Dutch Fort Of Kalpitiya

Situated at the strategic tip of the Kalpitiya peninsula, the Dutch Fort of Kalpitiya serves as a majestic reminder of Sri Lanka's colonial maritime history. Commissioned by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) and completed in 1676, this square-shaped fortification was vital for controlling the cinnamon trade and the entrance to the Puttalam Lagoon. Uniquely constructed using locally sourced coral and limestone, the fort is famous for its single entrance archway adorned with a belfry—a design feature allegedly used to mislead the King of Kandy into believing the structure was a church rather than a military stronghold. Today, the fort functions as a base for the Sri Lanka Navy. Visitors are often treated to guided tours by navy personnel, exploring the remnants of the commander's residence, barracks, prison cells, and the now-blocked tunnels that once led to the sea. A walk along the ramparts offers sweeping panoramic views of the lagoon and ocean, providing a perfect blend of history and scenic beauty.