How to Plan a Perfect Weekend in Kalutara for Couples?

Kalutara, on Sri Lanka’s western coastline, is one of the most laid-back beach towns in the Indian Ocean island nation. Golden beaches, rich history, and lush greenery define the charming city, making for a delightful seaside escape for everyone. No matter if you are a couple seeking relaxation, adventure, or a cultural retreat, Kalutara offers a blend of experiences that promise to leave you rejuvenated and inspired. Here’s your guide for a perfect couple’s weekend in beautiful Kalutara.

Day 1: Arriving at Kalutara

Your weekend starts by arriving at Kalutara, probably from Colombo, the economic capital and home to the country’s only international airport, which is a one-and-a-half-hour drive to reach the beach town. Upon arrival, check into one of the finest hotels in Kalutara the likes of Turyaa Kalutara. A trip to Kalutara means that relaxation is a quintessential element of your holiday experience. So, let yourself lose and take your time to immerse in the ambience, probably by the beach or pool, with a refreshing drink in your hand.

Afternoon: Unwinding at Kalutara Beach

What is a trip to a beach town without some blissful beach bumming? So, it goes without saying that your Kalutara getaway would hardly be complete without a dose of sun, sand and sea. Make your way to the city’s main stretch of beach, the eponymous Kalutara Beach, and treat yourself to some much-needed beach time. Frolic on the pristine sand, unwind under swaying palms and bask in the tropical sun until the tranquil sunset bids farewell for a day well spent.

Evening: Visit Kalutara Bodhiya

Holidays in beach towns don’t always have to be about turquoise waters and sandy shores, and Kalutara, with so much more to offer that’s more than just endless beach, is no different. Make your way to Kalutara Bodhiya, the striking Buddhist temple set immediately south of the Kalutara Bridge. For the Buddhist population in Sri Lanka, it is one of the most important religious sites and places of worship in the country. For tourists vacationing in the vicinity, however, it is the large white stupa and the temple’s location on the banks of the serene Kalu Ganga River that make the sacred site appealing to them.

Day 2: Tour Richmond Castle

After an early breakfast, set out on a drive slightly outside Kalutara for a tour of the locally popular Richmond Castle. Dating back to the early 1900s, the magnificent Edwardian mansion was once the home of the local mudaliyar, Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena. It was the mudaliyar’s desire to make the mansion stand out from the rest of the structures in the vicinity; hence, an Edwardian design was adopted.

Afternoon: Sample Local Cuisine

Fun, exciting and fascinating things to do in Kalutara may be plentiful, but your holiday in the charming city wouldn’t be complete without getting a taste of the island nation’s authentic local cuisine. Steer clear of the gourmet buffet at your ritzy resort and indulge yourself in an assortment of traditional Sri Lankan dishes. From everyday Sri Lankan rice and curry to flavoursome lamprais and satisfying hoppers, you are absolutely spoiled for choice.

Evening: Ultimate Relaxation

Treat you and yours to a relaxing couples massage and let your body, mind and soul wallow in rejuvenation. Thanks to Kalutara’s host of luxury hotels and resorts with world-class spa and wellness facilities, immersive relaxation is something that many couples to the beach town look forward to.

As the sun goes down and the darkness descends upon the beautiful city, enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner under the stars, as you bid farewell to a well-spent beachside getaway.