Often referred to as Sri Lanka’s most convenient beach resort towns, the seaside hamlet of Kalutara is no ordinary former colonial stronghold in the island nation. As a popular holiday destination not only for locals and tourists based in Colombo but in nearby Panadura hotel hubs the likes of Jie Jie Beach by Jetwing, Kalutara remains one of the island’s top resort hotspots for beach lovers. Occupying pride of place on the southern coastline, this destination which is within easy driving distance of the nation’s commercial capital is also a historic epicentre with many cultural landmarks littering its landscapes.
The Kalutara Stupa or the Gangathilaka Viharaya is perhaps the area’s most famous landmark as the centuries old Buddhist temple has been synonymous with the town since it was first built. Recognised by its iconic white dagoba the temple overlooks the Kalu River while the Bodhi tree occupying the Gangathilaka Viharaya is a sapling of the Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura. Those who venture to Kalutara North can also visit the historic confines of the Asokaramaya Temple. Built as far back as 1873, the sacred space attracts local Buddhist devotees in large numbers and remains a spiritual epicentre for pilgrims from around the country.
The Richmond Castle is another well-known heritage site in Kalutara which served as the resplendent home of a former regional governor. Built as early as 1896, the luxurious mansion is a sprawling two storey structure surrounded by a 42 acre fruit garden. Combining Indian and English architectural styles, the building closely resembles a Maharaja’s palace. Guided tours of the castle are now available to visitors while those who wish to explore one of Kalutara’s oldest heritage sites must explore the Fa Hien Caves. Identified as the ancient dwelling of the famed Chinese priest and explorer Fa Hien, the caves are one of the most coveted cultural landmarks in the country.
No tour of Kalutara would be complete without experiencing its historic Calido Beach which has been named one of the southern coast’s top beaches since time immemorial.
Catalina Forbes is a travel writer who bases her content on many thrilling escapades experienced across the world.
