Nestled along Sri Lanka’s sun-kissed southwestern coast, Kalutara is a captivating destination where lush landscapes meet rich cultural heritage. For those wandering through its serene riverside gardens, basking on golden beaches, or immersing themselves in the local culture, Kalutara promises an adventure like no other including the chance to visit sites with distinctive designs.
Richmond Castle
Richmond Castle, a grand mansion built in the early part of the 1900s, was once the residence of regional governor Padikara Muhandiram. Set in the picturesque village of Thekkawatta, around 3 km from Kalutara’s town centre, it is easily accessible from major hotels like Anantara Kalutara Resort. On your visit, you can take it the designs of this Edwardian-style mansion which has some interesting features like having 99 doors!
The Brief Garden
Tucked away from Sri Lanka’s famed south coast and close to Kalutara, the Brief Garden is a hidden gem where time seems to stand still. This enchanting retreat, overflowing with lush greenery and artistic charm, was the lifelong passion of landscape architect Bevis Bawa, the brother of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa.
The Lunuganga Estate
The Lunuganga Estate in Bentota offers a glimpse into Geoffrey Bawa’s creative vision, where architecture and nature blend seamlessly. Known for his globally acclaimed designs, Bawa transformed the estate into a living canvas, featuring meticulously curated gardens that go beyond the ordinary, while the structures here offer insights into his creative brilliance. Spending time at this estate, which is easily accessible from Kalutara, is one of the top things to do in Sri Lanka for nature lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.
The Beruwala Lighthouse
From Kalutara, you can easily head to the Beruwala Lighthouse, situated on the rugged Barberyn Island. Built during the British colonial era, this iconic structure has been guiding ships for over 120 years. Fully functional, the lighthouse operates from sunset to sunrise, serving as both a navigational aid and a vital traffic signal to warn ships of the region’s treacherous seas.
