Things To Do
in Puttalam
Puttalam is a coastal town located in the northwestern region of Sri Lanka known for its vibrant fishing industry. The town is surrounded by beautiful lagoons, beaches, and mangrove forests, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers. Puttalam is also known for its salt production, with vast salt pans visible throughout the area.
The town's diverse population includes Sinhalese, Tamils, and Muslims, contributing to its rich cultural heritage.
- "Ayubowan" - Hello
- "Suba dawasak" - Good day
- "Aparada" - Sorry
- "Hondai" - Good
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $35
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.25 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $20
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Puttalam Lagoon, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride and spot various bird species. The serene morning atmosphere is perfect for photography enthusiasts.
After lunch, explore the nearby Kalfy Lagoon, known for its stunning views and unique ecosystem. Relax under the shade of palm trees or take a stroll along the shore.
As the sun sets, visit the local markets to experience the vibrant culture of Puttalam. Sample delicious street food and shop for handmade crafts.
Begin your day with a visit to Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary, a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The morning is ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the lush greenery.
After exploring the sanctuary, enjoy a lunch at a local eatery with traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. Then, take a guided tour around the wetlands to learn about its unique biodiversity.
End your day with a relaxing walk by the beach, enjoying the gentle sea breeze. The sound of waves and the beautiful sunset will make for a perfect end to your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Puttalam has a rich cultural heritage with historical sites.
- The natural beauty of the area includes beaches, lagoons, and rural landscapes.
- It is known for its diverse wildlife and bird-watching opportunities.
- The cost of living is relatively low compared to urban areas.
- The community is generally welcoming and friendly.
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities compared to larger cities.
- Infrastructure development may be lacking in some areas.
- Employment opportunities can be limited, especially in specialized fields.
- Public transportation can be less reliable.
- Environmental challenges such as pollution and climate change impact the region.
Best Activities in Puttalam
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Kalpitiya Lagoon is famous for its ideal kite surfing conditions, with strong winds and shallow waters making it perfect for both beginners and experienced kite surfers.
Explore the diverse flora and fauna of Wilpattu National Park on a safari. Look out for leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitats.
Embark on a boat trip from Alankuda Beach to witness the spectacular sight of dolphins and whales frolicking in the waters off the coast of Puttalam.
Places to Visit in Puttalam
Visit one of these nice places.
Historical fort with stunning panoramic views of the sea and surrounding area.
Scenic wetland with abundant birdlife and beautiful landscapes, perfect for photography.
Picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for capturing stunning natural views.
Food in Puttalam
Puttalam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant and spicy curry made with fresh prawns, coconut milk, and a blend of spices. Best savored with steaming white rice. Found in local seafood restaurants along the coast like Chillaw Seafood Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A traditional Sri Lankan breakfast dish made from steamed rice flour and coconut, usually served with a side of fish curry or dhal. Available at street food stalls and local eateries like Hotel Roshan.
A sour fish curry made by cooking tuna with goraka (Malabar tamarind), cinnamon, and other spices. Known for its tangy and spicy flavor, it's a staple in Puttalam. Look for this dish at authentic village-style eateries like New Ariyabavan Hotel.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where locals and visitors can witness the daily catch being brought in by fishermen. This is the place to find an array of fresh seafood including prawns, crabs, and a variety of fish, allowing for a truly authentic culinary experience.
The area around Puttalam Beach is lined with street food stalls offering an assortment of delectable snacks such as isso wade (prawn fritters), kottu roti (a stir-fry dish with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat), and fresh fruit juices. A great way to sample local flavors and enjoy the sea breeze.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Puttalam, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures, and by standing when they enter the room.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites in Puttalam, and always remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone's home.
Greet people with a friendly smile and a slight bow, and avoid public displays of affection as they are considered inappropriate in Puttalam.
Safety
Tipping in Puttalam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Puttalam, Sri Lanka, is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. A 10% tip is customary in restaurants, but it is not expected in smaller establishments or for services such as taxis.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Puttalam, Sri Lanka. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger stores and hotels, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions and in rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Puttalam, Sri Lanka with warm and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.
Expect hot and humid weather with occasional showers during these months, suitable for bird watching and exploring the natural beauty of Puttalam.
A period of transition with increasing rainfall, best for witnessing lush green landscapes and experiencing cultural festivities.
Puttalam at Night
Hiking in Puttalam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large national park featuring varied terrain, including scrub forests and jungle, providing excellent hiking opportunities along its many trails, alongside opportunities to see wildlife.
A protected area with several walking paths through the wetlands, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the natural scenery.
Offers stunning coastal hikes with beautiful views of the ocean, as well as opportunities to explore sandy beaches and local flora and fauna.
A smaller hiking spot suited for beginners, with a scenic view from the top that overlooks the surrounding landscape.
While a bit further away, this iconic site features a challenging hike up a rock fortress with historical significance and breathtaking views at the summit.
Aiports
How to reach Puttalam by plane.
Located in Katunayake, approximately 100 km from Puttalam, this is the main international airport serving Sri Lanka.
Situated about 230 km from Puttalam, this airport serves the southern region of Sri Lanka and is a secondary international airport.
A domestic airport located approximately 120 km from Puttalam, primarily serving tourists visiting the cultural sites in the area.
Located about 200 km from Puttalam, this airport connects the northern part of Sri Lanka to other domestic and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Puttalam, predominantly representing the Buddhist population.
A significant ethnic minority, mostly consisting of Hindu and Christian populations.
A Muslim ethnic group, mainly involved in trade and agriculture.
A small ethnic group of mixed European and Sri Lankan descent, primarily Christian.
A minority community in Sri Lanka, predominantly Muslim, with a unique cultural heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Puttalam, with a strong following and many local teams and tournaments.
Football is widely played and enjoyed by the local community, with many clubs and youth leagues.
Volleyball is a popular sport in schools and local communities, often played in teams during recreational events.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth, with courts available in schools and public areas.
Kabaddi is traditionally played in rural areas and is a sport that encourages teamwork and strategy.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Puttalam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries and restaurants in Puttalam offer a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as vegetable curries, lentil dhal, and coconut sambol. Look for traditional Sri Lankan eateries and inform the staff about your dietary preferences.
While traditional Sri Lankan cuisine heavily features rice and rice-based dishes, it's important to communicate any gluten restrictions at restaurants to ensure suitable meal options. Additionally, establishments like Cafe Nourish and other modern cafes often have gluten-free items on their menus.