Beruwela & Moragalle

Introducing Beruwela & Moragalle

Beruwela and Bentota have been developed into Sri Lanka’s chief package-tour-resort zone. There’s little to attract independent travellers here. Moragalle is technically slightly north of Beruwela, but the towns have practically merged. Throughout this area there is a lot of tsunami damage; many hotels are closed for good. Large fishing boats washed far inland are destined to become part of the landscape.

The first recorded Muslim settlement on the island took place at Beruwela in 1024. The Kechimalai Mosque, on a headland north of the hotel strip, is said to be built on the site of the landing and is the focus for a major Eid-ul-Fitr festival at the end of Ramadan. It’s part of a fascinating collection of mosques, churches and temples out by the fishing port and beach.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009