Cinnamon Island Koggala
Discover the heritage of Sri Lanka's finest cinnamon on a tranquil island in Koggala Lake. Witness traditional processing and enjoy a scenic boat ride...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Cinnamon Island Koggala
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the heritage of Sri Lanka's finest cinnamon on a tranquil island in Koggala Lake. Witness traditional processing and enjoy a scenic boat ride.
"A nice place, very quiet, with a small demo on how to deal with cinnamon and an opportunity to buy products."
Negotiate Boat Prices
Always agree on the boat fare before starting your trip to Cinnamon Island.
Quality Check for Cinnamon
Inspect cinnamon products carefully before buying; some visitors found quality lacking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cinnamon Processing Demo
Witness the traditional method of extracting cinnamon bark and quills. Learn about this valuable spice's heritage.

Koggala Lake Boat Safari
Enjoy a scenic boat ride across Koggala Lake, spotting wildlife and enjoying the tranquil waters.

Local Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for lizards and potentially other wildlife during your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Boat Ride to Cinnamon Island
Cinnamon Demonstration & Purchase
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Negotiate Boat Prices
Always agree on the boat fare before starting your trip to Cinnamon Island.
Quality Check for Cinnamon
Inspect cinnamon products carefully before buying; some visitors found quality lacking.
Combine with Other Activities
Many tours include stilt fishing or mangrove exploration for a fuller experience.
Ethical Wildlife Concerns
Be aware of potential unethical animal handling practices, like using baby crocodiles for photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
Negotiate Boat Prices
Always agree on the boat fare before starting your trip to Cinnamon Island.
Quality Check for Cinnamon
Inspect cinnamon products carefully before buying; some visitors found quality lacking.
Combine with Other Activities
Many tours include stilt fishing or mangrove exploration for a fuller experience.
Ethical Wildlife Concerns
Be aware of potential unethical animal handling practices, like using baby crocodiles for photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Cinnamon Island a quiet and unique spot on Koggala Lake, offering a glimpse into traditional cinnamon processing. The boat ride is a highlight, though some question the quality and pricing of the cinnamon products sold. Concerns have also been raised about the ethical treatment of animals on the island.
"Nice place, very quiet. I had an excursion here on boat, there was a small demo how to deal with cinnamon and after that you have ability to buy cinnamon powder, oil and sticks. There was a big lizard that lives here and that was really amazing and big."
Anastasiya
"The cinnamon tour itself is not worth seeing. When we visited the family had captured a baby crocodile in a small container and was using it to lure tourists to take photos. Unethical and irresponsible behavior."
Tashiya De Mel
"Taken here as part of a koggala boat tour. Free to take 2 minute walk around the island then short 5 minute demonstration of how cinnamon is made. Afterwards there are cinnamon sticks, powder and oil for sale - each 3000 lkr. They are not too pushy about purchasing."
Megan Lazarowich
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cinnamon Island is located on Koggala Lake. The primary way to reach it is by taking a boat tour from the lake's edge. Many local operators offer boat rides, often as part of a larger Koggala Lake safari. You can find boatmen waiting along the shore, particularly near popular access points.
No, Cinnamon Island is situated on Koggala Lake and can only be reached by boat. You'll need to arrange a boat trip from the mainland.
You can often find boat operators directly at the Koggala Lake shore. It's advisable to negotiate the price and duration of your trip beforehand. Some hotels or tour agencies might also arrange these trips for you.
Cinnamon Island is located on Koggala Lake, which is south of Galle. The journey to the lake itself is relatively short, and then the boat ride to the island is typically only a few minutes.
You can reach Koggala Lake via public buses that travel along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. From the main road, you may need to take a tuk-tuk or a short walk to the lake shore where boat operators are available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't typically a separate entrance fee for Cinnamon Island itself. The cost is usually incorporated into the boat tour price. Be sure to clarify what is included in your boat trip.
Cinnamon Island doesn't have fixed opening hours as it's a natural location. Boat tours operate during daylight hours, generally from morning until late afternoon.
No, advance booking is generally not required. You can arrange your boat trip upon arrival at Koggala Lake.
