While not as popular as its neighbouring seaside destinations, Matara is still a hive of activity. Located on the southern end of Sri Lanka, Matara is home to a few unique attractions.
Beaches
The beauty of the beaches in Matara is that they are less crowded. Matara Beach and Medawatta Beach are sandy stretches perfect for strolls, relaxation, and surfing. Polhena Beach, located 2km away, offers a tranquil, sandy cove with an offshore coral reef. Be sure to visit a spa in Matara to enhance your beachside experience.
Temples
The Weherahena Temple, located on Matara’s east end, houses a man-made cave with pictographs depicting Buddha’s life and a 25m Buddha statue. Another temple worth visiting is the Matara Paravi Duwa Temple, perched on a tiny island and accessible by a pedestrian bridge. These temples are located within an easy distance from many hotels in the area, including Dickwella Resort & Spa.
Star Fort
Built by the Dutch during their colonial rule, the Star Fort is literally a star-shaped fortress, with each of its 6 points fortified by large canons. The fort has a deep moat surrounding it and also houses two prisons.
Dondra Head Lighthouse
Located on the island’s southern tip, Dondra Head, the Dondra Head Lighthouse is the tallest of its kind in Sri Lanka. This 160ft-high, 7-storied lighthouse was constructed using materials imported from England and Scotland. The views at the top are spectacular, accessible by a 196-step staircase.
