Puttalam is a city on the west coast of Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and rich culture. It's a great destination for those looking for a relaxing vacation, as well as those looking for something a little more adventurous. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Puttalam:
1. Visit the Puttalam Lagoon – The Puttalam Lagoon is a stunning natural wonder that is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and turtles. There are several boat trips available that will take you around the lagoon, allowing you to take in the beautiful scenery and spot some of the wildlife.
2. Explore the Puttalam Fort – The Puttalam Fort is a historic landmark that dates back to the 16th century. It was once used as a prison and has been restored to its former glory, with visitors able to explore the fort and learn more about its history.
3. Visit the Puttalam Beach – The Puttalam Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area, with its white sand and crystal clear waters. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the sun, as well as take part in some of the water sports on offer, such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing.
4. Take a Boat Trip to the Kala Oya River – The Kala Oya River is a beautiful river that runs through Puttalam. Boat trips are available that will take you up the river, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery and spot some of the wildlife that lives in and around the river.
5. Visit the Kala Oya National Park – The Kala Oya National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and monkeys. There are several walking trails that you can take to explore the park and spot some of the wildlife.
6. Visit the Puttalam Lighthouse – The Puttalam Lighthouse is a historic landmark that has been in operation since 1845. It's a great place to visit to learn more about the history of the area, as well as take in the stunning views from the top of the lighthouse.
7. Visit the Puttalam Fish Market – The Puttalam Fish Market is a great place to visit if you're looking for fresh seafood. You can sample some of the local delicacies, as well as buy some of the fresh fish to take home with you.
8. Take a Boat Trip to the Anawilundawa Wetlands – The Anawilundawa Wetlands is a protected area that is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Boat trips are available that will take you around the wetlands, allowing you to take in the stunning scenery and spot some of the wildlife.
9. Visit the Puttalam Salt Pans – The Puttalam Salt Pans are an interesting sight, with the salt being harvested by hand from the pans. You can take a tour of the salt pans to learn more about the process and see the pans in action.
10. Visit the Puttalam War Memorial – The Puttalam War Memorial is a memorial to those who fought in World War II. It's a great place to visit to learn more about the history of the area and pay your respects to those who fought for their country.
Puttalam is a great destination for those looking for a relaxing vacation, as well as those looking for something a little more adventurous. Whether you're looking to take in the stunning scenery, explore the history of the area, or sample some of the local delicacies, Puttalam has something for everyone.