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  1. Hikka here we come
    ©BT Images
  2. Hikka here we come
    ©BT Images

Hikka here we come

For a whole week, the monsoon rains had crushed and it was the first clean sunset, coloured like a very subtle, romantic, mellow palette by an artist in complete harmony with nature.

Written by
Time Out editors
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All of Hikkaduwa had rushed out to the beach to enjoy the serene beauty of the last quarter of the hour before night descended with its thick pall. The beach was a carnival with neither music nor a centre to it. People moved to their own synchronisation. That we were in the thick of the ‘Hikka season’ was manifested by the shoals of tourists in their varied clothing, outnumbering Sri Lankans floating happily in the gloam. Everyone in fact was happy that a harsh sun was about to dip into the sea, and gave vent to their joy with spontaneous little acts: splashing about water, chasing each other; a couple even rehearsed mock ballroom steps, drunken with happiness and laughter.

The Hikkaduwa season means an untiring fiesta that happens on the beach, the Galle Road, and sometimes snaking beyond these to the interior. The town has become a favourite escape for many European visitors when winter descends on their continent. Consequently, Hikkaduwa is one of the most touristic areas in the Island.

The prime reason for popularity is that the yellow beaches are ideal to soak the sun in. The blue skies are idyllic, palms provide ample shade and, what is more, Hikkaduwa is easily accessible via the Southern Expressway. With Hikkaduwa being a popular tourist destination, the town has become a hub of restaurants, hotels and curio shops.

Nearly every establishment, even the ones with cadjun thatched roofs that give a more Sri Lankan feel have sign boards displaying such curiosities as “traditional Sunday roast”.

During the season, Hikkaduwa hardly catches a wink of sleep. All night, the town is thronged by straggles of wandering visitors, both foreign and Sri Lankan and fairy lights of all hues are draped on trees, roofs and walls. In Hikkaduwa, Christmas lasts as long as the season lasts. 

December 10 – 11
Hikka Fest 
Head to the shores of Hikkaduwa this festive season for the ultimate beach festival. Hikka Fest features international artists as well as homegrown musicians. Experience surf competitions, beach sports, fireworks and musical shows while indulging in fresh seafood. It’s two days of nothing but good vibes and celebration! 

 

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