Kalutara is a small colonial town which is not very popular among tourists. But this fact can be considered as an advantage for travelers – you can expect to spend secluded vacation in Kalutara, Sri Lanka.
Check our ultimate travel guide on best places to visit and things to do in Kalutara, Sri Lanka; get up-to-date information for first timers on what to see and popular tourist attractions.
Kalutara General Info
- Location: 40 km south of Colombo.
- Average air t: in winter – +32°C during the day, +24°C at night; in summer – + 28°C during the day, +26°C at night.
- Average t of water: in winter – +28.5°C degrees, in summer – +27.7°C degrees.
- Best season to visit: December – April, the rainy season begins in summer.
- Feature: there are few tourists in the northern part of the resort, so you can feel the culture and mentality of Asian Sri Lanka.
- On the map : link .
What to see in Kalutara
Even though Kalutara is a pretty small town, there are many variety of things to do: beaches, colonial buildings, Buddhist temples and other interesting places to visit.
Kalutara Beach
The beach in Kalutara saved its colonial charm. Many years ago, there was a huge market for spices and other local goods. It is located not far from the large spice plantations that are actively cultivated even nowadays.
The beach line is divided into two parts. The northern is practically deserted. There are few tourist places there, shops and cafes are focused on the needs of local population. The sand is clean and yellow. There may be large boulders in the water, but this does not interfere with swimming in any way.
The southern part is more touristy. Beach parties are held here, you can enjoy such water sports like snorkeling, scuba diving, canoeing or banana boating and sailing on a yacht. The main number of hotels in Kalutara, Sri Lanka is also located on the southern part of the beach.
Explore Kalu Ganga river
This picturesque city is located on Kalu Ganga river. You can look at it from the bridge that connects the south and west of the province.
Travel boats sail along Kalu Ganga itself. Don’t miss an opportunity to visit mysterious Fa Hien caves and scenic waterfalls.
Check Kalutara Bodhiya
Kalutara Bodhiya is a Buddhist monastery built near Kalu Ganga. The architecture of the temple is unique – in the form of a hollow stupa. There are no other buildings like this in the world. The entrance is free.
Participate one of Sri Lanka’s Festivals
There are many different festivals that take place in Kalutara during the year. An interesting Buddhist holiday, Nawam Perahera, takes place in Kalutara in February. During the celebration, hundreds of pilgrims flock to the temples, brought flowers, elephant shows are held.
Another festival – Walukarama Perahera takes place in September.
If you would like to visit one of the national parks in Sri Lanka, the closest to Kalutara is Udawalawe, about 3 hours drive.
Visit Richmond Castle
Richmond Castle in Kalutara is one of the famous places in the city. The design of this two-storey mansion impresses with richness.
Mahogany, frescoes, expensive original paintings – there are so many things to see inside this beautiful building. Around the castle there is a park area with Greek sculptures. If you have chosen Kalutara as your travel destination in Sri Lanka, then you can get to the castle from 8 am to 4:30 pm.
Places to Stay
Check of the accommodation options below.
- Avani Kalutara Resort ;
- Tangerine Beach Hotel
- Hotel Mermaid & Club ;
- Royal Palms Beach Hotel
- Turya Kalutara.
