Five Best Areas to Stay in Kalutara – A Mix of Coastal Charm, Cultural Richness and Heritage

With a lively character, Wadduwa, located south of Kalutara, is an excellent place to stay. It’s a great choice if you want to explore the nearby areas with convenience. It happens to be one of the busiest places near Kalutara, and there’s so much to do as well. It’s also home to some of the top attractions in Kalutara. If you want to stay near Kalutara but not exactly in it, Wadduwa is the perfect place. There’s a strip of sand here, too, so you can enjoy some beach time while you’re here.

Staying in Kalutara puts you right in the middle of it all. It’s a great base if you want to explore the cultural and coastal aspects of Kalutara without having to travel too far. The town is dotted with shops and markets. To get a feel for how locals go about their day, take a walk around the town. One of the highlights here is Kalutara Bodhiya. You can also visit Richmond Castle, another one of the best places to visit in Kalutara. Of course, the beach isn’t too far either. To give yourself enough time to visit all these attractions, and more besides, consider staying at a place like Anantara Kalutara Resort.

Located just a little north of Kalutara, Beruwala is home to beaches with a laid-back character. It’s a great place to stay if you want a peaceful experience while still being close to all the action. Beruwala is known for its beautiful beach, which is ideal for swimming. Staying here is your chance to visit the Beruwala Lighthouse and Ketchchimalai Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Sri Lanka. The town has a slow pace, making it a great place to relax. What’s more, it’s only a short drive from central Kalutara.

It’s one of those places that feels like a proper beach holiday. Bentota is sought after by those who want to enjoy classic beach vibes. The beach here is long, wide, and stunning – perfect for lounging in the sun or taking long evening walks. If you want to try some water sports, this is a great place for it. From jet skiing to banana boating, there’s a diverse range of water sports to enjoy. You can also go for a river safari on the Bentota River. Don’t forget to visit the Geoffrey Bawa gardens while you’re here. Bentota is a combination of coastal beauty and rich culture, and it’s a definite must-visit for anyone coming to Kalutara.

A small but lively town, Aluthgama offers the best of both worlds: local culture and convenient access to the beach. Located between Kalutara and Bentota, it’s a great place to stay if you want to explore both areas without a whole lot of packing and unpacking. The town is full of little shops and markets where you’ll find locals buying fresh produce and enjoying a quick meal. Aluthgama is also well-connected by train and bus, so getting around is no challenge. It’s a down-to-earth place that gives you a sense of real Sri Lankan life.