Rathgama Lake is one of the most rewarding half-days you can have on Sri Lanka's south coast, and it is also one of the most underrated — partly because visitors assume it is far away. It is not. From the main beach strip in Hikkaduwa, AquaTrek's launch point on Rathgama Lake is 5–6 kilometres and 15–20 minutes by tuk-tuk. Here is everything you need to know to get there without hassle.
The Exact Location
AquaTrek Water Adventures
Dodandugoda Road, Dodanduwa
Hikkaduwa 80240, Sri Lanka
The launch point is in the village of Dodanduwa, which sits on the northern shore of Rathgama Lake. Dodanduwa is technically a separate settlement from Hikkaduwa but is treated as part of the same stretch by locals and tuk-tuk drivers.
When you book, AquaTrek will send you a Google Maps pin via WhatsApp — this is the most reliable way to navigate. Ask the driver to open it on their phone if they are unsure of the exact spot.
Getting There by Tuk-Tuk (Recommended)
Tuk-tuks are the easiest and most practical option. From anywhere along Hikkaduwa's main beach road (Galle Road), the fare should be around Rs 200–350 one-way. Agree on the price before you get in.
What to tell the driver: "AquaTrek, Dodandugoda Road, Dodanduwa" or simply "AquaTrek kayak, Dodanduwa." Most drivers in Hikkaduwa and Dodanduwa town know the business. If they are unsure, share the WhatsApp location pin.
The drive goes south along Galle Road for a short distance, then turns inland (east) toward the lake. You will pass through Dodanduwa town before reaching the lake-facing road. The approach to the launch point runs parallel to the shoreline — you will see the lake through the trees before you arrive.
Getting There by Motorbike or Car
If you have rented a motorbike or car, free parking is available at the launch point. From central Hikkaduwa, take Galle Road south to Dodanduwa, then follow Dodandugoda Road east toward the lake. The journey is straightforward — no difficult roads or off-road sections. A standard motorbike or car handles it without any issues.
GPS coordinates: 6.1051642, 80.1312126
Getting There from Galle
Galle is approximately 20 km north of Hikkaduwa. The quickest option is a tuk-tuk directly to AquaTrek (around Rs 1,000–1,200 from Galle town) or a bus to Hikkaduwa bus stand followed by a short tuk-tuk to the lake. The train from Galle to Hikkaduwa/Dodanduwa also runs this route — Dodanduwa has its own railway station, which is roughly 1 km from the lake launch point.
Getting There from Unawatuna or Weligama
Unawatuna is approximately 25 km from AquaTrek, Weligama around 35 km. Both are best reached by tuk-tuk (Rs 1,200–1,800 from Unawatuna, more from Weligama) or by hiring a private driver for the day. If you are making a day trip from either of these bases, plan to arrive at AquaTrek for the 6 AM sunrise tour — depart your hotel no later than 5:15–5:30 AM.
Getting There from Colombo
Colombo to Hikkaduwa is approximately 100 km, typically 2–2.5 hours by road depending on traffic. Options:
- Train: The coastal line from Colombo Fort to Hikkaduwa or Dodanduwa is one of the most scenic rail journeys in Asia. Second class is comfortable and the views of the ocean from the carriages are exceptional. Journey time is around 2.5–3 hours. Dodanduwa station is approximately 1 km from AquaTrek — arrange a tuk-tuk for the final stretch.
- Private car: Approximately Rs 5,000–7,000 for a one-way hire. Most guesthouses in Colombo can arrange a driver.
- Bus: Galle-bound intercity buses from Colombo stop at Hikkaduwa. Journey time is similar to the train. Walk or tuk-tuk to the lake from Hikkaduwa bus stand.
What to Expect When You Arrive
The AquaTrek launch area has:
- Free on-site parking
- Clean bathroom facilities and changing rooms
- A shaded waiting area
- A briefing area where your guide will go through safety and paddling technique before departure
For the Sunrise & Wildlife Tour, arrive by 5:50 AM — the team will fit your life jacket and brief you before the 6:00 departure. Being late means missing the best wildlife window of the morning.
For the Sunset & Banyan Tree Tour, arrive by 3:20 PM for a 3:30 PM departure.
If you are running late, message AquaTrek on WhatsApp. They will hold the departure for a few minutes if the group has not yet launched.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I walk from Hikkaduwa town to AquaTrek? Technically yes — it is about 5–6 km — but there is no dedicated footpath for most of the route and it is not a pleasant walk in the heat. A tuk-tuk is strongly recommended.
Is there a bus that goes near the lake? Local buses run along Galle Road through Dodanduwa, but the stop is still 1–1.5 km from the lake launch point. A tuk-tuk for the last leg is necessary.
Can AquaTrek arrange a pick-up from my hotel? Yes, for groups. Message AquaTrek on WhatsApp with your hotel address and they can advise or help arrange transport.
Is Dodanduwa the same as Hikkaduwa? Dodanduwa is a separate village immediately adjacent to Hikkaduwa, to the south. On most maps and in most conversations, locals treat the two as the same area. The distinction matters mainly for GPS — use the Dodandugoda Road address or the coordinates above.
