The city of Matara, situated along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, is filled with all the right ingredients of a city riveting not only to locals, but to visitors as well. Not only does this have stunning beaches and captivating colonial architecture, it is also the launching point for discovering the further cultural and natural riches of the island’s southern region. In this article, Matara as a destination has its multifarious attractions and experiences explained.
The Rich History of Matara
The history of Matara is related closely to the colonial history of Sri Lanka. During Dutch colonial period it was an important hub and the city’s architecture has been well preserved. Although its counterpart in Galle and Colombo are far larger, the small Dutch fort erected at Batticaloa is a quaint window on the fortified settlements of that time. Just to be visited, there is the Dutch Reformed Church, which was built back in 1706, as it also is a testimony of the architectural and cultural feature Europeans brought to the region.
Cultural Heritage
Matara itself, was one a center of vibrant Sri Lankan culture, and its colonial legacy continued long beyond its period of British dominance. The place is famous for its active festivals like Navam Perahera held annually in February consisting of lively parades of dancing and very beautifully decorated elephants. An ancient sacred fig tree, a focus of local Buddhist practice, is the Matara Bodhiya (an offshoot of the sacred Bodhi tree under whose shade Buddha became enlightened).
Natural Attractions
Natural beauty of Matara is undeniable and its beaches are fairly less crowded compared with those more famous ones in Sri Lanka. You can’t go wrong with Polhena Beach which has a protective coral reef that makes these calm, clear waters one of the most popular snorkeling and swimming beaches. A short drive from the city centre is Mirissa Beach if you’re after a secluded experience and golden sands, or are keen for whale and dolphin watching tours (November – April).
Surfing and Water Sports
Matara and the adjacent area is the paradise for those who are always enthused for adventure, as it offers plethora of water sports. Weligama Bay, near Matara, boats a well known surfing spot with ideal surfing conditions for the beginner and the experienced surfer alike. Along the beach there are dozens of surf schools, which provide lessons and board rentals. Apart from surfing, windsurfing, kite surfing and sailing are all options for visitors any time of the year, though if possible try to come during the windy months in May to September or December to March.
Architectural Marvels
The Star Fort is one of the architectural jewels in Matara. This is a fort built by the Dutch in 1765 for added defense purposes. But recently restored, a museum inside the fort tells of the history of colonial Matara and the fort’s strategic advantage to the Dutch.
Culinary Delights
What’s a visit to Matara without having the local cuisine? As a coastal city, seafood is freshly available and plentifull. Fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry), kottu (chopped flatbread with vegetables or meat) offer a taste of local culinary heritage, are traditional and not just tasty. But bountiful as its flavors may be, Calicut’s opportunities to savor them are also cloaked with luxury — at numerous beachside eateries and high-end restaurants, overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Exploring the Surroundings
There are excursions to be made to the surrounding areas of which Matara also serves as the starting point. Day trips are possible while still enjoying one of the few remaining virgin forests in the world – the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With many endemic species of flora and fauna this biodiversity hotspot also provides many trekking experiences through dense rainforest.
Accommodations
Matara has a few luxurious seaside resorts as well as many charming accommodation options, from guesthouses to the more basic. Several are positioned directly along the coast, benefiting with a direct seaview as well as access to the beach.
Nearby Attractions
1. Mirissa
Mirissa is one of the most popular spots for whale and dolphin watching in Sri Lanka and for those looking to spend a few days lounging on the sand, it is just about 20 minutes north of Matara. It is famous for its sunsets and its lenient atmosphere on the beach. Moreover, Mirissa’s nightlife is very much alive; the bars and restaurants along the beach serve bites of the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted and playing live music.
2. Dondra Head
Dondra Head is the southernmost point of Sri Lanka and a short drive from Matara. It has the Dondra Head Lighthouse, one of the highest in South East Asia and vista to the Indian Ocean. The space around the lighthouse is calm and is an excellent spot for those wanting to steer clear of the busier beaches.
3. Weligama
Weligama is infamous for the stilt fishermen and is a place a photographer must visit and for that matter the culture enthusiast as well. Surfers too flock to this coastal town and it’s hot spot for surf schools and rental shops whose clientele ranges from novice and experienced surfers. The sandy bottom of the bay and all the constant waves of the bay make it perfect for learning how to surf.
4. Polhena Beach
Polhena Beach is a known location for its clear turquoise waters as such with natural swimming spaces preserved with coral reefs it is an excellent location to snorkel and swim in peace. But it’s quieter than its snazzier counterparts, providing a nice place if you want a quiet time in the sun.
5. Galle
Historic city of Galle, well known for it splendid Dutch fort (Unesco World heritage site), is a 40 minute drive from Matara. The natural scenery of the coast contrasts with the diarmant pleases streets lined with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. It’s actually quite easy to spend a day, or even two or three, exploring the ramparts and the old town.
6. Yala National Park
Also a bit further afield is Yala National Park, which borders Matara and has many of the best places for wildlife spotting in Sri Lanka. Along with elephant, crocodiles and various birds, it is best known for having an extremely high leopard density. Nature lovers are certain to enjoy a day trip or overnight stay in or near the park.
7. Sinharaja Forest Reserve
About a two hour drive from Matara, are the Sinharaja Forest Reserve (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) for the adventurous. A biodiversity hotspot, here are several endemic species, and there are great hiking and bird watching opportunities in unspoiled rainforest.
8. Tangalle
South down from Matara, Tangalle features wide and quiet beaches and lovely bays. The vibe is more laid back than some other beach towns (while it is less commercialized). Tangalle also makes a good base from which to visit nearby attractions — the Rekawa Turtle Sanctuary being one of them — where you can see sea turtles nesting on the beach.
These destinations are the perfect additions to your itinerary for when visiting Matara, each offering a glimpse into the varied landscapes and culture of Sri Lanka’s south, that you shouldn’t miss. The area around Matara is rich and varied whatever your interests – wildlife, history or just a place to relax by the sea.
Conclusion
However, Matara also provides a unique blend of both the historic and the cultural, together with a beautiful natural landscape and modern conveniences. Matara has everything it takes for a complete experience whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, cultural enthusiast, or just looking for some laid back time beside the seaside. Matara boasts friendly locals, a rich heritage and magnificent landscapes; and there’s much promise to have fond memories of the adventures and Serenity that it offers.
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