If you want an adrenaline-pumping water sport that offers a unique experience, kite surfing is worth trying. And when it comes to kite surfing, Kalpitiya in Sri Lanka is a top destination for many enthusiasts. With its consistent winds and flat waters, Kalpitiya offers the perfect conditions for kite surfing. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about kite surfing in Kalpitiya, from the basics of kite surfing to the best spots in Kalpitiya to indulge in this thrilling water sport.
What is Kite Surfing?
A kite pulls you along as you ride on a board in the water sport known as kite surfing or kiteboarding. A bar and lines connected to the rider are what control the kite. Kite surfing requires good wind conditions, which provide the power to pull the rider along the water.
Kite Surfing in Kalpitiya: Why is it Popular?
Kalpitiya is a peninsula located on the northwestern coast of Sri Lanka, and it has become a popular destination for kite surfing for several reasons:
- Kalpitiya offers consistent wind conditions, a crucial factor for kite surfing.
- The flat waters of Kalpitiya provide the perfect conditions for beginners to learn kite surfing.
- Kalpitiya is relatively unexplored compared to other kite surfing destinations, which means fewer crowds, allowing for a more enjoyable experience.
Best Time for Kite Surfing in Kalpitiya
The Venturi effect that runs through the Palk Strait channel significantly affects the wind conditions in Kalpitiya. This effect creates strong and consistent winds during the main season from May to October, with an average wind speed of 18-28 knots. Therefore, these months are the best time to visit Kalpitiya for kite surfing.
However, winter can also provide decent wind conditions from December to March, with an average wind speed of 15-20 knots, although it is less reliable than the main season. So, if you plan a kite surfing trip to Kalpitiya, visiting during the main season is recommended for the best experience.
Best Spots for Kite Surfing in Kalpitiya
Kalpitiya offers several spots for kite surfing, each with its unique characteristics. Here are some of the best spots for kite surfing in Kalpitiya:
Kalpitiya Lagoon
Kalpitiya Lagoon is a shallow lagoon with flat waters, making it an ideal spot for beginner learning kite surfing. In addition, the lagoon is less crowded than other spots, providing ample space for kite surfers to practice and hone their skills.
Vella Island
Vella Island is a small island located off the coast of Kalpitiya. The island offers excellent wind conditions and flat waters, making it a popular spot for advanced kite surfers. In addition, the island is accessible only by boat, adding to its exclusivity.
Ippantivu Island
Ippantivu Island, or Mini Vellai, is a small island located towards the ocean, further up Dutch Bay. The central bay of the island is protected and offers flat water with offshore winds, making it an excellent alternative to Vellai for kite surfing. It takes about 30 minutes by boat to reach the island from Kalpitiya.
During the summer, kite surfers can ride downwind from the peninsula to Dream Point, passing by Ippantivu Island. However, the water can be choppy during this time, which may be better for beginners. Nonetheless, Ippantivu Island is still a great spot for kite surfing in Kalpitiya.
Dream Spot
Dream Spot is a secluded spot located at the mouth of the Kalpitiya lagoon. The location offers consistent wind and shallow waters, making it ideal for beginner and intermediate kite surfers.
Donkey Point
Donkey Point is a beach located on the outskirts of Kalpitiya. The spot offers excellent wind conditions and waves, making it popular for advanced kite surfers. The spot is also known for its beautiful sunset views.
KSL Lagoon
KSL Lagoon is a shallow lagoon located near Kalpitiya. The spot offers flat waters and consistent wind conditions, making it ideal for beginner learning kite surfing.
Kappalady Lagoon
Kappalady Lagoon is a shallow lagoon located south of Kalpitiya. The spot offers flat waters and consistent wind conditions, making it ideal for beginner learning kite surfing. In addition, the lagoon is less crowded, providing ample space for kite surfers to practice.
Puttalam Lagoon
Puttalam Lagoon is a large lagoon located south of Kalpitiya. The lagoon offers excellent wind conditions and flat waters, making it a popular spot for advanced kite surfers. The lagoon is also known for its diverse wildlife and bird species.
