Beruwala is a coastal town in the Kalutara District of Sri Lanka’s Western Province, renowned for its golden beaches, rich history, and multicultural charm. As one of the country’s oldest recorded Muslim settlements, Beruwala is home to the historic Kechnap Mosque (Masjid-ul-Abrar), believed to date back to the 10th century. The town thrives on tourism, fishing, and gem trading, attracting both local and international visitors. Its scenic Beruwala Beach and nearby Bentota River offer opportunities for water sports, boat rides, and tranquil seaside relaxation. Beruwala also hosts a vibrant fish market and a bustling harbour that reflects its strong maritime culture. The community is a blend of Sinhalese, Muslims, and Tamils, living in harmony and celebrating festivals such as Ramadan, Vesak, and the Sinhala and Tamil New Year with equal enthusiasm. With easy access via the Southern Expressway and the coastal railway line, Beruwala serves as a vibrant gateway to Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, blending culture, leisure, and seaside charm.
Total Population
174,967
GN Divisions
82
Beruwala: Gateway to the Southern Coast and Maritime Heritage
A Coastal Town of History, Culture, and Commerce
Nestled along Sri Lanka’s Western Province shoreline, Beruwala is a vibrant coastal town where golden beaches meet centuries-old history. Located about 60 km south of Colombo and just 5 km from Aluthgama, it is celebrated as one of the island’s first Muslim settlements and a key destination for beach lovers, traders, and cultural explorers alike.
A Hub of Fishing, Trade, and Tourism
Beruwala’s economy is anchored in fishing, tourism, and trade. Its bustling fishing harbour is a lifeline for the community, with fresh catches fueling both local consumption and markets across the island. Traders and shopkeepers line the streets, offering everything from spices and textiles to traditional sweets. Tourism plays a growing role, with hotels, guesthouses, and seaside restaurants catering to both local and international visitors.
The town’s heritage is deeply influenced by Arab traders who arrived over a millennium ago, leaving a legacy of Islamic culture, cuisine, and architecture that still thrives today.
Beaches, Heritage, and Coastal Attractions
Beruwala is famous for its sun-kissed beaches such as Moragalla and Beruwala Beach, ideal for swimming, water sports, and sunset walks. The town also boasts significant landmarks like the Kechimalai Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Sri Lanka, perched on a rocky headland overlooking the sea.
Nearby, the Bentota River offers opportunities for boat rides, birdwatching, and mangrove exploration, while lighthouse and reef visits add a dash of adventure for the curious traveller.
Education, Services, and Community Life
Governed under the Beruwala Divisional Secretariat and Beruwala Urban Council, the town benefits from established infrastructure, healthcare, and educational facilities. Schools, vocational training centres, and religious institutions provide a strong foundation for community development.
Healthcare services are accessible through government hospitals, private clinics, and nearby base hospitals. Religious and cultural festivals bring the community together, reflecting a harmonious blend of Buddhist, Islamic, Christian, and Hindu traditions.
Reaching Beruwala – Access and Transport
🚖 By Taxi/Ride-Hailing
From Colombo, Beruwala can be reached in about 1.5 hours via the Galle Road (A2) or the Southern Expressway, making it a convenient getaway for city dwellers.
🚌 By Bus
Frequent intercity buses run along the Colombo–Galle route, stopping at Beruwala town. Local buses connect nearby towns such as Aluthgama, Bentota, and Kalutara.
🚆 By Train
Beruwala lies on the coastal railway line, with regular trains connecting Colombo Fort, Galle, and Matara. The train ride offers stunning sea views, making it a scenic travel option.
Whether you come for its soft beaches, cultural history, or vibrant fishing life, Beruwala offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration — a place where the ocean meets tradition, and every visit tells a new story.
