A Sri Lankan Food Lover's Guide to Planning a Visit to Hikkaduwa

If you like to explore a place through its food, Hikkaduwa rewards you. A little planning means you eat well and leave time to enjoy it.

Decide what you want to discover

Rice and curry? Breakfast staples? Desserts? Spices? Pick a few favourites.

Make time for traditional meals

Rice and curry is the best introduction. Add hoppers, string hoppers, pol roti and pittu at breakfast. Ask about chilli and ingredients if you have preferences.

Snacks and sweets

Short eats such as cutlets and patties are easy between activities. For dessert, try watalappan or buffalo curd with treacle, and seasonal fruit.

Add a hands-on class

Ceylon Cooking Class gives you a private experience in a tropical garden kitchen, with a local host. You cook a full meal and sit down to eat it. The price is $15 per person, with a welcome drink, complimentary hotel pickup within 15 km, and a complimentary dessert.

Plan realistically

Leave 3-5 hours for the class and let us know your preferred date and pickup spot. Because it is private, we can usually arrange a time that fits your day.

Mention dietary needs early

Tell us about allergies, dietary requirements and spice preferences when you message.

Stay curious

Recipes differ everywhere. Ask questions, and try new foods in small portions.

Your Hikkaduwa food day

Start with a local breakfast, spend the late morning or afternoon cooking, and finish with a relaxed meal at the table you helped to fill.