Sri Lanka is a land of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Hence, this island nation has been attracting tourists from all over the world for decades. With its pristine beaches, lush green hills, and ancient historical sites, Sri Lanka offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. However, if you are looking for a place that is off the beaten path, Marawila is one of the perfect destinations for you.
Located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, Marawila is a small fishing town that has managed to retain its traditional charm despite the rapid modernization that has swept across the country. This village is just a few kilometers away from the bustling town of Negombo. Indeed, that makes it a convenient stopover for travelers who are exploring the western coast of Sri Lanka.
Besides, Marawila is a place of a lot of marvels. On one hand, you have the stunning beauty of the beach with its golden sand and turquoise waters, and on the other hand, you have the rustic charm of the town with its thatched-roof huts and friendly locals. However, do not let the simplicity of the town fool you. There is plenty to see and do in Marawila that will keep you busy and entertained. Keep reading to know all about them!
Places to Visit in Marawila
There are many wonderful places for you to visit and explore in Marawila. Some of them are as follows.
1. Marawila Beach
Marawila is simply a haven for nature lovers. It has a lot of natural wonders to offer, and among them, the beach is the definite highlight.
In fact, the town boasts miles of pristine coastline. Moreover, the beach here is relatively untouched by commercialization. Thus, you would not find any high-rise hotels or noisy bars here. Instead, you can relax in peace, soaking up the sun and enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. You can easily find a quiet spot to relax and unwind, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The water here is crystal clear, and the gentle waves make it ideal for swimming. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at surfing. There are several surf schools in the area that offer lessons to beginners.
Towards the evening hours, you can surely witness the dazzling sight of the sunset at Marawila too. It would create the perfect backdrop to capture some of the best photographs in Sri Lanka.
Likewise, there is a lot for you to do on the shores of this wonderful coastal town, especially if you are aiming for a beach holiday. So, if you are exploring the west coast of this country, never miss this beach!
2. Lagoon
Marawila is a town with a charming lagoon. It surely adds more beauty, as well as value to this wonderful town.
Taking a boat ride on the lagoon is an excellent way to explore the area and see the natural beauty of Marawila. These boat rides take you through the waterways of the lagoon, and you can witness the lush greenery, mangrove forests, and aquatic animals. In fact, this lagoon is home to many bird species including endemic species, and migrant species, as well as fish. So, you can see a variety of them on your boat ride.
During the boat ride, you can also get a glimpse of the local fishermen at work. As you already know, this area is well-known for its fishing industry. So, during your boat ride, you would be able to see how the fishermen use traditional methods to catch fish. You can even try your hand at fishing if you’re interested, and the boat operators will be happy to provide you with the necessary equipment.
These boat rides also take you to some of the small islands in the lagoon. These islands are uninhabited, and you can explore them and enjoy the peace and serenity of the surroundings. The dense vegetation covers the island, and thus, you can see various species of flora and fauna that are unique to the area.
One of the highlights of the boat ride is the stunning sunset that you can witness from the lagoon. The orange and pink hues of the sunset create a magical atmosphere, and it’s a perfect opportunity to take some beautiful photographs.
Overall, taking a boat ride on the lagoon is a must-do activity in Marawila. It is indeed a peaceful and serene experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
3. Munneswaram Hindu Temple
Munneswaram Hindu Temple is one of the most significant religious attractions in Sri Lanka. This temple is located just a few kilometers from Marawila town and is one of the most important Hindu shrines in Sri Lanka.
The Munneswaram Temple has a rich history dating back over a thousand years. There is a belief that King Raja Raja Chola 1 built this in the 10th century. Accordingly, it had been an important center of worship for Hindus from ancient times. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is one of the five ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in Sri Lanka.
The temple’s architecture is a beautiful mix of ancient Dravidian and South Indian styles. The intricate carvings on the temple’s walls and the colorful statues of Hindu deities are truly awe-inspiring. The temple’s main entrance is adorned with two huge elephant statues that are a sight to behold.
However, since the Munneswaram Temple is a place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly and follow certain rules. In fact, it is better if the visitors wear a dress that covers at least their shoulders to the knees, and remove slippers, and head covers when entering the temple premises.
The temple is open from early morning to late evening, and you can witness many traditional Hindu rituals and ceremonies taking place throughout the day. The most important festival celebrated at the temple is the Maha Shivaratri festival, which is held annually in February or March.
Visiting the Munneswaram Temple is not just about exploring a beautiful temple but also about experiencing the local culture. The temple is surrounded by small shops selling flowers, fruits, and other offerings for worship, and you can interact with the locals and learn more about their way of life.
