The Madu River is very rich in biodiversity. It passes through the wet zone of Sri Lanka opening up into the large Madu Lagoon on its way to the Indian Ocean. The Madu River area surrounding the river are all swampy marshlands covered in mangrove forests and those forests covers over 61 hectares, that is over 150 acres,14 of the 24 species of mangroves are found in this area. The largest animal in the region is the wild boar. There are other smaller animals such as monkeys, a variety of squirrels and etc. When it comes to birds, cormorants and kingfishers are a common sight. For avid bird watchers, the mangrove forests are a dream coming true. There are over 111 bird species identified to inhabit the region.
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The beauty of Madu river (Ganga) comprises with most of the soggy wetlands, the solid landmasses of the region mainly consists of islands. Madu Ganga boat safari Balapitiya is a popular activity that you have to definitely do if you are on a holiday tour to Sri Lanka. Madu Ganga boat safari gives you several memorable experiences and Madu River fish therapy is one of them.This boat safari will take about 2-3 hours to finish its journey.
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The Madu River safari is a relaxing trip with plenty of interesting things to see. You will pass dozens of tiny islands forested with mangroves, and you will view old temples and watch the locals cultivating cinnamon. Madu Ganga is Sri Lanka’s second largest wetland and it consists of 64 islands including two main islands with to 215 families living in them. This wetland spreads over 900 hectares of area and most of it covered with water.
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Madu River is located in the south of Sri Lanka. The river is dotted with small islands and the banks are all covered with lush mangrove forests that are home to dozens of incredible animal species. A visitor can spot hundreds of dazzling tropical birds and a few crocodiles depending on the time. Some of these creatures are very rare.
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Madu river enters the sea at Balapitiya. The people of its islets produce cinnamon and cinnamon oil. Over the years, Madu Ganga has played an important role in providing food and shelter and providing easy access to the main land via small wooden boats.
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Fish therapy was introduced to Madu Ganga several years ago. Now there are several places by this river offer fish therapy. Different types of fish are put in to tanks and visitors can immerse their feet to these tanks and fish starts biting. You will feel ticklish when they nibble your dead skin on the feet. It’s a great experience.
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This tour will take around 2.5 to 3 hours and it’s advisable to bring drinking water, Sunglasses, sunscreens and hats as some boats do not have a hood.
