Matara Fort Travel Guide

Free Guide: Experience the mesmerizing blend of history and nature at Matara Fort, a jewel of Sri Lanka's colonial past with stunning ocean views.

A brief summary of Matara Fort

Experience the mesmerizing blend of history and nature at Matara Fort, a jewel of Sri Lanka's colonial past with stunning ocean views.

Matara Fort is a captivating historical landmark that offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's colonial past. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, visitors can explore its ancient walls, stunning architecture, and picturesque views, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

4.3 Very good · 427 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Every dayOpen 24 hours

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
WGVX+P8R, Matara
Phone

Getting there

Car

If you are traveling by car, head towards Matara from your location in Ruhuna. Use Google Maps or any GPS navigation system and enter 'Matara Fort'. You will be traveling on the A2 highway. As you near Matara, look for signs directing you towards the city center. Once you reach Matara, follow the main road towards the coast. The fort is located at WGVX+P8R, Matara. There is parking available near the fort, but it can be limited during peak tourist seasons.

Public Bus

To reach Matara Fort by public transportation, take a bus from your nearest bus station that heads towards Matara. Buses are frequent and relatively inexpensive, costing around 50-100 LKR depending on your starting point. Ask the bus conductor to alert you when you reach Matara. Once you arrive at the Matara bus station, you can either walk to the fort, which is about a 15-minute walk, or take a tuk-tuk for approximately 100-200 LKR. Just show them the address 'WGVX+P8R, Matara' for easy navigation.

Tuk-Tuk

If you prefer a more direct route, you can also hire a tuk-tuk to take you from your location in Ruhuna directly to Matara Fort. Negotiate the fare upfront; it may cost around 1000-1500 LKR depending on the distance. The driver will likely know the way to Matara Fort by the address 'WGVX+P8R, Matara'. This is a convenient option, especially if you are traveling in a group.

Discover more about Matara Fort

Overview

Matara Fort, an iconic historical landmark, stands as a testament to Sri Lanka's rich colonial history. Nestled along the southern coast of the island, this fort was originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch, showcasing a blend of architectural styles that reflect the influence of different colonial powers. Visitors can wander through its well-preserved walls, which offer breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, making it an ideal spot for photography and contemplation.As you explore Matara Fort, you will encounter various structures within the fortifications, including the old Dutch Reformed Church, which features intricate designs and a serene atmosphere. The fort also houses a lighthouse that adds to its charm and provides stunning panoramic views of the coastline. The surrounding area is vibrant with local shops and eateries, offering visitors a taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and culture. The fort is not just a historical site; it is a living part of the community, where locals gather and celebrate their heritage.For those interested in history and architecture, Matara Fort is a captivating destination that tells stories of resilience and cultural exchange. Whether you are strolling through its narrow paths or relaxing by the ocean, this fort invites you to immerse yourself in its historical narrative and enjoy the picturesque scenery that surrounds it.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Explore Matara Fort on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Matara Fort, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Matara Fort, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near Matara Fort

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

Ruhuna
More of the region

Explore more of Ruhuna

Discover Ruhuna: Where Sri Lanka's wildlife, history, and coastal beauty converge in a captivating blend of natural and cultural wonders.

Explore Ruhuna
Sri Lanka
More of the country

Explore more of Sri Lanka

Discover Sri Lanka: Rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality await you in this tropical paradise. Explore ancient cities, wildlife, tea plantations, and pristine beaches.

Explore Sri Lanka
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Ruhuna, Sri Lanka

Discover the wonders of Ruhuna with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, restaurants, hotels, tours, and more.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Plan your perfect trip to Ruhuna, Sri Lanka with Evendo. Explore top attractions, local tips, and book experiences all in one place. Download now for free!

  • History of Ruhuna and essential travel tips
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near Me' feature
  • Curated local advice for an authentic experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs
  • Global coverage with information on 7,000+ destinations worldwide

Welcome to Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, a land brimming with cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant local experiences. Make the most of your visit with Evendo, the ultimate app-based travel guide that puts everything you need at your fingertips. Whether you're planning to explore the sacred Kataragama Temple, take a safari in Yala National Park, or relax on the pristine beaches of Tangalle, Evendo has got you covered.

Discover detailed information about all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities in Ruhuna. With rich descriptions, stunning images, local tips, maps, and contact details, planning and organizing your trip has never been easier. No more hassle of searching for what to see, do, and experience—Evendo provides it all in one convenient place.

Fancy a culinary adventure? Explore top dining spots like the Oceanfront Restaurant and the Ruhuna Beach Café. Looking for nightlife? Check out the vibrant bars and nightclubs around the city. Plus, with our easy booking features, you can reserve hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app.

Evendo also includes unique features such as the history of Ruhuna, essential travel tips, easy navigation, a 'Near Me' feature to discover nearby attractions, and curated local advice to help you experience the city like a local. And the best part? It's 100% free. No in-app purchases or hidden costs—just pure travel bliss.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.