Mannar
Mannar is a small town located north of Kalpitiya. The spot offers consistent wind conditions and flat waters, making it ideal for beginner learning kite surfing. Mannar is also known for its historical sites and cultural attractions.
Kite Surfing Schools in Kalpitiya
If you are a beginner and want to learn kite surfing, Kalpitiya has several schools offering beginner courses. Here are some of the best kite surfing schools in Kalpitiya:
Kitesurfing Lanka
Kitesurfing Lanka is a famous kite surfing school in Kalpitiya that offers courses for beginners and advanced kite surfers. The school has experienced instructors and provides all the equipment for kite surfing.
Margarita Kite School
Margarita Kite School is another famous kite surfing school in Kalpitiya that offers courses for beginners and advanced kite surfers. The school provides all the necessary equipment and has experienced instructors to guide you through the learning process.
Sri Lanka Kite School
Sri Lanka Kite School is a well-known kite surfing school in Kalpitiya that offers courses for all levels of kite surfers. The school has certified instructors and provides all the equipment for kite surfing.
Safety Precautions for Kite Surfing in Kalpitiya
While kite surfing is an exciting and thrilling water sport, it is essential to take safety precautions to avoid accidents. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when kite surfing in Kalpitiya:
- Always wear a life jacket and a helmet.
- Ensure that your equipment is in good condition before heading out.
- Check the weather and wind conditions before going kite surfing.
- Avoid kite surfing in areas with strong currents or rip currents.
- Always kite surf with a partner and keep an eye on each other.
Kite surfing in Kalpitiya offers water sports enthusiasts a unique and thrilling experience. With its consistent winds, flat waters, and fewer crowds, Kalpitiya is a top destination for kite surfing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced kite surfer, Kalpitiya has something to offer everyone. So, pack your bags and head to Kalpitiya for an unforgettable kite surfing adventure.
Accommodations at Kalpitiya
Book Kitesurfing Adventure at Kalpitiya
How to Reach Kalpitiya from Colombo
Once you arrive in Sri Lanka, you can use various modes of transportation to travel to Kalpitiya, including private taxis, buses, and trains. Private taxis are the most convenient and comfortable mode of transport, but they are relatively expensive. On the other hand, buses and trains are relatively cheap but can be crowded and uncomfortable, especially during peak seasons. Colombo is the most common starting point for most travellers to Kalpitiya. Here are three ways to reach Kalpitiya from Colombo.
By Private Taxi
The most comfortable and convenient way to reach Kalpitiya from Colombo is by private taxi. You can hire a taxi from any taxi service or online. The journey takes about three hours, depending on traffic, and costs around LKR 15,000 to LKR 18,000.
By Bus
If you want a cheaper option, you can take a bus from Colombo to Kalpitiya. Buses are available from the Colombo Central Bus Station to Kalpitiya every two hours. The journey takes about four hours and the ticket costs around LKR 200 to LKR 300.
By Train
The train journey from Colombo to Kalpitiya is the most scenic but also the most time-consuming. The train journey takes about six hours, and there is no direct train from Colombo to Kalpitiya. Instead, it would help if you took a train from Colombo to Puttalam and then took a bus or taxi to Kalpitiya.
FAQs
1. Is Kalpitiya a good destination for beginners to learn kite surfing?
Kalpitiya is an excellent destination for beginner learning kite surfing due to its flat waters and consistent wind conditions.
2. When is the best time to visit Kalpitiya for kite surfing?
The best time to visit Kalpitiya for kite surfing is from May to October, when the wind conditions are most favourable.
3. What are some of the best spots for kite surfing in Kalpitiya?
Some of the best spots for kite surfing in Kalpitiya include Kappalady Lagoon, Dream Spot, and Vella Island.
4. Are there kitesurfing schools in Kalpitiya?
Kalpitiya has several kite surfing schools offering beginner and advanced kite surfing courses.
5. What safety precautions should I take when kite surfing in Kalpitiya?
Always wear a life jacket and a helmet, ensure your equipment is in good condition, check the weather and wind conditions, avoid kite surfing in areas with strong currents, and always kite surfing with a partner.
