If you’ve been scrolling through Instagram lately or chatting with fellow travellers, you may have noticed a trend – more and more people are asking, “Is Sri Lanka the new Bali?”
Having recently spent some time in Ahangama, a small town on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, I can definitely see why this comparison is popping up.
It has that unmistakable laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and an emerging digital nomad scene that makes it feel like Bali did a few years ago.
Related blog posts to read:
- The Best Travel Route & Itinerary For Sri Lanka
- Incredible Sri Lanka Hotels: Everywhere You Need to Stay
- Public Transport in Sri Lanka: Essential Advice You Must Know
- Ella, Sri Lanka: Where to Stay With the Best View
- 10 Takeaways After A Full Month Travelling Sri Lanka
I spent a month in Sri Lanka and vlogged every bit of it. You can see all of my Sri Lanka vlogs here and I’ve added my final Sri Lanka vlog below which details our entire travel route of the country:
Ahangama, Sri Lanka: The Next Hotspot for Digital Nomads?
Ahangama is a charming coastal town nestled between the busier spots of Unawatuna and Weligama.
Unlike Bali’s crowded beaches and bustling streets, Ahangama feels like a hidden gem, still in its early stages of development. But that’s exactly what makes it so special.
It’s one of those places where you can still find stretches of beach all to yourself, and the vibe is all about slowing down, catching waves, and simply enjoying life.
If you want to see Ahangama for yourself, you can find it in my vlog where I beach-hop around the South Coast of Sri Lanka:
The Laid-Back Sri Lanka Vibe
One of the first things you’ll notice about Ahangama is just how chilled out everything feels. There’s no rush, no packed schedules – it’s all about enjoying the moment.
This relaxed atmosphere is attracting a growing number of digital nomads, and it’s easy to see why. If you’re a remote worker like me, you’ll find plenty of cosy cafés with good Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and a view of the waves that makes working feel like a pleasure rather than a chore.
Related blog post to read: How to Stay Protected While Travelling As A Digital Nomad
It’s becoming a little haven for those who want to combine work with play, surfing in the mornings, and working in the afternoons.
Trendy Spots and Early-Stage Development
While Ahangama still has that untouched, authentic feel, there’s definitely a sense that things are changing.
Every time you walk down the main street, it feels like a new café, yoga studio, or boutique shop has popped up. The area is quickly gaining a reputation for chic, trendy spots that wouldn’t look out of place in Seminyak or Canggu.
Related blog post to read: The Best Private Villa to Stay in Canggu, Bali
But it’s not overrun or commercialised yet – it feels like you’re getting in on a secret before everyone else discovers it.
One of my favourite places was a little café called Cactus overlooking the surf, serving up smoothie bowls that rival any you’d find in Bali.
And let’s not forget the stylish boutique hotels that are starting to appear. Offering the kind of Instagram-worthy stays that travellers love to share.
Surfing in Ahangama
If you’re into surfing, you’re in for a treat. Ahangama has some fantastic surf breaks, suitable for both beginners and more experienced surfers.
The waves aren’t as crowded as those in Bali, which makes it an ideal spot to hone your skills. Plus, the locals are incredibly welcoming, always ready to offer tips or just share a smile as you paddle out.
Is Sri Lanka the New Bali?
So, is Sri Lanka really the new Bali? In many ways, yes.
Ahangama offers that perfect blend of surf, sun, and a growing digital nomad scene that made Bali famous. But it still feels raw, authentic, and a little bit undiscovered.
It’s a place where you can wake up with the sound of the ocean. Spend your mornings catching waves, and your afternoons exploring cute cafés or yoga studios.
If you’re looking for somewhere with all the charm and energy of Bali but without the crowds and commercialism, Ahangama might just be the perfect spot.
So, if you’re planning your next adventure, put Ahangama on your list. It’s one of those places that feels like it’s about to explode in popularity. But for now, it’s still a little slice of paradise waiting to be explored.
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