Matara, a coastal gem in southern Sri Lanka, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its serene beaches, historical sites, and tranquil atmosphere, Matara offers a unique experience. From the stunning Matara Beach to the iconic Dondra Head Lighthouse, this town boasts picturesque landscapes and rich heritage. Whether you're visiting the peaceful Weherahena Temple or exploring local spice gardens, Matara is perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Discover everything you need to know about Matara, Sri Lanka, and plan your trip with our comprehensive guide for 2025.

10 Best Tourist Places to Visit In Matara:

Matara is a city steeped in history, with many landmarks that reflect Sri Lanka's rich past. A visit to Matara is a must for anyone wanting to truly understand the essence of Sri Lanka. To make the most of your trip, be sure to include these must-see attractions in Matara on your itinerary:

01. Star Fort:

The Star Fort, true to its name, is a striking architectural marvel built in the shape of a six-pointed star. Constructed by the Dutch in the 18th century, this fort was strategically designed to defend against enemy attacks, with each of its six points reinforced by two massive cannons. Surrounded by a deep moat that once served as an additional layer of protection, the fort also houses a central well that ensured a steady water supply during sieges. Within its sturdy walls, two prison cells remain as reminders of its military past. Later, the British repurposed the fort for administrative functions, and today, it stands as a well-preserved symbol of Sri Lanka’s colonial history.

Highlights:

• A unique six-pointed star-shaped fortification, an engineering feat of Dutch military architecture.
• Deep surrounding moat, originally designed to prevent enemy advances.
• A central well that provided a reliable water source for the fort’s occupants.
• Two historic prison cells that add to its intrigue.
• Later used by the British for administrative purposes, showcasing its colonial legacy.

What to Expect:

• A fascinating glimpse into Dutch and British colonial history.
• Stunning views of the fort’s well-preserved star-shaped design.
• Informative exhibits detailing the fort’s construction, strategic importance, and past occupants.
• A peaceful yet historically rich atmosphere, perfect for history enthusiasts and photographers.

Location: Matara, Sri Lanka

Timings: Typically open from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Check locally for variations)

Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and to capture the best photographs of this historic landmark.

02. Old Dutch Trade Center (Nupe Market):

A paradise for architecture enthusiasts, the Old Dutch Trade Center—also known as Nupe Market—is a beautifully preserved remnant of Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Situated on the western side of the town, this historic marketplace was once a bustling hub of trade and commerce. The T-shaped structure, with its towering conical roofs and intricate woodwork, showcases a blend of Dutch and British architectural influences. Its open-sided design, supported by sturdy wooden beams and whitewashed columns, allows visitors to step back in time and imagine the market in its heyday. The roof, adorned with traditional Peti Ulu clay tiles, adds to the building’s timeless charm, making it a must-visit landmark for history and architecture lovers alike.

Highlights:

• A unique T-shaped structure with a fusion of Dutch and British architectural styles.
• Open-sided design supported by wooden beams and whitewashed columns.
• Traditional Peti Ulu clay-tiled roof, adding a local touch to its colonial grandeur.
• Once a thriving trade center, now a preserved historical site.
• Majestic entrance and conical towers, making it a striking landmark.

What to Expect:

• A fascinating blend of European and Sri Lankan architectural elements.
• A step back in time to an era of Dutch and British colonial trade.
• Great photo opportunities of the fort’s impressive roof and intricate details.
• A peaceful yet historically rich atmosphere, perfect for history lovers and culture seekers.

Location: Matara, Sri Lanka

Timings: Typically open from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Check locally for updates)

Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for pleasant weather and soft lighting, ideal for photography.

03. Weherahena Temple:

Located in the eastern part of Matara, Weherahena Temple is a remarkable Buddhist shrine known for its massive 25-meter-tall Buddha statue and intricately decorated artificial cave. The temple is a visual masterpiece, with its walls adorned with vivid murals depicting scenes from Buddha’s life. A unique underground tunnel system, lined with intricate paintings, adds to the temple’s spiritual and artistic allure.

