Matara - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Matara

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Matara, 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 Matara 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 Matara, 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 Matara for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Matara

Matara is a coastal city located in the southern province of Sri Lanka. It is the fourth largest urban area in the province and has a population of approximately 75,000 people. Matara is famous for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and cultural festivals. The city is also known as a popular destination for surfing and other water sports. The climate in Matara is tropical, with temperatures ranging from 24-32°C throughout the year. The best time to visit is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny.

What to visit in Matara

Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Matara, Sri Lanka: 1. Matara Fort - Built in the 16th century by Portuguese colonizers, this fort overlooks the Indian Ocean and is a popular site for watching the sunset.
2. Weherahena Temple - Also known as the "Mawrakala Temple," this temple is famous for its underground tunnels and is home to the largest sitting Buddha statue in the country.
3. Parey Dewa National Park - This forest reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants and leopards, and is a great place for hiking and birdwatching.
4. Mirissa Beach - A beautiful palm-lined beach with crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming and surfing. You can also take a boat tour from here to see blue whales and dolphins.
5. Dondra Lighthouse - This historic lighthouse was built in the 19th century and is the tallest lighthouse in Sri Lanka. It offers sweeping views of the ocean and surrounding countryside.
6. Polhena Beach - A popular spot for snorkeling and diving, this beach has a protected coral reef and is home to a variety of colorful fish.
7. Ruhunu Coral Sanctuary - Located in the shallow waters of Unawatuna beach, this coral sanctuary is home to a rich variety of marine life and is a great spot for snorkeling.
8. Provincial Natural Resources Management Centre - This museum showcases the natural history of Sri Lanka's southern region and is home to a variety of fossils, minerals and plant specimens.
9. Devinuwara Temple - This ancient temple complex is home to a series of beautifully preserved frescoes and is considered one of the most important religious sites in Sri Lanka.
10. Star Fort - Built by the Dutch in the 17th century, this fort is a remnant of Sri Lanka's colonial history and offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding countryside.
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 Matara

The best time to visit Matara in Sri Lanka is from December to March when the weather is generally dry, sunny and warm. The monsoon season in Matara is from May to October, so it is best to avoid these months if you want to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city. However, if you don't mind the occasional rain, you can still visit Matara during the monsoon season as the landscape is often more lush and green during this time. It is also worth noting that the temperature in Matara remains fairly constant throughout the year, with highs ranging from 28°C to 32°C and lows ranging from 23°C to 26°C.

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

How to get to Matara

Matara is a city located in the southern province of Sri Lanka. Here are the options of getting there: 1. By Train: The most popular way to get to Matara is by train. The coastal railway line offers scenic views of the countryside, beaches and towns along the way. Trains from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Matara run several times a day and take around 3 to 4 hours. 2. By Bus: Buses are also a common mode of transport in Sri Lanka. Matara can be easily accessed by bus from most major cities on the island. The journey can take around 3 to 4 hours depending on the traffic.
3. By Taxi: Taxis are also available for hire to Matara, especially from Colombo. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on the traffic. 4. By Private Vehicle: It's possible to rent a car in Sri Lanka and drive to Matara. This option allows for more freedom to stop along the way and explore the countryside. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on the traffic.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Matara, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Matara

Matara is known for its delicious Sri Lankan cuisine, which features a variety of flavorful dishes. Here are some typical foods of Matara, with a brief description of each: 1. Parippu (Dhal curry) - A spicy lentil curry made with red lentils, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices. It is typically served with rice and other curries.
2. Pol roti - A type of round, flat bread made from wheat flour and grated coconut. It is usually served with sambol, a spicy coconut chutney.
3. Kiribath - A traditional Sri Lankan dish made from rice and coconut milk. It is often served as a breakfast dish or as part of a celebratory meal.
4. Kottu Roti - A popular street food in Sri Lanka, made by chopping up roti bread into small pieces and stir-frying it with vegetables, meat or eggs, and a variety of flavorful spices.
5. Ambulthiyal - A tangy and spicy fish curry made with tamarind, cinnamon, and other spices. It is cooked in a clay pot over a low flame for several hours, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish.
6. Watalappan - A creamy and sweet dessert made from coconut milk, jaggery, and spices such as cardamom and cinnamon. It is typically served in small cups and topped with toasted cashews or almonds.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Matara an expensive destination for tourists?

