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Kalutara is the administrative capital of Kalutara district, Sri Lanka. It is located 40 kms away from Colombo and is accessible via bus or train. Sri Lanka is popularly known as the gem of ocean. It is famous and known for mangosteens fruit. The coconut trees add to the charm of the city and elicit typical tropical vibes. The name of the town is derived from Kalu Ganga River, which was an important spice trading centre in the past.

It has become a tourism hub due to the heritage sites and Sri-Lankan hospitality. The Sri Lankan culture is very rich and ancient, discovering which creates immense satisfaction and makes it a memorable trip. One who likes to learn about various cultures, Sri Lankan history and cultural aspects are a must to discover for them.

Kalutara ensures a laid-back and relaxing vacation for its tourists and promises a break from their monotonous schedule. It offers several indulging destinations through which the tourists can explore and discover the past of the city. The city has a beautiful tropical environment with pleasant weather. The gigantic waves touching the golden sand and rejuvenating beaches make for the absorbing nightlife here. However, there are quite a bunch of things to do in Kalutara that are sure to make your vacation memorable!

10 Things To Do In Kalutara

People generally come here to relax and experience the culture and traditions of the country, which does not include partying in clubs and hence the city lacks places where people can party or dance the night away. Nevertheless, there are some of the things to do in Kalutara, Sri Lanka that shouldn’t be missed out!

1. Spend some quality time on the beach

quality place

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Kalutara beach is said to be one of the world’s best beaches. One can enjoy the brisk sea breeze along with the perfect combination of tropical weather which makes it the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. The beaches are well maintained and clean.

It is the ideal place to spend some time with your loved one or family while you walk along the shores and sandy beaches. It is also the perfect place to see the sun rise that brightens the entire beach.

Must Read: 15 Things To Do In Ella That Will Take Your Sri Lanka Trip To The Next Level


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2. Explore spirituality through religion

Explore spirituality through religion

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Sri Lanka has a rich culture and strong religious beliefs, which is why, there are a number of famous temples and shrines that can be found here. These stupas and shrines are not only rich in religious values but also hold historic and architectural significance.

One can just make a casual visit at these religious places and look around or even spend some time there, meditating.

3. Go for water sports

Go for water sports

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If you want to get indulged in things to do near Kalutara for some thrill and excitement, you must try the water sports, ranging from jet ski, parasail, diving to windsurf. The watersports can be relished in Bentota beach which is hardly 20kms from Kalutara and is known to be the water sports capital of Sri Lanka.

For those who are not as thrill seeking and non-adventurous, they can go boating around the lagoon or lake with family or even have a romantic boat ride with a loved one.

Suggested Read: Viharamahadevi Park: A Handy Guide To Explore This Nature’s Paradise In Sri Lanka!

4. Relax in beach resorts

Relax in beach resorts

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For those wanting a break from their hectic life, this city has a number of luxury resorts and hotels. You can just stretch your legs, lay down your hair, and spend some calm, relaxing time in the resorts.

The resorts also have numerous recreational options to choose from. You can spend a lazy day in the resort or go swimming, get a sun-bath, and enjoy the facilities provided.

5. Try the Sri Lankan cuisine

Try the Sri Lankan cuisine

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This is definitely a must try when in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has a wide range of mouth-watering delicacies. They generally have various types of curries like kukul mas curry, polos, and Fish ambul thiyal with rice. Sri Lanka has many traditional and authentic dishes which are limited only to this region.

The cuisine might seem simple but it is unlike any other cuisine, it is sure to leave you wanting for more.

Suggested Read: Sri Lanka In January: Places To Visit And Things To Do On Your Vacay

6. Go for dolphin and whale watching

dolphin view

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There are various tour organizations in Kalutara that take you to a spectacular sea journey where you get to watch whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Venture out in the open oceans and try to spot these majestic creatures. What could be more exciting and thrilling than this experience as you watch them up close!

7. Go for detailed tours

Go for detailed tours

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Sri Lanka is all about nature’s exquisite beauty and there are several tours customized to provide a glimpse of the same. You can go for safari in the rainforests, get elephant tours or even see the turtle hatchery and witness the wildlife in its natural state.

You get detailed and informative tour where the guide accompanies you throughout this journey and provides you with insights about the country.

Suggested Read: The Ultimate Guide To Sri Lanka’s Dambulla Cave Temple

8. Explore the caves of Fa hien

Explore the caves of Fa hien

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Dig deeper into the past as you see the relics and skeletal remains inside the cave. The other things found inside this cave are the remains of prehistoric fireplace and stone tools. Reaching there is another task in itself, as it is located high up on a cliff but the route is covered with dense jungle providing picturesque view.

This is sure to be an experience in itself; so don’t forget to capture the precious moments with your camera!

9. Relax your mind and body with Ayurvedic spa

Relax your mind and body with Ayurvedic spa

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With the increasing stress in everyone’s daily life, giving your body priority is becoming necessary so come indulge yourself in the most relaxing and rejuvenating spa experience here. The relaxing spa therapies help attain balance between body and mind along with providing utmost relaxation.

This is one of the most recommended things that one must try while in Sri-Lanka.

Suggested Read: 7 Most Haunted Places In Sri Lanka To Make You Face Your Darkest Fears

10. Grab some souvenirs

Grab some souvenirs

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Sri Lanka has shops filled with vibrance and wide-ranging things to choose from. It is known for products made out of palm trees, colourful handicrafts and beautiful gems and jewels. Awaken the shopaholic in you and wander in the streets as you go shop hopping.

Get some beautiful handcrafted souvenirs for your loved ones or to remind yourself of the amazing trip. You can even buy traditional Sri Lankan outfits .

Further Read: The Definitive Guide To National Museum Of Colombo In Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is the epitome of rich cultural heritage and Kalutara is the ideal place to have the glimpse of the same. The city provides relaxing vibes of tropical land and a laid back experience to its tourists. One must visit this place for a getaway from their daily life and explore something extraordinary by engaging in the various things to do in Kalutara. The rich biodiversity and marine life is a heaven for the people love nature. Come venture and explore the rawness of this city in its totally natural state as you spend your vacation in Sri Lanka .

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Category: Sri Lanka, Things To Do

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