Kalutara: A City of Spices, Heritage, and Beaches
Kalutara, Sri Lanka, also referred to as Kalutota, is a principal city in the district of Kalutara, in the Western Province. It serves as the administrative capital of the district and the home of the country’s Malaysian mangosteens. Kalutara’s name came from the Kalu Ganga River, which meant “Black River” in the native language. The town also served as a spice-trading center in the 11th century, making it a temporary capital as per the South Indian Prince’s orders. Numerous hotels and inns dot the coastal areas of the town.
Best Time to Visit
Like every other Buddhist community, Kalutara also celebrates the Buddhist Festival of Vesak, usually held in May. During this holiday, the town commemorates Buddha’s Birthday for a whole week, wherein no alcohol nor fresh meat is served. May is somewhat one of the least active months for the city, so make sure to ask the Kalutara, Sri Lanka hotels for their promos and discounts.
What to Do & Area Attractions
While in Kalutara, make sure to visit the Kalutara Bodhiya, a Bodhi tree that is believed to be among the 32 saplings of the sacred fig tree of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. Go to Richmond Castle next, the historic Edwardian mansion, which served as the countryseat in the early 1900s and located just eight minutes away from the tree site. Around fifteen minutes from the castle, you can reach the Avani Kalutara Resort, Anantara Kalutara Resort, and Seagate Hotel, all of which are within a few steps from the beach and provide guests with free breakfast.