Viewpoints on Sri Lanka's south coast

Sri Lanka's south coast is largely low and flat, with the beach, the road and the palms often blocking the wider view. A few headlands, hills and towers break that pattern, and each gives a different sense of the coast's shape and colour.

South coast viewpoints are also good places to slow down. Most need little effort to reach, and an hour at sunset on a headland or rampart is one of the simplest pleasures of a trip along the coast.

Around Galle, the Japanese Peace Pagoda on Rumassala gives the classic view across the bay to Galle Fort, its walls and lighthouse lit by the setting sun. The ramparts of Galle Fort, especially around Flag Rock and the lighthouse, are the best place to watch the sun go down over the sea.

Kumarakanda temple at Dodanduwa, a short drive north of Galle, has a view over the coast and harbour from the top of its steps. It is far quieter than the fort at sunset.

Mirissa has two well-known viewpoints. Coconut Tree Hill is a palm-covered headland above the sea, the most photographed spot on the coast and very busy at sunset. Parrot Rock, a small rocky islet at the end of Mirissa beach, can be climbed at low tide for views back along the bay.

At Dondra Head, the lighthouse is roughly 49 metres tall, the island's tallest. When climbing is permitted, for a small fee, the top gives views over the southernmost point of Sri Lanka and the open ocean.

At Dikwella, the building behind Wewurukannala's giant Buddha has stairs to the level of the statue's head, with views over paddy fields and palms towards the sea. North of Tangalle, the summit of Mulkirigala rock temple gives the widest inland view on the south coast, over paddy, forest and, on clear days, the sea.

East of Tangalle, the plateau of Ussangoda National Park looks out over red soil and scrub to the sea, glowing in the late afternoon light. It is one of the most unusual landscapes on the coast.

Late afternoon and sunset are best at most coastal viewpoints, when the light is warm and the heat has eased. Early morning is better for Mulkirigala, as the climb is hot later, and for quieter visits to Coconut Tree Hill.

From December to April, skies are usually clearer and the sea calmer. In the May to September monsoon, clouds and rain can block views, but dramatic skies and waves can make for striking photographs.

A viewpoint day on the south coast can follow the light. From Tangalle, climb Mulkirigala at dawn, visit Wewurukannala late morning and finish at Ussangoda for sunset. From Galle, spend the afternoon in the fort and end at the Peace Pagoda.

Lankan Stays & Trails builds viewpoint stops into south coast days for photographers and anyone who enjoys a view, timing them around the light. Drivers can wait at most viewpoints while you watch the sunset.