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Arugam Bay அறுகம் குடா ආරුගම් බොක්ක
Town
Beach of Arugam Bay
Nickname: Arugam Kudah
Arugam Bay
Coordinates: 6°51′N 81°50′E / 6.850°N 81.833°E / 6.850; 81.833
Country	Sri Lanka
Province	Eastern
District	Ampara
Secretariat	Pottuvil

Arugam Bay (Template:Lang-ta), known locally as "Arugam Kudah", is situated on the Indian Ocean in the dry zone of Sri Lanka's southeast coast, and a historic settlement of the ancient Batticaloa Territory (Mattakallappu Desam). The bay is located 117 kilometres (73 mi) south of Batticaloa, 320 kilometres (200 mi) due east of Colombo, and approximately 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) south of the market town of Pottuvil. The main settlement in the area, known locally as Ullae, is predominantly Muslim, however there is a significant Sri Lankan Tamil and Sinhala population to the south of the village, as well as a number of international expatriates, largely from Europe and Australia. While traditionally fishing has dominated the local economy, tourism has grown rapidly in the area in recent years. Arugam Kudah's literal Tamil translation is "Bay of Cynodon dactylon". Tourism in Arugam Bay is dominated by surf tourism, thanks to several quality breaks in the area, however tourists are also attracted by the local beaches, lagoons, historic temples and the nearby Kumana National Park. Much of the bay and it's neighbouring town of Pottuvil was destroyed in the 2004 Tsunami.

Conflict between fishing and tourism

During the period of fighting between the central government and Tamil separatists tourism was fairly low key and the hotels often bought the catch of the fishermen. As a result of the peace, tourism expanded and many fishing people who had moved to areas less touched by the conflict returned. Hotel owners began to complain about the smell of drying fish and how the fishing huts blocked their view. In the aftermath of the Tsunami fishing people were forbidden to return, officially on the grounds of safety but allegedly as a result of pressure from the hotel owners.

Surrounding areas

The nearby (4 kilometres (2.5 mi)) Muslim village of Pottuvil is the center of commerce and transportation while tourist accommodations lie along the beach to the south of Pottuvil Arugam Bay (4 kilometres (2.5 mi)) is also the gateway and the only road access to the Yala East National Park. In 2.2 kilometres (1.4 mi) distance there is Pasarichenai Beach. This area is known as Kumana (44 kilometres (27 mi)), to be reached via the Tamil/Sinhalese settlement of Panama (Sri Lanka) (17 kilometres (11 mi)) and the Tamil shires at Okanda (32 kilometres (20 mi)). The local area is home to a number of elephants, often travelling between Lahugala and Kumana national parks.

Surfing

Arugam Bay is a popular surfing location with surf spots and is also the only international surf competition venue in Sri Lanka. It is also rated as one of the top ten surf destinations in the world. It has also hosted most of the international surfing competitions in Sri Lanka since 2004. It also hosted the So Sri Lanka Pro 2019.

Surf Camp Arugam Bay

Surf Camp Arugam Bay is a renowned destination for surf enthusiasts situated on the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, along the Indian Ocean. The camp, nestled within the historic settlement of the ancient Batticaloa Territory (Mattakallappu Desam), offers a unique blend of surf culture, pristine beaches, and cultural experiences.

Location

Located approximately 117 kilometers (73 miles) south of Batticaloa and 320 kilometers (200 miles) east of Colombo, Surf Camp Arugam Bay enjoys a picturesque setting amidst the scenic landscapes of the dry zone. Situated just 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) south of the vibrant market town of Pottuvil, the camp provides convenient access to a myriad of attractions and amenities.

Demographics

The main settlement in the area, known locally as Ullae, boasts a predominantly Muslim population. However, there is a notable presence of Sri Lankan Tamil and Sinhala communities to the south of the village. Additionally, the area attracts a diverse array of international expatriates, particularly from Europe and Australia, contributing to its cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Economy

While fishing has historically been the primary economic activity in the region, tourism has emerged as a significant driver of growth in recent years. Surf tourism, in particular, dominates the local economy, drawing visitors from around the globe to experience the world-class breaks and waves that characterize Arugam Bay.

Attractions

Surf Camp Arugam Bay serves as a gateway to a wealth of attractions beyond its pristine beaches and renowned surf spots. Visitors can explore the tranquil lagoons, immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage showcased in historic temples, or embark on wildlife adventures in the nearby Kumana National Park.

Impact of 2004 Tsunami

Much of Arugam Bay and its neighboring town of Pottuvil bore the brunt of the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which inflicted widespread destruction and loss of life. Despite the challenges posed by this natural disaster, the resilience of the local community and the concerted efforts of stakeholders have contributed to the region's recovery and revitalization.

Surf Camp Experience

Surf Camp Arugam Bay offers a comprehensive range of amenities and services tailored to the needs of surf enthusiasts and travelers alike. Whether seeking exhilarating wave-riding experiences, cultural immersion opportunities, or simply relaxation amidst stunning natural surroundings, the camp provides an ideal base for unforgettable adventures on Sri Lanka's southeastern coast.

References

1. Robinson, Lyn (2008). "Post-disaster community tourism recovery: the tsunami and Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka". Disasters. 32 (4): 631–645. doi:10.1111/j.1467-7717.2008.01058.x. PMID 18479472.
2. "Surviving the Tsunami at Arugam Bay". Thuppahi's Blog. 16 March 2023. Retrieved 18 October 2023.
3. The Shock Doctrine, Naomi Klein, p. 386
4. The Shock Doctrine, Naomi Klein, pp. 386–7
5. The Shock Doctrine, Naomi Klein, pp. 388–97
6. "Best 7 Surf Spots Around Arugam Bay". Ocean Surf Arugam Bay. Retrieved 11 March 2024.
7. "Surfing in Arugam Bay". Lakpura LLC. 1 January 2014. Retrieved 30 September 2019.
8. "Arugam Bay World Surf League shows Sri Lanka, a safe destination". Economy Next. Retrieved 23 September 2019.
9. "So Sri Lanka Pro 2019 is set to run from 25 Sep to 29 Sep". Colombo Page. Retrieved 23 September 2019.

External links

• Bodies of water of Ampara District
• Seaside resorts in Sri Lanka