Tourist Attractions in Matara, Sri Lanka – Highlights for the Leisure Seeker

The appealing Polhena Beach is regarded as being the finest and best known of the beaches of Matara. You will see that the picturesque cove where this beach is located is protected by an advantageously positioned reef. For this reason, you will find excellent opportunities for snorkelling here as well as the opportunity to spot some appealing turtles. When it comes to replenishing your energies there is no cause for worry as you will find a good selection of restaurants in proximity to the beach. At one of these beach restaurants, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a meal whilst admiring the outstanding views on offer.

Your tour of the attractions of Matara would not be complete without visiting the well-known Matara Fort. This historically significant fortification was initially constructed by Portuguese colonialists in the 16th century and subsequently remodelled by the Dutch who followed them in the 17th century. In the colonial era, this fort was the area's hub and its remaining features still provide a suggestion of its splendour in times gone by. In fact, the area where the fort is located is interesting architecturally as it contains a host of dilapidated mansions dating from the colonial period as well as other interesting buildings. These features also make outstanding backdrops for taking photographs.

Another engrossing sightseeing attraction in Matara is the Star Fort, which was constructed by the colonialist Dutch in the 18th century. The primary reason for the construction of Star Fort was to protect the above mentioned Matara Fort which was thought to be exposed to attack from the direction of land. Star Fort was constructed in the shape of a six-cornered star featuring adequate space to house twelve cannons which made it secure from all possible directions. You will see that this fort has now been restored and now houses an interesting museum documenting the history of the town of Matara. If you would be interested in a conveniently located Dickwella resort an accommodation option to consider from which this attraction would be within easy reach would be Soul Resorts.

The Old Dutch Trade Centre will undoubtedly capture the imagination of history and architecture enthusiasts as it is a splendid building which, as its name indicates, was constructed by the Dutch colonialists. You will see that this building, which was at one time where the local market was located, is a handsome building that takes the shape of the letter T. Here you will find a number of interesting features such as colossal wooden beams, a steeply designed roof, a splendid gabled entranceway and three cone-shaped towers. Another interesting feature of this building is that it is open from every side.

This well-known temple is a religious attraction in Matara that will appeal to the culture lover. Weherahena Temple is a colourful and grand temple that contains a number of features of interest. These include a massive statue of the Buddha and a cave that features as many as 200 illustrations portraying scenes from the Buddha's life. This temple also conducts a yearly 'perahera' or festive procession featuring elephants, fire dancers and other participants. Weherahena Temple draws a steady stream of Buddhist devotees as well as sightseers who desire to experience this religious attraction.