With its rich history and intriguing cultural traditions, Sri Lanka has plenty to offer besides its stunning natural beauty and wildlife. Among its many cultural capitals and regions is Kalutara, a district filled with plenty of attractions that speak to several aspects of the island’s history. From ancient cave temples to remnants of Sri Lanka’s colonial past, here are some of the key cultural attractions in Kalutara that are worth exploring.
Richmond Castle
This historic Edwardian mansion was built in the 1900s as the seat of the Mudaliyar Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena. It is a two-story building that is admired for its architectural style and design. Features 16 rooms, 34 windows and 99 doors, the building is made up of an assortment of imported materials and elements. These include Italian floor tiles, Scottish glass decor, English bathroom fittings and more. Located a half-hour drive away from The Blue Water Hotel and Spa, this long-ago mansion is definitely worth a visit for history lovers.
Fa Hien Caves
This is an important historical site named after a Chinese monk who is believed to have lived within the cave during the 5th century AD. The caves entered the spotlight when several fossilised human skeletal remains were discovered at the site, belonging to one of Asia’s oldest pre-historic human settlements. Today, visitors entering the cave can witness the pit, deep inside the cave where the remains were unearthed, as well as a large statue of a reclining Buddha.
Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple
Located towards the northern region of Kalutara, is an important place of worship for Buddhists. Built in the 1870s, the temple has several intricate features and adornments that add to its visual appeal including detailed murals, well-preserved Buddha statues, and a collection of antique items. The temple also features several dagaba stupas, the sacred Bo Tree, a preaching hall and a bell tower. At the centre of the temple stands the Dharma Salava, an important relic chamber that is surrounded by smaller hall rooms and a large drawing room.
Kalutara Bodhiya
This is one of the most sacred sights in the country for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. It refers to the Bo tree that grows on the site, which is believed to be one of the saplings from the Sri Maha Bodhiya, the tree under which the Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. The temple complex near the tree features several intricate sculptures and murals that further add to the tranquillity and sacredness of the site. This also makes it a popular cultural site for tourists, particularly those staying at hotels near Wadduwa, Sri Lanka.
Ketchcimalai Mosque
This ancient mosque is located on a rocky headland that overlooks the Beruwala fishing port, a spot believed to be where the Arabs first arrived in Sri Lanka. It is one of the oldest mosques in the country and is known for its detailed Arab-style architecture that features a unique domed minaret with a crescent and a star, an arched exterior and curving gables in the Dutch style. The mosque becomes an important site during Eid, with many pilgrims visiting to pray and celebrate Eid festivities.