Despite its breathtaking aesthetics, photography is strictly prohibited inside, preserving the sanctity of the temple’s sacred artwork. Every year, in late November or early December, the temple comes alive with a grand procession featuring traditional dancers and trained elephants, marking the anniversary of its founding.

Highlights:

• Home to a gigantic 25-meter-tall Buddha statue, a striking landmark.
• Features an artificial cave with colorful murals showcasing Buddhist teachings.
• A unique underground tunnel system, adding an element of mystery and exploration.
• Hosts an annual festival with dancers and elephants in late November or early December.
• Photography inside is strictly prohibited, preserving its sacred atmosphere.

What to Expect:

• A serene spiritual experience, perfect for meditation and reflection.
• A visual feast of Buddhist murals and intricate cave paintings.
• Cultural immersion during the annual temple festival.
• A chance to explore one of Sri Lanka’s most unique temple structures.

Location: Matara, Sri Lanka

Timings: Typically open from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Check locally for updates)

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to experience the temple in a peaceful setting.

04. Polhena Beach:

Nestled just 2 kilometers from the Matara City Center, Polhena Beach offers a tranquil escape with its serene surroundings and calm waters. Although a bit tricky to access, the beauty of this beach makes the effort worthwhile. The offshore coral reefs break the waves, creating a peaceful and sheltered cove perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Unlike the more touristy beaches, Polhena Beach has maintained its charm and remains a popular spot for honeymooners and locals seeking a weekend getaway. The romantic atmosphere, combined with the quietude and natural beauty, makes it a hidden gem for those looking for a peaceful retreat.

Highlights:

• Calm waters ideal for swimming and unwinding.
• Offshore coral reefs create a natural break from the waves.
• A romantic atmosphere, perfect for couples or honeymooners.
• A local favorite for weekend relaxation away from the crowds.
• Not a heavily touristy beach, offering a more authentic experience.

What to Expect:

• A peaceful and quiet beach for a relaxing swim.
• Stunning coral reefs for those interested in exploring marine life.
• Scenic views perfect for a serene sunset.

Location: 2 kilometers from Matara City Center, Southern Sri Lanka

Timings: Open 24 hours (be mindful of swimming conditions and tides)

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best beach experience and to avoid midday heat.

05. Crow Island:

Situated just across from Polhena Beach, where the Nilwala Ganga River meets the Indian Ocean, Crow Island is a hidden gem known for its lush greenery and diverse ecosystems. The island is a beautiful blend of mangrove plantations, walking tracks, and freshwater lakes, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those looking to unwind in a peaceful environment.

Crow Island is also home to the Crow Island Beach Park, a popular location for locals, especially families, who come here to relax and enjoy various activities. The park offers a variety of play areas, rides, and parks, making it a fun spot for kids and adults alike. However, due to the choppy waters, swimming or bathing is not recommended.

Highlights:

• Beautiful walking tracks amidst lush greenery and mangroves.
• Crow Island Beach Park featuring rides and play areas for families and children.
• Ecological diversity, with a mix of forests, wetlands, and freshwater lakes.
• Great for nature walks, birdwatching, and relaxing picnics.
• A peaceful and scenic getaway for those looking to escape the more touristy beaches.

What to Expect:

• Choppy sea – not suitable for swimming but perfect for a peaceful beach walk.
• Relaxing natural environment for family outings and nature exploration.
• Picturesque views and a variety of wildlife to observe, particularly in the mangrove areas.

Location: Across from Polhena Beach, where Nilwala Ganga River meets the Indian Ocean, Southern Sri Lanka.

Timings: Open 24 hours (best for daytime visits).

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the most pleasant weather and to avoid the midday heat.

