How to plan your trip to Kalutara Sri Lanka

Lying alongside the warm shores of the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Kalutara is where the Kalu Ganga (a famous river of the island stretching for 129 km and giving the city its name) flows into the Indian Ocean. Thus, the natural beauty of the city is enriched by flora and fauna including rare birds and is steeped in history with outstanding temples and many other exciting things to see and do. Discover some useful tips on planning your trip to this awesome city.

The best time to visit Kalutara

The city of Kalutara has consistent weather throughout the year which is dry and warm. However, during the monsoon season such as from April to June and September to November there can be showers on and off.

Even despite these showers most of the attractions in Kalutara are enjoyed by most visitors using hotels in Kalutara. Hence it can be considered an all-year destination.

Getting to Kalutara

Once you arrive at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, it is quite easy to get to Kalutara and a few different options are available to be used at your discretion.

Taxi – A taxi can be obtained on arrival to take you directly to your hotel as often done by guests at properties like Turyaa Kalutara who have already booked their tours in Kalutara. Taxis are expensive.

By Bus – There are buses operated by the government as well as private operators. The private buses operate often although the rates are slightly higher. You need to first get to Fort (in Colombo) and take another bus to get to Kalutara. Bus fares are comparatively cheaper than taxi fares though the journey time is longer.

By Train – You need to get to Fort using a taxi service or the bus and take the train to Kalutara. The train journey is a scenic one on the coastal route which many visitors to Sri Lanka enjoy. Train fares are quite reasonable, and the journey time is longer than by taxi.

What to pack for Kalutara

Like many tropical countries, Sri Lanka has balmy weather during the day hence it is best to have light clothing preferably in cotton. If you intend to enjoy the beaches appropriate swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun hats are necessary.

Keeping hydrated is important wherever you go in Sri Lanka hence always carry a bottle with you which can be filled up as needed.

With many historical sites to visit in Kalutara including temples it is good to have modest clothing like trousers covering your knees, tops covering your upper arms and midriff and a couple of shawls or wraparounds to use as and when needed going to/from the beach.

Things to see/do in Kalutara

Kalutara offers so many interesting experiences for discerning visitors, the following are some of the significant places to see and things to do.

Kalutara Chethiya (Kalutara Stupa) – Located immediately to the south of the outstanding Kalutara Bridge this stupa is a must-see for visitors and has immense historical value. It is the first temple to have a hollow stupa which is named Gangatilake Stupa. This stupa looks incredible against the night sky and the grounds offer a sense of peace and tranquility.

Richmond Castle – Completed in the early 20th century, this is a two-storeyed mansion of a wealthy Sri Lankan from Kalutara who had done his further studies in the United Kingdom. The mansion with incredible architecture (following British features) using the best timber, coloured glasses and tiles from overseas demonstrates the level of opulence it had in that era. Today it is under the custody of the Public Trustee and is open to the public at a nominal fee.

Brief Garden – An extensive garden encompassing beautiful flora, shimmering water bodies, beautiful pathways, secluded gardens, and an array of artistic features coming together to offer many hours of pleasure to your senses as you walk through each section.

Kechimalai Mosque – The foremost mosque on the island, built on a little hill overlooking the Indian Ocean the main place of worship for the Muslim Community of the region in the olden days. Styled in line with Arabian architecture this mosque is stunning against the night sky.