10 most amazing places to visit in Kalutara

One of the top sites that Kalutara is well known for is the Kalutara Bodhiya, a Buddhist Temple you cannot miss on your drive towards the southern coast. A hallowed and magnificent landmark where many stopover to pay their respects and worship especially since many people believe that it will brings blessings to their journey. This sacred temple is located on the bay of the Kalu River that flows through the Kalutara district.

Recognized as the most ancient pre-historic settlement in Asia, the Fa Hien Caves are proved to be a group of caves that were inhabited by cave men thirty seven thousand years ago. Caving may not be your thing but the history behind these group of caves make it well worthy of a visit. Divided into four sections this magnanimous caves can supposedly hold up to three thousand people. The Fa Hien Caves are recognized as the largest natural rock in Asia.

Similar to the other beaches in Sri Lanka's southern coast Kalutara beach too is truly magnificent. However popular it maybe, it is usually safe from the over crowdedness even during the holiday season. It may not be ideal for surfing or boarding but you can take a swim, soak up the sun or enjoy some fun sea sports such as diving, snorkeling and fishing. You find plenty of Kalutara resorts adjoining the beach so finding accommodation that overlooks this beautiful beach will not be a difficult task.

The river that starts from Adam's Peak and reach the sea in Kalutara measures up to 129 km in length. For many locals living in the area the best way to refresh during a hot day is to take swim in the river. You find luxury hotels such as the AVANI Kalutara sitting on the peninsular where the river meets the ocean, giving visitors an extra special view. Canoeing is a popular activity here the waters are deep tinted brown and relatively calm making it the ideal strength for canoeing.

Built in 1896, the Richmond Castle is considered as one of the most spectacular works of architecture during that period. It is a two-storied mansion located in the town of Kalutara. The mansion occupies fifteen spacious rooms and all of these spaces are given natural air conditioning through use of various designing and constructional techniques. Interestingly there are ninety-nine doorframes and thirty-eight windows in this massive house. The mansion was built for a regional governor turned philanthropist Arthur De Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena who once lived in the house with his wife but once the couple separated, the owners neglected the estate. Today, it occupies a nursery and hostel for under privileged children.

You find plenty of mouthwatering seafood in Kalutara. Although you might find a much larger variety if you drive further towards the south, there is much to appreciate here as well. The beach side restaurants are alive in the evening for drinks and a mouthwatering seafood dish. If you want to taste a truly Sri Lankan flavor then ask them for some spicy dishes. You also find plenty of great luxury resorts as well as budget hotels that offer plenty of tantalizing meals that you will long for once you return home.

This is another Buddhist temple located within the Kalutara district. You will have to travel approximately 20km away from the Kalutara town until you get to Aluthgama. The name Kande Viharaya translates to 'temple on the hill', since it is set on top of a hill. It is most famous for the Samadhi Buddha statue, which is said to be a tallest in the world.

The closest fish market to Kalutara is the Beruwala Fish Market. You will have to travel around 25km to get here. The best thing about these markets is that you can experience the local culture in a fishing village here. Make sure to be there by 7am latest if you want to catch all the action.

This is not exactly located within Kalutara but a a short drive towards Bentota will take you there. This is a house, which was owned by Bevis Bawa, brother of the famous architect Geoffrey Bawa. Bevis Bawa was a landscapist and the highlight of the location is in the garden. You also find some voluptuous artwork displayed within the premises some are painting while others are made of wood and cement.

The Kalu River is a great waterway to enjoy a boat safari. The surrounding and the river flow are ideal for this. You can go sightseeing and bird watching during your safari.