Things To Do
in Kalutara
Kalutara, located along Sri Lanka's southwestern coast, is a picturesque town known for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. The town is famous for the Kalutara Bodhiya, a sacred Buddhist site, and offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the Kalu River and the Indian Ocean, as well as engage in various water sports and outdoor activities.
Kalutara serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions in the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kalutara Bodhiya, a revered Buddhist temple with a magnificent stupa.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and then visit the nearby Kalutara Beach for some sunbathing and swimming.
Dine at a beachfront restaurant while watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Visit the Richmond Castle, an impressive mansion with colonial architecture and beautiful gardens.
Take a boat ride on the Kalu River to explore the lush surroundings and spot local wildlife.
Explore the local night market for dinner, where you can sample various Sri Lankan street food.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍚Rice and Curry Meal | $2 |
| 🍹Fresh Coconut Water | $1 |
| 🍺Local Beer | $3 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel Night | $25 |
| 🚌Bus Ticket (Local) | $0.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Transportation can be challenging in some areas.
- Weather can be unpredictable during monsoon season.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Mama Sinhala kiyannam" - I speak Sinhala
- "Eya monawa?" - What is that?
Places to Visit in Kalutara
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning images of the sacred Bodhi tree and the surrounding temple complex.
A picturesque beach perfect for sunset photography with golden sands and palm trees.
The colonial architecture and lush gardens provide a beautiful backdrop for photography.
Food in Kalutara
Kalutara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple dish featuring rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, fish, or meat.
Must-Try!
A bowl-shaped pancake made from fermented rice flour, often served with an egg or sweet toppings.
Chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and a choice of meat, served hot.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find a variety of street food, snacks, and fresh produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples and remove shoes before entering sacred sites.
A polite greeting is to place your palms together in a prayer position and bow slightly.
It's customary to eat with your right hand, as the left hand is considered unclean.
Safety
Tipping in Kalutara
Ensure a smooth experience
It's customary to leave a tip of around 10% if service is not included in the bill.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used in most restaurants and hotels.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect sunny weather ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
Frequent rain showers may limit outdoor activities, but the landscape becomes lush and vibrant.
Expect variable weather with occasional rain, but still plenty of sunshine.
Cultural festivals take place, offering unique experiences and local celebrations.
Kalutara at Night
Hiking in Kalutara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this rainforest offers diverse flora and fauna with several trails for hiking.
Leads to the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, providing stunning views and a refreshing environment.
Airports
How to reach Kalutara by plane.
Located approximately 70 km from Kalutara, this is the main international airport serving Sri Lanka, offering connections to many global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Sri Lanka, known for their rich cultural practices and traditions.
A significant ethnic minority, primarily residing in the north and east of the country, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A national passion in Sri Lanka, cricket matches are commonly played and watched by locals.
Rugby is also popular, with many local teams and schools participating in various tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalutara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for hidden ingredients.
Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's wise to communicate your needs clearly.