Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. With crystal clear waters, soft sandy beaches, and palm trees swaying in the breeze, it’s no wonder that tourists flock to this island paradise every year. One of the most popular beach destinations in Sri Lanka is Beruwala. Located on the southwestern coast of the island, Beruwala is a small coastal town. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Beruwala. In a while, you will clearly understand why it should be on your travel bucket list. Continue reading!
History of Beruwala
Beruwala has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. People initially called this town Beruwa-thota, which means, “the place where the sail is lowered”. This name originated from the fact that Beruwala was an important port town during the ancient times of Sri Lanka. However, considering the ease of pronouncing the name, it has automatically turned into Beruwala.
As per historical records, the strategic location of Beruwala made it an ideal place for trading activities. In fact, the natural harbor there attracted the Arabs who visited Sri Lanka to trade spices, gems, and precious stones.
Beruwala was also a critical location for European colonizers who arrived in Sri Lanka during the 16th century. The Portuguese, Dutch, and British all had a presence in Beruwala. However, the latter two colonizers seem to be particularly influential in shaping the town’s architecture and culture.
The Dutch Fort in this town stands with a history that dates back to 1660. The specialty is that it still stands with grandeur as a symbol of Beruwala’s colonial past. In addition to the colonial influences, Beruwala also has a rich religious heritage. In fact, the Arab traders who embraced Islam religion built the Kachchimalai Mosque in this town. It is significant as it is one of the oldest mosques in Sri Lanka. Moreover, the Galapatha Raja Maha Vihara, a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 12th century, is another significant landmark in Beruwala.
Overall, Beruwala’s history is a unique blend of different cultures and influences. This simple fact itself makes it a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history and heritage of Sri Lanka.
The Natural Beauty of Beruwala
Beruwala boasts of natural beauty and serene surroundings. In fact, this town is famous for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush greenery. So, all these factors make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. In this section, we will explore the natural beauties of Beruwala that attract tourists from all over the world.
Beaches in Beruwala
Beruwala is a beach lover’s paradise. With miles of unspoiled coastline, there is no shortage of beautiful beaches to explore. Two of the most popular beaches in Beruwala are Beruwala Beach and Moragalla Beach. Scroll down to know more about them!
1. Beruwala Beach
Beruwala Beach is one of the most popular destinations in Sri Lanka for tourists seeking sun, sand, and sea. This beach offers a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to relax and unwind.
Moreover, this beach is fringed with swaying coconut trees and clear blue waters. Hence, it owns the perfect atmosphere for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The soft golden sand offers the perfect spot to lay back and soak up the sun while listening to the sound of the waves. So, you have ample of things to do on the shores of this charming coast.
Beruwala Beach is also famous for its stunning sunsets, which are a must-see for visitors. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky gets vibrant in hues of red, orange, and yellow, creating a magical and unforgettable moment. And yes, they create the perfect opportunities for wonderful photographs.
Visitors can also explore the local markets and food stalls nearby, where they can indulge in a variety of Sri Lankan delicacies. The beachfront is lined with vendors selling fresh seafood, street food, coconut water, and other local snacks.
For those seeking a more active vacation, Beruwala Beach offers a range of water sports. Among them are activities such as jet skiing, windsurfing, banana boat riding, and parasailing. Snorkeling and scuba diving are also popular activities for those who want to explore the underwater world of Beruwala Beach.
Besides, one of the unique features of Beruwala Beach is the presence of the Kechimalai Mosque. It is on a rocky outcrop overlooking the beach. Visitors can visit the mosque and witness its stunning architecture and rich history.
So, all these together can assure you of a wonderful exploration of this wonderful coast. Hence, make sure you visit it to create some beautiful memories!
2. Moragalla Beach
Moragalla Beach is a stunning coastal area located in the Beruwala region of Sri Lanka. This beautiful beach is famous for its picturesque landscape, clear blue waters, and serene atmosphere. It is one of the top tourist destinations in the country and people from all over the world visit it.
The sandy stretch is quite long. So, the visitors can take leisurely walks along the shoreline while enjoying the cool breeze and the calming sound of the waves. This beach also owns clean and tidy surroundings, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind.
One of the most attractive features of Moragalla Beach is the wide range of water sports activities that visitors can enjoy. The calm waters of the beach make it a perfect spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. For those who love adventure, the beach offers exciting water sports such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing as well. Visitors can rent equipment and take lessons from trained instructors to ensure safety and maximize their experience.
