5 Best Things to do in Kalpitiya - Five Activities to Enjoy during a Stay in Kalpitiya

Tipped to be one of Sri Lanka's most popular scuba diving hotspots, there's no better way to while away one's time than to explore what lies beneath the waves of this seaside paradise. Those who wish to engage in diving activities should head to Kalpitiya during the months between November and April as this period is deemed the official diving season in the area. The months of December, January, February, March and April are also ideal for beginner divers to test their skills in Kalpitiya's waters. The biodiversity and sheer volume of parrot fish, blacktip sharks and butterfly fish will amaze divers as the reef in Kalpitiya is spread out over an area of 307km2 . Other species one is likely to encounter include blue whales and sperm whales.

As the main reason why most vacationers head to Kalpitiya to begin with, no trip to the area would be complete without signing up for a dolphin and whale watching excursion. Available in the last two months of the year (November and December) whale watching boats need only venture more than 5km from the shore to spot some of the most playful dolphins on the island. Spinner dolphins are the most commonly spotted mammals on these excursions although humpbacks, bottlenose dolphins and Risso dolphins are also known to pop up from time to time.

Due to its proximity to the Wilpattu National Park, another activity Kalpitiya holidaymakers can enjoy without hassle is a wildlife safari. As one of the oldest and most coveted national parks in the country, the Wilpattu National Park is also home to an impressive 106 lakes which are all natural and fed by rainwater. Holidaymakers who intend to go on a safari should visit the park between the months of February and October as this is the time of year when herds of elephants, deer and leopards are frequently spotted in the park while the birdlife in the sanctuary is also at its most voluminous. Open to visitors from 6am to 6pm, local tour operators offer different safari experiences within the parkland at various costs.

Beach lovers who are hoping to explore some of Kalpitiya's cultural attractions can spend a day touring the Dutch church and the iconic fortress also built by the Dutch, located in the area. The construction of the fort began in 1667 although it was not complete until 1676 while the Dutch Reformed Church in Kalpitiya was built in 1706. As one of the most ancient protestant places of worship in Sri Lanka, the church is accessible free of charge from 8am to 4pm to devotees and tourists alike.

The Kalpitiya Lagoon is not only one of the most picturesque bodies of water in the area but also an ideal venue for canoeing or kayaking excursions. Bird watchers will find plenty to write home about as they paddle around the lagoon and witness the many winged beauties occupying the environment. Travellers based at Dolphin Beach Resort will find that canoeing or kayaking in the lagoon is one of the most relaxing things to do in Kalpitiya.