Kiting 200KM of Madness

Just a few days ago, some friends of mine kited the 200KM stretch from Kalpitiya to Mannar. Two hundred kilometers of unbroken wind, sand, and surf. That’s not a trip, that’s an odyssey. Back in 2016, I did it alone. No backup, no boat shadowing me, no one to even know if I vanished. Just me versus the Indian Ocean. Looking back now—especially after hearing of Graham Howes’ tragic death—I realise how close I was skating to the edge. One crash, one blackout, and that’s it. Curtain call. But when you’re young, your risk tolerance is sky high. Would I do it again solo? Not a chance. These days I think twice. Then again, in Kalpitiya, I still find myself kiting alone. Maybe it’s habit. Maybe it’s addiction. Maybe it’s stupidity. The truth is, this sport isn’t tame. It doesn’t matter if you’ve done 200KM crossings or just a quick session—one mistake and the sea doesn’t forgive. That’s the thrill and the terror rolled into one. But that’s why Kalpitiya hooks you. It’s raw, wild, untamed. Every ride feels like you’re playing dice with nature. That’s also why we built Kitesurfing Lanka —to give this madness a home. A place where you can chase the wind hard, but not have to face it completely alone. If you’re looking for safe and boring, this isn’t it. If you’re looking for adventure that makes your pulse hammer and your brain scream “WHAT AM I DOING?”—then welcome to Kalpitiya.

Taking Kite Coaching to the next level

Kitesurfing, Coaching & The Catamaran! from Kitesurfing Lanka on Vimeo.

Kitesurfing Lanka and Vayu Resort Mannar specialize in Kite Coaching Catamaran Trips! www.kitesurfinglanka.com

Why Kalpitiya? It’s Pretty Simple.

1. Amazingly Fresh Seafood – Lobsters, Crabs, Prawns
2. Calm seas with little or no current near the hotel
3. Empty beaches with only the innocent fishermen
4. Largest Coral Reef in Sri Lanka
5. No light pollution – You actually see the stars at night!
6. Options of exploring the Lagoons and Sea by boat
7. Pretty innocent and genuine people, no touts no mass tourism
8. Sports such as Diving, Kayaking, Kitesurfing, Snorkeling
9. Sunset Strolls on the Beach collecting shells
10. Swim with the plankton at night
11. Three hours in a car from Colombo
12. Wild Life – Whales, Dolphins, Turtles, Birds and even Sea Horses if you can find them! Oh and lots and lot of fish and Donkeys!
13. You can also go to Anuradhapura and Wilpathu National Park as part of a bigger journey.

Silly things people ask me J

Is it dangerous? No it isn’t.

Are the roads good? Yes they are.

Is it like 7 hours drive from Colombo? No, just 3.5 if you come by car at a leisurely pace.

Are there shops? Yes there are shops.

Can we buy pizza? Believe it or not, my chef can make you pizza!

Can I do a weekend thing? Yes you can. You’ll have ample time to enjoy!

Now tell us what makes Kalpitiya special for you? 

I LOVE KALPITIYA

Amazing Kitesurfing in Sri Lanka.
 

The Italians love Kitesurfing Lanka!

See you soon Francesco!