Scenic Boat Safari in Madu Ganga, Balapitiya

Discover the unique beauty of MADU GANGA nature on a boat trip. Admire various birds, the water warans, even crocodiles and the mindblowing mangroves. Visit a cinnamon farmer, an ancient temple on a small island, a fish farm and the marvellous floating red and white lotus flower fields. You find Maadu Ganga after passing Ahungalle when you travel southward from Colombo. The river flows through a thick jungle of mangroves. Maadu Ganga is really a fascinating place . But the real beauty of Maadu Ganga can be enjoyed only if you sail downstream for about a kilo meter. The river spreads out to a very wide area creating about 25 to 30 tiny islands . ( Local name for an island is Duwa) . The largest of these are Satha Pahe Duwa, Dimi Duwa, Galman Duwa and Katu Duwa . Sathe Pahe Duwa is the island which had been purchased by a person for five cents, a long time ago . Dimi Duwa has a thick growth of mangroves and gin pol. Galmanduwa is well known because of the bridge which connects this island to the mainland. Katu Duwa is known for the thick growth of wetakeiya, mangroves and beli patta. Maa Duwa, from which perhaps the river has got its name is the largest of these islands. About 300 families reside here. Kok Duwa is known for the Buddhist Temple there which caters for the religious needs of these islanders. Dik Duewa has got its name because it is oblong and is the longest of the islands. The people who live in these islands are mostly traditional fishermen. To some extend they are engaged in some traditional cottage industries as well. The mangroves around these islands can survive both high tide and low tide. It is a well balanced eco system.