Situated on the southeastern coastline of Sri Lanka, the Panama Beach can be said to be one of the least developed and quietest beaches in the country. Located far away from the hustle and bustle of tourists in places like Arugam Bay and Tangalle, Panama presents an ideal location for people seeking peace and tranquility where time seems to move at its own pace.
The Location and Setting
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| Arugam Bay |
Panama is a coastal village and a small town located in Ampara District, Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. It is located to the south of Arugam Bay, which is known for being a very popular place for surfers, and serves as an access point to Kumana National Park, one of the most prominent nature reserves of the island.
Panama Beach is long, extending for kilometers along the coast, surrounded by tropical forest, sand dunes, and coconut trees. This beach is different from other popular beaches since it stays almost untouched by the developers.
It offers a pristine atmosphere for its visitors and is characterized by its natural beauty, which consists of open areas, soft sand, and the view of golden horizon at sunrises and sunsets.
A Place of Peace and Simplicity
There are no hotels, restaurants, or nightclubs to be found in Panama Beach. On the contrary, Panama Beach is a peaceful place meant for the simple people. The villagers of Panama Beach are very simple people, whose source of income lies in fishing and farming. One can easily notice the wooden boats on the beach, fishermen mending their nets, and cattle grazing freely.
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| fishermen |
It is this natural simplicity that makes Panama unique. It gives tourists a chance to be free from all the distractions of modern society and get closer to nature. There are some truly enchanting evenings here when the sky is lit by thousands of stars and nothing but the sound of waves and the wind can be heard.
Nature and Wildlife
Another special characteristic of Panama Beach is that there is lots of wildlife there. The forests, lagoons, and marshes contain numerous species of wildlife. Just kilometers from Panama Beach, one will come across regions where elephants, crocodiles, peacocks, and wild boars freely move about.
Bird watching at the Panama Lagoon provides one with a great opportunity to watch water birds like herons, storks and kingfishers. These kinds of birds frequent the area during early mornings. One may also be able to see wild buffaloes feeding along the shores.
An other thrilling experience that one will get to have along the Panama coast is that of seeing sea turtles. The beach is used by sea turtles to lay their eggs during certain months in the year. The sight of young sea turtles going into the sea is simply unforgettable.
Cultural and Historical Significance
In addition to its natural beauty, Panama also has an interesting history and culture. This village is among the oldest in the eastern part of the country with long-established traditions.
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| Pada Yatra |
The locals have numerous festivals and rituals which make their community special. Among the most prominent festivals is the “Pada Yatra,” which is an annual ritual pilgrimage conducted by the devotees who undertake a walking journey from the northern and eastern directions to reach the Kataragama Temple in the south. On the way to the pilgrimage, the pilgrims visit the Panama, which acts as a temporary shelter decorated with culture, music, and devotional activities.
Also, the Panama Pattini Devalaya (temple) is another significant temple of worship for the locals. The temple is devoted to the Pattini goddess, also called the goddess of health and fertility.
Adventure and Exploration
Despite Panama Beach being famous for its serenity, there is no dearth of adventurous activities available in Panama Beach. The Kudumbigala Monastery, which lies close to Panama Beach, is an old rock temple that stands amidst thick forests and hills. One can view beautiful landscapes of the surroundings along with the sea from the top of the Kudumbigala Monastery. The caves and archaeological remains of Kudumbigala are over two thousand years old.
Kumana National Park should not be missed by nature lovers. It is home to some of the largest herds of wild elephants, leopards, and many bird species that can be found within the country. The entrance to the national park can be reached easily by traveling a short distance from Panama village.
In addition, there is Arugam Bay which is only a 10-minute drive north from Panama. Although Arugam Bay is famous for its wonderful surfing opportunities, the Panama Beach offers a laid back atmosphere where one can go for a swim or walk around in leisure.
Local Lifestyle and Cuisine
The Panamanian people are considered very hospitable and friendly people. The majority of the people here earn their living by fishing, farming, and cultivation of coconuts and paddy crops. You will always see people working on their farms or fishermen coming with their catch of the day.
The food that you get here is highly tempting and delicious. Some of the seafood found here includes crabs, prawns, and fish curries, which are usually made with spices and coconut milk. Other food items include local rice and curry, sambols, and many tropical fruits such as papaya, pineapple, and mangoes.
Sustainable Tourism
Panama Beach shows how sustainable tourism should be conducted. Since the place is not over-developed, tourists are required to treat the environment as well as culture with respect. There are eco-guest houses and eco-families providing decent accommodation in Panama Beach, but without causing any damage to the nature.
The tourists are advised to refrain from littering, protecting wildlife as well as supporting the local economy.
Why Visit Panama Beach?
Panama Beach would undoubtedly be the best choice for people who seek peace, holiness, and beauty. There are miles of deserted beaches in Panama Beach where you can find peace from the world of the land and the sea. It feels like one is free from all the worldly worries when experiencing the joy of sunrise, the forest, and meditation in the sea.
It is not meant for recreation but silence and nature. In many ways, Panama Beach could be considered to be the soul of the eastern coast region of Sri Lanka.
Conclusion
In a nation which boasts a number of popular tourist spots, Panama Beach emerges as a quiet and unassuming paradise. It has beautiful beaches, local people, flora and fauna, along with cultural aspects. The visit to Panama Beach will definitely give an experience of Sri Lanka like no other.
Panama Beach is not just a spot; it is an experience in itself.
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