Joanna James
As one of Sri Lanka's most accessible beach holiday hotspots, Kalutara is the stuff of dreams for day-trippers. Whether one is spending a weekend in the beach capital or an extended vacation, here's a list of activities that are sure to make a getaway in this seaside hamlet truly unforgettable.
As one of the first cultural landmarks that visitors come across on their drive to Kalutara from Colombo, the Kalutara Bodhiya is no ordinary Buddhist temple on the southern coastline. Built by King Devanampiyatissa, the Kalutara Viharaya and its iconic Bodhi tree have been a fixture in the southern beach town since the 3rd century B.C. As a sacred venue that's frequented by pilgrims from around the country, the holy Bodhi tree inside the temple is also a sapling of the Jaya Sri MahaBōdhi. Anuradhapura's Jaya Sri MahaBōdhi tree in turn is a sapling of the Bodhi Tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in India.
While Asokaramaya may not be as popular as the Kalutara Viharaya, it is no less significant, especially in terms of its rich history and architecture. Dating back to the 4th century, it is a large compound that's perhaps best known for its towering and ornate Buddha sculptures. Named after King Ashoka who is credited with bringing the Buddhist faith to Sri Lanka, the temple also contains the footprints of Lord Buddha encircled by a glass case. The stunning murals and the pagodas that are part of the temple compound make this venue a must-experience spiritual highlight in Kalutara.
As one of the few stately mansions remaining on the southern coastline, Richmond Castle stands as a testament to the resplendence of the illustrious noble families that once occupied this part of the country. The brainchild and passion project of wealthy landowner Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena, Richmond Castle served as a palatial home before being converted into a hospital and an orphanage. Surrounded by lush fruit gardens, the mansion is set on a 42-acre property in Kalutara that's now been turned into a museum. Tourists based at Anantara Kalutara Resort and similar rests will find that signing up for a guided tour of the premises is among the top things to do in Kalutara for culture buffs.
Also called the Fa Hien Cave, this archaeological site is another point of interest that travellers can explore during a holiday in Kalutara. Having served as a temporary shelter for the renowned Chinese monk named Fa Hien during the 5th century, the cave itself is believed to be at least 37,000 years old. Although human skulls have been found inside the cave, what archaeologists value are the weapons and utensils made from animal bones found inside.
While waterfalls are an anomaly in most beach hotspots in Sri Lanka, Kalutara's Thudugala Ella Waterfall is clearly the exception. Located inside the scenic 400-ha Thudugala Estate, this captivating cascade in the Kalutara district is the perfect venue for a romantic picnic. The pool at the base of the waterfall is also ideal for swimming activities.
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.
