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Beautiful Underwater Paradise in Sri Lanka: Hikkaduwa Coral Reef
Introduction
Renowned for its lovely coral gardens, Hikkaduwa National Park is one of three maritime parks in Sri Lanka. Near the thriving southern coast town of Hikkaduwa, this reef provides a dynamic habitat for various sea life. Made a wildlife sanctuary on May 18, 1979, the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef was formally safeguarded as a natural reserve in 2002. Swimming and diving are fantastic activities here, where one may find one of the most varied underwater habitats in Asia.
One unique component of nature is the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef.
Perfect for coral to flourish, the reef is a modest edge reef averaging sixteen feet (five meters) depth. Its coral varieties range from flat Montipora to branched corals to encrusting coral. Here, among 31 distinct groups, there are more than 60 varieties of coral, producing a vivid underwater environment. Among the most often used forms of corals are staghorn, elkhorn, table, brain, and star corals. For numerous aquatic life, they provide food and cover.
Apart from corals, the reef boasts a variety of aquatic life. From 76 separate groups, these waters feature around 170 varieties of reef fish. This covers exquisite angelfish, butterflyfish, damselfish, and wrasses. Smaller, beautiful fish like sea goldies and dragonets hide under the coral; big predators like blacktip reef sharks swim in the open water. Among the many non-bonaceous creatures found on the reef are octopuses, starfish, crabs, prawns. Our planet depends much on these species.
Marvellous Nature Patterns
Beautiful and safeguarding of sea life is the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef. The reef keeps the beach stable and slows down waves, therefore helping to safeguard the coast. Strong corals and rock make up the reef, which also hosts a great variety of underwater life. By removing toxins from the water and creating a better habitat, marine sponges and tunicates assist to maintain reefs healthy.
This is the background behind the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef’s name.
Two Sinhalese words— “Hikka,” meaning sand, and “Duwa,” meaning island—form the name “Hikkaduwa.” This addresses the level beaches and the nearby little islands. The area depends much on the reef. Its breathtaking beauty attracts scientists as well as beachgoers.
How to reach the coral reef of Hikkaduwa?
Conveniently located roughly 100 kilometres south of Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, is Hikkaduwa. One can reach Hikkaduwa via vehicle, bus, or train. While the Southern Motorway is a quicker option for driving, the coastal train offers a good travel along the Indian Ocean. From the main beach, Hikkaduwa allows you simple access to the reef. Numerous local businesses provide boat rides and planned diving or snorkelling excursions.
Ideal Visits Times for Hikkaduwa Coral Reef
From April to November is the ideal season to visit the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef since the water is clean and the weather is pleasant. The water is clean for swimming and scuba diving during these months so visitors may view the vivid aquatic life. For visitors, the ideal season is from December to March. Though occasionally it rains and the water becomes hazy. Generally the conditions are good.
Guideline for Coral Reef Visits
- Please be careful when visiting the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef so as to help preserve this delicate habitat.
- The corals are delicate live entities, hence please do not step on or touch them.
- Use not coral or sea creatures as presents.
- Cover sea life with reef-safe sunscreen.
- Select swimming or diving trips emphasising environmental preservation.
- Respected sea life like blacktip reef sharks and lionfish keep a safe distance from you.
Top Views to View Sea Creatures
- Some locations offer the best experiences to discover the wonderful life found in the reef:
- Perfect for swimming, shallow reef zones abound in vibrant fish, lobsters, and crabs.
- Bigger fish include blacktip reef sharks and groupers abound in the outer slope.
- Young fish and sea turtles depend critically on seagrass beds.
- For those who want to see the stunning reef while staying dry but cannot swim, Glass- Bottom Boat Tours are excellent.
Where Should One Stay Close to Hikkaduwa Coral Reef?
There are several reasonably priced lodging options for Hikkaduwa include tiny guesthouses and seaside resorts. Common decisions include:
- One great beach hotel close to the reef is Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon.
- The reasonably priced Coral Sands Hotel boasts beautiful ocean views.
- Affordable lodging with first-rate service close to the beach comes under budget homestays.
Last Ideas
Adventurers and people who enjoy the natural world will find the stunning Hikkaduwa Coral Reef perfect. Clear water, lovely coral reefs, and a range of sea life define this marine national park. In Sri Lanka, this is among the most valuable natural goods available. We must inspire people to act properly and assist initiatives for environmental care if we are to save our delicate surroundings. Taking care of the reef and its inhabitants allows visitors to contribute to ensure that its beauty will be enjoyed by next generations.
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