Kalutara Travel Guide

A guide highlighting the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and things to do in Kalutara, Sri Lanka.


Introduction to Kalutara

Kalutara is a beautiful town located in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. It is famous for its historic locations, serene temples, and breathtaking beaches. The town is also known for its handmade crafts and delicious local cuisine, which make it a favorite destination among tourists.

With its scenic landscapes and rich culture, Kalutara offers a unique experience to those who visit it. In this guide, we will discuss the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and things to do in Kalutara.

List of Places to Visit in Kalutara

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kalutara Bodhiya - One of the most prominent Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka, the Kalutara Bodhiya is a must-visit for anyone who visits Kalutara. Located on the banks of the Kalu Ganga River, the temple houses a magnificent stupa, which is said to contain the sacred hair of Lord Buddha.
  • Richmond Castle - Built in the 19th century, Richmond Castle is a beautiful mansion that features a mix of colonial and Sri Lankan architecture. The castle is now a museum, which houses a collection of antique furniture, paintings, and other artifacts.
  • Fa Hien Cave - Named after the famous Chinese monk, Fa Hien Cave is a historic site located in Kalutara. The cave is said to have been used by Buddhist monks as a meditation center and dates back to the 2nd century BC.
  • Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple - Located close to the Kalutara Bodhiya, Asokaramaya is another prominent Buddhist temple in Kalutara. The temple features a large Buddha statue, beautiful murals, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Natural Attractions of Kalutara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kalutara Beach - Kalutara Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka. With its white sand and clear blue water, it is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.
  • Kalu Ganga River - The Kalu Ganga River is another natural attraction in Kalutara. Visitors can enjoy a scenic boat ride down the river while admiring the beautiful landscapes and spotting exotic wildlife.
  • Palatupana Beach - Located near the historic town of Palatupana, this pristine beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and watching the stunning sunsets.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kalutara

  • Kalutara to Ratnapura Trail - This trail is an approximately 50-mile long route that takes visitors through some of the most scenic locations in Kalutara and Ratnapura. It is perfect for hiking or biking and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Kalu Ganga Trail - This trail follows the Kalu Ganga River and offers visitors a chance to explore the area’s natural scenery and diverse flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Kalutara: Activities and Tours

  • Visit a Handmade Craft Store - Kalutara is well known for its handmade crafts. Visitors can explore local stores and purchase unique items such as pottery, batik, and woven baskets.
  • Take a Boat Tour - Visitors can take a boat tour down the Kalu Ganga River and admire the surrounding scenery.
  • Explore The Town on a Tuk-Tuk - Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Sri Lanka. Visitors can explore the town of Kalutara and experience its vibrant atmosphere by taking a ride on a tuk-tuk.
  • Try Local Cuisine - Kalutara is known for its delicious local cuisine. Visitors can indulge in traditional Sri Lankan dishes such as rice and curry, hoppers, and kottu roti.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kalutara

Day Plan
1 Visit Kalutara Bodhiya and Fa Hien Cave
2 Take a boat tour down the Kalu Ganga River
3 Visit Richmond Castle and Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple
4 Take a hike or bike ride along the Kalutara to Ratnapura Trail
5 Spend the day at Kalutara Beach and Palatupana Beach
6 Explore the town on a tuk-tuk and visit a handicraft store
7 Try local cuisine and attend a cultural event or festival

Food and Drink Scene of Kalutara

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rice and Curry - Rice and curry is a traditional Sri Lankan dish that consists of rice, several curries, and other side dishes such as papadam, sambol, and fried fish.
  • Hoppers - Hoppers are a type of Sri Lankan pancake that are made from rice flour and coconut milk. They are usually eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
  • Kottu Roti - Kottu roti is a popular Sri Lankan street food that is made from chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood.

Local Beverages

  • Arrack - Arrack is a popular alcoholic beverage in Sri Lanka that is made from fermented coconut sap.
  • Tea - Sri Lanka is famous for its tea, which is grown in the central highlands of the country. Visitors can enjoy a cup of tea at one of the many tea houses in Kalutara.

Where to Stay in Kalutara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • AVANI Kalutara Resort - Located on the beachfront, this luxurious resort offers guests a range of amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and multiple dining options.
  • The Coconut Palm Hotel - This eco-friendly hotel is located close to the beach and features spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.
  • Riverdale Eco Resort - Riverdale Eco Resort is located on the banks of the Kalu Ganga River and offers guests a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. The resort features comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant.

What to Buy in Kalutara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts - Kalutara is famous for its handmade crafts such as pottery, batik, and woven baskets.
  • Tea - Visitors can purchase high-quality tea from one of the many tea houses in Kalutara.

Local Culture and Customs of Kalutara

The people of Kalutara are friendly and welcoming to visitors. When visiting temples, it is customary to remove shoes and cover up appropriately as a sign of respect. It is also important to be mindful of local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Kalutara

The best time to visit Kalutara is between November and April when the weather is sunny and dry. The monsoon season in Kalutara falls between May and October, with heavy rain and high humidity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kalutara

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting temples or other religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kalutara

Kalutara is a safe place to visit. Visitors should keep their belongings close and avoid walking alone late at night.

Health in Kalutara

Visitors to Kalutara should ensure they have up-to-date vaccinations and take necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites. It is also advisable to drink bottled water and avoid street food that might not be properly cooked.

Getting to Kalutara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kalutara

The nearest airport to Kalutara is Bandaranaike International Airport, located in Colombo. From there, visitors can take a taxi or a bus to Kalutara.

Bus Stations Near Kalutara

Kalutara has its own bus station, which operates both local and long-distance services. Buses are a cheap and convenient way to travel around Kalutara and neighboring towns.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a taxi or rent a car to get to Kalutara from Colombo or other nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Kalutara

The best way to get around in Kalutara is by tuk-tuk or taxi. They are fairly cheap and easily available for hire. Visitors can also rent bicycles from their hotel or guesthouse.

Where to Go Next from Kalutara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bentota - Located only 15 kilometers south of Kalutara, Bentota is a popular destination known for its beaches, water sports, and luxury resorts.
  • Galle - Located approximately 65 kilometers from Kalutara, Galle is a historic town that features a fort built by the Dutch in the 17th century.
  • Colombo - Located 40 kilometers north of Kalutara, Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka and a vibrant city that offers visitors a mix of modern and historic attractions.

Conclusion

Kalutara is a beautiful and vibrant town that offers visitors a unique experience. From historic locations to scenic landscapes, there is something for everyone in Kalutara. So, pack your bags and head to this charming town for an unforgettable vacation.