Elephant Tree (Kalpitiya).

On our last trip to Kalpitiya, we took a boat ride out to the Elephant Tree – an ancient massive tree nestled among a beautiful lagoon of mangroves.

The Boat Ride

The Kalpitiya mangroves are not too far from land, maybe about 45 minutes away on a motorboat. Once the boat enters this green space, the motor will likely be shut off because apparently there are large rocks beneath that can damage the boat. So you’ll be floating through the mangroves awhile – the view makes for a relaxing journey.

The mangroves, the calm lagoon water, and the steady buzzing of locusts inside the green, are straight out of an Anaconda movie. You start thinking about snakes and crocodiles and our boatman just smiled mysteriously when we asked him about it, which didn’t help things.

The Elephant Tree is about half an hour’s meandering into the mangroves. It’s a humungous one whose leaves tower and spread out like one of those trees in Savanna. Its trunk and branches are swollen and misshapen and the locals believe it is shaped like an elephant.

Captain of our humble ship

We asked our boatman how old the tree was, and he laughed and replied ‘long, long before we were born’.

Getting There

An island of uninhabited forest in the Dutch Bay – you’ll pass these on the way

Kalpitiya is about 4.5 hours from Colombo on a bus. The best way to get to the mangroves is through your hotel (ours was Ruuk Village) – they will arrange boat rides through Kalpitiya’s lagoon and the Dutch Bay. The boat rides will likely be part of a package and include trips to the Motuwarama Dutch Church ruins, dolphin watching, and if you’re up for it, to the kite-surfing stretch. If you have about four of you in the boat, it’ll cost around Rs. 2K each.

Conclusion

Kalpitiya is a great place for boat rides. Pack up some lunch, load up on sunblock, and head out on the lagoon and bays – mosey on through the mangroves and stray green islands in Kalpitiya that are yet to be adulterated by urban development. It will be a relaxing trip and a welcome getaway from the usual scene if you’re from the city.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

The Sweetest Valentine’s Treat from The Sweet Room!

by Shamrina Carim February is here and love is in the air—So is the irresistible

Kamu

Sawan for Seven! A Gigantic North Indian Meal from Rosewood Ceylon

By Shamrina Carim If you’re craving an indulgent North Indian meal that brings together bold

Kamu

Culinary Adventure at Long Feng by Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo : The Chinese Food Festival 2025

If you’ve never journeyed to China, a  grand opportunity to immerse yourself in its true

Kamu

Cheers Pub at Cinnamon Grand Colombo: The Ultimate Spot for Great Vibes, Delicious Food, and Fun

By Sharon Nonis Looking for a place that blends great food, refreshing drinks, live music,

Highlights Kamu

Across Borders: A Culinary Bridge Between India and Sri Lanka Through Peshawri’s Timeless Flavors

By Vimasha Vishvadari Peshawri, a renowned restaurant chain, originated from the iconic Bukhara restaurant in

Highlights Kamu

Tenkū – a hidden Gem of the Japanese Cuisine

By Vimasha Weerawansha Ambience  The Kingsbury Rooftop offers a breathtaking panorama of the cityscape and

Highlights Kamu

Trending.

Cinnamon Red Colombo invites you to a blessed Iftar – bring 3, 4th dines free

This Ramadan, Cinnamon Red Colombo warmly welcomes guests to experience a truly special Iftar –

Trending

Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo Celebrates Women’s Day with Exclusive Culinary Delights and Special Offers

This Women’s Day, Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo invites guests to indulge in a series of exclusive

Trending

Iftar Buffet at The Kingsbury’s Harbour Court

The Kingsbury, Colombo invites you and your loved ones to break your fast with an

Trending

Mount Lavinia Hotel’s Poya Market Returns March 13 with Relaxing Painting & Vegan Buffet

Since its inception in January 2024, the Mount Lavinia Hotel’s Poya Market has been a

Trending

Hilton Colombo Presents ‘A Middle Eastern Flair’

Hilton Colombo invites guests on a gastronomic journey through the heart of the Middle East

Trending

Iftar Deals for Great Value in 2025

By Fathima Rukaiya, Iftar doesn’t have to be expensive to be delicious! Whether you’re craving

Highlights Trending Yamu Guide

Yamu Guide.

Iftar Deals for Great Value in 2025

By Fathima Rukaiya, Iftar doesn’t have to be expensive to be delicious! Whether you’re craving

Highlights Trending Yamu Guide

IFTAR Buffet List – 2025

by Fathima Rukaiya, As Ramadan 2025 approaches, food lovers and families are on the lookout

Highlights Trending Yamu Guide

Colombo’s BYOB Gems: 15 Perfect Spots to Pair Your Drink with Delicious Food

by Vimasha Weerawansha Are you on the hunt for dining spots where you can bring

Yamu Guide

14 Romantic Places to Spend  February 14th – Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you're looking for the perfect place

Highlights Yamu Guide

Valentine’s Gift Guide for Him 2025

by Fathima Rukaiya Looking for the perfect way to show your special guy how much

Highlights Yamu Guide