Ritipanna is the Sinhalese term for stilt fishing, which is a traditional method for fishing practiced by most fishermen along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. This art is popularly seen in areas such as Ahangama, Koggala, Welipenna, Kathaluwa and Thalarambe. A narrow pole is tied to a stick that is anchored on the sea bed. Fisher folk climb onto this stick and settle on the pole for a few hours in an effort to catch some fish.

Fishermen found on stilts are those who do not have access to sophisticated equipment for fishing. These men can make a living simply with the help of two wooden poles to make a stilt. One pole is nailed onto the sea bed and the other is placed like a cross bar and acts as a plank for the fishermen to sit on. Each stilt can accommodate only one fisherman. For catching fish, they create a rod made of Kithul, and a small plastic bag is tied around their waist to hold the fish that they catch. With one hand they hold onto the stilt and with the other they hold the rod that catches fish. The tradition of stilt fishing will always be practiced by those who cannot afford to invest in modern fishing equipment.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts in Koggala from NZ$531

Change your mind
Book hotels with free cancellation
Treat yourself
Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
Sign in
Be picky
Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check availability on Koggala Luxury Hotels

Tonight

Tomorrow

This weekend

Next weekend

Our top choices for Koggala luxury hotels

Indoor pool, outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, pool loungers

The Fortress Resort & Spa Galle

Koggala

Richard

includes taxes & fees

29 Jan - 30 Jan 2026

Outdoor pool, pool umbrellas, pool loungers

Kahanda Kanda

Angulugaha

Paul

includes taxes & fees

3 Jan - 4 Jan 2026

View all properties

Top Koggala Hotel Reviews

Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon

10/10 Excellent

"Staff were lovely always saying hello and keen to help in any way. "

Frequently asked questions

Are you looking for a luxury hotel for your Koggala holiday?

Koggala has some interesting things to see and do including Koggala Lake and Koggala Beach, so you might want to take in the local sights during your visit.

What's the best luxury hotel in Koggala?

The Fortress Resort & Spa Galle is a luxury hotel with 3 restaurants and free valet parking, and it's a popular choice for Expedia travellers looking for an elegant place to stay. Another upscale choice for your holiday is Habaraduwa House.

When can I expect good weather in Koggala?

Planning for the weather is a good way to make your trip to Koggala relaxing and enjoyable, especially when you're splurging. The hottest months are usually March and April, with an average temperature of 28°C, while the coldest months are January and February, with an average of 27°C. The rainiest months in Koggala are May, November, September and October, with each month seeing an average of 305 mm of rainfall.

What's there to see and do in Koggala?

Enjoy all that Koggala has to offer and visit Koggala Lake, Koggala Beach and Kathaluwa Old Temple. If you have spare time during your trip, you might want to make a stop at Martin Wickramsinghe Folk Museum and Stilt Fisherman.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts in Koggala from NZ$531

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Check availability on Koggala Luxury Hotels

Our top choices for Koggala luxury hotels

The Fortress Resort & Spa Galle

Kahanda Kanda

Top Koggala Hotel Reviews

Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon

Levels Unawatuna

Jetwing Lighthouse, A Luxury Reserve

The Fortress Resort & Spa Galle

Frequently asked questions