Mangrove Kayak Trail – Stage 1

This tranquil kayak trail begins at Kayankerni Bridge, a structure that spans the lagoon along the A15 highway. Immediately upon entering the water, paddlers are immersed in a coastal wetland filled with natural and cultural richness. The stillness of the lagoon, shaded by mangroves, offers a peaceful rhythm for kayakers of all skill levels.

As you paddle west, you pass traditional fishing spots, often marked by simple wooden rest benches and small huts built by local fishermen. These huts, made with palm leaves, bamboo, or mangrove wood, offer cool, shaded resting spots for both fishers and kayakers alike. Originally constructed for fishermen to rest between net checks or during the heat of the day, these huts now serve as quiet pauses for travelers seeking a break in nature.

You will also witness brush-pile fishing, a traditional and sustainable practice where bundles of mangrove branches are submerged to attract fish. These natural fish aggregators reflect the deep ecological knowledge and sustainability principles passed down through generations. Shrimp kraal sites using flexible wood like Ceriops tagal may also be visible.

The mangrove fringe is primarily made up of Rhizophoraceae species, such as Rhizophora mucronata and Bruguiera gymnorhiza, creating rich green tunnels. Canopy trails formed by overhanging branches create magical, narrow water corridors that feel like paddling through a secret forest. Expect to hear the calls of white-throated kingfishers, see little cormorants drying their wings, or spot a Brahminy kite soaring overhead.

Halfway through the trail, the ruins of the Vannadi Ancient Stone Bridge rise from the lagoon. Believed to be remnants of a historic royal route linked to the Polonnaruwa Kingdom, this bridge and the surrounding ruins suggest the presence of an ancient harbor and religious complex. It is a culturally rich and photogenic location, where history and nature meet.

Further ahead, a second mini canopy trail offers a more intimate experience. It is narrower and wilder, often filled with birdcalls and the scent of brackish peat. This short side journey leads back to the main waterway, which eventually opens to a canal from a shrimp farm that marks the end of this stage.

This introductory stretch of the Eastern Mangrove Kayak Trail offers an immersive journey into coastal ecology, heritage, and traditional life, making it ideal for nature lovers, heritage explorers, and eco-tourists alike.