| GN Code | Name in English |
|---|---|
| 005 | Kuda Paiyagala North |
| 010 | Mehimulla |
| 015 | Pambe |
| 020 | Hirigalgodella |
| 025 | Malegoda |
| 030 | Kuda Piyagala South |
| 035 | Payagala North |
| 040 | Pinidiyamulla |
| 045 | Viharakanada |
| 050 | Palayangoda |
| 055 | Weragala |
| 060 | Katukurundugahalanda East |
| 065 | Katukurundugahalanda West |
| 070 | Pothuvila East |
| 075 | Mahagammedda |
| 080 | Maha Paiyagala |
| 085 | Pothuvila West |
| 090 | Munasinghagoda |
| 095 | Diyalagoda |
| 100 | Kapugoda |
| 105 | Halkandavila |
| 110 | Yovungama |
| 115 | Doowegoda |
| 120 | Kendagahavila |
| 125 | Munhena |
| 130 | Maggon East |
| 135 | Akkaramale |
| 140 | Maggona West |
| 145 | Idiriligoda |
| 150 | Kuda Magalkanda |
| 155 | Magalkanda North |
| 160 | Magalkanda South |
| 165 | Akkara 80 |
| 170 | Bubulanda |
| 175 | Kadurugasmulla |
| 180 | Bandanagoda |
| 185 | Kalavilakanda |
| 190 | Walathara |
| 195 | Pannila |
| 200 | Cheenakatuwa |
| 205 | Akkaragoda |
| 210 | Karandagoda |
| 215 | Marakkalawatta |
| 220 | Polkotuwa |
| 225 | Paranakade |
| 230 | Maradana |
| 235 | Hettiyakanda |
| 240 | Massalgoda |
| 245 | Kankanamgoda |
| 250 | Ambepitiya |
| 255 | Pinhena |
| 260 | Pinhena Colony |
| 265 | Kalavila |
| 270 | Malewangoda |
| 275 | Padagoda |
| 280 | Hettimulla |
| 285 | Mahagoda |
| 290 | Maligahena |
| 295 | Moragalla |
| 300 | Mullapitiya |
| 305 | Gammedda |
| 310 | Kaluwamodara North |
| 315 | Galhena |
| 320 | Alakadupitiya |
| 325 | Welipitiya |
| 330 | Pathirajagoda |
| 335 | Kadiyawatta |
| 340 | Malewana |
| 345 | Adhikarigoda |
| 350 | Nakandalagoda |
| 355 | Danwattagoda |
| 360 | Kotapitiya |
| 365 | Warapitiya |
| 370 | Dharga Town East |
| 375 | Ganga Addara |
| 380 | Dharaga Town |
| 385 | Kaluwamodara East |
| 390 | Kaluwamodara West |
| 395 | Ganegama |
| 400 | Seenawatta |
| 405 | Aluthgama East |
| 410 | Aluthgama West |
| Service | Contact Number | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|
| 🚓 Beruwala Police Station | +94 34 227 6322 / 071 859 1699 | Main law enforcement office in Beruwala town |
| 🏥 Beruwala Base Hospital (Type B) | +94 34 227 6162 | Government hospital serving residents in and around Beruwala |
| 🏛️ Beruwala Divisional Secretariat | +94 34 227 9878 | Administrative authority overseeing development and civil services |
| ℹ️ Beruwala Urban Council | 077 394 0413 | Handles roads, sanitation, waste management, and community services |
Best Time to Visit Beruwala
The best time to visit Beruwala is from December to April, when the weather is sunny, dry, and ideal for beach activities. Average daytime temperatures range between 27°C and 32°C, making it perfect for swimming, diving, and exploring the golden beaches and calm waters of this scenic coastal town.
From May to September, Beruwala experiences its southwest monsoon season, bringing heavy rainfall and rough seas. While this period is not ideal for swimming, it transforms the surroundings into a lush green paradise. It’s a peaceful time to visit if you enjoy quiet beaches and don’t mind occasional rain showers.
October and November are considered transitional months, with a mix of sunny and rainy days. This time offers fewer crowds and moderate prices for hotels. For the best experience with calm seas and plenty of sunshine, plan your trip between December and April.
How to Reach – Beruwala
Beruwala, a lively coastal town in the Kalutara District, is a major hub for fishing, tourism, and trade in Sri Lanka’s Western Province. Conveniently located along the Colombo–Galle main road (A2) and on the coastal railway line, Beruwala is well-connected to nearby cities and beach destinations. Below is a travel guide from nearby towns and cities with distance and estimated travel time.
| City | Distance | Estimated Travel Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo Fort | 60 km | 1.5 – 2 hrs | |
| Kalutara | 15 km | 20 – 30 mins | |
| Bentota | 6 km | 10 – 15 mins | |
| Galle | 72 km | 1.5 – 2 hrs | |
| Matara | 110 km | 2.5 – 3 hrs |
Interactive Map
Geographical Overview – Beruwala
Beruwala is a vibrant coastal town located in the Kalutara District of Sri Lanka’s Western Province. Situated along the Indian Ocean, Beruwala is known for its sandy beaches, bustling fisheries harbor, and historical Muslim heritage. The town features flat terrain along the coastline, with gradual elevation inland. Rich in marine and coastal resources, Beruwala thrives on fishing, tourism, and trade. It lies directly along the A2 coastal highway and the Southern Railway Line, providing excellent connectivity to Colombo, Galle, and other major destinations.
