Things To Do
in Puttalam
Puttalam is a coastal town in northwest Sri Lanka known for its expansive lagoon and salt pans. The town has a laid-back fishing culture and serves as a gateway to the broader northwest coast, including Kalpitiya’s marine adventures. Nearby, wind-swept beaches and wetlands offer birdlife, dolphins, and satisfying seafood experiences.
The area blends coastal scenery with cultural influences, making it a relaxed base for exploring the region’s natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a soothing stroll along the pristine beaches of Puttalam, where the golden sands meet the crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a refreshing swim and watch the local fishermen casting their nets as the sun rises over the horizon. Visit the famous Kalpitiya beach for its vibrant marine life and picturesque views.
Indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a beachside shack, where the day's catch is served fresh. After your meal, engage in some water sports like kitesurfing or snorkeling, exploring the hidden beauty of the coral reefs. Spend some time lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun while enjoying a good book.
As the sun sets, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking skyline and the vibrant colors reflecting on the water. Join a beach bonfire with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and laughter as you admire the starry night sky. End your day with a peaceful walk along the shore, with gentle waves lapping at your feet.
Kick off your wildlife adventure early with a safari in Wilpattu National Park, known for its leopards and diverse wildlife. Guided tours provide an opportunity to witness elephants, deer, and an array of bird species in their natural habitat. The cool morning air and the sounds of nature make for an exhilarating experience.
After the morning safari, relish a local lunch at a nearby village, where traditional Sri Lankan curry is on the menu. Spend the afternoon exploring the park further or visit nearby lagoons that are perfect for birdwatching and photography. The tranquil environment is ideal for those looking to connect with nature.
Return to your accommodation and unwind, reflecting on the day's adventure. Choose to have dinner in a restaurant that specializes in local cuisine, sampling dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. This cozy evening can be capped off with a traditional Sri Lankan dessert under the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.25-0.75 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi (1 km) | $0.50-1.20 |
| 🏨Budget hotel stay (per night) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich coastal scenery with wildlife and wetlands
- Strategic base for Kalpitiya and Anawilundawa trips
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Seasonal weather can affect sea conditions and some activities
- "Ayubowan" - Hello / May you live long
- "Istuti" - Thank you
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Vanakkam" - Hello (Tamil)
- "Nandri" - Thank you (Tamil)
Places to Visit in Puttalam
Visit one of these nice places.
A broad expanse of shallow water, mangroves, and birds, with dramatic colors during golden hour.
Wide sandy shoreline and open horizons perfect for long exposures and tranquil portraits.
Historic walls and textures offering architectural contrasts with the sea and sky.
Sunlight reflecting off expansive salt pans creates geometric patterns and striking compositions.
Food in Puttalam
Puttalam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A sour-tish curry made with dried fish and a blend of spices; deeply flavorful and commonly found in coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
Milk-rice served with a spicy chili sambol; a popular at-home dish often enjoyed with fish or curry.
Coconut relish with red chili and lime, typically eaten with rice or hoppers.
A comforting lentil curry enriched with coconut milk and spices, a staple accompaniment.
Seasonal catch grilled simply with lemon and herbs, often available at beach shacks.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can taste fresh fruit, street snacks, and fishermen’s produce.
Casual stalls offering grilled fish, coconut-based curries, and river prawns; great for tasting on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes and hats before entering temples, and seek permission before photographing sacred spaces or people.
Use polite greetings; address elders with titles; show patience and politeness in interactions with fishermen and market vendors.
Safety
Tipping in Puttalam
Ensure a smooth experience
If service is not included, tip around 5–10% in restaurants; round up tuk-tuks and small tips to guides or hotel staff are appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with light rain risk; excellent for beaches, lagoon activities, and outdoor photography.
Higher humidity and frequent showers; lush landscapes, dramatic skies, and fewer crowds, with possible sea swells.
Puttalam at Night
Hiking in Puttalam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wetland habitat with boardwalks and birdwatching platforms; easy to moderate trails.
Forest-edge paths and tracks offering wildlife viewing opportunities from a scenic vantage.
Airports
How to reach Puttalam by plane.
Main international gateway near Colombo; typically 2.5–3.5 hours by road to Puttalam depending on traffic.
Domestic airport serving regional flights; closer to Puttalam than Colombo and convenient for short hops.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant presence along the lagoon and coast with traditional livelihoods.
Nearby salt pans and agricultural lands shape the local economy.
Two major language groups coexisting in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple sport across schools and towns; local leagues and friendly games are common.
Popular in the Kalpitiya area during windy months; suitable for visitors with some water-sport experience.
Casual games frequently played on open beaches and shorelines.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puttalam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer dhal, vegetable curries, and coconut-based dishes; request meat-free options and clarify ingredients like fish stock.
Ask about ghee-free cooking and dairy alternatives; many Sri Lankan staples can be adapted with lentils and vegetables.
Rice and lentil-based dishes are common; avoid sauces with wheat-based thickeners and confirm bread or roti ingredients.