A short journey south of Sri Lanka’s capital, Colombo, Kalutara is a fascinating place known for its beaches, historical and cultural treasures, and convenient transportation links. Sitting at the mouth of the Kalu Ganga (Black River), Kalutara has a long history, having served at one point as an important spot in the spice and mangosteen trade market. Now a peaceful and popular tourist spot, Kalutara offers a wealth of things to do, from touring the early-21st-century Richmond Castle to visiting the sacred Kalutara Bodhiya tree and Kalutara Vihara temple.
Kalutara has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct wet seasons: the first in April and May and the second in October and November. Meanwhile, January–March and June–August are the driest months of the year. The town is both at its busiest and most vibrant during the months of January, July, and August. However, if you prefer to avoid peak season—and still enjoy decent weather—February, March, and June can be good times to visit, too.
Although Kalutara is on the main Southern Coastal Railway line—with not one but two stations—tuk-tuks and taxis tend to be the preferred way of getting around the city. Travelers can reach most of the main sites around the city—including Kalutara Vihara, Kalutara Bodhiya, Richmond Castle, and Calido Beach—by tuk-tuk, taxi, or guided tour. Depending on where you’re staying, you may also be able to walk or rent a bicycle to some of the more local attractions.
In addition to attractions within the city itself, visitors to Kalutara should consider a day trip to Fa Hien Cave, one of Sri Lanka's most fascinating prehistoric sites. About an hour inland from Kalutara, Fa Hien Cave is beautiful, with lush jungle, mountainous views, and streams where you can swim. Archeologists exploring the cave have found prehistoric skeletal remains, ancient shark teeth, and shell necklaces.
