Ahangama was significantly affected by the tsunami caused by the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake, where the waters measured 9.3 metres (31 ft) high.

The Kathaluwa Buddhist temple is known for its murals and for the preserved first printing press, brought by the Dutch to Sri Lanka.

There is no sound apart from the waves hitting the shore and swaying of the trees making it ideal for a relaxing vacation.

Although it is not fully developed, it is easily accessible via Galle, a major city that lies only 20 minutes from Ahangama.

The area is famous for its distinct stilt fishermen, who erect a single pole in the chest-deep water on the beach, just few meters off-shore, where they perch on a cross bar and using bamboo fishing rods cast their lines out beyond the surf break to catch small fish.

Development is ongoing in parts, but for now it remains a relatively low-key region with a mix of surfer-friendly accommodation and the odd villa.

The shoreline consists of slim sandy bays and rocky outcrops, though the A2 highway often runs very close to the shore.