Kalutara district

Kalutara district is a beautiful district in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. It is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant communities. This district offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, beaches and modern attractions, making it a fascinating place to explore. It is known as කළුතර දිස්ත්රික්කය (kaḷutara distrikkaya) in Sinhala and களுத்துறை மாவட்டம் (Kaḷuttuṟai Māvaṭṭam) in Tamil.

History

The history of Kalutara dates back to ancient times. It was once a significant trading post in the region, and its strategic location at the mouth of the Kalu River made it an important point for both local and international traders. The district has seen many rulers, from ancient Sinhalese kings to Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonials, each leaving their mark on its culture and architecture.

Kalutara was particularly famous for its spice trade during the colonial period, especially cinnamon. The district was also known for the Kalutara Bodhi, a sacred fig tree that is believed to be one of the first offshoots of the original tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.