Joanna James
The tranquil city of Matara, in the deep south of Sri Lanka, is just the place to catch a more relaxed vibe than the other major cities on the southern coast. There is markedly less tourism here, and you can have long stretches of secluded beaches and crowd-free attractions all to yourself.
Just 10 minutes away from Matara town, near the Nilwala River, is Star Fort. It is named after its unique formation of a star with 6 points. Its shape allowed defences to be set up in every direction, with two cannons protecting the site from each point. It was initially constructed in 1765 by the Dutch to safeguard the principal Fort in Matara from enemy attacks. Water from the Nilwala River stretches across its deep trench and encircles its sturdy walls made from granite and coral.
Once Sri Lanka came under British Colonial rule, this fort was transformed into an administrative building and a library. Later, the site came under the purview of the Department of Archaeology. The restored premises houses a museum depicting a historical account of Matara.
Old Dutch Market is more commonly known as the Old Nupe Market or the Old Dutch Trade Centre. It is just a short tuk-tuk ride away from the main beach. The market took place in an open-air building with a T-shaped layout and houses two long passageways intersecting its main entrance. Its beginnings are debated, some attribute it to the British, while some to the Dutch.
The design features large white stone columns supported by a wooden frame fringed with lovely latticework. Its roof is tiled with red clay reminiscent of Kandyan Era architecture. This market used to be a chaotic trade centre selling vegetables, fruits, fish, fabrics and household materials. The building, with its long corridors and impressive architecture, transports one back to an era of colonial rule.
A 17-minute drive from Matara will take you to the village called Dondra, also known as Devi Nuwara in Sinhalese. The lighthouse at Dondra is Sri Lanka's highest and one of its oldest and is incidentally the southernmost tip of the island! The lighthouse, at 49 metres, is a remnant of the British colonial era and was constructed in 1890. Unfortunately, special permission has to be sought to climb the lighthouse, but it would be worth it due to its beautiful surroundings. Sit on one of the benches and get lulled by the balmy breezes, swaying coconut trees and the magnificent oceanic backdrop. You can find some amazing accommodations close to this area as well; the likes of Dickwella Resort & Spa are less than 30 minutes away.
In Matara, places to visit are many but don't forego a trip to Polhena. Located less than 15 minutes west of the main beach in Matara, it is not the easiest to get to, but worth the extra effort. There is a mini sandy bay with a coral reef as a breakwater to the incoming waves. You will encounter perfectly calm waters that are ideal for swimming. It's a popular haunt for Sri Lankans and is practically deserted during the weekdays.
Weherahena Temple is built in a tunnel and is believed to be the first and biggest tunnel temple in the world. You will encounter a massive statue of Lord Buddha in a seated position inside the temple, while the most striking element of the temple is its tunnelling system. The walls of the temple portray complex artwork detailing the Jataka stories – the prior lives of Lord Buddha. Its origins are traced to the start of the 19th century when a young monk having been dismissed by his teacher, came to this village with only a mat, sheet and alms bowl. Soon after, the villagers nearby build him a small clay kuti (shelter). The monk later turned it into the significant temple that it is now!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
