Tangalle, originally known as Sinhala, is a large town in Hambantota District, Southern Province, Sri Lanka, governed by an Urban Council. It is one of the largest towns in the southern province and the gateway to the wide-open spaces and beaches of southeast Sri Lanka. It is located 195 km south of Colombo and 35 km east of Matara, protected from the ocean by an enclosing reef. The town’s name means "projected rock", referring to the rocks which form the coastline of the town, which come in contrast with the sandy beach of the surrounding areas. Another version is that it derived from ran-gala or "golden rock", which refers to a local legend where a holy man once ate a meal there and the rock was turned to gold. Tangalla was originally a small fishing village, and fishing is still the main income for many of the locals. The village suffered many losses from the tsunami in 2004, and rebuilding has met a slow pace. The beaches are not crowded with tourists and are very peaceful. Tangalla is a center of tourism and a popular holiday destination on the south coast. In the town center, there is an old Dutch fort, currently serving as a prison. The Dutch and the British used Tangalle as an important anchorage on the island. A few remaining samples of colonial Dutch architecture are the infamous Dutch Fort, the Rest House and the Court House.
South Coast of Sri Lanka will be a highlight of your trip with the breathtaking beaches, wonderful scenery and amazing villas, South Coast or else South of Paradise is the ideal destination for those seeking carefree holidays next to the beach.
Sri Lanka's sandy beaches, splendid tropical climate, and delicious cuisine are only some of the many reasons you should visit this Asian country. The other name of the country is “pearl of the Indian ocean” and yes we can say that Sri Lanka is surely one of the most beautiful pearls. If you want to learn more about the history of the place, its local culture, practice some watersport, and view the wildlife, Sri Lanka is an ideal destination that you will never forget!
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