Joanna James
Kalutara - probably the closest coastal town to Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a must-visit destination during your tour to Sri Lanka. It's a tourist-friendly city with many tourist-oriented services, restaurants, and hotels.
Since it's the very first landmark you see when entering the city, you should definitely visit this Buddhist temple. Kalutara Bodhiya (the Bo Tree) and the Viharaya (the Chaithya) are located on either side of the road. You'll love everything about the temple (Chaithya / Dagoba) because it is massive and follows an interesting architectural design. It is one of the very few hollow stupas in Sri Lanka.
If you are someone who is in love with biodiversity, take a boat safari along the Bentota Ganga when you are holidaying in Kalutara. Fear not – but you will be actually seeing some crocodiles during your journey. In addition to them, you will spot many other exotic birds and lizards as well. You will also get the chance to observe and explore the way of life of the locals living around. This brings you a great cultural experience!
Don't go after international dishes (the western dishes) when you are in Kalutara. Restaurants and hotels there will obviously have whatever you ask for in terms of western dishes but make it a practice to go for Sri Lankan authentic food when you are there. Full of spices and heavenly flavours, Sri Lankan food will never disappoint your taste buds. You will come across diverse dishes including polos maluwa, ambul thiyal, and sambal, and guess what, you should try out all these dishes for a truly delightful culinary experience!
Water sports are for the adrenaline junkies out there! Kalutara beaches are great for water adventures, and if you think you need a lesson before making your first move, there are also professional experts to teach you the basics. Jet skiing, parasailing, and windsurfing are some of the best sports you can try out and the necessary equipment can be rented out from stalls nearby.
If you are holidaying at a property such as Turyaa Kalutara Hotel, do not forget to have a relaxing spa therapy. Enjoying an ayurvedic massage and related treatments is one of the top things to do in Kalutara. Holidays are to chase away all the chaos and stresses, so you can nicely do that if you say yes to a spa treatment.
Dolphin-watching tours are quite famous among those who are heading to Kalutara. There are many sea tour companies with different packages to offer you amazing dolphin-watching experiences, and you just have to pick the right one. Do not forget to take your camera with you to capture the beautiful moments.
Since Kalutara is a coastal city, why would you miss a great sunset view? Head to the beach in the evening and watch how the sun says bye to the chaotic world, so peacefully. Enjoy how the kids enjoy their worlds, playing and dancing on the beach.
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