How to go on a boat ride on Madu River

The Madu River Wetlands is cherished for its diverse eco-system; sustained by seven river strains which go on to make up the main body of water. This main river makes its way through 2,300 hectares of land which is deemed a national sanctuary. 64 islands are dotting the river which is either uninhabited or homes for the locals. A safari on the river exposes you to not only the exotic flora and fauna but also the lifestyles of villagers. Here's how to plan a Madu River boat tour.

1. All You Need To Know About The Madu River Wetlands

Before being called Madu River, the area was known as 'river with the giant island' or in Sinhala maha dupatha athi gangawa. Initially made up of 64 islands, the total area within the reserve has been reduced to a maximum of 28 islands. Ranked third on the Ramsar index, the wetlands are extremely important for the sustenance of the environment and wildlife.

2. Location Of The Madu River

Madu River is located on the southern coastal belt of Sri Lanka. It is easiest to reach from the very popular tourist resort town of Bentota; which in turn is only 70kms from the commercial capital Colombo. Boat safaris on the Madu River are amongst the most popular things to do in Bentota with many Bentota resorts organising excursions on the river for guests. Those like Saman Villas are ideal for enjoying all the allures of the area's outdoor activities. And there is plenty to do in Bentota, apart for the Madu River safari. From your hotel in Bentota, you can visit the famous and exotic Brief Gardens, take on a cycling tour, visit the Kande Vihare Buddhist shrines and explore the quaint villages.

3. What To Expect On Your Madu River Safari

You can choose from amongst several variations of the boat safari. The basic is the boat tour which will take you across the river for about 2 hours. Enjoy the warm sunshine and lush foliage of the surrounding banks. Take along a pair of binoculars to spot the wildlife. Monkeys in the trees, a water monitor skulking along the shores and lots of aquatic birds. You will pass little make-shift platforms on which sellers of thambili water (king coconut) offer passers-by a refreshing drink. Then there are the cinnamon plantations located on some of the islands. You can visit these and watch the process of making cinnamon sticks, as well as, the fragrant cinnamon oil.

4. Important Stops Along The Madu River Safari

Kokduwa Island Historical Temple|Image via Wikimedia Commons

Amongst the fine treats for nature lovers to enjoy, there are some popular stops along the river which you will find fascinating. These include;

• Cruising through the mangrove forest
• Visiting Cinnamon Island
• Stopping for some fish therapy on a makeshift platform, where you dangle your feet in a square of water teeming with little fish
• Exploring the shrimp farm
• Stopping for some culture at the Kokduwa Historical Temple

5. The Madu River Excursion Including An Exploration Of The South Coast

You can spice up your Madu River safari by extending the tour to include an exploration of the beautiful south coast of Sri Lanka. There are many interesting points along this stretch which you can explore on a full day's tour. Visit a turtle conservation project, check out the sandy expanse of  Beach and take your time exploring the vintage surroundings of the Galle Fort; a UNESCO World Heritage and one of the most perfectly preserved forts built by the Portuguese colonists in the 16th century.

6. Pre-Book Your Tour

Once you confirm your accommodation at your Bentota resort, go ahead and pre-book your Madu River safari. You can then get updated on how long the tour is, how much it costs and what things you need to take along on the tour.

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