Joanna James
As one of Sri Lanka's most conveniently located beach hubs, there are many reasons to holiday in captivating Kalutara. Here's why the beach paradise is a vacationer's dream destination.
Tipped to be one of the region's most breathtaking horticultural attractions, a tour of the Brief Gardens alone is well worth the trip to Kalutara. The brainchild of Bewis Bawa, the celebrated landscape artist and brother of architectural great Geoffrey Bawa, the extensive landscape lined with bamboos and other exotic plants and flowers is a mesmerizing respite for travellers. The entire property is open to the public and tours are also available for those interested in learning more on the aesthetics of the garden as well as its creator. The sculptures, fountains and open-air showers are some of the garden's most intriguing corners.
As the treasured natural attribute that serves as the chief attraction for all visitors heading to the southern beach capital, the beauty of Kalutara beach is another great reasons to vacation in the resort Mecca. Blessed with sunny skies and excellent wind and water conditions for a plethora of water based activities, travellers can simply unwind and relax in the stunning confines of this golden beach.
Home to the country's largest seated Buddha sculpture, the Kande Viharaya temple is no ordinary cultural highlight in Kalutara. With an illustrious legacy dating back to 1734, when the temple was built in honour of Karapagala Dewamitta Thero, the venue remains one of the south's most sacred religious precincts. The relic chamber is perhaps the most exquisite attraction inside the temple while the countless murals and ancient paintings featured in the walls and ceilings of the temple are just as impressive. The temple museum is also part of the five storey structure that makes up the temple and houses priceless relics from the country's Buddhist heritage.
Regarded as Geoffrey Bawa's passion project, Lunuganga Estate is more than the master architect's holiday home away from home, but an iconic property that serves as a living example of the "civilized wilderness" he aimed to create. Surrounded by extensive gardens and bordered by the Bentota River, this unique work of architecture and horticultural experiment is another reason to visit Kalutara this holiday season.
As the area's top souvenir hub, Kalutara's Basket Centre is arguably one of the finest retail venues for authentic and traditional wares on the southern coastline. Creating masterpieces and home wares from organic and eco friendly materials, the Basket Centre not only provides a livelihood for local artisans but also helps preserve the basket weaving techniques and other skills passed down from generation to generation. The workshop is located behind the retail area so visitors can pop by to witness artists at work on different pieces. Offering travellers a wide range of exciting souvenir options, a shopping spree in this well-known retail Mecca is another reason why Kalutara is a popular vacation spot.
Enjoying a river safari is one of the true joys of a holiday in Kalutara as the Maduganga River excursions are among the best things to do on a lazy evening in the beach capital. Not only can one experience the flora and fauna occupying the shores of this meandering body of water but also unwind after a busy day of sightseeing by losing oneself in the tranquil atmosphere of the riverside. Those based at Turyaa Kalutara or any other similar Kalutara hotels can book a boat safari via the hotel or simply hop on board the many boat operators lining the river bed.
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