Dondra Head Lighthouse, Sri Lanka
The southernmost point of Sri Lanka, near Matara, marked by a tall white lighthouse from 1889 among the palm trees, with waves breaking on the rocks below.
Region
The South Coast
Best time
December to April
Time needed
1 hour
From the airport
≈ 6 h by road
Dondra Head is the southernmost point of Sri Lanka, about 6 km east of Matara. Its tall white lighthouse, finished in 1889, is one of the highest on the island and a graceful landmark among the palm trees. Looking south from here, there's nothing but ocean until Antarctica.
What to see
- The lighthouse — white, slender and very photogenic from the lane that leads to it. Access to the top depends on the lighthouse staff, so don't count on being able to climb.
- The headland — waves crash onto the rocks, with fishermen working from the shore.
- Devinuwara town — Dondra's old name. It's home to a long-established Vishnu temple and a large Esala festival.
Visiting tips
- Allow 30 to 60 minutes.
- Late afternoon offers the softest light.
- Don't swim here. The sea is rough and currents are strong. See our beach safety guide.
- Respect signs, as parts of the area may be restricted.
- There are few facilities, so bring water.
When to visit
You can visit all year. December to April has the calmest seas. Whale-watching boats from Mirissa operate off this coast during that time, and you may see them from afar. See our whale watching guide.
Getting there
Dondra is on the coast road between Matara and Tangalle. From the main road, follow the lane through the village to the lighthouse. It's about 15 minutes by tuk-tuk from Matara and 30 minutes from Mirissa.
Dondra Head Lighthouse: frequently asked questions
Is Dondra the southernmost point of Sri Lanka?
Yes. Dondra Head is the southern tip of the island.
Can you climb Dondra lighthouse?
Sometimes, at the staff's discretion. It isn't a regular visitor attraction, so ask on arrival.
Map and getting there
Approximate road times (Sri Lanka’s roads are slow — allow extra time for traffic and stops): Colombo airport (CMB) ≈ 6 h · Kandy ≈ 5.5 h · Galle ≈ 1.5 h. For flexible door-to-door travel, consider a local driver.
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More places near Dondra Head Lighthouse
cityThe South Coast
Matara
The busy southern terminus of the coastal railway, with a Dutch star fort, the island temple at Paravi Duwa and access to the Southern Expressway. Most visitors pass through on the way to Polhena or Tangalle.
Best: December to April
beachThe South Coast
Polhena Beach (Matara)
A reef-protected lagoon just west of Matara where turtles often feed in shallow water. It is one of the easiest places on the coast for children and beginners to snorkel when the sea is calm.
Best: December to April
natureThe South Coast
Hummanaya Blowhole
One of the largest blowholes in the world, where swells force sea water up to 25 metres into the air through a rock fissure. It is most dramatic during the south-west monsoon when the sea is rough.
Best: May to September (bigger swells)
Last updated November 2026. December to April. Whale watching from Mirissa runs November to April.