5 Scenic Places in Kalutara to Visit with Your Partner – Experience some lesser-known sites with your loved one.

Constructed in the 1900s, Richmond Castle combines cultural roots and nature into a unique visit. The estate was once owned by the mudaliyar (local chief) Don Arthur De Silva. Presently, visitors are allowed to enter its premises and enjoy the beauty of the house and its charming gardens.
The elaborate architecture, coupled with incredible vistas of the Kalutara countryside near the picturesque Kalu Ganga, makes Richmond Castle a tranquil place to spend a romantic afternoon.

This is a hallowed spot for Sri Lankan Buddhists! The site is where one of the 32 saplings of the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree in Anuradhapura was planted during the era of Buddhist convert King Devanamptatissa. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree is the last remaining sapling of the original Bodhi Tree (Pipal Tree) where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. The Bodhi tree and the temple are definite landmarks in Kalutara and will be visible on the right side of the bridge overlooking the Kalu Ganga. Enjoy the peace and serenity of this ancient religious site, which also holds remnants of Old Portuguese era fortifications when the premises were used for administrative purposes.

These pre-historic caves were where the travelling Chinese monk, Fa-Hien resided during his travels across the island. The caves date back thousands of years and are an ongoing archaeological site, with prehistoric skeletal remains found here. The caves are situated atop a cliff, and a long climb is required to reach them. Once inside, you can even find a temple and a golden reclining Buddha statue!

The beach at Katukurunda is a spotless space of golden sand, sparkling blue waters and coconut trees. This little-known beach is an ideal place to unwind with your loved one and take a long romantic stroll into the unknown. Sunsets are sure to be glorious! You can also head over to some of the beachside eateries to grab some local food favourites. Accommodation is great in Kalutara and its surrounding areas. The likes of Mermaid Hotel & Club are some of the places you can look out for while there.

Brief Garden is an oasis in the hot tropical climes of the coastal region and is just 40 minutes from Kalutara in the southern village of Beruwala. This lovely home and garden belonged to Bevis Bawa, a planter by profession and the brother of famous Sri Lankan architect, Geoffery Bawa. The sprawling residence served to be a major source of inspiration for the architect in his later years. The garden is built around 5 acres of a rubber plantation, which he began cultivating in the early 1920s. Stroll and explore this exquisitely manicured garden divided into diverse sections, with unusual sculptures scattered around its many hidden crannies.