Joanna James
In the island nation’s bustling west, where the capital city, Colombo, dominates for the most part, Beruwala remains a rather laid-back destination, full of serene seaside idyll. Come — explore and discover what the charming beach town has to offer you for an unforgettable getaway in the teardrop.
A holiday in the beach town without the very stretch of beach that puts the city on the map wouldn’t just be right. Nestled in the sanctuary of a calm bay and adjoining the estuary of the popular Bentota River, Beruwala Beach plays host to blissful beach days for almost every traveller to the city. Frolic on the grainy golden sands, unwind under swaying palms and bask in the soothing sun. The picture-postcard shores aren’t only about immersive contemplation either; the fascinating oceanic wonders beneath the turquoise waters also make it an excellent destination for snorkelling and scuba diving.
There’s more to Beruwala than just stunning beaches, and Richmond Castle is a fine example of what’s on offer that isn’t only palm-dotted shores and turquoise blue waters. Occupying a breathtaking riverside site in the neighbouring town of Kalutara, the Edwardian mansion boasts a striking architectural design complemented by a sprawling garden and scenic surroundings, including the picturesque views of the Kalu Ganga River. Richmond Castle is also the proud possessor of a long history as impressive as its bewitching splendour, dating back to the early 1900s.
As the sun goes down and darkness descends upon beautiful Beruwala, set out on a short drive to the neighbouring town of Kosgoda to make your way to the eponymous Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Centre. Get up close and personal with the brown-toned, shelly creatures of the sea like never before and retreat to one of the finest beach resorts in Sri Lanka the likes of Cinnamon Bey Beruwala.
Once the abode of the renowned landscape architect Bevis Bawa, Brief Garden in Beruwala is a landscape garden brimming with oodles of nature and beauty. Let both your feet and mind take a wander in the sprawling 2 hectares of tropical gardens and verdant greenery, treating yourself to a nature experience that delivers the rejuvenation that your body, mind and soul seek.
No matter where you choose to holiday in the minuscule island nation, a temple on the itinerary is indubitably customary, and Beruwala is no exception. The hilltop temple on the outskirts of the city of Beruwala is one of the most revered places of worship and a site of archaeological significance in Sri Lanka. The 160-foot crossed-legged Buddha is the highlight of the striking temple, greeting all visitors to the sanctuary.
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.
