Located on a narrow peninsula between the Indian Ocean and the Puttalam Lagoon on the northwest coast, Kalpitiya is a secret paradise and a haven for marine sports. This charming coastal town offers breathtaking landscapes with golden sandy shores, mangrove forests, dunes, salt pans, vibrant coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity. An ancient trading port, later colonised by the Portuguese in the 17th century and by the Dutch subsequently, it marries European legacy with its staggering natural beauty. Here are all the reasons we are excited for you to discover Kalpitiya.
Dolphin and Whale Watching
Kalpitiya is renowned for its large pods of acrobatic dolphins and the chance to spot majestic whales in their natural habitat. Spinner dolphins form super pods here, leaping into the air, spinning and diving under in merry play. They love bow riding, and you can watch them up close in their playful nature without imposing on them. Bottlenose, Spotted, Striped, Humpback, Risso and Fraser are other dolphin species seen here. December to April is the best season for dolphin watching.
The deeper waters off the coast are a migration route for whales. Sperm whale sights are frequent, but Blue Whales and orcas are also sighted. November to December and March to April are the best months to spot whales, with December and April being peak months.
Kite Surfing
Kalpitiya is renowned for kitesurfing and has world-class conditions for the sport. Its strong, consistent winds and stunning coastal scenery make it one of the best kitesurfing destinations in Asia. Kalpitiya Lagoon, with its shallow, flat waters, is perfect for beginners, while experienced riders can enjoy wave-riding and downwind adventures in the open ocean.
Spots like Kappalady Lagoon, Puttalam Lagoon, Vella Island, Dream Spot, and Donkey Point offer incredible conditions for freestyle and long downwind sessions. Kitesurfing schools and rental shops are available, providing lessons for all skill levels. May to September and December to March offer the best conditions for kitesurfing here.
Snorkelling and Diving at Bar Reef
A short boat ride away from Kalpitiya is Sri Lanka’s most pristine and biodiversity-rich coral reef. It has the highest ecological value of any reef system around India and Sri Lanka. Colourful fish, reef sharks and sea turtles inhabit it, creating enormous aesthetic significance. The reef consists of 156 species of corals. This stunning underwater scenery attracts diving and snorkelling enthusiasts to Bar Reef.
Mangrove Tours
Kalpitiya Lagoon is rich in mangrove forests, which protect the coastline and provide a habitat for diverse wildlife. These also replenish coastal and lagoon fish. The mangroves are home to endemic and migratory birds, including sea birds and waders. There are varieties of trees and plants that make the area an ecological treasure trove. The lagoon also thrives with prawn, shrimp and crab farms. Boat rides through mangroves offer a glimpse of a unique tropical ecosystem.
The Dutch Fort
The Dutch Fort of Kalpitiya, built in the 1600s by the Dutch, played a strategic role in external trade. The Dutch captured Kalpitiya from the Portuguese, who had established a garrison at the port. The fort, built from coral and limestone, has four bastions, a pediment and a belfry. It used to have underground tunnels that led to the sea and the Dutch Reformed Church. In 1795, the British took over the fort and occupied it till 1895.
Dutch Reformed Church
Built by the Dutch in 1706, it is one of the oldest protestant churches on the island. Its simple architecture is quintessentially Dutch. Remember to read the epitaphs and inscriptions of the tombstones of the old graveyard, which offers a glimpse into the colonial past of Ceylon. It still has the original belfry. In the 1800s, a semi-circular porch with brick and plaster pillars with Corinthian capitals was added, with three spires on its front gable.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
The serene, shallow waters of Kalpitiya Lagoon are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. You can rent a kayak, equipment and PFD from nearby providers. It is a great way to experience the lagoon and embark on a close-to-nature sightseeing adventure.
Unwind on the Beaches
Alankuda, Kudawa, and Thalawila beaches are known for their beauty. Alankuda has numerous beach resorts and watersport opportunities. Beaches on the islands of Baththalangunduwa and Uchchamunai also stun with picturesque views and pristine sands. Baththalangunduwa is a favourite camping spot for those who love to camp on the beach.
Wilpattu National Park
Sri Lanka’s largest national park, Wilpattu, is 30km north of Puttalam. It comprises over 100 natural lakes or Willus and extends over 500 sq miles. With its open scrublands, wetlands and dense jungle, a cornucopia of animal sightings awaits to treat you. After Yala, Wilpattu offers the best leopard sightings. Elephants, sloth bears, water buffalos, deer, langurs, crocodiles, peacocks and innumerable bird species inhabit the park.
Wilpattu has both ecological and historical significance. Kudrimalai Point (Thambapanni) goes as far back as 543 BC, when Prince Vijaya landed on the island, starting a chain of events that gave rise to the Sinhala nation. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit May to September and early October. Wilpattu is less busy than Yala, making it ideal for leisurely and more exploratory safaris.
Visiting the Kalpitiya Peninsula with Blue Lanka Tours
Kalpitiya offers beach bliss, vibrant marine biodiversity and varied coastal beauty packed in a serene bundle. Tucked away quietly on a less busy coast, you can enjoy exhilarating activity and tranquil solitude. A hotspot for whale and dolphin watching and scuba diving in the reefs with sea turtles, Kalpitiya offers what the Deep South is famous for without the crowds.
Blue Lanka Tours is passionate about showcasing the hidden gems of Sri Lanka that transform your holiday experience. With a portfolio of handpicked accommodations, a fleet of luxury vehicles and 24/7 customer care, you can be assured of hassle-free comfort when travelling with us. We design travel to bring you authentic encounters, meaningful interactions and unique experiences. Contact our destination management team today to personalise your responsibly-crafted holiday in Sri Lanka.