Things You Must Do With Your Friends In Chilaw
Planning a trip with your friends in Sri Lanka might be exhausting, especially when you have to decide which town to explore! If you’re looking for one that’s closer to the commercial hub of Colombo, yet away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular cities, Chilaw is your best bet. Located in the Puttalam District, this town has a mix of history, culture, wildlife and to top it all off– beautiful beaches! Chilaw is a great place to base your journey around the west and north-west coast of the island, and you and the your closest pals are sure to enjoy your holiday here.
Dolphin and Whale Watching
Kalpitiya is the country’s premier dolphin and whale watching destination on the west coast, and it takes about an hour and a half to get there from Chilaw. The season for whale watching is from mid-October till the end of March as this is when the sea is at its calmest and the warm waters attract migratory whales. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime experience as you and your friends will be a few feet away from these magnificent creatures. Wake up early and head to the beach as you set sail to the depths in search of the giants of the sea.
Read our guide for everything you need to know about a whale watching trip.
Wilpattu National Park
Wilpattu National Park is Sri Lanka’s largest (and one of its oldest) national parks, it is only a two-hour drive from Chilaw, which makes for a great half-day excursion! If you’re not sure of how to get there, ask your hotel to help you plan the trip! They’ll even arrange the safari jeep and a naturalist to escort you into the park. You should definitely go on a wildlife safari during your holiday with your friends. Wilpattu National Park thrives in endemic flora and fauna and is a popular place to spot leopards, deer, and maybe been the shy leopard! Just keep in mind that loud noises will scare the animals away, so save your karaoke sessions for the drive back to the hotel. Here are some of the other nature reserves you must visit.
Munneswaram Temple
Munneswaram Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Sri Lanka which has roots dating back to 1000 CE. The temple is one of the five ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Munneswaram Temple hosts extravagant celebrations for the Maha Shivaratri and Navarathri festivals. Before visiting the temple, make sure the group is properly attired – shoulders and knees must be covered, and footwear should be left in your vehicle or at the entrance of the temple. Did you know that this temple is also part of the Ramayana Trail?
Madhu Church
Madhu Church is one of the country’s oldest shrines and has been a holy site for the past 400 years. Over the years, the church has grown in importance with most of the Catholic community, who make the pilgrimage at least once a year to Madhu Church, especially during August for the feast of Madhu. If you’re not a fan of the large crowds, it’s best advised that you avoid the church during the feast.
Muthurajawela Marsh
The name Muthurajawela translates to ‘Swamp of Royal Treasure’ and this is exactly what this marshland is! Muthruajawela Marsh is a fantastic activity to do with your friends, go on a boat safari along its murky waters and encounter some exciting wildlife such as birds, monitor lizards, crocodiles and even pythons.
