Kalpitiya Tourism (2024) - Sri Lanka > Top Places, Travel Guide

Kalpitiya Travel Essentials

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Ideal duration: 1 - 2 Days

Best Time: April to October Read More

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Also Refered As:

Arasadi, Calpetyn

"Peninsula of untold mysteries!"

Kalpitiya Tourism

Kalpitiya is a town surrounded by natural spaces and beaches. Kalpitiya covers a total area of 16.73 km²; the city has 14 islands with the main ones being Battalangunduwa, Palliyawatta, Uchchamunai, Periya Arichchalai, and Kakativu etc. Kalpitiya is one of the upcoming tourist destinations within Sri Lanka, providing activities such as kite surfing, surfing, and whale watching etc.

The town is home to fishermen living within the natural habitat of the sea. The name of the city also has a long history of etymology as it is derived from the Tamil word ‘Kal’ and ‘Pattu’ meaning stone and elevation. The town was previously known as Arasadi, and during the colonial era, it was popularly known as Calpentyn. Kalpitiya is, therefore, the destination of dreams for those who enjoy long walks, beaches, beautiful sunset views and finally the adventure activities!

Kalpitiya Beach

Wilpattu National Park

Dutch Fort

Kitesurfing in Kalpitiya

Dolphin and Whale Watching

Kudawa Beach

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History of Kalpitiya

The Portuguese invaders initially colonised the city during the 17th Century. However, with the Dutch arriving at the peninsula resulted in the detachment of Portuguese colonisation. The Dutch supposedly created a military garrison at the Northern end of the town; the town is also said to be influenced with activities like smuggling and maritime trade since before its invasion according to some earlier records. After the colonial era ended the Dutch fort and the Portuguese church built by the colonials remain today. The Portuguese heritage also is rekindled in a festival At St Anne’s Church at Talawila. Thus the history of Kalpitiya is filled with colonisation and trading.

Adventure in Kalpitiya

Since the town of Kalpitiya consists of 14 islands, activities’ relating to the fantastic beaches famous for its spectacular sunsets is also quite growing as a destination for surfing, kite surfing, and windsurfing. Also, the place is now developing as a dolphin and whale watching area around the western seas. Along with this, snorkelling is also available around the northern side of the lagoon. The proper town is about 5 kms away from the beach area. Though the road is a pathway through the marshes, some tuk-tuk drivers may give you a lift for a price.

Controversy of 'land grab' in Kalpitiya

Kalpitiya was one of the 15 sites for the improvement of the tourism industry in Sri Lanka as a strategic move to boost the tourism industry and the country’s revenue. The government acquired around 4000 acres of land with the project’s initiation around 2004. However, 1000 acres of land accounting around 25 per cent of the Kalpitiya peninsula has been allegedly grabbed from 2500 families and have begun the construction of resorts and hotels in the area. Also in the year 2009, alleged scams revolving around land grabs for business sites to capitalise the town have been reported.

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Kalpitiya Photos

Tourists enjoying the beautiful grounds of Dutch Fort situated in Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka

The mesmerising display of dolphin jumping in the ocean waters of Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka

A tourist having the time of his life while kitesurfing in Kalpitiya, Sri, Lanka

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FAQs on Kalpitiya

What is the best time to visit Kalpitiya?

The humidity surrounding the town is constant. However, the wind is generally good throughout the seasons, providing a right spot near the Kalpitiya lagoon for wind and kite surfing, which are the primary activities on the Kalpitiya peninsula. A developing tourist destination, the beach town is best accessible during April to October as the winds are persistent and allow the tourists to enjoy the beaches and the surfing as there is almost a low chance of rainfall. The annual temperature during this season approximately varies around 33.4 degree Celsius to dropping around 27.3 degree Celsius. The wind usually is calm, with the average speed wind in June and July around 7 knots, which is essentially a tender gust. Thus, one can plan their trips accordingly during these months to enjoy the time of your life!
Kalpitiya proves to be a fantastic addition to the already amazing Sri Lanka, adding a zing of adventures and new found experiences, Kalpitiya has it all! Thus, this deserves a must visit!
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What are the places near Kalpitiya?

The top places near to Kalpitiya are Anuradhapura which is 71 km from Kalpitiya, Colombo which is located 145 km from Kalpitiya, Kandy which is located 142 km from Kalpitiya, Nuwara eliya which is located 182 km from Kalpitiya, Sigiriya which is located 114 km from Kalpitiya

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Kalpitiya Travel Essentials