Before you travel to Koggala, it helps to know exactly what happens when you visit the stilt fishermen. Here is a simple walk-through of the visit, from a fishing family who has welcomed travellers since 2018.
Koggala is on the Galle–Matara main road on Sri Lanka’s south coast, a short drive from Galle and right next to Ahangama. You can come by tuk-tuk, taxi, bus or the coastal train. See how to get to Koggala.
We are at Maraduwawala, Koggala. When you book, we send you our exact location on WhatsApp, and you can share your live location with us if you need help finding the place.
Before going to the water, we explain ritipanna: how the Rita pole is planted in the reef, how the Kitul Piththa rod is made, why the Bilikatuwa hook needs no bait, and the difference between photo stilts and real fishing stilts.
You watch a fishing demonstration and take your photos. Then, if you want, a fisherman helps you climb onto a stilt and hold a traditional rod. It is harder than it looks, and it is the moment most visitors remember.
In the past the fish came every season and stayed for up to six months. Today, because of environmental change and the loss of the places where fish breed and shelter, real ritipanna happens only once every few years. When the fish do come, we tell you where and when the real fishing is happening at Maraduwawala, so you can see the tradition as it is truly practised.
The Stilt Fishermen Experience takes about 15 minutes and costs $10 per person. Many visitors combine it with our 2-hour Tuk Tuk Tour or the Koggala Lake Boat Safari to make a half day of it. See all experiences and prices.
Send us your date, the time you prefer (sunrise or sunset) and how many people. We reply with availability and tell you honestly what the sea and the fish are doing that week.
Book on WhatsApp See experiences and pricesThe Stilt Fishermen Experience takes about 15 minutes. You can combine it with a tuk tuk tour or a Koggala Lake safari for a half day.
At Maraduwawala, Koggala. We send the exact location on WhatsApp when you book.
Real fishing depends on the fish, which today come only once every few years. Message us before your visit and we will tell you honestly whether the fish are in.
Light clothes and sandals that can get wet. Keep your phone and camera in a dry bag.
Planning your visit? Read our full Stilt Fishing in Sri Lanka visitor guide.
