Culture & History of Hikkaduwa

One of Sri Lanka’s beautiful south coast towns, Hikkaduwa is among traveller’s first choices when it comes to beachside destinations on the island.  World renowned for its unspoilt beach and coral sanctuary, this stunning coastal town is about 20 kilometres North West of Galle.

The name Hikkaduwa is believed to have come from the two words ‘Ship Kaduwa’. Ship means the shorter version of Shilpaya which refers to knowledge in Sinhalese; and kaduwa means sword. So it is believed that the meaning behind the name Hikkaduwa is ‘sword of knowledge’.

Apart from the stunning beach, Hikkaduwa also boasts of some of the country’s most important archaeological sites. There are numerous temples, monuments and statues in the area. Most historical sites and monuments found in this coastal town are related to Buddhism which is the religion practised by the majority of the country. Some of these historical sites dates back to a few hundred years and some are as old as several thousand years.

It is believed that Hikkaduwa was a tourist’s favourite since olden days. J. W. Bennett once described in 1843 that it “is most pleasantly situated, and a great resort of picnic parties from Galle”.

This amazing beach side destination also has a long tradition in the manufacturing of lace and drum frames. It also has an extensive history in cultivating coconuts, cinnamon and rice.