You might remember from the first chapter of this series we arrived at wadduwa from Colombo. From here onwards, our route becomes a village face. Except Kaluthara, all the other cities were built around the tourism industry, also around all these cities there is a tragic memory one can hardly forget. On December 26, 2004, a giant tsunami wave hit the coast and destroyed everything it met with. Many people lost their lives, even those who survived lost either their property or family, and for some both. However, now a visitor can witness how the courage and the motivation they earned through the tragedy have brought these city dwellers back to their feet.
When you move passing Wadduwa, the first destination is historical Kaluthara city. It is said that Kaluthara was previously a port of river Kalu. In Sinhala, it was known as Kaluthota, and by usage, it has become Kaluthara. The majestic pagoda and the Bo tree near the river Kalu automatically add a historical touch to the city. Almost every vehicle moving along the road stops at the Bo tree. The railway bridge, which passes parallel to the main bridge spanning more than 40m, enhances the tourist attraction. Star hotels like, Tangerin, Ramada, Hibiscus, Royal Palm Beach and also some inexpensive hotels along the coast solves the problem of accommodation in Kaluthara.
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| Richmond Castle, Kaluthara |
Have you visited Richmond castle? You meet this glorious house, when you take a left turn from Kaluthara. This is a house with history of more than 100 years and has a marvelous architecture. The proud owner of this house is Mudliyar Pandikaara mudali Nanayakkara Rajawasala appuhamilage Don Arthur de Silva Wijesinghe Siriwardena. Natural Air conditioning systems, stunning glass windows enhances the marvel of this house. Now this house belongs to the public trustee.
When you pass Kaluthara, you see the first coast, which runs along the main road at Payagala. The beauty of this beach is enhanced by the coconut cult beside the beach. Have you ever looked at the top of the coconut tree? The coconut toddy distilling areas start here. However, do not rush to drink toddy. I will tell you where you can find the best toddy in the area.
Passing Payagala and Maggona next destination is Aluthgama. Aluthgama kande viharaya, a sacred temple, is always filled with devotees. Before you enter aluth gama city there is a beautiful hidden beach. Have you heard about Kaluwamodara beach? As soon as you pass the Bentara beach you’re your right is the Benthara National tourist zone.
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| Water Sports at Bentota |
Benthota is the second tourist paradise on this route. Many star class hotels, tourist Bungalows, and cheap hotels are there to fulfill the accommodation needs of the tourists. Basking under the sun, spas, gymnasiums, gem, Batik, masks shops are some of the facilities that tourists can enjoy in this zone. This zone is very popular for water sports such as Jet skiing, donut boat, banana boat rides, high speed boat rides as well as fishing in the deep sea.
When you are passing Bentara, you come across Benthota restaurant in the seaside. A restaurant governed by the Ceylon Hotel Cooperation, this provides you with delicious and clean meals. If you are going for a day trip this is the best place to have breakfast.
Next, you enter the city Induruwa, a hard hit area of tsunami and also a village with a beautiful beach. One of the most popular star class hotels in Sri Lanka, Induruwa beach hotel is situated here. Here you can see toddy barrels along the sides of the main road. Remember I told you not to rush at Payagala. Now it is the right place. If you are passing this place between six to ten in the morning do not forget to taste a glass of toddy with salt.
Our next destination is Kosgoda. Most popular here is the Sea Turtle Conservation center. For those who are interested on turtles, this is the ideal place to be. You get the opportunity to see turtle eggs, infant turtles, and also different turtle species. If you are lucky enough you can join to find turtle babies. Around 200m from left from the conservation center is the Sanchi pickle shop. You can taste jaadi, a food made from fish found only in the southern Sri lanka, at this place.
Now we will come to Ahungalla. One of the Five star class hotels in Sri Lanka, Heritance ahungalla is situated here. Sometimes ago there was another zoo in Ahungalla. Now the hotel is built in that land.
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| Mangrooves Safari at Madu River |
Passing Ahungalla, next you enter Balapitiya. Here you have the opportunity to go on a boat ride at the beautiful River Madhu. Madhu River being one of the best places to see Kadolana Mangroves, you can visit Kothdoowa Raja maha viharaya and cinnamon manufacturing at the Cinnamon island as a part of the tour. If you take all the needful, you can also camp at one of the islands at the river.
It is enough for today, right? A little longer post. Then let us meet again from our third chapter. Buckle up to leave Balapitiya and go up to Galle. As usually I must tell you, if you want to get these tours arranged or for more details call on the following numbers or email.
Contact Numbers : +94714449162
+94112178209
e- mail address : abeetha@explorelankainternational.com
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