A hollow stupa whose interior is accessible: Kalutara Bodhiya reveals more than its outer form alone. It is considered one of the 32 saplings of the Sri Maha Bodhi planted during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa in the 2nd century BC. Here, architectural form and religious tradition stand side by side. Kalutara Bodhiya can be reached by bus on the Colombo–Kalutara or Colombo–Galle routes; get off in Kalutara.
Culture and history on different scales
At Kande Viharaya, the Samadhi Buddha statue stands 48.8 m (160 ft) tall. Pahiyangala Cave, also known as Fa Hien Cave, is an archaeologically significant site in Kalutara District. Fossilised human skeletal remains dating to the late Pleistocene were discovered there; research at Pahiyangala has also yielded insights into microlithic technology. Richmond Castle provides another point of reference in time: it was built in Kalutara around the turn of the 20th century and stands on a 42-acre estate beside Kalutara-Palatota Road. The late Pleistocene cave finds and the construction of the castle around the turn of the 20th century thus represent widely separated historical periods.
Forest reserves, river and waterfalls
Yagirala Rainforest Reserve covers more than 2,360 hectares. It is home to 36 mammal species, including four endemic species; the reserve also contains plants from 62 families. The details about mammals and plant families offer complementary perspectives on the reserve’s natural environment. Ruhunukanda Forest Reserve is home to 52 different bird species. The Maguru River flows through the forest of the Ruhunu Hills within the reserve. The two reserves have different highlights: Yagirala for its mammals and plant families, and Ruhunukanda for its bird species and the Maguru River in the forest of the Ruhunu Hills.
Makeli Ella in Kalutara District is 10 m high. The route to Thudugala Ella waterfall begins at Katukurunda Junction on Galle Road; the waterfall is in the village of Thudugala in Dodangoda, also in Kalutara District. Thotas Ella is a scenic waterfall in Kalutara District where visitors can take part in water-based activities. The three places can be distinguished by different features: height, starting point of the route and activities at the waterfall.
Coast and village life
Panadura is known for its long beach and is surrounded by the Indian Ocean, Bolgoda Lake and the Bolgoda River. This gives the district a coastal dimension alongside its forest and cultural sites. If you are choosing between coastal and forest experiences, Panadura represents the beach and surrounding waters, while Yagirala and Ruhunukanda represent the forest reserves.
Kiniyawala village offers a different kind of experience from natural and cultural sites. Visitors can experience traditional village life, take part in making Kithul foods and stay overnight in the village. This combination of participation and accommodation puts village life at the centre and sets the experience apart from viewing a landscape or building. If you plan to take part, check in advance whether participation and village stays are offered at the time of your visit.
Discover more destinations: Bentota, Beruwala, Kalutara, Wadduwa, Panadura, Aluthgama, Matugama, Neboda, Pelawatta.
View the broader travel overview: Western Province.
