A good place to visit and experience the Dutch architecture !
In recent times Sri Lanka is well known as a paradise for tourists. But have you ever thought which the first tourist attraction of this splendid island was. It was Kalpitiya which became first tourism location with the arrival of"Â Iban Bathutha" centuries ago.Â
The lagoon and Kalpitiya beach are the most significant tourist attractions for nature lovers, which can be seen in the area. Kalpitiya beach is also considered as one of the most beauteous beaches in Sri Lanka (or even in the world). That’s why Manjula Wediwardane has penned such a gorgeous description on Kalpitiya beach in his famous novel ‘Battalangunduwa’.Â
Kalpitiya lagoon consists of more than 14 islands, out of which Battalangunduwa is a significant one. Some of these islands are inhibited by humans while several others are isolated completely. But few of these islands are used for various purposes, only in a certain period of the year. In most of these islands you will be able to see the heavy growth of mangrove, as the soil contains all the necessary qualities for its growth. Due to these mangroves migrant birds can be seen all over the area during the migrating season.Â
There’s a coral reef beneath the sea of Kalpitiya, by which few of the islands have been created. According to scientists this reef is inhibited by various sea creatures including ‘sea pigs’, which gives the reef a high extent of bio diversity.Â
You will have a chance to go on a boat trip from Kaththakudiya in Kalpitiya, to see ''DOLPHINS''. It said that Kalpitiya Sea is the best area to see dolphins in Sri Lanka (as the deep sea is much nearer to the coast than any other location).Â
Kalpitiya is also enriched by several sites with an archaeological value.Â
The Dutch fortress is one such an important place, which was built by Dutch rulers in 1600s. Dutch church, Rose Bank and Koodu palliya (another church) are among other famous Dutch buildings, which reveal the Sri Lankan history. The ‘Allirani palace ‘in Kalpitiya is considered as a building created to memorize Kuweni’s sister.Â
Kalpitiya is also very famous for crabs and prawns as well as dried fish which consist of special qualities and a taste. Drying fish is an industry widely spread among the inhabitants too. (They use a special method during the process).Â
So it is worth while to go on a trip to Kalpitiya during your next vacation as it gives you a bunch of experiences on various subjects, which you won’t have from anywhere else in the country
Kalpitiya was known by the ancient Tamils as Kav Putti and was a popular hub for Arab merchants. In 1544 the Portuguese invaded the area, naming the area Kardiv Island. The King of Portugal bestowing the territory to the Jesuits, who built a chapel here,[1] established a small garrison to defend it. In an effort to free the port from the Portuguese the King of Kandy, King Rasjasinha II, sought assistance from the Dutch, who in 1659 conquered the area but did not return it to the King. Instead, they commenced construction of a fort in 1667, which was completed in 1676. Kalpitiya was strategically important for the Dutch East India Company (VOC), as it enabled them to control the external trade of the Kingdom of Kandy, by controlling the large Muslim trading community in the area.
Good but haven't places also..
Another historical fort around Sri Lanka build by Dutch. Currently this fort is a naval Base. You have to get a pass from the office. Then they will escort you around the fort. It's very simple procedure. You should visit this place if you are stay in kalpitiya.
historic place navy will make one tour and explain the history of the Ford
Far heritage of sri lankan history shows here in dutch fort.very famous among school children's.
Very interesting place from the days when Dutch were in Sri Lanka. Most probably a Sri Lanka Navy personal will take the visitors around the port and explain all about the port. Must visit the nearby Church at the same time which is part of the Port complex.
A Most historical place in kalpitiya area. It was built by Dutch people in 1666. And they have spent 10 years to complete the construction. Now this fort under SL Navy supervision. Nothing much to see but could see the ruined building.
Do not wast time for visit here, nothing to see much things
Ancient placewith navy camp
Awesome place to visit & learn
This fort is awesome
Good place
Nice
This fort is not damaged. If you want to go inside, you have to consult with Navy. They would give guide.