What is Madu River or Madu Ganga?
Madu River or Madu Ganga is a picturesque and enthralling river nestled in the small coastal town called Balapitiya of Galle District, Southern province Sri Lanka and within easy access to famous tourist destinations of Bentota and Galle.
Madu River is a complex coastal wetland ecosystem. Even though referred to as a river, it resembles more a lagoon or estuary in structure. Madu River water body and islands cover an area of 915 hectare, which 770 Ha consist of open water while 145 Ha account for 64 small islands. Madu River complex is a very rich bio diversified hot spot and sensitive eco system with ecological significances which higher than any other coastal eco systems island wide. Madu Ganga or Madu River wetland is a combination of Madu river and Randombe Lake, connected by two water channels.
Biodiversity of the Madu Ganga / River is highly significant when considering the wide range of aquatic life and other animals. A total of 11 species of agnatic mollusks and 14 land dwelling mollusks are found in this system. 70 species of fish, 31 types of reptiles, and 50 kinds of butterflies are just some of the colorful array of wildlife that inhabits this bustling ecosystem.
Madu River Boat Safari / Madu Ganga Boat Trip
Madu River is a well-known tourist attraction in Sri Lanka and you can explore this massive wetland eco system on a boat trip called “Madu River Boat Safari”. It will be a very informative with educational elements plus a joyful boat trip through melodious, bird-colonised mangrove forests / Cinnamon island / Koth Duwa Buddhist Temple etc. Also this is technical tour for your children since they can learn & witness about Mangroves species in a tropical country / aquatic bird species endemic & native / about estuary / lagoon based fishing industry and many other nature related aspects and many more.
Highlights of Madu river boat safari
Refreshing boat safari through the Madu river (Madu Ganga) estuary, with its tranquil waters and picturesque landscapes.
This is not just another boat trip but you can witness highly diversified species of flora & fauna of a tropical island.
Witness the complex mangrove forests that line the river banks, providing a habitat for a variety of aquatic species.
Visit to enchanting Cinnamon Island, where you can experience traditional process of cinnamon cultivation.
Observing local fishermen engaged in their daily activities, showcasing the close connection between the community and the river
Madu river boat safari details
Activity – Madu River Boat Safari
Duration – 1.5 - 2 Hrs Hrs approximately
Location – Balapitiya Sri Lanka. South West coast
Nearest cities – Galle 35 KM or Bentota 24 KM
Recommended for – All
Activity type – Light
Madu River Boat Safari Price – Approximately 35 $ - 40 $ Per person. This might vary with the different boat service providers. If you are group of more than 6 people, you may ask for a group discount.
When to go – Year around but better November to April each year
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