Places to visit in Kalpitiya
If you are looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, look no further than Kalpitiya. This charming coastal town, located in the northwestern part of Sri Lanka, is the perfect destination for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. One of the most popular activities in Kalpitiya is kite surfing. With consistent winds and shallow waters, this is the perfect place for beginners to learn this exciting sport, as well as for experienced surfers to hone their skills. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, take a leisurely boat ride through the lagoons, or simply unwind on the beach and soak up the sun. A visit to Kalpitiya would not be complete without a trip to the Dutch Fort, which dates back to the 17th century and offers a glimpse into the colonial history of Sri Lanka. If you are planning a trip to Kalpitiya, it is important to note that the town is located approximately 150km north of Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the places to visit in Kalpitiya, and discover the magic of this charming coastal town.
1. Kalpitiya Beach
Kalpitiya Beach is a stunning destination that offers visitors an unforgettable experience. The warm waters of the Indian Ocean are perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving, giving visitors a chance to explore the diverse marine life that inhabits the area. The reef surrounding the beach is home to an array of colourful fish and coral, making it a popular destination for underwater photography and exploration. Kalpitiya Beach is also famous for its consistent winds, which provide the perfect conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are plenty of opportunities to hit the waves and feel the thrill of the ocean. The beach has several kite surfing schools that offer lessons and equipment rental, making it easy for visitors to get started. In addition to water sports, Kalpitiya Beach offers plenty of other activities for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can take a boat trip to spot dolphins and whales, go fishing, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. Kalpitiya Beach is not just a place to relax and enjoy water activities, but also a great starting point to explore the many places to visit in Kalpitiya
2. Kalpitiya Lagoon
Kalpitiya Lagoon is one of the top places to visit in Kalpitiya, offering visitors a chance to experience the stunning natural beauty of the lagoon and enjoy a range of exciting water sports activities. The calm waters of Kalpitiya Lagoon make it an ideal location for a range of water sports, particularly kite surfing. The lagoon’s steady winds and gentle waves create perfect conditions for kite surfers of all levels, from beginners to advanced riders. Visitors can take kitesurfing lessons or rent equipment from one of the many kitesurfing schools and centres located around the lagoon. In addition to kite surfing, Kalpitiya Lagoon is also a popular destination for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. These activities allow visitors to explore the lagoon’s calm waters and take in the breathtaking scenery surrounding them. Aside from its water sports activities, Kalpitiya Lagoon is also a great place for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The lagoon is home to a diverse array of aquatic life, including various species of fish and birds. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lagoon to get a closer look at the local wildlife and admire the beautiful scenery from a different perspective.
3. Dutch Church Kalpitiya
If you’re interested in history and architecture, the Dutch Church Kalpitiya is a must-visit among the places to visit in Kalpitiya. Situated in the charming town of Kalpitiya, this colonial-era church offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s past and the influence of the Dutch in the region. Built-in 1706 by the Dutch, the Kalpitiya Dutch Church is one of the oldest Protestant churches in Sri Lanka. It was originally constructed to serve the Dutch soldiers stationed at the nearby fort, but later became a place of worship for the local Christian community. The church was also used by the Anglican missionaries after the British took control of the island. The church’s simple yet elegant design features a Doric style that gives it a grand and stately appearance. It is adorned with a semi-circular porch made of brick and plaster pillars that were added during a renovation in 1840. The tombstones embedded in the church’s floor, each with a distinctive inscription and epitaph that offers a fascinating look into the lives of those who were buried there, are what distinguish the building.
4. Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts in Sri Lanka. The park covers an area of approximately 1,317 square kilometres and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Wilpattu National Park is known for its dense forests, scrublands, grasslands, and wetlands, which create a unique ecosystem that is home to several species of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Visitors to Wilpattu National Park can expect to see animals such as the Sri Lankan elephant, leopard, sloth bear, spotted deer, water buffalo, and wild boar, among others. One of the unique features of the park is the presence of several natural lakes, known as “villus,” which provide a source of water for the park’s wildlife. The villus is also a popular spot for birdwatching enthusiasts, as they attract a wide variety of bird species. The park is open year-round, although the best time to visit is between February and October when the weather is dry, and the wildlife is more visible. Wilpattu National Park is one of the most popular places to visit in Kalpitiya and is a must-see destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
5. Kalpitiya Dutch Fort
The Kalpitiya Dutch Fort is a fascinating historical site that provides a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past. The fort was built by the Portuguese in the 17th century and later captured by the Dutch in 1658. The Dutch expanded and reinforced the fortifications, making it an important centre for trade and commerce in the region. The fort complex includes several structures and buildings, such as the main fort, a prison, a church, and a cemetery. The fort walls are made of coral and limestone, with watchtowers strategically placed along the perimeter. The impressive gatehouse, with its ornate Dutch design, is a striking feature of the fort. One of the most interesting features of the Kalpitiya Dutch Fort is the cemetery, which contains the graves of Dutch soldiers and officers who served in Sri Lanka during the colonial era. The cemetery is a poignant reminder of the fort’s past and the human cost of colonialism. A visit to Kalpitiya Dutch Fort is a must on the list of places to visit in Kalpitiya, as it provides a window into Sri Lanka’s colonial history with its impressive architecture, fascinating history, and stunning views.
Places to visit in Kalpitiya
