Matara, located on the southern tip of Sri Lanka, is an ancient city filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. From stunning beaches to ancient ruins, Matara is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to explore the island’s history and culture. Here are the top 20 places to see in Matara, Sri Lanka.
1. Star Fort: Built by the Dutch in 1765, the Star Fort is one of the best-preserved colonial-era fortifications in Sri Lanka. The fort is surrounded by a moat and is home to the Dutch Reformed Church, one of the oldest churches in the country.
2. Matara Beach: Matara Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a great place to relax and take in the views of the Indian Ocean.
3. Matara Clock Tower: The Matara Clock Tower is a 19th-century clock tower located in the center of the city. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to take photos and admire the architecture.
4. Polhena Beach: Polhena Beach is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. It’s also known for its natural coral reefs and sea turtles.
5. Dutch Reformed Church: The Dutch Reformed Church is one of the oldest churches in Matara. It was built in 1744 and is a popular spot for tourists to visit.
6. Weherahena Temple: Weherahena Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Matara. It’s known for its intricate carvings and colorful paintings.
7. Matara Fort: Matara Fort was built by the Portuguese in 1640 and is one of the best-preserved forts in Sri Lanka. It’s a great place to explore the history of the region.
8. Nilwala River: The Nilwala River is a popular spot for fishing and boating. It’s also a great place to spot wildlife such as crocodiles and water buffalo.
9. Mirissa Beach: Mirissa Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand and clear waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
10. Galle Lighthouse: The Galle Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Sri Lanka. It’s a great spot to take in the views of the Indian Ocean.
11. Galle Fort: Galle Fort was built by the Portuguese in 1588 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a great place to explore the history of the region.
12. Wewurukannala Vihara: Wewurukannala Vihara is a Buddhist temple located in Matara. It’s known for its giant Buddha statue and colorful paintings.
13. Matara Town Hall: The Matara Town Hall is a 19th-century building located in the center of the city. It’s a great spot to take photos and admire the architecture.
14. Polhena Sea Turtle Conservation Project: The Polhena Sea Turtle Conservation Project is a great place to learn about the importance of sea turtle conservation.
15. Tangalle Beach: Tangalle Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
16. Matara Museum: The Matara Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the region. It’s also home to a collection of ancient artifacts.
17. Weligama Beach: Weligama Beach is a stunning stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
18. Matara Railway Station: The Matara Railway Station is a 19th-century building located in the center of the city. It’s a great spot to take photos and admire the architecture.
19. Weligama Bay: Weligama Bay is a popular spot for fishing and boating. It’s also a great place to spot wildlife such as dolphins and sea turtles.
20. Dondra Lighthouse: The Dondra Lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in Sri Lanka. It’s a great spot to take in the views of the Indian Ocean.