Tissamaharama: Sunset Boat Ride and Lake BBQ with Beer

Planning an evening activity that combines natural beauty, local flavors, and a touch of adventure? The Sunset Boat Ride and Lake BBQ near Tissamaharama offers exactly that—an ideal way to unwind while soaking in the stunning surroundings of Sri Lanka’s southern lakes. This experience, provided by Nature Tours Sri Lanka, promises a peaceful boat trip, scenic birdwatching, and a laid-back dinner, all wrapped into a comfortable three-hour window.

We’re drawn to this tour because of its spectacular sunset views, the chance to observe water birds returning to their nests, and the delicious BBQ paired with cold beer. It’s a gentle, scenic escape that feels authentic and relaxed—perfect for nature lovers, couples, or anyone seeking a calm evening in nature’s embrace. However, a potential consideration might be the limited duration of the boat ride for those craving a more in-depth exploration. Still, if you’re after a memorable, picturesque experience without a long commitment, this tour hits the mark.

This experience fits best for travelers who want to enjoy beautiful scenery without strenuous activity, value local cuisine and drinks, and appreciate the tranquility of water and wildlife. It’s equally suited for those traveling in groups or as a couple looking for a romantic sunset view. Now, let’s explore what makes this tour stand out, along with some honest insights to help you decide if it’s right for your Sri Lanka trip.

Key Points

• Stunning Sunset Views: Witness the sky turn to gold over a serene lake, creating perfect photo moments.
• Wildlife & Birdwatching: See water birds returning to their nests, offering a peaceful connection with nature.
• Relaxed 2-hour Boat Ride: Enjoy a gentle cruise ideal for unwinding and taking in the scenery.
• Lakeside BBQ & Cold Beer: Savor delicious grilled dishes paired with refreshing drinks in a tranquil setting.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes round-trip transportation from Tissamaharama or Yala for a hassle-free experience.
• Family Friendly & Accessible: Suitable for all ages; if you have a folding wheelchair, you can participate.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey to Kotapola and the Gathering Point

Most tours start with a pickup from Tissamaharama or Yala, with transportation arranged by the provider, Nature Tours Sri Lanka. The pickup timing varies based on the starting point, but travelers should be ready in their hotel lobby about 15 minutes before scheduled departure. The journey itself is comfortable, and the vehicles are generally modern and clean, which is a plus for those wanting a smooth start.

The Boat Ride: Scenic, Serene, and Bird-filled

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the 2-hour boat ride on the lake. As you glide across the water, you’ll notice the calmness of the surroundings, with the sky changing hues as the sun begins its descent. Reviewers mention the “spectacular splendor of the evening sunset”, which turns the water into a shimmering canvas of gold and orange.

One of the most appreciated aspects noted by past guests is watching water birds return to their nests. This peaceful scene adds a layer of tranquility and offers excellent opportunities for photography. The boat ride is described as leisurely, perfect for taking in the natural beauty without feeling rushed. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing insights about the local bird species and the lake’s ecosystem, which enhances the experience.

The Lakeside BBQ: A Taste of Local Flavors

After the boat ride, the group is taken to a designated lakeside spot for a mouthwatering BBQ dinner. The food is described as “delicious” and well-prepared, with a variety of grilled meats and vegetables. It’s a straightforward but tasty meal, accompanied by crisp, cold beer, which perfectly complements the warm, outdoor setting.

Guests rave about the relaxed atmosphere, where you can sit back and enjoy your meal while watching the sun set further or just soaking in the peaceful water views. Many reviewers mention that the lakeside setting makes the dinner feel special—more like a rustic dining experience than a typical restaurant meal.

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Additional Practical Details

• The tour lasts roughly 3 hours in total—enough to enjoy each element without feeling hurried.
• Transportation is included, with flexibility from either Tissamaharama or Yala, making it convenient to fit into your travel plans.
• Price offers good value considering the combination of boat ride, dinner, drinks, and transportation.
• It’s suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers, with accessibility options for those with folding wheelchairs.
• Remember to wear comfortable clothes and bring sun protection if you’re sensitive to the sun, especially in the late afternoon.

What Past Guests Say

Reviews highlight that the “scenic views during sunset were breathtaking” and that the “guide’s commentary made it even more enjoyable”. One guest appreciated the “friendly crew and smooth ride”, while another mentioned the “great balance of activity and relaxation”.

Some noted that the duration was just right—long enough to relax without fatigue. The quality of the food and drinks also gets high marks, with many calling it a “simple but satisfying” meal that hits the spot after a boat ride.

Possible Drawbacks

While the experience is generally praised, a few reviews suggest that the boat ride’s duration might feel a bit limited for those wanting more extensive water exploration. Plus, since the tour is largely outdoor, weather conditions can influence the experience; a cloudy or rainy evening could obscure sunset views or make the boat ride less pleasant.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This sunset boat ride and lakeside BBQ offer a gentle, immersive way to appreciate Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. It combines the visual pleasure of a golden sunset over calm waters, the serenity of waterfowl returning home, and the comfort of a well-prepared outdoor meal. Whether you’re traveling with family, a romantic partner, or solo, it provides a relaxed yet memorable evening.

The inclusion of round-trip transportation and the authentic lakeside setting make it an accessible and hassle-free option. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy cold beer in such a peaceful environment adds to its appeal.

This experience is best suited for those craving a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of good food and drink. It’s a fine choice if you want to wind down after a day of sightseeing or simply enjoy a quiet moment by the water.

The Sum Up

This sunset boat ride and lake BBQ deliver a beautifully balanced experience that emphasizes natural scenery, wildlife, and relaxation. The breathtaking sunset views and peaceful waterfowl watching are standout features, making it a memorable highlight for visitors in Tissamaharama.

The tour offers great value, especially considering the inclusive transportation, boat ride, and dinner. It’s ideal for travelers who want a leisure-focused, scenic activity that doesn’t demand physical exertion but still provides an authentic taste of Sri Lanka’s tranquil lakeside life.

If you’re after a straightforward, authentic, and visually stunning experience to end your day, this tour ticks all those boxes. The combination of beautiful scenery, relaxing boat ride, and lakeside BBQ ensures you’ll leave with lasting memories of this peaceful corner of Sri Lanka.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Tissamaharama or Yala is included, making it easy and convenient to join the tour without additional hassle.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride lasts approximately 2 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery, birdwatching, and a relaxing cruise.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities are recommended. Bring sun protection if you’re sensitive, especially as the sunset can be quite bright.

Can I participate if I have a folding wheelchair?
Yes, the tour is accessible for those with a folding wheelchair, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

What is the focus of the dinner?
The lakeside BBQ features grilled meats and vegetables, paired with cold beer, in a casual, outdoor setting that emphasizes local flavors.

Is the sunset view guaranteed?
While the tour aims to coincide with sunset, weather conditions like clouds or rain could affect visibility. Check the forecast on the day for the best chance of clear skies.

How is the group size?
Group sizes tend to be manageable, fostering a relaxed atmosphere. The experience is guided by an English-speaking guide who ensures everyone is comfortable and informed.

You can check availability for your dates here: