Joanna James
Who would have imagined that Sri Lanka’s coastal retreat, Kaluthara, is a top family destination? Read on to learn about these activities and destinations that offer fun for all ages.
One of the most popular activities among the things to do in Kalutara is to unwind on its sandy shores. You get some of the island’s best beaches scattered across this region. They include Kalutara Beach, Beruwala Beach, Bentota Beach, Mount Lavinia Beach, and Hikkaduwa Beach. Each of these locations has their own unique offerings. You can spend time swimming, building sandcastles, or playing with your kids on the beach. Sunbathing is also a well-loved activity here. You can also experience a range of watersports.
Those who visit Kalutara, cannot miss the Kalutara Bodhiya. It is one of the most prominent and sacred Buddhist religious destinations in Sri Lanka. One of the oldest trees on the island can be found here. You can also witness devotees engaged in performing rituals and get insights into the cultural heritage and spirituality. Other religious and historical places you can visit include Fa-Hien Cave, Holy Cross Church, Richmond Castle, and Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple.
A wide variety of delectable dishes are available in Sri Lanka and most of these can be found in Kalutara. You get a selection of tantalizing main courses, scrumptious snacks, lip-smacking sweet treats, and refreshing beverages to suit any kind of palate. Since this region is mainly known for its seafood dishes, tasting ambul thiyal (sour fish curry) should be included in your menu. Other dishes to watch out for include egg hoppers (Sri Lankan pancake with an egg in the middle), kottu roti (pieces of flatbread mixed with vegetables and meat, fish or egg), and other seafood-infused dishes.
A holiday is not complete if you do not unwind and bask in some pampering. Many beach resorts in this region offer various amenities aimed at the entire family which will help them make memories. For example, Avani Kalutara Resort provides ‘Cinema on the Lawn’ in which you can enjoy a movie with your family members in the property’s tranquil garden. Not only will you be able to spend some quality time together enjoying one of your favourite pastimes but it will also help you relax.
The best time to engage in dolphin and whale-watching expeditions in Kalutara is from September to April. You need to take a boat and head there in the morning as this is when you get the best views. Children will no doubt be enthralled to watch whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. If you are lucky you might even be able to spy on the world’s biggest animal – the blue whale.
Sri Lanka is a playground for nature enthusiasts. It offers diverse landscapes that boast of stunning beauty. Therefore, you get ample tours aimed at sustaining the nature lover in you. Travelers of all ages will be entertained by the range of experiences available. You get activities like rainforest safaris and visiting turtle hatcheries here. Two green spaces you can visit are the properties of the Bawa Brothers – Geoffrey and Bevis. These are Lunuganga Estate and Brief Garden. Stroll through the creative greenery at Bevis' Brief Garden and explore the tropical settings of Geoffrey's famed Lunuganga Estate.
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.
