument but a living, breathing town—a place where history meets modern charm. Visitors can walk along the ramparts, enjoy the sunset over the Indian Ocean, or explore its beautifully preserved buildings and alleyways.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, photographer, or casual wanderer, Galle Fort offers an unforgettable glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past and vibrant present.

whale watching, turtle hatchery

Whale Watching – Encounter the Giants of the Ocean in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is one of the best places in the world to see the largest animal on earth—the Blue Whale. A resident colony of blue whales can be found off the southern coast year-round, making Unawatuna and Mirissa two of the top spots for unforgettable whale watching experiences.

From AGNUS Unawatuna, we can arrange boat-based whale watching tours, typically departing early in the morning and returning around noon. These guided excursions offer a chance to see not only blue whales, but also sperm whales, dolphins, and other marine life in their natural habitat.

For a truly unique experience, you can also choose to go whale watching by air. Light aircraft tours depart from the nearby Koggala Airport (around 6 AM) and offer breathtaking aerial views of whales cruising through the deep blue waters.

What to Expect:

• 🐋 Year-round sightings of blue whales and other marine mammals

• 🚤 Early morning boat tours available daily (weather permitting)

• ✈️ Aerial whale watching flights from Koggala Airport

• 🐢 Visit turtle hatcheries on the return trip—learn about conservation and even release baby turtles into the sea

• 📍 Easy bookings through the AGNUS reception desk

Whether by sea or sky, whale watching in southern Sri Lanka is an unforgettable adventure—an opportunity to witness the majesty of ocean giants while supporting local conservation and marine tourism

Udawalawe & yala national parks

Wildlife Safaris – Explore Yala & Udawalawe National Parks

For guests seeking adventure and a closer connection with nature, Yala and Udawalawe National Parks offer two of the most thrilling wildlife safari experiences in Sri Lanka. Both parks are within driving distance from AGNUS Unawatuna and can be visited as day trips or overnight excursions.

Yala National Park – Land of the Leopard

Located about 3.5 hours from Unawatuna, Yala National Park is Sri Lanka’s most famous safari destination. It’s best known for having one of the highest concentrations of leopards per square kilometre in the world.

But Yala is more than just big cats—you may also encounter elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, spotted deer, and over 200 bird species while exploring its diverse terrain of grasslands, lagoons, and forest.

Udawalawe National Park – The Elephant Paradise

Roughly 2.5 hours away, Udawalawe National Park is best known for its large herds of wild elephants, often seen up close near the park’s water reservoirs. It’s a great choice for families and photographers looking for an intimate, less crowded safari experience.

Nearby, you can also visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a conservation project where orphaned or injured elephants are rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

Safari Highlights:

🐘 Guaranteed sightings of wild elephants in Udawalawe

🐆 Best place in the world to spot leopards in the wild at Yala

🦅 Diverse wildlife: sloth bears, crocodiles, jackals, buffalo, birds & more

🚙 Comfortable 4x4 jeep safaris with experienced trackers

📸 Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers

Our reception team at AGNUS Unawatuna can assist with safari bookings, private transfers, and personalized itineraries.

stilt fishermen & turtle hatcheries

Along the same stretch of coast, you’ll also find several turtle hatcheries dedicated to the protection of endangered sea turtles. These conservation centres care for turtle eggs and hatchlings before safely releasing them back into the ocean.

Visitors can learn about the different turtle species native to Sri Lanka, understand the challenges they face, and even participate in the releasing of baby turtles—a meaningful and memorable activity for guests of all ages.

Many hatcheries are located near Koggala and can easily be visited en route to or from whale watching or a day trip to Mirissa.

Whether you're interested in cultural traditions or ocean conservation, these coastal experiences offer an enriching glimpse into the soul of southern Sri Lanka—all just a short drive from AGNUS Unawatuna.