Administrative Information
- Province: Western Province
- District: Kalutara District
- Divisional Secretariat: Beruwala Divisional Secretariat
- Neighbouring Areas: Aluthgama, Kalutara, Bentota, Maggona
Local Economy and Services – Beruwala
Beruwala’s economy is a vibrant mix of fishing, tourism, and trade. As one of Sri Lanka’s oldest coastal trading hubs, its busy fisheries harbor supplies fresh seafood across the region, supporting thousands of livelihoods. The tourism sector thrives with hotels, resorts, restaurants, and water sports activities along its golden beaches, attracting both local and international visitors. Small-scale industries such as boat building, handicrafts, and coir production also contribute to the local economy.
The town is served by key public institutions including the Beruwala Divisional Secretariat, Beruwala Urban Council, government and private banks, and numerous retail outlets. Healthcare services are provided by local clinics, pharmacies, and nearby hospitals, ensuring residents and visitors have access to medical care. Religious and cultural institutions, including mosques, temples, and churches, play a significant role in community life and social support.
Well-connected by the A2 coastal highway and Southern Railway Line, Beruwala offers excellent transport links to Colombo, Galle, and surrounding towns. Ongoing urban development projects and tourism investments are further enhancing infrastructure, services, and economic opportunities, making Beruwala an important commercial and cultural center in the Kalutara District.
Community and Culture – Beruwala
Beruwala is a culturally diverse coastal town where traditions, religion, and community spirit blend harmoniously. The population is a mix of Sinhalese, Moors, and smaller communities of Tamils and Christians, creating a multicultural environment. Fishing, trade, and hospitality industries form the backbone of daily life, with residents maintaining close-knit family ties and strong neighborhood bonds.
Religious life is vibrant, with significant landmarks such as the historic Ketchimalai Mosque, Buddhist temples, and Christian churches. Celebrations of Vesak, Ramadan, Eid, Christmas, and the Sinhala and Tamil New Year are marked with devotion and festive spirit. These events feature processions, cultural performances, charitable activities, and communal feasts, reflecting the unity of Beruwala’s multi-ethnic society.
Cultural traditions thrive through fishing festivals, handicraft markets, folk music, and traditional dance performances. Community organizations, fishermen’s cooperatives, youth clubs, and women’s groups actively participate in social development and heritage preservation. This cultural richness and warm hospitality make Beruwala a welcoming destination for visitors from around the world.
Festivals & Culture – Beruwala
Beruwala is a coastal town rich in cultural diversity, where traditions from different faiths and ethnic communities are celebrated with warmth and unity. Home to a mix of Sinhalese Buddhists, Sri Lankan Moors, Tamils, and Christians, the town embraces a variety of religious and cultural events throughout the year. Key celebrations include Vesak, Poson, Ramadan, Eid, Deepavali, and Christmas, each bringing its own unique charm and significance to the community.
During Vesak and Poson, Buddhist temples in and around Beruwala are decorated with lanterns, pandals, and illuminated displays, while locals organize dansal to serve free food and drinks. The Muslim community observes Ramadan with fasting, prayer, and charitable acts, culminating in the joyous Eid celebrations. Deepavali sees Tamil Hindu households adorned with oil lamps and vibrant decorations, while Christmas is marked by church services, nativity displays, carol singing, and festive gatherings.
Beruwala’s coastal heritage is also celebrated through fishing festivals, beach fairs, and cultural shows that feature traditional music, dance, and handicrafts. These events foster unity among its diverse residents and keep alive the rich cultural traditions that make Beruwala a welcoming and harmonious destination for both locals and visitors.
Transportation and Connectivity – Beruwala
Beruwala, a bustling coastal town in the Kalutara District, enjoys excellent transportation links, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Located along the Colombo–Galle–Matara (A2) coastal highway, Beruwala is well-connected to major cities such as Colombo, Kalutara, and Galle. The Southern Expressway (E01) further improves accessibility, with entry points at nearby Dodangoda and Welipenna interchanges.
Public transport is abundant, with frequent SLTB and private buses running along the coastal highway, providing services to Colombo, Galle, Matara, and other key towns. Beruwala also has a functioning railway station on the Southern Line, offering daily train services connecting to Colombo Fort, Galle, and Matara, making it a convenient option for commuters and travelers alike.
Within the town, three-wheelers, taxis, and motorbikes are the most common modes of short-distance travel. The nearby Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake is approximately 90 km away and can be reached within 1.5 to 2 hours via the expressway. Thanks to its coastal highway, railway access, and expressway connectivity, Beruwala serves as an easily accessible hub for tourism, fishing, and trade in Sri Lanka’s Western Province.
