Best Places to Visit in Puttalam | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Puttalam Travel Guide
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Welcome to Puttalam, a hidden gem located in the Northwestern Province of Sri Lanka. Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, this coastal town offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path travel experience. Puttalam is famous for its picturesque beaches, such as Kalpitiya and Marawila, where you can indulge in water sports like kiteboarding and snorkeling. The town is also home to the historic Dutch Fort, which dates back to the colonial era and provides a glimpse into Sri Lanka's colonial past. Additionally, Puttalam is renowned for its salt production, with vast salt pans stretching as far as the eye can see. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the bustling fish markets and witnessing the traditional fishing techniques used by the locals. With its diverse attractions and warm hospitality, Puttalam is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Sri Lankan experience.
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Best Places To Visit in Puttalam
Puttalam, Sri Lanka is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Located on the northwestern coast of Sri Lanka, this coastal town is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant fishing industry, and historical sites. The Kalpitiya Peninsula in Puttalam is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for kiteboarding, windsurfing, and snorkeling. The town is also home to the Wilpattu National Park, one of the largest and oldest national parks in Sri Lanka, where visitors can spot a wide range of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. Additionally, Puttalam boasts a rich cultural heritage, with ancient temples and mosques scattered throughout the town. The Puttalam Lagoon, a large saltwater lagoon, is another must-visit attraction, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for birdwatching. Overall, Puttalam is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and authentic Sri Lankan experience.
Hotels Map Of Puttalam
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Food & Drinks To Try In Puttalam
1. Puttalam Crab Curry: Puttalam is famous for its delicious crab curry, made with fresh crabs caught from the nearby lagoon. The curry is rich and flavorful, with a blend of spices and coconut milk.
2. Puttalam Prawn Curry: Another seafood delicacy in Puttalam is the prawn curry. The prawns are cooked in a spicy gravy made with aromatic spices and coconut milk, resulting in a mouthwatering dish.
3. Puttalam Fish Ambul Thiyal: Ambul Thiyal is a traditional Sri Lankan dish, and Puttalam is known for its version made with fresh fish. The fish is marinated in a mixture of spices and dried goraka (a sour fruit), then cooked until it becomes tender and tangy.
4. Puttalam Kool: Puttalam Kool is a unique dish that combines various seafood ingredients such as fish, prawns, and cuttlefish with coconut milk, tamarind, and spices. It is a hearty and flavorful soup-like dish that is popular among locals.
5. Puttalam Coconut Roti: Coconut roti is a popular Sri Lankan bread, and in Puttalam, it is made with freshly grated coconut. The roti is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a perfect accompaniment to curries or enjoyed on its own.
6. Puttalam Thalapa: Thalapa is a traditional sweet dish in Sri Lanka, and Puttalam is known for its version made with rice flour, coconut, and jaggery (a type of sugar). It is steamed and then cut into diamond-shaped pieces, resulting in a delicious and sweet treat.
7. Puttalam Toddy: Toddy is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from the sap of coconut trees. In Puttalam, you can try fresh toddy, which is collected from the trees and fermented naturally. It has a slightly sweet and sour taste and is a popular drink among locals.
8. Puttalam King Coconut Water: Puttalam is known for its abundance of king coconuts, which are larger and sweeter than regular coconuts. The water from these coconuts is refreshing and hydrating, making it a popular drink to quench your thirst in the tropical climate of Puttalam.
9. Puttalam Ceylon Tea: While Puttalam is not known for tea plantations like other regions in Sri Lanka, you can still enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea in the town. Many tea shops offer a variety of teas, including black, green, and herbal teas, allowing you to relax and savor the flavors.
10. Puttalam Woodapple Juice: Woodapple, also known as beli fruit, is a tropical fruit native to Sri Lanka. In Puttalam, you can try freshly squeezed woodapple juice, which has a unique sweet and tangy flavor. It is a refreshing and healthy drink option to try during your visit.
Best Time To Visit Puttalam
The best time to visit Puttalam, Sri Lanka is between November and February. During this period, the weather is pleasant and dry, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. This makes it ideal for exploring the beautiful beaches and engaging in water sports activities. Additionally, wildlife enthusiasts will also enjoy visiting during this time as it coincides with the migratory bird season in the nearby Wilpattu National Park. It is important to note that Puttalam experiences a monsoon season from May to September, which brings heavy rainfall and can disrupt travel plans. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid visiting during this period.
Flight Calendar For Puttalam
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Transportation To Puttalam
There are several transportation options to get to Puttalam, Sri Lanka.
1. By Air: The nearest international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Puttalam or hire a taxi or private car to reach your destination.
2. By Train: Puttalam is well-connected by train services. You can take a train from Colombo Fort Railway Station to Puttalam Railway Station. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the train.
3. By Bus: There are regular bus services from Colombo and other major cities to Puttalam. You can take a bus from Colombo Central Bus Stand or other bus terminals to reach Puttalam. The journey duration may vary depending on the traffic conditions.
4. By Taxi or Private Car: You can hire a taxi or private car from Colombo or other cities to reach Puttalam. This option provides flexibility and convenience, especially if you have a lot of luggage or prefer a more comfortable journey.
It is recommended to check the schedules and availability of transportation options before your trip to ensure a smooth journey to Puttalam, Sri Lanka.