See traditional Stilt Fishing
Mirissa, Sri Lanka • 
Popular
Popular
Best months to visit
Jan, Feb, Mar
25°C – 31°C, sunny and dry with minimal rainfall, high crowds, peak season
25°C – 31°C, sunny and dry with minimal rainfall, high crowds, peak season
Walking required
Yes
Stilt fishing requires balance and agility; not wheelchair accessible.
Stilt fishing requires balance and agility; not wheelchair accessible.
Value for money
Medium
Mixed reviews on authenticity, but great photo opportunities.
Mixed reviews on authenticity, but great photo opportunities.
Highlights we curated for you
See what similar travellers think of this activity
C
Reviews from other travelers
Summarised by AI
Iconic Scene
Couples found the stilt fishing a unique, romantic experience with stunning photo ops!
Picturesque Tradition
Wonderful cultural experience for couples. The sunset views were absolutely breathtaking!
Memorable Moments
Couples loved the picturesque setting and the chance to witness a unique tradition.
Staged Experience
Some couples felt the experience was too staged, and less about real fishing.
Overpriced Photos
Travelers felt the photo fees were a bit high for what was offered.
Authenticity Questioned
Couples questioned the authenticity, as it is now mostly for tourists.
How to book
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Hours of operation
Monday
05:30 AM - 07:30 PM
Tuesday
05:30 AM - 07:30 PM
Wednesday
05:30 AM - 07:30 PM
Thursday
05:30 AM - 07:30 PM
Friday
05:30 AM - 07:30 PM
Saturday
05:30 AM - 07:30 PM
Sunday
05:30 AM - 07:30 PM
In-depth experience
May contain spoilers
Watch curated videos from fellow travellers for a glimpse of what to expect.
A family experiences Stilt fisherman viewing at pristine Mirissa.
Behold aerial shots of traditional stilt fishing.
When to visit
We've analysed user reviews and geographical data, and identified the best and worst months to visit.
Month
Crowd Level
Weather
Availability
Our recommendation
December
HIGH
23-31°C
December brings the dry season with warm temperatures, reduced rainfall, and calm seas, ideal for outdoor activities.
December brings the dry season with warm temperatures, reduced rainfall, and calm seas, ideal for outdoor activities.
Open
Stilt fishing is fully accessible with favorable weather and sea conditions.
Stilt fishing is fully accessible with favorable weather and sea conditions.
Recommended
December marks the start of the peak tourist season in Mirissa, characterized by warm, dry weather and calm seas. These conditions are ideal for traditional stilt fishing, and visitors can fully enjoy this cultural experience. However, increased tourist numbers lead to higher prices and busier attractions.
December marks the start of the peak tourist season in Mirissa, characterized by warm, dry weather and calm seas. These conditions are ideal for traditional stilt fishing, and visitors can fully enjoy this cultural experience. However, increased tourist numbers lead to higher prices and busier attractions.
January
HIGH
25-31°C
Sunny and dry with minimal rainfall.
Sunny and dry with minimal rainfall.
Open
High demand may require advance booking.
High demand may require advance booking.
Recommended
January offers excellent weather conditions for stilt fishing in Mirissa. However, due to peak tourist season, it's advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance.
January offers excellent weather conditions for stilt fishing in Mirissa. However, due to peak tourist season, it's advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance.
February
HIGH
25-32°C
Sunny and pleasant with low rainfall.
Sunny and pleasant with low rainfall.
Open
Advance reservations recommended due to high demand.
Advance reservations recommended due to high demand.
Recommended
February continues to provide ideal conditions for stilt fishing. Ensure to plan ahead as tourist numbers remain high.
February continues to provide ideal conditions for stilt fishing. Ensure to plan ahead as tourist numbers remain high.
March
MEDIUM
26-32°C
Hot and sunny with occasional light showers.
Hot and sunny with occasional light showers.
Open
Moderate demand; booking in advance is still advisable.
Moderate demand; booking in advance is still advisable.
Recommended
March offers warm weather suitable for stilt fishing. While crowds are slightly reduced, it's still considered peak season.
March offers warm weather suitable for stilt fishing. While crowds are slightly reduced, it's still considered peak season.
How to get there
Bus
Recommended
Local buses (routes 02 and 350) travel along the Galle-Matara route, stopping near stilt fishing locations. Board from Mirissa's main bus stand or flag them down along Matara Road.
Taxi
Recommended
Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available in Mirissa for direct transport to stilt fishing locations along Matara Road.
Walking
Recommended
Walking is a viable option for those staying close to the stilt fishing spots, offering a leisurely way to enjoy the coastal scenery.
Bike
Rent a scooter or bike to explore the coastline at your own pace. Several rental services are available in Mirissa.
Car
Renting a car allows independent exploration of the coastal roads. Parking is generally available along the roadside near the viewing spots.
Shuttle
Some hotels and tour operators provide shuttle services, often including visits to see the stilt fishermen.
Train
The Weligama and Matara railway stations are serviced by express trains. From there, take a tuk-tuk or bus to the stilt fishing spots along Matara Road.
Additional info
Here's what you need to know about this experience
Mobility
Wheelchair Accessible
Walking Required
Stairs Present
Seating Available
Flat Terrain
Hiking Required
Elevator Available
Mobility Scooter Friendly
Ramps Available
Pregnancy
Not suitable for pregnancy
Allowed during pregnancy
Pets
Pets not allowed
Driving
Driving License Required
Idp Required