Environmental Significance and Sustainability – Beruwala
Beruwala, located along Sri Lanka’s south-western coast in the Kalutara District, is renowned for its pristine beaches, marine biodiversity, and lush tropical landscapes. The coastal belt, fringed with coconut palms and mangroves, plays a vital role in protecting the shoreline from erosion and supporting a rich marine ecosystem. Inland areas feature lagoons, wetlands, and river estuaries connected to the Bentota River, which are critical for maintaining biodiversity and sustaining local fishing livelihoods.
Community-driven initiatives in Beruwala focus on mangrove restoration, beach clean-up campaigns, and the promotion of responsible fishing practices. Local schools, youth groups, and environmental organizations actively raise awareness on protecting marine life, reducing plastic waste, and preserving the town’s natural beauty.
Tourism-related businesses are also adopting eco-friendly practices such as sustainable seafood sourcing, water conservation, and promoting eco-tourism experiences like river safaris and turtle-watching tours. Through collective efforts, Beruwala is working toward balancing economic growth with the preservation of its unique coastal and marine heritage for future generations.
Tourism and Attractions – Beruwala
Beruwala, a picturesque coastal town in the Kalutara District, is celebrated as one of Sri Lanka’s most popular seaside destinations. Known for its golden beaches, tranquil waters, and vibrant fishing culture, Beruwala offers the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration. Its scenic shoreline is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, while the surrounding area is rich in history and cultural heritage.
Notable attractions include the iconic Beruwala Lighthouse on Barberyn Island, the historic Kechimalai Mosque, and bustling fish markets that reflect the town’s maritime traditions. Boat rides along the Bentota River and visits to nearby mangrove forests provide immersive nature experiences. For spiritual and cultural enrichment, temples and mosques throughout the town welcome visitors with a sense of history and local identity.
Whether you are seeking a relaxing beach holiday, engaging in adventure water sports, or exploring cultural landmarks, Beruwala offers a diverse and welcoming experience. Its warm hospitality, scenic beauty, and vibrant traditions make it a standout destination on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast.
Education and Institutions – Beruwala
Beruwala, a vibrant coastal town in the Kalutara District, offers a wide range of educational opportunities catering to both local and nearby communities. Prominent schools such as Aluthgama Maha Vidyalaya, Holy Cross College, and Beruwala Muslim Central College provide comprehensive education from primary to advanced levels, fostering both academic excellence and extracurricular development.
The town is also home to various international schools and private tuition centers, offering English-medium education and specialized learning programs. Vocational and technical training is accessible through Vocational Training Authority (VTA) centers and private institutes, enabling youth to gain skills in tourism, hospitality, information technology, carpentry, and marine-related trades.
Educational growth in Beruwala is supported by strong community engagement, cultural diversity, and initiatives that promote digital literacy. With a mix of traditional academic institutions and modern training facilities, Beruwala continues to prepare its students for opportunities in both local and global contexts.
Healthcare and Medical Services – Beruwala
Beruwala offers a well-established network of healthcare services that cater to both local residents and the surrounding coastal communities. The main healthcare facility, the Beruwala Base Hospital, provides outpatient and inpatient care, maternity services, surgical facilities, and emergency treatment. In addition, several rural hospitals, private clinics, and dispensaries operate throughout the area, ensuring basic healthcare is easily accessible.
The Medical Officer of Health (MOH) office in Beruwala oversees vital public health programs, including vaccination drives, maternal and child health services, and community disease prevention campaigns. Numerous private pharmacies and medical laboratories offer prescription services, diagnostic testing, and general medical consultations for residents and visitors alike.
Public health awareness programs conducted in schools, religious centers, and community halls promote preventive care and healthy living. For specialized medical care, residents often travel to larger hospitals in Kalutara or Colombo. Overall, Beruwala maintains a comprehensive and accessible healthcare system that supports the well-being of its diverse community.
Why Visit Madurawala – A Quiet Corner of Authentic Sri Lanka
Nestled among coconut groves and paddy fields in Sri Lanka’s Kalutara District, Madurawala is a serene destination perfect for those seeking authentic rural life. Away from the commercial tourist trail, the village offers peaceful surroundings, traditional farming practices, and warm local hospitality that reflect the true spirit of Sri Lanka’s countryside.
Whether you're exploring ancient temples, visiting weekly village markets, or enjoying a slow walk through scenic backroads, Madurawala provides a grounding and refreshing experience. With its cultural simplicity, welcoming community, and natural landscapes, this hidden gem invites travelers to unwind and connect with a more meaningful side of island life—just a short trip from Horana or Bulathsinhala.