An overview of Kalpitiya
One of the trendiest destinations to burst into the Sri Lankan tourism scene as of late, Kalpitiya is located in the North-Western province of Sri Lanka in what is known as the Puttalam district. Hidden away and largely unknown for many decades due to the country’s three-decade long civil war, this special part of Sri Lanka is known for its incredible beauty and unique ecosystem. Traditionally knowns as a fishing town, with some of the best and freshest seafood you can find on the island, the region is quickly turning into one of the Sri Lanka’s many booming tourist destinations.
Part of Kalpitya’s appeal stems from its demarcation as a marine sanctuary. The coastal town is known for its variety of habitats that include many bar reefs, saltpans, flat coastal plains, mangrove swamps, salt marshes, and expansive sand dune beaches. As a result of its diverse ecosystem and habitats, the area is home to all kinds of fish and crustacean critters. If you are an enthusiast, this is the spot for you! It must be said that another unique feature of Kalpitiya is that it consists of 14 islands – Battalangunduwa, Palliyawatta, Vellai I, Vellai II, Vellai III, Uchchamunai, Ippantivu, Periya Arichchalai, Sinna Arichchalai, Eramutive, Sinna Eramutivu, Eramutivu West, Kakativu, and Mutwal.
The region and its coastal waters are also famous for some of Sri Lanka’s best marine wildlife, which includes spinner, bottlenose, Indo-pacific humpback dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and, the very rare, dugong. Tourists from all over the island and around the world flock to Kalpitiya to capture a glimpse of these beautiful sea wonders putting on a show. Added tourist benefits of the region is that it is the hottest kitesurfing spot on the island, where kite surfers from all parts of the world flock to it during any time between May and October, and December through February. If you consider yourself an avid kite surfer, you need to check out Kalpitiya!
While Kalpitiya’s contemporary fame is quite recent, it has tremendous historic value and colonial significance behind it. Kalpitiya was a very common former maritime trade and smuggling hub during the country’s pre-colonial past and after the arrival of the Portuguese in the early 17th century, its profile rose significantly. After the Dutch successfully overthrew the Portuguese from the region, they established a military garrison and naval base to monopolise trade to the island. To this day, if you were to visit Kalpitiya, you would be able to visit the Dutch Reformed Church, also known as St. Peter’s Kerk, in Kapitiya. If you are around in the summer, consider visiting the St. Anne’s church festival on St. Anne’s Day, where thousands of Catholics arrive at the neighbouring Talawila village to keep the region’s Portuguese heritage alive.
If you are looking forward to experiencing one of Sri Lanka’s most famous sights where history, culture, and modernity meet, surrounded by impeccable beauty, Kalpitiya can provide you with all of this. Whether you are an avid wildlife enthusiast, history buff, or just looking for the chance to kick back and relax, you can find everything you are looking for, and more, in this North-Western paradise within paradise. If you plan on taking a boat out to see some of the aquatic life, be sure to speak to your guide and agent first about reputed providers in the region who can help show you a great time.
There is so much to see in the region and the surrounding areas! Therefore, expect to be amazed by the its beauty, fauna, and overall enriching experience. If you would like more information, please get in touch with us or check out the other sections!