Another highlight of Moragalla Beach is the seafood. Several restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of fresh seafood dishes are there bordering these shores. So, the visitors can enjoy mouth-watering meals while admiring the stunning view of the sea. These restaurants and cafes offer food with local ingredients and spices giving it a unique flavor. The visitors will surely love it.
Moragalla Beach is also famous for its beautiful sunset views. As the sun sets behind the horizon, the sky turns into a beautiful palette of orange and red, creating a picturesque scene that visitors will never forget. It is a perfect opportunity to take beautiful photographs and capture memories that will last a lifetime.
Significant Landmarks of Beruwala
Beruwala has a number of significant landmarks that add value to it. This section is to look into them.
1. Brief Garden
Brief Garden is one of the most enchanting places to visit in Beruwala. Bevis Bawa, the elder brother of the famous Sri Lankan architect, Geoffrey Bawa, is the creator of this beautiful garden. This garden is located in the village of Kalawila, just a short drive from Beruwala. It covers an area of over 20 acres.
Bevis Bawa created this garden over a period of nearly 50 years, from 1929 until his death in 1992. It is said that Bevis was inspired by the traditional design of Sri Lankan gardens, but he also incorporated elements of modern landscape design. The result is a stunning collection of tropical plants, trees, and sculptures that create a peaceful and serene environment.
Visitors to Brief Garden can explore the many paths and trails that wind through the garden, stopping to admire the many water features, including ponds, waterfalls, and fountains. This garden is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and even monkeys.
One of the highlights of a visit to Brief Garden is the chance to see Bevis Bawa’s personal art collection. It includes paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from around the world. This garden also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibitions, and theatrical performances.
For those looking for a unique and peaceful experience in Beruwala, a visit to Brief Garden is a must. This garden is open to the public every day of the week. Also, guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the history and design of this stunning garden.
After all, whether you are a nature lover or an art enthusiast, Brief Garden is sure to delight and inspire you.
2. Barberyn Island Lighthouse
Barberyn Island Lighthouse is a historical landmark located off the coast of Beruwala. This lighthouse is a symbol of the rich history of the region and the maritime heritage of the island nation. Built-in 1925, the lighthouse has been guiding ships to safety for nearly a century.
This lighthouse stands on a small island known as Barberyn Island, which is also home to a vibrant coral reef ecosystem. Visitors can take a short boat ride to the island and explore the area around the lighthouse. This island itself is a beautiful natural wonder, with crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches. That will surely make your visit more interesting!
This lighthouse stands 34 meters tall, with a spiral staircase that leads to the top. From the top of the lighthouse, visitors can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the ocean and the surrounding coastline. This makes it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike who are looking for a unique perspective on the area.
This lighthouse also has a rich history. The visitors can learn more about it through the displays and exhibits at the lighthouse museum. This museum houses artifacts and photographs that showcase the history of the lighthouse, as well as the maritime history of Sri Lanka.
Barberyn Island Lighthouse is not just a historical landmark, but also a functioning lighthouse that continues to guide ships to safety to this day. The Sri Lanka Ports Authority operates this lighthouse, and its light is visible from up to 18 nautical miles away.
Overall, Barberyn Island Lighthouse is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Beruwala. It offers a unique perspective on the region’s maritime history, as well as stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty.
3. Beruwala Fish Harbour
Beruwala fish harbor is a bustling and vibrant hub for fishermen, traders, and tourists alike. It is located on the south coast of Sri Lanka and is one of the busiest and largest fishing harbors in the country. This harbor is an integral part of Beruwala’s economy. Moreover, it offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of the fishermen and the local community.
This harbor is always bustling with activity, with fishermen returning from sea in their colorful boats, and traders bargaining with them over the fresh catch of the day. The aroma of fresh seafood fills the air, as fishermen clean and prepare their catch for sale. It is a feast for the senses, with the bright colors of the boats, the bustle of the people, and the sounds of the waves.
One of the most exciting parts of visiting the Beruwala Fish Harbour is the opportunity to see the variety of seafood that the fishermen catch in this area. From fresh prawns, lobsters, crabs, and a variety of fish species, the seafood at the harbor is incredibly diverse.
Apart from the bustling market and restaurants, the Beruwala Fish Harbour also provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the life of the local fishermen. Fishing tours can be arranged to take visitors out to sea with the fishermen, where they can observe their daily routine, and even try their hand at catching some fish.
