Things to Do in Kalutara - Top Activities in Seaside Hamlet Kalutara

Tipped to be one of Sri Lanka's most popular beach holiday destinations Kalutara is also one of the most accessible beach hubs on the island. Located within close range of the capital Colombo Kalutara is home to white, sandy beaches and fantastic holiday resorts such as AVANI Kalutara. Perfect for beach lovers in search of idyllic beaches to unwind and relax in Kalutara boasts sunny skies and windy weather conditions for most of the year. Activities ranging from building sandcastles to simply lounging around on the golden beach and working on one's tan rank among the favorite activities of seasoned visitors to this part of the island.

Often regarded as a must-visit highlight for culture buffs vacationing in Kalutara the Gangatilaka Vihara is a one of kind Buddhist temple not only in its home country but the world at large. Renowned as the globe's only hollow Buddhist temple the Gangatilaka Vihara is an intriguing religious institution that dates back centuries. A frequent stopover for Buddhist pilgrims visitors can witness locals making offerings in the way of flowers and food items while engaging in prayer at the venue. One of the temple's chief highlights is of course the captivating murals that decorate its interior walls. Showcasing key moments in the life of Lord Buddha more than 74 murals are believed to adorn the walls of this sacred shrine.

Revered among water sports enthusiasts as a one stop water sports Mecca, the calm waters and wind conditions of Kalutara are ideal for engaging in a variety of water based activities. Known as a swimmer's haven the clear and shallow waters off the coast of Kalutara are perfect for experienced as well as novice swimmers while those who wish to body surf will also find the weather conditions in the area ideal. Diving enthusiasts on the other hand can head out deeper and explore the coral reefs beneath the surface on a diving excursion. Wind surfers, jet skiers and parasailing fanatics can head down to neighboring Bentota as well.

A world away from Kalutara resort havens and beach clubs the Fa Hien Caves is a geological wonder located in the rural village of Bulathsinhala in Kalutara. As a cave complex that is believed to have provided shelter to globetrotting Chinese monk Fa Hien in 4th century AD the locale also is the hallowed site in which the skeletal remains of a prehistoric human and other relics of primeval life in the island were discovered. Having served as a Buddhist monastic residence in centuries past the venue is believed to have been inhabited by humans more than 33,000 years ago.

Located less than 40km from Kalutara, popular day trip options for vacationers based in Kalutara include the Turtle Conservation Project in nearby Kosgoda and the Lunuganga Estate in Bentota. Nature lovers and marine life enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to witness and participate in one of the country's coveted marine life conservation efforts where guests can witness the endangered turtle population lay eggs on the beach. Touring the venue's hatcheries and uncovering the five species of turtle species endemic to Sri Lanka is just one of the highlights as visitors can also take part in the releasing of hatchlings to the ocean. Architecture buffs however should explore Geoffrey Bawa's iconic holiday estate dubbed Lunuganga. Containing breathtaking water gardens and idyllic landscapes the historic holiday home of Sri Lanka's most celebrated architect is an experience one is unlikely to forget.