Things To Do
in Kalutara
Kalutara, Sri Lanka is a laid-back coastal town just south of Colombo, known for its long sandy beach, the sacred Kalutara Bodhiya, and a scenic river mouth where the Kalu Ganga meets the sea. The town blends religious sites, colonial-era architecture, and vibrant markets with easy access to nearby reefs, lagoons, and turtle conservation farms. Visitors can enjoy tranquil beaches, river cruises, and riverfront dining, while using Kalutara as a gateway to the southwest coast's attractions.
The climate is tropical, with lush vegetation, coconut palms, and a relaxed pace that invites day trips to nearby spice gardens and turtle hatcheries.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Kalutara and check into your beachfront hotel, where the warm ocean breeze welcomes you. Enjoy breakfast with a view of the waves crashing against the shore, setting the tone for a relaxing getaway. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to refresh your senses.
Spend the afternoon lounging by the pool or engaging in water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding. Visit the nearby Kalutara Bodhiya, a revered Buddhist shrine, and take in its peace and tranquility. Indulge in a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at a local eatery, experiencing the rich flavors of the region.
As the sun sets, take a beachside walk, watching the sky shift through stunning hues of orange and purple. Enjoy a seafood dinner at a restaurant overlooking the ocean, where you can taste the catch of the day. Wind down your day with a refreshing cocktail under the stars.
Start your day with breakfast at a local café before embarking on a cultural tour of Kalutara. Visit the beautiful Kalutara Temple, where you can learn about its historical significance and admire its intricate architecture. Take time to meditate and soak in the serene atmosphere of this sacred site.
Head to a nearby village to experience traditional Sri Lankan crafts, engaging with local artisans who create exquisite handmade goods. Savor a traditional lunch cooked by a local family, allowing you to immerse yourself in the authentic culinary culture. Participate in a Batik workshop to create your own piece of art to take home.
Return to your hotel to freshen up before enjoying dinner at a rooftop restaurant. As night falls, enjoy the vibrant sounds of the ocean while sipping on local Arrack. Take a nighttime dip in the pool, reflecting on the cultural experiences of your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transport (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $20-40 |
| 🥥Coconut water | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal town with accessible beaches and river scenery
- Amenities and local markets are convenient for travelers
- Less nightlife and nightlife options compared to Colombo or Bentota
- Monsoon seasons can bring heavy rain and rough seas
- "Ayubowan" - May you live long (hello)
- "Istuti" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Oyage nagori salada?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Kalutara
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive stupa, intricate woodwork, and serene courtyards offering atmospheric sunrise and golden-hour photography.
Iconic coastal lighthouse with panoramic sea views and the river mouth lined with boats; good for coastal silhouettes.
Colonial-era architecture and lush gardens with river views—great for architectural and landscape shots.
Wide river delta meeting the sea; watch fishermen and mangroves at golden hour for dramatic blues and golds.
Food in Kalutara
Kalutara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sour, dry-fried fish curry made with goraka (a sour fruit) and spices; a signature Sri Lankan coastal dish often found in seafood restaurants.
Must-Try!
A family-style platter of rice served with an assortment of vegetable, fish, or meat curries and accompaniments like papadams and pickles.
Chopped roti stirred on a hot griddle with vegetables, egg, and sometimes chicken or beef; a popular street-food staple.
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour; often served with sambol, curries, and sometimes eggs.
A classic dal curry with grated coconut sambol, commonly paired with rice and other curries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant local market highlighting fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and snacks; great for observing daily life and picking up affordable street foods.
Casual stalls along Kalutara Beach offering grilled fish, prawns, and coconut-based drinks; ideal for sunset meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes and hats, and avoid loud behavior when visiting temples.
Greet with a smile; gentle language; avoid public displays of anger; ask permission before taking photos of people.
Touching someone’s head is considered disrespectful; point with your foot instead of your finger and avoid feet pointing at people or temples.
Safety
Tipping in Kalutara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory; in restaurants, a 5-10% tip for good service is typical when no service charge is included.
Cash is widely accepted; many places accept credit cards, particularly hotels and larger restaurants. ATMs are common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, humid days with bright sun; occasional short showers; perfect for beach time and boat trips, but carry sun protection.
Heaviest rains on the southwest coast; seas can be rough; ideal for river excursions and indoor cultural sites on bad weather days.
Milder weather with lower humidity; occasional showers; good conditions for coastal photography and day trips to nearby towns.
Unpredictable showers and humid; good for lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and flexible itineraries.
Kalutara at Night
Hiking in Kalutara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy riverside trail offering mangrove views and birdwatching near Kalutara.
Coastal trail near Kosgoda with opportunities to observe sea turtles and mangroves; accessible within a short drive from Kalutara.
Airports
How to reach Kalutara by plane.
Major international gateway located near Katunayake, about 60-120 minutes from Kalutara by road depending on traffic.
Domestic airport closer to Colombo; serves domestic flights and some regional routes; convenient for quick hops into the southwest region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group; Buddhist cultural influence is seen in temples and daily life.
Muslim and Tamil communities contribute to the cultural and culinary diversity of the region.
Domestic and international travelers seeking coastal experiences and cultural sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Sri Lanka; many locals play in parks and schools.
Widely followed and played across towns and coastal areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalutara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Sri Lankan curries can be adapted to vegetarian options; ask for dhal, vegetables, and plain rice or string hoppers. Look for dishes made with coconut milk and avoid fish-based curries where possible.