Chilaw - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Chilaw

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Chilaw, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Chilaw and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Chilaw, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Chilaw for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Chilaw

Chilaw is a city situated in the North Western Province of Sri Lanka. It is located about 80 kilometers from the capital city of Colombo, and is known for its attractive beach, St. Anne's Church, and the famous Munneswaram temple. It is a popular tourist destination, particularly during the summer months, and is a great place to enjoy Sri Lanka's culture and traditions. The city is also known for its crab farming, and visitors can enjoy some delicious seafood during their stay.

What to visit in Chilaw

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Chilaw, Sri Lanka with some information about each: 1. Munneswaram Temple: This Hindu temple is one of the five ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated in Munneswaram, about 7 km from Chilaw. It is believed to be built in the 10th century and attracts many devotees from all over the world, especially during the annual festival.
2. St. Anne's Church: This is a famous Catholic church in Talawila which is about 12 km from Chilaw. The church has a history dating back to 1852 and is famous for its annual feast which attracts thousands of devotees.
3. Madu Ganga: The Madu River flows through the town of Balapitiya, which is about 23 km from Chilaw. A boat ride through the mangrove forests along the river is a popular activity for tourists. The Madu River is also home to many species of birds, fish, and other animals.
4. Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary: This bird sanctuary is located about 10 km from Chilaw and is a haven for bird-watchers. The sanctuary is home to many species of birds, including some rare ones like the purple heron and storks.
5. Fish Market: Chilaw is known for its seafood, and the fish market is a popular spot for tourists to visit. You can see a wide variety of fresh seafood being sold here, including different types of fish, crabs, prawns, and lobsters.
6. Munawwar Mosque: This mosque is located in the heart of Chilaw town and is an important landmark for Muslims in the area.
7. Marawila Beach: This is a beautiful beach located about 15 km from Chilaw and is a popular destination for tourists. The beach has white sands and clear blue waters, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Chilaw

The best time to visit Chilaw, Sri Lanka is from December to March. During this period, the weather is dry, with little to no rain, and the temperature is relatively mild, with an average high of around 30°C. If you're interested in seeing the annual Chilaw Mariamman Temple festival, which takes place in late July or early August, you may want to consider visiting during that time. However, be aware that the weather during the festival can be hot and humid, with occasional rain showers.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Chilaw

Chilaw is a coastal town located in the northwestern province of Sri Lanka. If you are travelling by air, the nearest airport to Chilaw is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Chilaw, which is about 70km further north.
If you are already in Sri Lanka, you can travel to Chilaw by train, which is an affordable and scenic option. There are regular trains from Colombo Fort station to Chilaw, with the journey taking approximately 2-3 hours.
Another option is to take a bus from Colombo to Chilaw, which is also an affordable option. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours depending on traffic. There are also buses from other cities such as Negombo, Kandy, and Kurunegala that go to Chilaw.
If you prefer to travel by car, you can hire a taxi or rent a car from various places in Sri Lanka. The drive from Colombo to Chilaw takes for about 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Chilaw, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Chilaw

Chilaw, a town located in the northwestern province of Sri Lanka, is known for its delicious seafood and unique cuisine. Here are some of the typical foods of Chilaw with a short description for each: 1. Chilaw Crab Curry: This is a popular seafood dish that is made with fresh crabs cooked in a spicy curry sauce with coconut milk and a blend of local spices. It is often served with white rice and bread.
2. Prawn Curry: Another seafood dish that is popular in Chilaw, prawn curry is made with fresh prawns cooked in a flavorful coconut milk-based curry sauce.
3. Cuttlefish Curry: Cuttlefish is a lesser-known seafood, but it is quite common in Chilaw. Cuttlefish Curry is a spicy and flavorful curry made with cuttlefish pieces, coconut milk, and a blend of local spices.
4. Fish Ambulthiyal: This is a traditional Sri Lankan dish made with tuna fish cooked in a tangy and spicy sauce made with tamarind, black pepper, and other spices.
5. Kottu Roti: Kottu Roti is a popular street food in Sri Lanka made with shredded flatbread cooked with vegetables, eggs, and/or meat. It is often served with a spicy gravy on the side.
6. String Hoppers: String Hoppers are a traditional breakfast dish made with steamed rice flour noodles. They are served with a variety of curries, including chicken, fish, and vegetable curries.
7. Wattalappam: This is a dessert made with coconut milk, eggs, jaggery (a type of sugar), and spices. It is somewhat similar to flan and has a creamy texture and rich, caramel-like flavor.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Chilaw an expensive destination for tourists?

Chilaw is not considered an expensive destination for tourists in Sri Lanka. It is a small town located in the Western Province of Sri Lanka, known primarily for its beautiful beaches and fishing industry. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation in Chilaw is relatively affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, such as Colombo or Galle. However, the prices may vary depending on the season and the type of accommodation or activities you choose. Overall, Chilaw can be an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers looking for a tranquil beach getaway.

Where to find accomodation in Chilaw

In Chilaw, the best areas to find accommodation are the city center, the Chilaw beach area, and the Marawila town area. These areas provide easy access to the major attractions of the city and offer a range of accommodation options for all budgets, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels and resorts.
You can check hotel prices at Chilaw here:
Booking.com

Is Chilaw a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Chilaw is generally a safe place for tourists in Sri Lanka. However, like any other city, it is important to take normal precautions such as avoiding unlit or isolated areas at night, staying in groups, not leaving your belongings unattended and being aware of your surroundings. It is always a good idea to stay informed about the current situation in the area and follow any safety advisories or warnings issued by the local authorities or your embassy.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Chilaw.

What type of travelers will enjoy Chilaw the most?

Chilaw in Sri Lanka is a great place for families and couples who are looking for a relaxing beach vacation. The beaches in Chilaw are pristine and clean, perfect for long walks and taking a dip in the ocean. The town also has a rich cultural and religious heritage, which makes it a great destination for those interested in exploring Sri Lankan culture. While Chilaw may not have the same nightlife scene as some of the busier beach destinations in Sri Lanka, there are still plenty of options for young people who want to have fun. There are local bars and restaurants where you can try Sri Lankan cuisine and meet locals who are friendly and welcoming. Overall, Chilaw is a great destination for anyone who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and enjoy some peace and tranquility in a beautiful destination.

How to get around Chilaw

In Chilaw, Sri Lanka, you can use various modes of transportation to move around depending on the distance and purpose. Tuk-tuks are the most common and convenient mode of transport to move around the town or nearby areas. For longer distances, buses or private taxis can be used. Boats can also be used for travel along the coastal areas or for visiting nearby islands. Additionally, bicycles and motorcycles can be rented for personal transport.

What to see around Chilaw

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Chilaw, Sri Lanka: 1. Negombo: A coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, colonial-style architecture, and seafood.
2. Anuradhapura: An ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its rich Buddhist history and impressive ruins.
3. Wilpattu National Park: A wildlife sanctuary with diverse flora and fauna, including leopards, elephants, deer, and birds.
4. Kalpitiya: A town on the western coast of Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches and great opportunities for water sports like kite surfing and windsurfing.
5. Muthurajawela Marsh: A wetland conservation area that is home to a variety of bird species, reptiles, and mammals. 6. Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: A sanctuary for orphaned and injured elephants, where visitors can watch them being bathed and fed.
7. Sigiriya: A UNESCO World Heritage site that houses a massive rock fortress built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century AD. 8. Kandy: The cultural capital of Sri Lanka and home to the Sacred Tooth Relic, a revered Buddhist relic housed in the Temple of the Tooth. I hope you find these suggestions helpful!
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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