4. Marawila Catholic Church
The Marawila Catholic Church is another religious attraction in the town and one of the most beautiful and historic churches in Sri Lanka. Located in the heart of Marawila town, this stunning church is an excellent example of colonial-era architecture and design.
As to history, the Portuguese missionaries built this church in the early 18th century. This church was established as a center of Catholicism in the region and was used as a place of worship and refuge for Catholics during the colonial period. The church played a vital role in the growth and spread of Christianity in Sri Lanka, and it is still an essential place of worship for Catholics in Marawila.
The Marawila Catholic Church features a unique blend of European and local architectural styles. The church’s exterior is a mix of Portuguese and Dutch influences, with its ornate spires, arched windows, and terracotta roof tiles. The interior of the church is equally stunning, with its high vaulted ceilings, intricate carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows.
Visitors to the Marawila Catholic Church can marvel at the church’s beautiful architecture and artwork. The church has a peaceful and serene atmosphere, and visitors are welcome to attend mass and other services. Apart from that, the church also has a small museum that houses a collection of religious artifacts, including old Bibles, crosses, and statues.
In general, it is a unique and beautiful destination that offers visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial history and its rich religious traditions. The church’s stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for tourists visiting Marawila.
Transportation in Marawila
The best way to experience its culture is by exploring the area on foot. The town is small enough to cover on foot. And yes, you can get a glimpse of the local way of life as you walk around. You will see locals going about their daily business, fishermen mending their nets, and children playing in the streets.
However, if you are not fit to walk long distances, you even choose to cycle around the village or hire a tuk-tuk or a taxi. There are enough and more tuk-tuks by the roadside. So, you can easily stop one, and let the driver know your destination or the plan for the trip. Anyway, it is better to discuss the travel cost beforehand, in order to be on the safe side. In that case, using a metered taxi, or booking a ride through a ride-hail app such as PickMe, or Uber would be the best. If you prefer to use public transportation, a bus service is also available across the town.
Besides, reaching the town using public transportation is also not a big deal, as you can easily take a direct bus from Colombo to Marawila. However, if you are arriving at Marawila from Negombo or the Colombo International Airport, you can simply hire a taxi, since it is just a small distance.
The Food of Marawila
The food in Marawila is a delightful mix of Sri Lankan and international flavors. Whether you are a foodie or just looking for a delicious meal, Marawila has something for everyone. Here is a brief rundown of the famous food items in Marawila!
Local Cuisine
Marawila is famous for its seafood, and it is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Sri Lanka. The town’s proximity to the sea means that fresh seafood is readily available. Thus, many restaurants offer a wide range of dishes that feature fish, crabs, prawns, and lobsters. Local favorites include seafood curries, fried fish, and devilled prawns.
Besides, if you are looking for a taste of Sri Lanka’s traditional cuisine, you will find plenty of options in Marawila. Its restaurants offer an array of different curries that are served with rice. Some of the most popular curries include chicken curry, dhal curry, and potato curry.
International Cuisine
In addition to traditional Sri Lankan food, Marawila also has several restaurants that offer international cuisine. Italian, Chinese, and Indian restaurants are all popular choices. In fact, you can find everything from pizza and pasta to noodles and dumplings.
Moreover, for those looking for a quick snack or street food, Marawila has plenty of options too. Street vendors sell everything from freshly made ‘roti’ to crispy fried snacks like ‘vadei‘ and samosas.
In general, Marawila’s food scene is diverse and delicious, with options for every palate and budget. Whether you are in the mood for traditional Sri Lankan cuisine or international flavors, you are sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds. So, you can come and explore the culinary delights of Marawila and enjoy the amazing food that this town has to offer.
The People of Marawila
One of the most memorable things about Marawila is its people. The locals here are friendly, welcoming, and always happy to help. They take pride in their village and are happy to share their traditions and culture with visitors.
Interacting with the locals is a great way to get a deeper understanding of the village’s way of life. So, one of the best ways to experience the hospitality of the locals is by staying in a homestay. Homestay are becoming increasingly popular in Sri Lanka, and Marawila has plenty of options to choose from. And why not? You can learn a bit of Sinhalese, and enjoy home-cooked meals while you enjoy a homestay.
So, after all, the people at Marawila are indeed another reason for you to visit this wonderful town!
The Bottom Line
Marawila may be a small village, but it has a lot to offer. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or a relaxed traveler, a visit to Marawila is an experience you will not soon forget. The golden shoes there, the rich culture, and the local lifestyle will assure you the best of your holiday. Besides, even the Sri Lankan Tourism Development Authority has paid attention to improving the facilities at Marawila furthermore. Therefore, Marawila is simply the perfect destination for your next holiday. Pack your bags and head to Marawila for a unique and unforgettable experience. Happy and safe traveling!
