Day Trips From Colombo: 10 Best One-Day Trips
The best day trips from Colombo: Galle Fort, Bentota, Kitulgala rafting, Kandy, Negombo, Kalutara and more, with drive times and tips for one-day trips.
Travel guide
Places to Visit in Matara: 10 Best Sights
By the Vacations Ceylon Tours team · Last updated: 23 October 2026
Quick answer
The best places to visit in Matara are:
- the Dutch Star Fort;
- the Paravi Duwa island temple, reached by a footbridge;
- Polhena beach for reef snorkelling;
- Dondra Head lighthouse, near Sri Lanka's southernmost point;
- the underground Weherahena temple.
Mirissa and Hiriketiya are both close by.
Places to visit in Matara at a glance
| # | Place | Why go |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Star Fort | A small Dutch star-shaped fort |
| 2 | Matara Fort and ramparts | Colonial walls by the river |
| 3 | Paravi Duwa temple | An island temple reached by a bridge |
| 4 | Polhena beach | Shallow reef, snorkelling, turtles |
| 5 | Dondra Head lighthouse | Near the southernmost point |
| 6 | Weherahena temple | Underground tunnels and a giant Buddha |
| 7 | Matara Bodhiya | A sacred Bo tree |
| 8 | Nilwala River | Riverside views |
| 9 | Mirissa | Whales and beaches, 15 minutes away |
| 10 | Hiriketiya | Surf bay, about 30 minutes away |
Tips
- Visit Polhena in calm weather, roughly November to April.
- Dress modestly at temples.
- Matara makes an easy stop between Mirissa and Tangalle.
Add it to your Sri Lanka beach holidays.
Drive times and conditions are approximate. Prices are a personal quote based on your dates, group size and hotels.
Frequently asked questions
What is Matara famous for?
Its Dutch forts, the Paravi Duwa temple and Polhena beach.
Is Polhena good for snorkelling?
Yes, in calm conditions.
How far is Matara from Mirissa?
About 15 minutes.
Is Matara worth a stop?
Yes, as a half-day stop on the south coast.
Part of our guide
This article is part of our Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka.
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