Tipped to be one of the southern coastline’s most accessible beach holiday hubs Kalutara is a popular day tour option and vacation hotspot for tourists and locals like. Ideally situated within easy driving distance of the capital Colombo Kalutara packs in all the charm and wonder of a paradise beach Mecca with exciting activities also thrown in to the mix. Visitors based in Aitken Spence Hotels or any of the best hotels Sri Lanka has to offer in Kalutara can experience the culture of the historic beach town by paying a visit to the Gangatilaka Vihara. A sacred space that is also heritage site the venue draws Buddhist pilgrims from around the country to its holy grounds.
Boat safari enthusiasts can head down to the Kalu Ganga next to enjoy a cruise along the area’s most scenic body of water. Perfect for birding enthusiasts the areas surrounding the river are occupied by countless flora and fauna including bird species. Often described as one of the most relaxing and enchanting experiences visitors can enjoy in Kalutara the tour also offers vacationers the chance to catch their breath after a day of sightseeing. History and architecture buffs on the other hand can head down to Richmond Castle. Larger than life and an architectural marvel in its own right Richmond Castle served as the luxurious household of Padikara Mudali Nanayakkara Rajawasala Appuhamilage Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena. Surrounded by fruit farms and an elaborate garden the mansion is in pristine condition to this day. The Fa Hien Caves in which the iconic Chinese monk dwelled in ancient times is another cultural attraction visitors must explore when in Kalutara. Lastly, no trip to Kalutara would be complete without experiencing the white, sandy beach occupying its coastline. Water sports enthusiasts can try their hand at various activities on the beach while holidaymakers can also simply enjoy the picturesque beachfront by sunbathing or going for a swim.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+