Cultural Attractions in Beruwala
Apart from the beaches, significant landmarks, and other attractions, Beruwala is also home to several cultural attractions that are worth exploring. Some of them are as follows!
1. Kande Vihara
Kande Vihara, also known as the “Temple on the Hill,” is a prominent Buddhist temple located in Aluthgama, just a few kilometers from Beruwala. This magnificent temple, situated on a hilltop overlooking lush greenery, is considered to be one of the most significant temples in the area.
History and Architecture
Kande Vihara is believed to have been built in the 18th century by the Dutch colonial rulers in Sri Lanka. However, the temple’s history dates back to ancient times when it was known as “Deli Gedara Viharaya.” The temple has undergone significant renovations over the years, and its current architecture reflects the traditional Sri Lankan style, with intricate carvings and colorful murals adorning the temple walls.
This temple’s main attraction is its enormous white Buddha statue. It stands 48 meters tall, making it one of the tallest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. Visitors can climb the steps leading to the base of the statue to gain a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.
Other Highlights
Apart from the Buddha statue, Kande Vihara also boasts several other noteworthy features. The temple’s museum showcases a wide range of ancient artifacts, including brass and silverware, traditional costumes, and religious manuscripts. There is also a meditation center at the temple where visitors can take part in meditation sessions.
Another popular attraction at Kande Vihara is the elephant rides. These rides take visitors on a journey through the temple grounds and surrounding forest. Visitors can also feed the temple’s resident elephant, who is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who offer him a treat.
2. Kechimalai Mosque
Kechimalai Mosque is a historical and cultural landmark situated in the town of Beruwala. It is considered one of the oldest mosques in the country and holds immense religious significance for the local Muslim community.
The mosque was built in the 9th century AD by Arab traders who had arrived in Sri Lanka for trade purposes. This mosque is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Indian Ocean, offering a stunning view of the sea. The mosque’s name “Kechimalai” means “ridge of the parrot” in the Tamil language, which refers to the nearby hill where a large number of parrots are found.
The mosque’s architecture is a blend of Arab and local styles. The main prayer hall is rectangular and has a series of arches with intricate carvings on the walls. The mosque’s minaret is a towering structure with a pointed dome at the top. Its interior is decorated with beautiful geometric patterns, and the ceiling is adorned with ornate chandeliers.
The mosque’s courtyard is a peaceful and tranquil space, surrounded by greenery and palm trees. It has a central pool with a fountain that adds to the mosque’s beauty. Visitors can sit here and enjoy the serene environment or offer prayers in the mosque.
In addition to its religious and cultural significance, Kechimalai Mosque also has a fascinating history. It is said that the mosque played a crucial role in the spread of Islam in Sri Lanka, and many scholars and travelers visited the mosque to study and learn about the religion.
Food and Cuisine in Beruwala
Beruwala is famous for its delicious seafood, and there is no shortage of restaurants and eateries serving fresh seafood dishes. One of the most popular dishes in Beruwala is crab curry. It is a flavorful dish made with fresh crab meat, coconut milk, and a blend of Sri Lankan spices. Another must-try dish in Beruwala is the prawn curry. It is also made with succulent prawns, and a spicy sauce of coconut milk, chili, and garlic.
Further, the Beruwala Fish Harbour is home to a range of seafood restaurants, where visitors can sample the local cuisine. Here, they cook the seafood in a variety of ways, from curries to grills, and served with a range of traditional Sri Lankan accompaniments. It is an excellent opportunity to try out some of the local delicacies and enjoy a meal with a stunning view of the harbor.
Shopping in Beruwala
Beruwala is also well-known for its vibrant shopping scene. This town is home to several markets and bazaars selling a range of goods, from traditional handicrafts to modern souvenirs. One of the most famous markets in Beruwala is the Aluthgama Market. It is a bustling bazaar selling everything from spices and teas to traditional Sri Lankan textiles and handicrafts. This market is a great place to explore and pick up some souvenirs to take back home.
The Bottom Line
Of course, Beruwala is a hidden gem in Sri Lanka, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture. This town’s pristine beaches, water sports activities, historic landmarks, and local cuisine make it a must-visit destination for travelers. Moreover, the town’s friendly locals, who are always ready to welcome visitors, add to the charm of the area. So, Beruwala’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and this heart-warming hospitality make it a unique destination that you should not miss. Happy and safe traveling!
