Trish Kelson
As one of the southern coastline's holiday hubs Aluthgama is a seaside hamlet worthy of exploration. From touring iconic temples to touring local gardens here are some of its best tourist activities.
Tipped to be one of the most iconic Buddhist temples in the southern coastline the Kande Viharaya Temple is no ordinary religious hotspot in Aluthgama. Home to the highest seated position Buddha statue in the globe the venue is a cultural and spiritual epicenter that dates back centuries. The temple's famed Buddha sculpture measures in at a whopping 160 feet and visitors and local pilgrims from around the country visit the structure to pay homage to the iconic statue. The brainchild of Ven. Dedduwa Dhammananda who was a well-known pupil of the Ven.Weliwita Sri Saranankara Nayaka Thero the Kande Viharaya was established in 1734. Touring the temple grounds is one of the most spiritual activities one can experience on a visit to Aluthgama as the holy space has provided solace to countless Buddhist devotees over the centuries.
Occupying pride of place in the depths of Aluthgama the Brief Garden is located a mere 30 minutes away from the heart of the Aluthgama town centre. Renowned as one of the island's most breathtaking horticultural marvels the famed gardens designed by the landscape artist Bevis Bawa is a must-tour highlight for all visitors exploring the country's coastal belt. As the brother of iconic Asian architect Geoffrey Bawa who is considered the "father of Asian architecture" this stunning garden and house designed by Bevis Bawa is no less exceptional than the creations of his better known sibling. Contained within a former rubber estate the sprawling garden employs natural elements and geographical features to enhance its beauty while the household is no less impressive with its unique features.
As one of Sri Lanka's finest water sports hotspots visitors vacationing in Aluthgama must make use the ideal water and weather conditions to engage in the gamut of water sports available in the area. The beaches of Aluthgama are perfect for swimming while body surfers will also find the surfing conditions of the water suitable for engaging in their favorite water sports activity. Diving is another popular water based activity available in Aluthgama and nearby Bentota while parasailing and windsurfing fanatics can also make use of the constant wind along the shores of Aluthgama to their advantage. Adrenalin junkies on the other hand can rent a jet ski from a local resort and take to the waves for the ride of a lifetime while safari lovers can head to the lagoon and river for a boat ride.
Visitors must not forget to hit the souvenir shops while holidaying in Aluthgama as the boutiques in the area offer a variety of handicrafts and other local specialties at reasonable rates. Those who wish to experience the culture of markets of the seaside hub can head to the local Monday market which takes place on the train line every week.
Due to its strategic location Aluthgama is a fantastic starting point for day trips around tourists destinations around the southern shoreline. Some popular day trip options include tours of Bentota and Beruwala. The Shinagawa Beach Balapitiya is a popular Bentota hotel for day trippers heading out from Aluthgama due to its strategic location.
Food lovers can also hit local restaurant favorites to experience Sri Lankan cuisine and exquisite seafood culinary creations in Aluthgama's top eateries. Highlights include the Amal Restaurant which is a beach diner serving seafood pastas and curries while the Kandoori Indian restaurant is also a staple stopover for frequent visitors.
