PAHLAWAN - Hikkaduwa & South Coast

We love the Pahlawan wreck, a motor vessel that went down in 1986. It’s sitting right there, just two metres deep, practically begging you to explore. At 67 metres long, it’s a big wreck for such shallow water, and you really feel that scale as you swim along its deck. Our favourite part is the engine room access; you can get a good look inside without much effort, seeing all the old machinery covered in growth. The Pahlawan is a fantastic spot for a long, relaxed dive, or even just some serious snorkelling. Visibility here is usually decent, especially in the mornings before the wind picks up, giving you clear views of the resident batfish and schools of fusiliers that hang around the superstructure. We’ve often seen moray eels peeking out from under the collapsed sections, and colourful parrotfish grazing on the coral patches that have started to form on the hull. It’s an easy, rewarding experience, perfect for newer divers or anyone who just wants to spend ages soaking in a bit of history.

Location
Hikkaduwa & South Coast, Sri Lanka, Indian Ocean & East Africa
Coordinates
6.025889, 80.240060
Type
wreck
Maximum Depth
2m

Marine Protected Area: Rumassala SAN

Best Time to Dive in Hikkaduwa & South Coast

The warmest water temperatures in Hikkaduwa & South Coast occur in January, averaging 28.4°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.4°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.4°C (air: 25.8°C)
  • February: 28.4°C (air: 26.4°C)
  • March: 28.4°C (air: 27.1°C)
  • April: 28.4°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • May: 28.4°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • June: 28.4°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • July: 28.4°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • August: 28.4°C (air: 26.8°C)
  • September: 28.4°C (air: 26.6°C)
  • October: 28.4°C (air: 26.4°C)
  • November: 28.4°C (air: 25.9°C)
  • December: 28.4°C (air: 25.9°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Hikkaduwa & South Coast

Nearest Dive Centres to PAHLAWAN

Marine Life in Hikkaduwa & South Coast

Home to 95 recorded species including 65 reef fish, 6 whales & dolphins, 6 hard corals, 5 sea snails & nudibranchs, 3 other, 2 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for PAHLAWAN

Based on average water temperature of 28.4°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for scuba diving at the Pahlawan dive site?
The Pahlawan dive site offers a very shallow diving experience, with a typical depth of just 2 meters. This makes it an accessible wreck dive, perfect for extended bottom times and exploring the remains of this historic vessel. You can learn more about this specific site at Pahlawan.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to encounter at Pahlawan?
At Pahlawan, divers will primarily encounter the fascinating underwater features of a historic wreck. This motor vessel, measuring 67.4m x 11.6m, offers an intriguing structure to explore, with portions of its hull and superstructure still visible. While specific marine life is not detailed, wrecks commonly become artificial reefs, attracting various local species over time, which you can research in our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Pahlawan dive site, and is it suitable for beginner or advanced divers?
The Pahlawan dive site is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive. This means it is suitable for divers who have some experience beyond their initial certification, offering a rewarding challenge without being overly demanding. While not typically recommended for absolute beginners, experienced open water divers may find it manageable to explore the Pahlawan wreck.
What is the best time of year or day to dive Pahlawan for optimal conditions and marine sightings?
Specific information regarding the best time of year or day to dive Pahlawan for optimal conditions and marine sightings is not provided in our current data. We recommend checking with local dive operators in Hikkaduwa & South Coast, Sri Lanka for up-to-date advice on seasonal variations and daily conditions. You can also consult our general when-to-dive guide for broader insights.
Are there any specific diving certifications or experience levels required to dive at the Pahlawan site?
Given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers should possess at least an Open Water certification with some prior diving experience to comfortably explore the Pahlawan site. While not explicitly stated, an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience in wreck diving would be beneficial for a more comprehensive and safe exploration of this 2-meter deep wreck.
What are the usual current conditions and underwater visibility like at the Pahlawan dive site?
Our current data does not specify the usual current conditions or underwater visibility at the Pahlawan dive site. For the most accurate and current information, it is always best to consult with local dive centers in the Hikkaduwa & South Coast area before planning your dive. This ensures you have the latest details for a safe and enjoyable experience at Pahlawan.