Kalpitiya

Featuring the scenic splendour of a coastal region, Kalpitiya is situated in the Puttalam district. Heaven on earth for both natives and non-natives alike, Kalpitiya is the idyllic beach escape for the thrill-seeking traveller.

Maintaining strategic importance due to its distinctive geography, Kalpitiya is a significant part of the maritime history of the country. Since ancient times it was a commercial hub attracting merchants from the established trade routes. For that reason, it wasn’t unusual that Kalpitiya gained the interest of the colonial powers.

It was first seized by the first colonial power, the Portuguese. Until then it was the middle eastern traders that controlled the economy of the region. Consequently, when the Portuguese captured Kalpitiya retitling it Kardiv Island they bequeathed the region to the priests in the name of the King of Portugal.

The most powerful colonial supremacy here were the Dutch. The Dutch captured Kalpitiya from the Portuguese and took effective measures in developing it as a superior commercial city. They constructed a fort to secure their primary trade cinnamon, as the adjacent area in Puttalam was allocated to produce it as a commercial crop. As a result, the Dutch also constructed a canal that connecting the areas of Negombo to Kalpitiya for the ease internal transport of commercial crop. Kalpitiya was also a military asset to the Dutch as it was a vital part of the Kandyan Kingdom external trade.

In the 18th century when the British started gaining control of the country, they began by invaded strategic points such as the harbours and other cities in the coastal areas. When the English positioned to overrun Kalpitiya, the Dutch surrendered it without combat.
Attractions in Kalpitiya

Kalpitiya has always been about aquatic activities, but for the culture hungry vacationer Kalpitiya reveals many fascinating features.

The Dutch Fort
Of all the remaining Dutch forts built in Sri Lanka, Kalpitiya is one of the few that has been preserved entirely. The yellow bricks that have been used to fortify the fort is said to have been brought from Holland.

The Dutch Church
Situated between the fort and Kalpitiya village, the Dutch Church is one of the oldest Protestant Churches in the country. Fascinating visitors, the remnants here include old tombstones, an old baptism place, church bells and more.

St Anne’s Church
Located in Thalawila, St Anne’s Church is one of the most important churches’ in the country. Its heritage complete with mystical beginnings, attracts thousands of devotees and international travellers every year.

Kalpitiya Habour
Take an informative stroll around the region and head to the Kalpitiya Fisheries harbour. As the regions primary economy is based on fishing, the hustle and bustle of the locale is an intriguing experience for adventure seeking holidaymakers.

The Elephant Tree
Embrace the innate beauty of Kalpitiya by chartering a boat ride to explore its beautiful lagoon. The highlight of this excursion is the Elephant Tree – a vast and ancient tree settled amidst the mangroves of the lagoon. A delightful sight for the day tripper holidaying in Kalpitiya!