06. Dondra Head Lighthouse:

Located at the southern tip of Sri Lanka, Dondra Head Lighthouse stands tall at an impressive height of 160 feet, making it the tallest lighthouse on the island. This iconic whitewashed structure is visible from all directions and is one of the most famous landmarks in Sri Lanka.

The lighthouse was designed by Sir James Nicholas Douglass and constructed using stone imported from Cornwall and Scotland. The octagonal brick tower is accessible via a spiral staircase, leading to a balcony that offers breathtaking panoramic views. From the top, visitors can enjoy sweeping vistas of the Indian Ocean to the south and the Bulutota Mountain Range to the north.

Highlights:

• 160 feet tall, the tallest lighthouse in Sri Lanka.
• Built in stone with materials imported from Cornwall and Scotland.
• Panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and Bulutota Mountain Range.
• Spiral staircase leading to a balcony with a stunning view.
• A historic landmark with a rich maritime legacy.

What to Expect:

• Stunning views from the lighthouse balcony.
• A chance to admire the historic architecture and learn about the lighthouse’s significance.
• A peaceful spot, ideal for photography and enjoying the surrounding scenery.

Location: Dondra Head, the southernmost point of Sri Lanka, near Matara.

Timings: Open to the public (timings may vary, check locally for availability).

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the views without the midday heat.

07. Matara Paravi Duwa Temple:

Located on a small island, the Matara Paravi Duwa Temple offers a serene escape from the bustle of daily life. This Buddhist temple, surrounded by the ocean, is a peaceful sanctuary for Buddhist monks and is a perfect destination for those seeking spiritual solace.

The temple can be accessed by crossing a picturesque bridge, and visitors are encouraged to maintain silence and decorum during their time here. The sound of the crashing waves provides a soothing and meditative backdrop, making it an ideal spot for reflection and relaxation.

If you're looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful, spiritual retreat, this tranquil temple is the place to be.

Highlights:

• Located on a small island surrounded by the ocean.
• Home to Buddhist monks and a peaceful place for meditation.
• Bridge access to the temple, creating a scenic approach.
• A tranquil environment with the soothing sound of crashing waves.
• A place to find solace away from the busy world.

What to Expect:

• A peaceful, spiritual atmosphere perfect for introspection.
• Stunning ocean views surrounding the temple.
• Quiet surroundings with the calming sound of waves.
• A chance to observe the daily routines of the monks.

Location: Off the coast of Matara, accessible via a bridge.

Timings: Open to visitors during daylight hours (appropriate timing for peaceful visits).

Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for a serene experience.

08. Matara Beach:

Matara Beach offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the crowds. Unlike many of Sri Lanka's more popular beaches, this one remains relatively quiet, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a relaxing and undisturbed experience.

Whether you prefer to take long walks along the shore, enjoy some beach combing, or simply sit under a tree with your favorite book while gazing out at the ocean, Matara Beach offers the perfect setting. When the waves are calm, the sea also offers a refreshing dip.

This tranquil beach is undeniably one of Sri Lanka’s hidden gems, ideal for a laid-back day of relaxation.

Highlights:

• Secluded and quiet beach perfect for a peaceful retreat.
• Ideal for long walks, beach combing, or relaxing under the shade of a tree.
• Calm waters perfect for a swim when the waves are gentle.
• Beautiful ocean views with a tranquil atmosphere.

What to Expect:

• A peaceful and serene beach with few crowds.
• The opportunity to connect with nature and unwind.
• Calm waters for swimming during good weather.

Location: Located in the town of Matara, Sri Lanka.

Timings: Open all day; however, best visited during the daylight hours.

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons for a quieter, more relaxed experience.

09. Medawatta Beach:

Medawatta Beach is another stunning beach in Matara, known for its serenity and breathtaking ocean views. The beach offers a perfect setting for those who want to spend hours just relaxing, whether by taking a leisurely stroll along the shore or sitting peacefully, soaking in the atmosphere.

