Zoey Adams
For a quick excursion from Colombo, Kalutara has always been a very popular choice. Nestling a world of history and plenty of natural beauty there is so much you can experience in such a small area.
The Kande Viharaya is arguably Kalutara's biggest attraction. This age old temple has a history which goes back centuries and is considered one of the most venerated places of worship in the whole country. Everyday hundreds of devout worshippers clad in white visit the temple some performing pilgrimages and others offering flowers. It is a perfect place to learn a little something about Buddhism and if you stay a little longer and you can witness the Sri Lankan version of worship and devotion. The Kande Viharaya is also home to a specific Bo Tree from the era of Lord Buddha that has weathered the storms of all of the many centuries that it has lived through and still stands tall at the outskirts of this temple.
A treat for sore eyes, the Kalu Ganga (river) runs through most parts of Kalutara and is an ideal place in the city for a quiet evening boat cruise. As beautiful as it is, the Kalu Ganga comes embedded with deep rooted history for this river once served as an important channel for spice trading within the country. Although its commercial significance has lessened over time, the Kalu Ganga is popular among visitors for the relaxing boat rides it offers. With rich mangroves on either side, this river supports a thriving ecosystem that has drawn a number of keen biologists and eco-tourists to this location.
It is not particularly in Kalutara per se but it is just a couple of kilometres away and can easily be covered by those visiting Kalutara. The Brief Garden is the masterpiece of Bevis Bawa, a well-known Sri Lankan artist who was the older brother of the internationally acclaimed architect Geoffrey Bawa. Spread across 5 acres of land, the garden is designed in an aesthetic manner and houses a number of tropical trees, plants and sculptures. Unique in design this garden is one of the most beautiful places in all of southern Sri Lanka. Once a rubber plantation, Bevis Bawa majestically converted the estate into his residence with a landscape that is definitely something to marvel at.
Kalutara is a coastal city and its beach is one of its most scenic advantages. There are several places to visit in Kalutara but a holiday in this city is not complete without basking in its beaches. Adorned with golden sands and sparkling blue waters, this beach offers everything from wild and wonderful water sports to quiet relaxation. For those staying at the Anantara Kalutara Resort, the beach is at your doorstep and treats you with all its many perks whenever your heart desires.
