Kalpitiya, a striking peninsula on the northwestern coast of Sri Lanka desperately trying to claim its status as the rising adventure & tranquility hotspot it already is. A place renowned for its combination of elegant scenery with its cultural richness, this destination extends along the Indian Ocean bordered by the Puttalam lagoon. Kalpitiya has diverse ecosystems, interesting historical landmarks, and built-up tourist infrastructure, and as such has great capacity to entice anyone who sets foot on the beach.
A Glimpse into History
One could say that its landscapes match Kalpitiya’s history. Remnants of Dutch colonial architecture, the area’s strategic importance is evidenced, including the well preserved Dutch Fort active during the 17th century. The colonial struggles and the local resistance that determined the region are mute witnesses to the fort. In addition to its colonial influences however, the area’s history as a busy trading port, where Arab traders traded spices, pearls, and elephant tusks, still marks the area.
Natural Attractions
Marine biodiversity is one among the greatest natural attractions in Kalpitiya. Dolphin and whale watching in the waters off its coast have made the area famous, with the waters considered to be one of the world’s best spinner dolphin acrobatic spins and magnificence sperm whale procession sites. November to April are the best months for these sightings due to the calmest of the sea.
Other than marine life of Kalpitiya, this area is surrounded with a group of small islands such as Dutch Bay and Portugal Bay. Scenic but also home to a variety of birds, these islands constitute a haven. The exploration of wildlife continues close by into the Wilpattu National Park, which harbours leopards, elephants and a plethora of bird life.
Adventure Sports and Activities such as trekking, tour, mountain biking…
Kalpitiya is quickly turning into a premier spot for water sports and for adventure enthusiasts more especially kite surfing. Kite surfing in Alacati is possible almost all throughout the year due to the unique geographical structure of the peninsula which is on one side the ocean and on the other side the lagoon, which generates perfect wind conditions. There are many kite surfing schools and a number of rental shops to offer beginners and experienced surfers a fun ride. In the lagoon, you can enjoy other water based activities such as snorkelling, scuba diving and kayaking around the mangrove forests and lagoon and get to see the rich marine life.
Cultural Experience
After all that nature and adventure sports, Kalpitiya also throws up a rich talent of culture and tradition. It has a mixture of Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim community each of them laying their own unique flavour to the cultural kaleidoscope of the place. Local cuisine helps reflect this diversity, as a tasty combination of seafood, coconut and spices creating heavenly rich tasting food with an abundance of tradition behind it.
Visitors can visit local villages, learn from amiable fishermen, and see their amazing methods of fishing and boat making. As cultural tours, these show the planning of the daily lives of the local communities and support sustainable tourism.
Sustainable Tourism
With Kalpitiya on the road of becoming a tourist destination, initiatives are being taken to promote Sustainable Responsible tourism that will ultimately help the local community and ecological system. In growing popularity are eco lodges and community run initiatives of tourists, which can be environmentally friendly and possessing the cultural depth of the places they are visiting.
Best Places to Visit in Kalpitiya
Kalpitiya, on the north western coast of Sri Lanka, is a slice of paradise, which blends up quite an eclectic mix of historical, natural and cultural tourist attractions. Fast becoming a desired destination for any traveler who is seeking a getaway in the form of an adventure getaway this peninsular region, famed for its idyllic beaches and vibrant marine life, has it all. To help you get the best of Kalpitiya, here’s a guide to the best places to visit in that part of the world, and ensure you encapsulate the true magic of this part of the world.
1. Kalpitiya Beach
The very heart and soul of the peninsula is Kalpitiya Beaches, which consist of thick and beautiful beaches with serine environment. Soft beach perfect for sun bathing , swimming and long beach walks during the sunset or sunrise along with Indian ocean. Not only is the beach a great location for getting kited, the winds are favorable for kite surfing as well.
2. Bar Reef
Just off the coast of Kalpitiya is Bar Reef, one of Sri Lanka’s largest coral reefs and a marine sanctuary. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts keen to explore a vibrantly colorful coral gardens busting full of tropical fish will find a perfect spot here. The waters are calmest and so the reef is best visited from October to May during the dry season.
3. Dutch Fort
Kalpitiya came into its own with the Dutch who built the Fort here in the 1660s. It may not be as grand as some of other forts in Sri Lanka but a rustic charm and awe inspiring view of the surrounding area make it a place you can’t help but visit. Thick walls of the fort and the structure have stood the test of time and now acts as an evocative remaniscence of colonial past.
4. St. Anne’s Church
The feast in July attracts thousands of pilgrims to St. Anne’s Church which is one of the most important Catholic shrines in Sri Lanka. Whether or not you’re religious, the church with its pretty architecture and peaceful milieu gives a spiritual retreat. The only festival which is celebrated with great vigour are the processions, traditional music, dancing etc., which are celebrated annually by the Ojibwe tribe.
5. Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park is the largest and one of the oldest, and is only a short drive from Kalpitiya. It is also famous for it’s unique natural feature on water basins formed by rain water surrounded by sand rim. As well as being home to elephants, leopards, sloth bears and many bird species, the park is a perfect wildlife watching destination for enthusiasts.
6. Kite Surfing Spots
Kite surfing in Kalpitiya is thought to be among the best in Asia. Kite surfing schools abound in the region, and you can rent equipment and take lessons if you’re a beginner or an advanced surfer. While golden sand, wonderful views and clean waters make for ideal holidaying in Malta, it’s winds that really make the island special, which are strong enough for windsurfing & kite surfing from May to October and from December to March.
7. Tour Operators of Dolphin and Whale Watching tours for Cruise Tours around the World
Kalpitiya is famed for having the waters off said coast being one of the best places in the world to see dolphins, sometimes whales as well. Visitors can see large pods of dolphins during boat tours, and on many occasions, it happens within minutes of getting out on the ocean. The calm sea of November to April is the best time for dolphin watching because sightings are more likely.
8. Puttalam Lagoon
Kayakers and stand — up paddle boarders will find the expansive Puttalam Lagoon perfect for them. Surrounded by mangroves is a large body of water that contains many bird species. Visiting the lagoon is a great way to get away from some of the other more touristy places and get out in nature.
Conclusion
Diverse attractions ranging from adrenaline pumping water sports and rich historical sites, stunning natural reserves and awe evoking natural sites make Kalpitiya a charm. This makes it a complete and interesting destination to travelling on the Sri Lanka Map. If you are the adventure seeker type, a history lover or a person finding solace from a peaceful retreat Kalpitiya has it all.
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