There are three places to take a lagoon safari in the local area: Kottukal (Pottuvil) is the nearest, Urani (near Whiskey Point) and finally Panama, some 15 km to the south from Arugam Bay. The lagoons are completely untouched by people.
Pottuvil Lagoon is roughly 200 acres in size with mangrove forests, waterways and a tiny island in its centre. The lagoon is populated by an abundance of wildlife including elephants, crocodiles, monitor lizards, water buffalo and heaps of birdlife. The only way to explore Pottuvil lagoon is via handmade rafts made from two canoes with a wooden sitting area in between.
While cruising through the serene waters you will find peace in the way the water mirrors the clear blue sky that is occasionally painted with white clouds. The swamp banks and the water nearing the banks are lush with green trees and wild grass. The music that will keep you entertained throughout the tour is the chirping of the birds, the rustling of leaves as monkeys pass through, the occasional trumpet of an elephant and the rhythmic sound of the fisherman’s oar steering you through the water.
There are two parts of the day, which are the best times to visit: early in the morning at 5:30 am or towards the end of the day at 3:30 pm. Tours last about three hours including transfer time.