Most tours include a boat ride to the island, a short demonstration of cinnamon processing, and an opportunity to purchase cinnamon products. Some may also include a fish therapy session.
While the boat trip is the main cost, be aware that some activities like fish therapy might be an additional charge, even if advertised as included. Always confirm pricing.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
At Cinnamon Island, you can witness a demonstration of traditional cinnamon processing, learn about its cultivation, and purchase cinnamon products. You might also experience fish therapy or enjoy the serene lake environment.
The demonstration provides insight into how cinnamon is processed. However, some visitors found it brief and the quality of products for sale to be inconsistent.
Yes, you can buy various cinnamon products like powder, oil, and sticks directly from the locals on the island.
Fish therapy involves immersing your feet in a tank of small fish that nibble away dead skin. It's offered on some Cinnamon Island tours, though sometimes at an extra cost.
Yes, families can enjoy the boat ride and the unique experience of seeing cinnamon being processed. However, be mindful of the ethical concerns regarding animal handling if they are present.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Cinnamon Island is a small plantation island and does not have formal restaurants. You might be offered local beverages like cinnamon tea or kirala juice.
While there are no restaurants, you can sample local drinks like cinnamon tea. For full meals, it's best to dine before or after your visit in nearby towns.
Visitors can often try authentic cinnamon tea and kirala juice, which are refreshing local beverages.
There are no specific facilities for picnics, but you could potentially bring your own snacks to enjoy during your brief visit, provided you clean up thoroughly afterward.
The towns surrounding Koggala Lake, such as Koggala itself or nearby Unawatuna and Galle, offer a wide range of dining options from local eateries to international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the scenic Koggala Lake during your boat ride, the lush greenery of the cinnamon plantation, and the intricate process of cinnamon bark preparation.
Generally, photography is allowed during the demonstration, but it's always polite to ask the demonstrator if you're unsure.
Morning light often provides softer, more flattering light for photography. The golden hour before sunset can also offer beautiful scenic shots of the lake.
The boat ride itself offers great vantage points of the lake and surrounding mangroves. On the island, focus on the details of the cinnamon processing and the natural environment.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. If you enjoy wildlife photography, a zoom lens might be useful for spotting birds or other creatures on the lake.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be aware of the potential for encountering animals kept in small enclosures for photos, as reported by some visitors. It's advisable to discuss this with your children beforehand and to steer clear of any activities that seem unethical. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options on the island are limited.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
While the focus is on cinnamon, the surrounding lake environment provides a peaceful retreat. Consider visiting in the early morning for the best chances of spotting wildlife and enjoying the calmest waters.
🛍️ Budget Travelers
Be cautious when it comes to purchasing cinnamon products. While the demonstration is part of the experience, the prices might be higher than elsewhere. It's wise to compare prices before committing to a purchase.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Cinnamon Processing
Visitors can witness this intricate manual labor firsthand. The demonstration typically shows how the inner bark is extracted and dried. This hands-on insight into a centuries-old craft is a key attraction for many tourists.
While the demonstration is informative, it's worth noting that some travelers have expressed skepticism about the quality and pricing of the cinnamon products sold on the island. It's advisable to compare prices and perhaps seek out other reputable sources for cinnamon if you're a connoisseur.
Navigating Koggala Lake
Boat tours often combine a visit to Cinnamon Island with other attractions like stilt fishing demonstrations or exploring mangrove forests. The journey itself offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscape and a sense of tranquility away from the bustling coast.
When arranging your boat trip, remember that prices can vary. It's common practice to negotiate with local boat operators. Ensure your agreement covers the duration of the trip and any specific stops you wish to make, such as visiting stilt fishermen or exploring the mangrove areas.
Ethical Considerations and Wildlife
It's important for travelers to be aware of such potential issues and to support responsible tourism. If you encounter any practices that seem exploitative or harmful to wildlife, consider voicing your concerns or choosing not to participate.
Beyond these concerns, the natural environment of Koggala Lake is home to diverse wildlife. Birdwatching can be rewarding, and the serene waters offer a glimpse into a different side of Sri Lanka's natural beauty.
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