Beruwala is a little coastal town with a lot of history and charm to it. To know what the place has to offer to visitors, read on.
About Beruwala
The town of Beruwala is situated on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, 55 km to the south of the commercial capital Colombo. Beruwala is considered to be one of the island nation’s well-known resorts attracting numerous holidaymakers from around the world. The word ‘Beruwala’ in Sinhalese signifies a place at which ‘the sails are lowered’. Beruwala also inherits an interesting history, as it is believed to have been the site of the initial settlement of the Moors. This settlement was created in the 8th century by Arab merchants. Even today, a significant community of Moors resides in the Beruwala area. Beruwala is a pleasant area to visit, being blessed with balmy tropical weather, appealing beaches, interesting attractions, and a laidback atmosphere that will be ideal for the leisure seeker. The town is also renowned as a hub for Ayurvedic therapy, with numerous places where you can obtain steam baths, herbal massages and other treatments. For some luxury in town, you can stay at Bentota hotels the likes of Cinnamon Bey Beruwala.
The Lighthouse
Sightseers will also be captivated by the Beruwala Lighthouse, an interesting sight that is located on Barberyn Island, which may be reached by a short boat ride. The lighthouse is located on a prominent cliff on this verdant and charming island. Visitors who take the opportunity to climb to the top of the lighthouse will be rewarded by the spectacular panoramic views over the local area that may be enjoyed from here.
Shrines and more
If you enjoy visiting religious attractions, you will have the chance to tour the Gangatilaka Viharaya, a well-known Buddhist temple located in proximity to the town of Beruwala. Here you will find a huge dagoba (stupa) as well as a much-venerated Bodhi tree and other features that will strike the interest of the sightseer. At this temple, you will have the chance to observe the local devotees as they make prayers and involve themselves in religious activities. Another interesting temple in the environs of Beruwala is the Galapata Temple, which dates to the 12th century. Here you will find an attractive selection of frescoes, which will undoubtedly capture the imagination of the curious visitor. Also in this area, you will encounter the Kechimalai Mosque, a place of worship with a distinctive history that is believed to stand on the spot where the Moors established themselves centuries ago.
The local Harbour
Your exploration of the area of Beruwala should undoubtedly take you to the picturesque local harbour, which is an interesting place to stroll around. At this harbour, you will have the opportunity to observe the local fishermen attired in their traditional hats as they pull in the hard-won catch from their vibrantly coloured fishing vessels and canoes. You will see that the fish market is a lively and animated spectacle with its distinctive sights, sounds and smells. Although this fish market is not for those with sensitive temperaments, it is a captivating sight that will capture the interest of the sightseer who desires authentic local experiences.
The beaches of Beruwala
Naturally, your visit to Beruwala should take you to the area’s splendid beaches, which are always attractive places in which to spend quality leisure time. Make sure to experience the locality’s ‘Golden Mile’, which is a fine stretch of beach featuring broad golden sands, groves of palms and lovely scenery that will amaze the visitor. These are great places at which to relax and unwind whilst savouring the delightfully laidback pace of life in this attractive locality in Sri Lanka. The sunny tropical weather adds to the pleasure of enjoying the picturesque surroundings of the Beruwala beaches. You will also have the opportunity to engage in a number of exciting water sports at Beruwala, such as waterskiing, parasailing, riding a water scooter and windsurfing amongst others. Other enthralling activities that you will be able to engage in at Beruwala include diving and fishing in the deep seas.
Shopping
Visitors will also be able to buy some interesting souvenirs and trinkets in the environs of Beruwala. From leather goods to doormats, you will find an array of products offered by the local hawkers who earn a livelihood by selling these goods.
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