Joanna James
Located in close proximity to Colombo, Kalutara is an easily accessible destination that even though is quaint boasts a myriad of attractions. For a quick weekend getaway this is an ideal little town.
If it's a coastal city in Sri Lanka there is hardly any beach that you cannot simply love. Kalutara is one such destination that has stretches of golden sands that are to die for. Kalutara's picturesque coast has made it a highly sought out destination for investors looking to establish hotels. Very recently Anantara Kalutara Resort was set up here making this little town all the more attractive among tourists. Kalutara's waters have mild waves and are as relaxing as they are adventurous. Perfect for both couples and families alike, there is plenty you can experience in the coastline of Kalutara.
A holiday in Kalutara is not quite complete without immersing yourself into the spiritual side of the city. When you enter the city from Colombo you will be greeted by a large white temple. This is the famous Kalutara Bodhiya; a temple highly venerated throughout Sri Lanka. The Kalutara Bodhiya boasts a history that goes back centuries and the sacred nature of this temple has deep roots that touches the core of Buddhism, for a Bo tree exists here that belongs all the way back to the era of Lord Buddha himself. Everyday hundreds of devout worshippers clad in white visit the temple some performing pilgrimages and others offering flowers.
It is not only the coasts of Kalutara that makes this city beautiful for it also boasts an iconic river that is stunning to say the least. The Kalu Ganga is one of the most famous rivers in Sri Lanka that adorns several regions of this beautiful city. One of the fun things to do in Kalutara would be to spend a quiet evening cruising along these waters; this river helps to appreciate all the natural treasures that this city has in store. In addition to its beauty, the Kalu Ganga comes embedded with deep rooted history for this river once served as an important channel for spice trading within the country. Boasting rich mangroves on either side this river supports a thriving ecosystem that has drawn a number of keen biologists and eco-tourists as it has regular tourists.
A few kilometres away from Kalutara is a rubber plantation converted to an iconic garden by the famous Bewis Bawa - the brother of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. It is a place worth exploring and its design is nothing short of magnificent. Spread across five acres of land, the garden is set up in an aesthetic manner and houses a number of tropical plants and exotic sculptures. Unique in design this garden is one of the most beautiful places in all of southern Sri Lanka and is a must visit for all those looking to cover the many secret treasures of Southern Sri Lanka.
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