Joanna James
Marawila is one of the lesser known coastal destinations in Sri Lanka. However, the town of Marawila is gradually becoming more popular, and these are some of the top attractions around Marawila.
Often competing with the famous Negombo Beach, the Marawila Beach is one of the most pristine white sandy beaches in the Puttlam area. Stretching unhindered for several kilometers, this white sandy strip of beach is absolutely breathtaking and relaxing. The blissful beach is ideal for spending hours just soaking up the tranquility of the coast and the tropical sun, while the waters are calm and great for swimming and water activities. Unlike the Negombo Beach, which has now become rather commercialized, the Marawila Beach still retains its secluded nature. Thus you will hardly find any crowds, making the Marawila Beach ideal for those longing for a coastal vacation.
Located in Talawila, just a few kilometers from Marawila, is the legendary St. Anne's Church. Surrounded with legends, the origin of this fascinating church are still not clear with tales ranging from a shipwrecked European captain who as part of a vow to come back and build a church in Marawila while being stranded in Sri Lanka came back several years later and built the St. Anne's Church to fulfill his vow, to a poor Portuguese man being awakened to a bright light in that area only to find the holy image of St. Anne upon the grove of a palm tree. Regardless of what legend you are inclined to believe, the St. Anne's church is well worth visiting. Its remarkable European architecture, spiritual ambiance and the famed holy image of St. Anne have attracted pilgrims from all over Sri Lanka, especially during pilgrimages during the months of March and August.
Believed to have been first established in the year 1000CE, the Munneswaram Temple is one of the most historic and iconic Hindu temples in the Marawila area. Shrouded in legends and myths, including a legendary tale of the temple being linked to the Ramayana, the Munneswaram Temple is actually a vast complex of religious importance. In total, the complex houses five temples, each of which are known for their stunning architecture and breathtaking grandeur. The Munneswaram Temple is also well known for being home to one of the earliest shrines to the Hindu Goddess of Death; Kali. The Munneswaram Temple is easily accessible from many centrally located hotels in Marawila, such as the likes of Amagi Beach Marawila.
Roughly about 45 minutes away from Marawila is the Dutch Fort in Negombo. The Dutch Fort in Negombo is one of the few remnants of the Dutch era of Sri Lanka, and stands as a symbol of Dutch colonization in the history of Negombo and Marawila. Unlike the Dutch Fort in Galle, the Dutch Fort in Negombo is significantly deteriorated, with the gateway and ruins of the ramparts of the Fort being all that remains. However, the gateway of the Fort is still well-preserved and is regarded as being a popular landmark in the Negombo area. The gateway's design and its original inscription; '1678', are considered as rare monuments of the Dutch era of Negombo and Marawila.
While not exactly in close proximity to Marawila, the Wilpattu National Park is one of the most exciting parks in the Puttlam area. Home to many species of animals; including leopards, elephants and sloth bears, hundreds of species of avifauna, and luscious green forests, the Wilpattu National Park is a great place for an exciting wildlife safari.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
