Joanna James
Kalutara is a coastal city located close to Colombo and is the ideal place to head to for a day trip. There are many things to do when exploring the city which is not to be missed.
Lord Buddha is known to have attained enlightenment under a bo tree (also known as a sacred fig). This specific tree is highly revered by followers of Buddhism, and the Kalutara Bodhiya (Bo tree) is said to have its origins from the very tree. There is a long history that follows this sacred tree, which has survived attempts to uproot it, and today it is a popular place of worship among the local Buddhists. There is a temple on the site, and visitors enjoy heading here to observe the religious rites followed, as well as admire the peaceful setting. This is just one of the amazing sites to visit when choosing to travel and blogs the likes of Travel Kalutara highlight the fact too.
The Richmond castle is a gem hidden away in a quiet part of Kalutara. The amazing colonial mansion is no longer the grand place it used to be, but its walls are oozing with history, and stories of the lives once lived within its walls. The castle was built by a Sri Lankan nobleman in the early 1900’s on a massive property spanning more than 40 acres. He had longed for children all his life, and never having any, he donated the property to be used as a children’s home upon his death. Today, a part of the castle, as well as its beautiful lawns are open to the public to visit and admire.
Being a tropical island, there are scenic beaches all around Sri Lanka and when exploring Kalutara, the beach is not a spot to be missed. Spend a morning sunbathing on the golden sands, or take a dip in the inviting ocean. There are the host of restaurants and cafes to grab a bite at along the beach, and you can spend a blissful evening enjoying a cooling drink and some delicious seafood as the sun goes down. The beach is a favourite attraction of places in Kalutara to check out, and it is certainly a relaxing place to spend time.
This waterfall is small in comparison to the massive waterfalls found across the hill country, but it is certainly a gem, tucked away in a serene spot, so close to the ocean. The waterfall is best visited in the rainy seasons when it gushes with its full vigour and is best visited during weekdays, to avoid the crowds that come during the weekend to enjoy the cool water and lush surroundings. Sit on a rock in silence and meditate to the relaxing sound of the flowing water, or take a swim in the flowing waters. There is a short hike to be enjoyed along the way, so enjoy the journey and not just the destination!
While it is not clearly ascertained how these caves got their name, the Fa Hien Cave, which is also known as the Pahiyangala cave, was once inhabited by prehistoric human beings, dating back several thousands of years, among the oldest human settlements discovered in the continent. Archaeologists have unearthed both ancient skeletal remains and utensils at the site, and it is of great historical importance. After a short hike, visitors to the cave today will find a large Buddha statue at the site.
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.
