While everybody flocks to these well-known tourist destinations like Mirissa and Ahangama, there’s one coastal gem that’s been hiding in plain sight in the background. That is none other than Matara. 

Even though Matara isn’t bursting at the seams like some other beach towns in the area, that is not because it offers anything less. One could even say that Matara offers so much just like any other beach town. The difference here is that Matara still keeps it real, raw and authentic. 

With a relatively laidback atmosphere, this peaceful city of Matara is one of the best destinations to experience Sri Lanka without the crowds. From untouched beaches to centuries old-forts and stories from Sri Lanka’s colonial past, and a rich culture, Matara provides a refreshing experience for all kinds of travellers. 

In other words, Matara offers front-row seats to the real Sri Lanka and everyday Sri Lankan life – not just the one curated for tourists. 

Whether you are a solo traveller craving for some stillness, a family seeking calm away from the tourist chaos, a history geek, a culture enthusiast or just a beach lover who wants to just stretch out and relax, then Matara is for you! 

Things To Do in Matara

As we mentioned above, Matara is a place that still feels undiscovered. It’s a place where every street corner has a story to tell. It’s where culture, history and coastal beauty come together to offer a remarkable experience to anyone visiting. 

So, here are some places you can visit and explore in Matara.

Talalla Beach 

If you call Matara a hidden gem, we’re not sure what you’d call Talalla Beach. It’s an even bigger gem tucked away safely from the crowds (and perhaps for good reason) because it’s the kind of place that you want to keep for yourself. With a crescent-shaped cove, this beach is the definition of unspoiled. 

It’s the kind of place that has a special kind of magic which makes you forget about everything else. It’s a kind of place where you’ll spread out your towel, grab a book and a king coconut and suddenly it’s sunset. 

With something for every kind of traveller, you can: 

• Switch off completely as you relax and soak under the warm rays of the sun

• Flow through sun salutations on the beach or in an open-air pavilion overlooking the beach 

• Catch some waves regardless of whether you are a beginner or intermediate level surfer

• Snorkel and meet the underwater locals while marvelling at the colourful coral reefs

• Enjoy delicious and spicy local dishes at tiny beachside cafes. 

Polhena Beach 

Yet another beach that still feels like a secret is Polhena Beach which is located just a few minutes away from Matara’s city centre. Known for its calm, shallow waters, Polhena beach is quite popular among locals. And with the natural coral reef keeping the waves at bay, it’s one of the safest beaches in the area for swimming, even for those who are just starting out. 

It's also a great place for snorkelling with a colourful underwater world awaiting you. If you are lucky, you’ll get the chance to see a graceful turtle gliding past you along with colourful fish and coral gardens. Then, when the sun starts to dip, you can enjoy a dreamy sunset before retiring for the day. 

The beach can get a little crowded with locals on weekends. However, on a weekday, you may find that you have the beach all to yourself. 

Matara Fort

If walls could actually speak, the Matara Fort would have a lot to say about colonial takeovers, battles and strategic mishaps. First built by the Portuguese in 1560 and later rebuilt by the Dutch in 1645, the Matara Fort has seen its fair share. 

While the Dutch rebuilt this fort to defend themselves against threats from the sea, they lost their hold on it due to an invasion from Kandyan forces from the inland – a strategic mishap on their part. While it was recaptured about a year later, it inspired the Dutch to construct the Star Fort nearby to better defend themselves in case history decided to repeat itself. 

When you visit the Matara Fort today, all you’ll find are some remains of the original structure including the large stone rampart, a 12 meter high clock tower added by the British invaders in 1833 and a restored interior that bears a resemblance to that of its Galle counterpart. However, unlike the Galle Fort, Matara Fort still holds on to where it came from, making the experience more authentic and not overly curated. 

Star Fort

Shaped like a star, this six-pointed fortress (born out of necessity) played a key role in the defensive strategy of the Dutch. After the Matara Fort was captured by inland Kandyan forces, the Dutch had come to see the flaw in their defensive strategy – that while they had protected the coastline, they were completely exposed from the land. 

That is when they decided to build this star fort – a fortress that could defend from all angles and had effective cannon placements. Initially, it was referred to as Redoute Van Eck because it allowed for more strategic positioning of the colonial garrisons, which made it possible for them to maintain a foothold in the city even if it was attacked. 

Today, you can still see the original drawbridge, moat, the VOC insignia and the governor’s coat of arms above the main gate. And on the inside, sits a local museum in the former soldier barracks featuring artefacts like a 4000-year-old skeleton and an 11th-century standing Buddha statue. 

P.S. – The Star Fort is closed on Tuesdays. 

Old Dutch Trade Centre (Nupe Market) 

Just a few kilometres from the city centre is the Old Dutch Trade Centre, more commonly known as the Nupe Market. 

Built in 1775, shortly after the construction of the Star Fort, this T-shaped building was once a bustling colonial market that sold everything from textiles and spices to household goods. This wasn’t just a marketplace by proof of the significant importance of Matara as a commercial centre. Although you won’t find spice merchants or silk traders, you might come across local artisans selling handmade crafts and small exhibitions celebrating Sri Lankan heritage and traditional industries. 

Weherahena Temple

Most temples in Sri Lanka are known for their histories and roots. The Weherahena Temple stands out for a different reason – its uniqueness. 

Located just outside Matara, tucked away in the quiet, this temple is said to be the first and largest tunnel temple in the world. Its story is said to begin in the early 20th century with a monk who was exiled by his teacher. This monk, who arrived at Weherahena with very little, gained the help of local villagers. He started out by building a humble clay home which ultimately became the foundation for something way bigger – a temple dedicated to the teachings of the Buddha. 

Today, the temple is home to a giant seated Buddha statue, towering over the temple and it also happens to be one of the tallest in Sri Lanka. And beneath the statue lies a sprawling network of tunnels, where every wall has been hand-painted with murals depicting Jataka tales (stories about the Buddha’s past lives). Safe to say, this temple offers a unique and fascinating experience for those who are looking for something a little different. 

Want to explore the coast, sprinkled with cultural and historical splendour that Matara has to offer? Contact our team at Fernando Travels for more information.