The beach is framed by hillocks, which might require a bit of a climb to access, but the effort is absolutely worth it for the tranquility and beautiful surroundings. Medawatta Beach is also popular among surfing enthusiasts, thanks to its excellent waves. Several good hotels are located nearby, offering convenient accommodations for those wishing to stay and enjoy the area longer.

Highlights:

• Tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and reflection.
• Stunning views of the ocean and scenic hillocks surrounding the beach.
• Popular for surfing with great waves for adventurers.
• Convenient accommodations available at nearby hotels.

What to Expect:

• A peaceful beach that’s perfect for unwinding.
• A good spot for surfing and enjoying the ocean.
• Beautiful views of the sea, making it an ideal place to relax.

Location: Located in Matara, Sri Lanka.

Timings: Open throughout the day, with the best experience during daylight hours.

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for quiet solitude or late afternoons for a serene beach experience.

10. Matara Fort:

The Matara Fort is a historical gem located at the southern tip of Sri Lanka. Originally constructed by the Portuguese in 1560, the fort was later expanded and reinforced by the Dutch in 1640 after their capture of nearby Galle. The fort is strategically positioned on a promontory that separates the Niwala Ganga Lagoon from the Indian Ocean, offering impressive views of both water bodies.

This well-preserved fort still boasts its large stone ramparts, which once served as protection against invaders. Today, the fort stands as a reminder of Sri Lanka's colonial past, with Dutch influence visible in the architecture and design of the structure.

Highlights:

• Built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch.
• Strategic location between the Niwala Ganga Lagoon and the Indian Ocean.
• Well-preserved stone ramparts and fortifications.
• Offers scenic views and historical significance.

What to Expect:

• A rich historical experience, with colonial architecture and fortifications.
• Breathtaking views of the lagoon and the ocean.
• Quiet walks around the fort, exploring its well-preserved walls and scenic surroundings.

Location: Situated in the Matara town, Sri Lanka.

Timings: Open for exploration during daylight hours.

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons when the weather is cooler, and the crowds are fewer.

Matara, Sri Lanka, is a captivating destination offering something for every type of traveler. Whether you're relaxing on the pristine shores of Polhena Beach, exploring historical landmarks like the Matara Paravi Duwa Temple, or immersing yourself in the island’s vibrant culture, Matara has it all. The town’s combination of scenic views, rich heritage, and welcoming locals makes it an ideal spot for both relaxation and adventure. Plan your visit to Matara in 2025 for a memorable Sri Lankan experience that blends tranquility and excitement. Don’t miss out on exploring this hidden paradise of the island!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

01. Question: How far is Kataragama from Matara?

Kataragama is 102 km away from Matara. You can take a train, as there is a direct line between these two destinations.

02. Question: What is the postal code of Matara?

Matara’s postal code is 81000.

03. Question: Which hotels in Matara are good for families?

Matara has several family-friendly hotels, including Malee Villa, Seadin Coral Home, Sudu Bay Guest House, and Akeinya Guest. You can choose from both luxury stays and budget-friendly options.

04. Question: How much does it cost to stay in a hotel in Matara?

A standard 3-star hotel in Matara costs around INR 2,500 or more, depending on location and amenities. Budget options start at INR 700, though the experience may be more basic.

05. Question: What are the best hotels near Matara Fort?

For those visiting Matara Fort, Hotel Nawathana and Fort Sea View Hotel are excellent choices, offering views of the historic fort and the surrounding area.

06. Question: What is there to do in Tangalle?

Tangalle, located just 35 km from Matara, is known for its beaches and serene atmosphere. Visit Tangalle Beach, Mulkirigala Raja Maha Viharaya, and the Dutch Fort, which now serves as a prison.

07. Question: What is there to see between Galle and Colombo?

Between Galle and Colombo, you can take a scenic train ride and visit places like Kalutara Bodhi Temple, Tsunami Museum, and enjoy a boat ride in the mangrove forests. Don’t miss the moonstone mining factory as well.