Matara City

Matara is a major city in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. It's known for its beautiful coastal scenery, historical significance, and cultural heritage. The city is located about 160 kilometers south of Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. Matara has a rich history, with colonial influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, and it's home to several historical landmarks, such as the Matara Fort and the Star Fort.

Things to do in Matara

Polhena Beach

Polhena Beach, located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka near Matara, is a charming destination known for its calm waters, laid-back atmosphere, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. This beach offers a relaxed vibe with a mix of natural beauty and local culture.

Calm and Shallow Waters

Polhena Beach features calm, shallow waters, making it ideal for swimming and safe for families. The gentle waves and clear waters offer a serene environment for relaxation and beachside activities.

Snorkeling

The beach is known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. The nearby coral reefs are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and sea turtles. Several local operators offer snorkeling tours and equipment rentals.

Local Culture and Attractions

Polhena Beach and its surroundings offer a glimpse into local Sri Lankan culture:

Matara Fort: A historic fort located a short drive from the beach, offering insights into the region’s colonial history and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Local Markets: Explore nearby markets to experience local life and sample fresh produce, spices, and traditional Sri Lankan snacks.
Stilt Fishing: Witness traditional stilt fishing along the coast, where local fishermen use wooden stilts to catch fish in shallow waters.

Local Cuisine

The Polhena Beach area offers a range of dining options, including beachfront cafes and local restaurants. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes such as grilled fish, crab curry, and prawn dishes, as well as other local and international cuisine.

Accommodation

Accommodation options near Polhena Beach include a variety of hotels, guesthouses, and boutique resorts. Many places offer beachfront views, direct access to the beach, and amenities such as swimming pools and restaurants.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Polhena Beach is from November to April, when the weather is sunny and dry, providing ideal conditions for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the local attractions. The monsoon season, from May to October, can bring rain and rougher sea conditions.

About Matara District

Matara District, located in Sri Lanka's Southern Province, is renowned for its coastal beauty, rich history, and thriving local culture. Bordered by the Indian Ocean, it features stunning beaches like Polhena and Mirissa, which are popular for swimming and whale watching. The district's economy is driven by agriculture, particularly coconut and tea cultivation, as well as fishing. Historical landmarks such as Matara Fort and the Dondra Head Lighthouse highlight the area's colonial past. With its mix of natural attractions and cultural heritage, Matara District is a captivating destination for both locals and tourists.

About Southern Province

The Southern Province of Sri Lanka is a small geographic area consisting of the districts of Galle,Matara and Hambantota. Subsistence farming and fishing is the main source of income for the vast majority of the people of this region.

Important landmarks of the Southern Province include the wildlife sanctuaries of the Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, the holy city of Kataragama, and the ancient cities of Tissamaharama, Kirinda and Galle. (Although Galle is an ancient city, almost nothing survives from before the Portuguese invasion.) During the Portuguese period there were two famous Sinhalese poets called Andare who was from Dickwella and Gajaman Nona who was from Denipitiya in Matara District, composing poems on common man.

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