Did you know that the south coast town of Kalutara had its own fort? While many may be puzzled by this since they would not have seen or heard of it, in actual fact the Kalutara Fort was very much a prominent landmark back in colonial times.
Where is it now?
So if you are looking for things to do in Kalutara and want to visit the fort where can you find it? Sadly nothing remains of this structure. But you will find something equally impressive on the grounds it once stood; the well known Kalutara Temple which is around 10 minutes from Anantara Kalutara Resort. Even though it is not to be seen, the fort’s history is well worth finding out about.
Origin Story; the Portuguese Prevail
It was the Portuguese colonial rulers who initially constructed the fort in 1622. They did this on the then site of the Gangathilaka Viharaya, a Buddhist temple. While Sri Lankan King Mayadunne captured the fort, it was subsequently retaken by the Portuguese.
The Coming of the Dutch
The time of Dutch colonial rule signalled the end of Portuguese power. In 1655 the fort was surrendered to the Dutch who expanded and improved the structure adding huge ramparts and a couple of bastions as well.
A New Sheriff in Town
The British were the next colonial power to take over the island and the Kalutara Fort soon fell into their hands in the latter part of the 18th century. Its use as a fort diminished and it became the residence of the Government Agent of the British.
Fritzjames Stephen is a travel writer, who writes content based on the myriad of experiences and indulgences that the world has to offer travellers across all walks of life.
