Top Attractions and Best Things to Do in Kalutara - From sacred temples to serene shores

A visit to the Kalutara Bodhiya is often at the top of any list of things to do in Kalutara. This sacred Buddhist temple, easily recognisable by its large white stupa near the town centre, is believed to be one of the very few hollow stupas in the world. Visitors can step inside and admire vibrant murals depicting stories from Buddhist teachings, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience. Beyond its religious significance, the Bodhiya has become a local landmark where people pause during journeys to pay their respects. For travellers, it’s an opportunity to capture a distinctive photo, reflect on Sri Lanka’s traditions, and see how locals weave faith into their daily lives.

The Kalu Ganga River is a scenic highlight of Kalutara, flowing gently past mangroves, small villages, and fishing boats before meeting the sea. A river cruise offers an intimate glimpse into local life—fishermen casting nets, children playing on the banks, and colourful birdlife in the trees. Staying at the Avani Kalutara Resort gives you direct access to this river-ocean meeting point, where sunsets light up the sky in shades of orange and gold. Many visitors choose boat rides here, not just for the views but for the tranquillity that contrasts with the busier town centre. Whether you’re on the water or watching from the shore, the river provides a calming backdrop and a memorable slice of Kalutara’s landscape.

Kalutara Beach stretches along Sri Lanka’s west coast, offering a relaxed alternative to busier tourist spots. Its wide sands are perfect for long strolls while waves roll steadily onto the shore. The beach is lined with palm trees that provide shade, making it a pleasant place to rest with a refreshing king coconut in hand. The sea can be a little rough, so swimming should be approached with care, but the atmosphere makes it ideal for unwinding. Many travellers come here in the late afternoon to watch the sun dip below the horizon, creating photo-worthy skies and an unhurried end to the day. It’s a space where you can slow down and appreciate the rhythm of coastal life.

Richmond Castle sits slightly inland but is worth the short journey. Built in the early 1900s by a wealthy landowner, this mansion blends colonial design with Indian architectural inspiration. Visitors are greeted by intricate stained-glass windows, carved wooden staircases, and spacious verandas overlooking green lawns. Walking through the rooms feels like slipping into another era, with details that hint at the grandeur once enjoyed here. Today, the house shows its age in places, but that only adds to the charm and atmosphere. The surrounding gardens, dotted with fruit trees and open spaces, are peaceful spots to pause before returning to the lively town. Richmond Castle gives Kalutara a distinctive historical flavour that complements its religious and natural attractions.

Created by Bevis Bawa, brother of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, the Brief Garden is a haven for those who appreciate design, art, and nature combined. The garden sprawls with pathways that twist through dense greenery, opening into courtyards decorated with sculptures, ponds, and unique architectural details. Every turn reveals something different, from shaded alcoves to bold stone carvings. The atmosphere is playful yet serene, with a strong sense of personality reflected in every design choice. Visitors often spend hours here, exploring both the landscape and the eccentricities of its creator. It’s an attraction that feels personal and distinctive, providing a refreshing change from the town’s coastal sights.