10 places to visit in Kalutara without which your Sri Lankan tour is incomplete – outings that inspire

The Edwardian mansion of Richmond Castle stands tall and proud in the Kalutara District and is considered the brainchild of Mudaliyar Don Arthur De Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena. Featuring astonishing design aspects that encompass Burmese teak, Italian floor tiles and English iron stairs, the 2-storey mansion was at the centre of lavish living with its 16 magnificent rooms and sprawling gardens adding to its appeal.

Well known amongst devotees and tourists alike, the sublime sight of the Kalutara Bodhiya will warmly greet you as you arrive from Colombo en route to the island nation’s Southern Province. With a Bodhi tree that can be traced back to the 2nd century BC, the temple is an important symbol of Buddhism that witnesses swarms of visitors throughout the year. While offering prayers and lighting incense sticks are popular pastimes, one can savour unobstructed views of the Kalu Ganga when here.

Having seen the light of day in the 1870s, the Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple was constructed for the sake of the disciples of the Aluthgama Sangharatne who communed to hear the sermons of Buddhist monks. Though, subject to many expansions and restoration efforts, the shrine which can be reached if one travels towards the northern portions of Kalutara houses numerous statuettes and murals that depict the life and teachings of the Buddha.

Within the region of Ingiriya, Kalutara is a lush green expanse overflowing with the colours and sounds of nature! Called Bodhinagala Forest Hermitage, the visitor will be escorted through amazing rainforests en route to discovering and embracing a side of the city well away from its hustle and bustle.

Expanding on its multicultural identity is the Holy Cross Church which can be easily found at an elevated position along Galle Road. Introducing worshippers and tourists to its awe-inspiring architectural elements that include detailed arches and airy sections, the Church opens out to vistas of the Indian Ocean and by far, is one of the more beautiful sites in all of Kalutara.

Named after the village of Thudugala, these pleasing cascades are a hiker’s dream destination given the pageantry on show. With a series of natural pools to bask in, swim and frolic in, one can look forward to savouring scenes made up of towering canopies and species of birds that have found refuge in and around Thudugala Ella Waterfall.

Associated with folklore and local heritage is the remarkable setting of the Fa Hien Caves which can be accessed by traversing Kalutara’s Pahiyangala area. Named after a Buddhist monk of yesteryear, these Caves soon became a tourist hotspot on the back of the skeletal remains that were discovered which evidenced the existence of an ancient civilisation.

For a burst of art and craft, consider beelining for Ranjith’s Carving and Batik Museum which puts on one amazing spectacle. Pour over each item that encapsulates the very best of traditional Sri Lankan artefacts under one roof which offers fascinating takes on a practice that has been perfected over several years.

Should you want to sport that fancy tattoo on a chosen area of your body which will evoke fond memories of your time in Kalutara, then look no further than West Coast Tattoo Studio. Particularly popular among foreign nationals, one can expect professional service from start to finish.

Regardless of whether you seek to unwind and stretch yourself out or head straight for your favourite water sport, Kalutara Beach will guarantee one whale of a time. If on holiday with your better half, this area is perfect for a walk come evening with the sunset as your guide. If you find yourself looking for places to stay near Kalutara Beach, then make a note of Mermaid Hotel & Club which is one of the best beach hotels in Sri Lanka found a stone’s throw away.