Matara is generally considered an affordable destination for tourists, especially compared to other popular destinations in Sri Lanka. The cost of living in Matara is lower than in larger cities like Colombo, which makes things like accommodation, food, and transportation more affordable. That being said, prices can vary depending on your travel style, the time of year you visit, and the location of your accommodation. Some tourist attractions in Matara may have prices for entry or activities, so it's always a good idea to do some research beforehand to have an idea of costs. Overall, Matara can be a budget-friendly destination for tourists.

Where to find accomodation in Matara

Matara is a city located in the southern province of Sri Lanka. The best areas to find accommodation in Matara are: 1. Matara City Center: This area is the most convenient place to stay if you prefer staying in the city and have easy access to local amenities.
2. Mirissa: Mirissa is a nearby coastal town known for its beautiful beach and surf spots. It is an ideal location if you want to relax by the beach and explore the local fishing village.
3. Polhena: Polhena is a small town located west of Matara. The town's main attraction is its beautiful sandy beach, which is perfect for snorkeling.
4. Weligama: Weligama is a coastal town situated a few kilometers northwest of Matara. It is famous for its surfing spots and is ideal if you're looking for an active vacation. Overall, Matara provides many options to explore and relax, and you can choose the most convenient location depending on your travel preferences.
You can check hotel prices at Matara here:
Booking.com

Is Matara a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Matara is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's always wise to take basic safety precautions, such as staying aware of your surroundings, not carrying large sums of money or valuables in public, and always being careful when traveling at night. It's also a good idea to follow the local customs and be respectful of the local culture. Overall, Matara is a peaceful and welcoming place for travelers, so with a little common sense and preparation, you should have a great experience.
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 Matara.

What type of travelers will enjoy Matara the most?

Matara, Sri Lanka is a perfect destination for all types of travelers ranging from couples, young people looking for fun to families. Here are some specific reasons why each group would enjoy Matara: Couples: Matara offers a beautiful and romantic atmosphere, with its stunning beaches, warm weather, and fantastic sunsets. There are plenty of opportunities for couples to take long walks on the beach, relax under the sun or get adventurous with various water sports options. Young people looking for fun: Matara also due to its coastline, offers several water activities such as diving, surfing, and boating, which are all excellent options for fun and adventure. The city also has a lively nightlife scene with various bars and clubs available.
Families: Matara has a unique culture and history, from ancient ruins to local handicraft markets that the whole family can enjoy. Additionally, the beaches are perfect for children to swim, build sandcastles and take part in beach activities. Also, there are many eateries that cater to families with a variety of cuisines on offer. Overall, Matara can bring joy and fun to anyone who visits, regardless of their ages or traveling purposes.

How to get around Matara

In Matara, Sri Lanka, the most common modes of transportation are buses, tuk-tuks, and taxis. Buses are the cheapest option and usually operate along set routes. Tuk-tuks are popular for shorter journeys and can be hailed from the side of the road. Taxis are widely available and can be booked in advance or hailed on the street. It's also possible to rent a car or motorbike to explore the surrounding area.

What to see around Matara

There are many beautiful places that can be visited on a day trip from Matara, Sri Lanka. Here are some suggestions: 1. Mirissa Beach - A beautiful beach located about 9 kilometers away from Matara.
2. Dondra Head Lighthouse - The southernmost point in Sri Lanka with stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
3. Polhena Beach - A picturesque beach with clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
4. Weherahena Temple - A Buddhist temple located on a picturesque hill overlooking the Indian Ocean.
5. Kanneliya Forest Reserve - A tropical rainforest with several species of plants, animals, and birds.
6. Handunugoda Tea Estate - A fascinating tea estate that produces the famous "Virgin White Tea" in Sri Lanka.
7. Wewurukannala Vihara - A Buddhist temple known for its massive statue of the seated Buddha and a unique museum with skeletons of whales.
8. Whale Watching in Mirissa - Spotting giant whales and dolphins off the coast of Mirissa is a popular tourist attraction.
These are just a few of the many wonderful places you can explore on a day trip from Matara, Sri Lanka.
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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