Kalutara in sunny Sri Lanka may be known for its golden sands, but step away from the shore for a while and you will find experiences that give your beach holiday a whole new dimension. If you want to make your coastal escape here unforgettable, these are some truly memorable things to do.
Venture Inside a Hollow Stupa
The Kalutara Temple, which you will see as you enter the city, happens to be among the few hollow stupas in the world. Undoubtedly, one of the top things to do in Sri Lanka is to step inside this towering wonder, where you will find a small shrine as well as over 70 murals illustrating the Buddha’s life. Also, don’t miss the nearby Kalutara Bodhiya, an ancient fig tree that is revered by Buddhist devotees as well.
Join an Immersive Cooking Class
Get hands-on with Sri Lanka’s fiery flavours in an immersive cooking class offered by luxury accommodation providers such as Anantara Kalutara Resort. You will get to visit a local market, guided by a chef, who will help you pick fresh produce and ingredients. Once you are back, learn traditional techniques to make various dishes… soon, it will be time to tuck into something delicious!
Enjoy a Traditional Fishing Experience
Fishing is an integral part of traditional livelihood here, and you can look to experience it as well. Some resorts will give you a chance to drift along the Kalu River aboard an “oruwa,” a local wooden sailboat. Under the guidance of a friendly “fishing guru”, you will learn age-old fishing methods; no fancy gear required, just skill and patience. Round off the day by savouring your catch, cooked to perfection for you!
See Artisans at Work at an Eco Village
Take a scenic journey past Kalutara’s lush countryside, rubber estates and paddy fields to discover a living museum of traditional crafts at a charming “eco village.” Here, you can watch weavers at antique handlooms, potters at their wheels and blacksmiths hammering away at ironware. It’s a great way to get a glimpse into the skills of Sri Lankan artisans and enjoy a refreshing break from the beach as well.
