Things To Do
in Kalutara
Kalutara is a picturesque coastal town located in the southwestern part of Sri Lanka. It is known for its stunning beaches, where visitors can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The town is also famous for the historic Kalutara Bodhiya, a sacred Buddhist temple with a towering white stupa.
Kalutara offers a mix of cultural attractions, natural beauty, and peaceful ambiance, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Suba dawasak" - Good day
- "Aparada" - Sorry
- "Hondai" - Good
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Kalutara Beach. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore while watching the sunrise.
Savor a delicious seafood lunch at a beachside restaurant. Spend the afternoon lounging on the sand or indulging in water sports.
Watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean with a cold drink in hand. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.
Visit the Kalutara Bodhiya, an iconic sacred site. Spend time learning about the significance of the stupa and its history.
Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at a nearby eatery. Explore the local artisan shops and markets for a cultural experience.
Attend a local cultural show featuring traditional dance and music. Wrap up the day with dinner at a family-run restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches with pristine waters.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Lush greenery and scenic landscapes.
- Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Variety of water sports and recreational activities.
- Tourist infrastructure may not be as developed as in other regions.
- Risk of heavy rainfall during monsoon seasons.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Some areas may be prone to flooding.
- Public transportation can be challenging for travelers.
Best Activities in Kalutara
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Richmond Castle, an architectural gem with beautiful gardens and a rich history.
Visit the Kalutara Bodhiya, a sacred Buddhist temple with a serene environment and beautiful surroundings.
Relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea at the tranquil Kalutara Beach, a perfect spot for beach activities and leisure.
Embark on a boat safari along the scenic Kalu Ganga River, an exciting way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Hike to the enchanting Thudugala Waterfall and immerse yourself in the refreshing waters amidst lush greenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kalutara with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kalutara
Visit one of these nice places.
A colonial mansion with stunning architecture and scenic grounds.
A sacred Buddhist site with a serene environment and panoramic views.
A beautiful coastline offering picturesque sunsets and beachside photo opportunities.
A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for nature photography.
Food in Kalutara
Kalutara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Dutch-influenced dish with rice, meat, and sambol wrapped in a banana leaf.
Must-Try!
A sour fish curry with a blend of spices and goraka (garcinia cambogia).
A stir-fry dish made of chopped roti, vegetables, and a choice of meat or fish, seasoned with spices.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kalutara better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at the fish market and try fresh seafood dishes prepared by local vendors.
Explore the diverse selection of Sri Lankan street food, including hoppers, roti, and mouthwatering curries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kalutara, it is respectful to greet others with your palms together in a gesture of traditional greeting, known as 'ayubowan'.
When visiting temples or other religious sites, it is important to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering. It is also customary to make a small donation as a sign of respect.
Respecting elders is a significant cultural norm in Kalutara. It is customary to address them with respect and deference, such as using titles like 'uncle' or 'auntie' when speaking to them.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kalutara with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kalutara
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kalutara, Sri Lanka, tipping is not always expected, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount of cash as a tip at restaurants, hotels, and for tour guides.
In Kalutara, Sri Lanka, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments, but it's always good to have cash on hand, especially when shopping at local markets and smaller vendors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kalutara.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with clear skies and the best time to visit for beach activities and sightseeing.
Hot and dry season, good for water sports but can be quite warm.
Inter-monsoon season with occasional showers and humid weather. Good for surfing and experiencing local cultural events.
Heavy rainfall and high humidity. Not the best time for beach activities but good for experiencing lush greenery and cultural festivals.
Kalutara at Night
Hiking in Kalutara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area with lush greenery and trails ideal for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore nature.
While not exactly hiking, these expansive gardens offer walking paths and beautiful landscapes for leisurely exploration.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this rainforest offers numerous hiking trails through its rich biodiversity.
Known for its stunning views and challenging trails, perfect for outdoor adventurers.
A beautiful natural park known for its pink quartz mountain with various trails suitable for hiking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kalutara through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kalutara by plane.
Located approximately 94 kilometers from Kalutara, Bandaranaike International Airport is the main international airport in Sri Lanka, serving numerous international and domestic flights.
Situated around 160 kilometers from Kalutara, Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport is a newer international airport that aims to facilitate air traffic in the southern region of Sri Lanka.
Located about 40 kilometers from Kalutara, Ratmalana Airport primarily handles domestic flights, but it also serves some limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Kalutara, predominantly practicing Buddhism and representing the majority in Sri Lanka.
A significant ethnic minority in Kalutara, mainly Muslim, with a rich cultural heritage and contributions to trade and agriculture.
This group includes both Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils, with a presence in the region engaged in various economic activities.
A small community of mixed European descent, particularly influenced by the Dutch and British colonial periods.
Includes various smaller ethnic and religious groups who contribute to the multicultural landscape of Kalutara.
The Soul of Kalutara
Discover the essence of Kalutara through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is extremely popular in Kalutara, as in the rest of Sri Lanka, with many local teams and leagues.
Volleyball is widely played in schools and local communities, with several tournaments held throughout the year.
Football has a strong following in Kalutara, with many youth clubs and matches being organized regularly.
Badminton is popular among students and adults, with many playing casually and in organized competitions.
Basketball is becoming increasingly popular in Kalutara, with schools and clubs supporting the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalutara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer vegetarian and vegan curries, stir-fries, and rice dishes featuring flavorful spices and coconut milk.
While traditional Sri Lankan cuisine heavily features roti and hoppers, many restaurants also offer rice-based or seafood dishes suitable for gluten-free diets.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kalutara with these cultural adventures.
