Ussangoda: The Red-Earth Coast of the Deep South
Ussangoda is an unusual stretch of coast in the deep south, near Nonagama, where the earth turns a rusty red and only low scrub grows on the plateau above the sea. A protected area, it is tied in local legend to the Ramayana as a landing place of Ravana’s mythical flying machine, and the strange red ground and empty shore make it memorable.
The landscape
A track leads across the red plateau to cliffs and a quiet beach. The unusual soil, sea breeze and open views give it an otherworldly feel, and it is a good spot for a windswept walk.
Nearby
The park sits between the beaches of the south coast and the salt pans and wetlands around Hambantota, so it fits into a deep-south road trip.
Getting there
Ussangoda is off the southern coastal road near Nonagama, reachable by car or tuk-tuk between Tangalle and Hambantota.
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